What is a mechanical stage control on a microscope?

On a microscope, the mechanical stage control is a knob used for the precise translational movement in either the x- or y-axis. Mechanical stages are designed and equipped with an x-y translational control device for both right-handed and left-handed users.

A microscope is a useful tool in various scientific fields wherein objects that are not visible to the naked eye are examined. One of the basic components of a microscope is the stage, where the specimen, typically mounted on a slide, is placed for observation. The mechanical stage control knob is usually appended to the stage so the slide can be easily moved in a side-to-side or in an up-and-down direction in an accurate manner.