The Economy Student Microscope needs only available outdoor light or minimal room light. This eliminates the need for lamps, cords and mirrors. There are no knobs or gears, so there is no need to fuss with adjustments. The total magnification is (30X) along with reflective light capabilities allows you to view the exterior of 3-D specimens, printed matter, and other ordinary objects. It also has a prism illuminator that sends transmitted light up through the stage allowing you to view the internal structure of thinly sectioned specimens.