Readiness report
OpenFlexure Microscope (high-res build, v7.0.0-beta5) · 2026-07-19 19:49 · complete · 34 searches, 0 pages fetched
Readiness: OpenFlexure Microscope (high-res build, v7.0.0-beta5)
Verdict: Ready · 2026-07-19 · est. parts cost $215–$305
This is a cold check establishing the baseline for the OpenFlexure Microscope v7.0.0-beta5. All critical electronic modules, laboratory-grade optics, and specialized mechanical hardware are currently available from a combination of specialist manufacturers (TauLab, ThorLabs) and general electronics retailers. No parts in the bill of materials are currently obsolete or out of stock.
Action required
None — all checked parts are sourceable.
Parts
Main Electronic Modules and Boards
| Part | Spec/Package | Status | Stock | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 4 Model B | Single-board computer | Ready | High | $38.15 | CanaKit |
| Sangaboard v0.5 | RP2040-based Motor Controller | Ready | Active | £23.00 | TauLab |
| Raspberry Pi Camera Module v2 | Sony IMX219 sensor | Ready | Active | $15.95 | PiShop USA |
| Illumination PCB | OFMv7 Illumination Kit | Ready | Active | £4.00 | TauLab |
Optical Components
| Part | Spec/Package | Status | Stock | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12.7 mm Achromatic Lens | ThorLabs AC127-050-A | Ready | In stock | $64.83 | ThorLabs |
| Microscope Objective | Generic RMS Thread | Ready | High | $13.45 | Walmart |
| Condenser Lens | 13 mm x 5 mm PMMA | Ready | High | ~$15.00 | Amazon (50pk) |
Electromechanical and Connectivity
| Part | Spec/Package | Status | Stock | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28BYJ-48 Stepper Motors | 5 V geared version | Ready | High | $4.14 | StepperOnline |
| Pi Camera Ribbon Cable | 200 mm, Type B FFC | Ready | 1431 | $0.85 | Newark |
| Female-Female Jumpers | 30 cm | Ready | High | $0.50 | SparkFun |
| 2-pin Connector Housing | 2.54 mm pitch | Ready | High | $5.49 | Banggood (Kit) |
Fasteners and Mechanical Support
| Part | Spec/Package | Status | Stock | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M3 Cap Head Screws | M3 x 10 mm (WF2345) | Ready | In stock | $0.18 | AndyMark |
| M3 Hex Nuts (Stainless) | A2 Stainless (WF1255) | Ready | In stock | $3.42 | Grainger (50pk) |
| M3 Hex Nuts (Brass) | Brass (WF20152) | Ready | In stock | $3.01 | RS America |
| M3 Hex Bolts | M3 x 25 mm Full Thread | Ready | In stock | $9.44 | Walmart |
| M3 Washers | Form A (WF1189) | Ready | In stock | $2.08 | Grainger (100pk) |
| No. 2 Self-Tapping | 6.5 mm Pozi Pan (WF825) | Ready | 1302 | £1.02 | Westfield |
| Viton O-rings | 30 mm ID, 2 mm thick | Ready | High | $0.55 | Oringsandmore |
Materials and Consumables
| Part | Spec/Package | Status | Stock | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA Filament | 1.75 mm, Black/Any | Ready | High | $11.99 | eSUN |
| Polypropylene Sheet | 0.5 mm White | Ready | Active | $18.50 | eBay |
| Micro SD Card | 8 GB minimum | Ready | High | $3.00 | eBay |
| Light Oil | RS 252-0168 / Generic | Ready | Active | $2.50 | Micro-Tools |
Substitutes
None needed.
Instructors should verify any substitute against its datasheet before ordering.
Other dependencies
- 3D Fabrication: Requires FFF printer with minimum 180 x 180 x 180 mm build volume.
- Firmware and Software: OpenFlexure v7.0.0-beta5 and associated server software remain active on GitLab as of 2026.
- External Links: Documentation sites
build.openflexure.organdtaulab.euare active. - Pi Camera Lens Tool: 3D-printable workaround tool provided in design files if physical tool is missing from camera module.
Watch list
- Raspberry Pi 4 Model B: Retail pricing is highly volatile ($38–$165). Standardize on 1GB or 2GB variants to maintain budget.
- Specialist PCBs: Sangaboard and Illumination kits ship from specialty vendors in the UK (TauLab); international shipping may impact timelines.
- ThorLabs AC127-050-A: A high-precision optic with limited authorized distributors. Manufacturer-direct pricing is the most stable reference.