hemocytometer grid

[hlmbrwng]

I am looking for a hemocytometer for counting yeast cells. There are inexpensive ones and ridiculously expensive ones. Here is an example of an inexpensive one:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Improve...eter-Blood-Cell-Counting-Chamber/390737198723

Some of the auctions also have a couple cover slips included. My question is, where is the grid? Is it marked on the chamber? Or are there special cover slips with the grid?

 

[cswis86]

There are 2 chambers in the center of the slide where you'll load your sample. You'll load your sample in the top and bottom of the slide while the cover slip is over it. You won't be able to see the grid until you look under your microscope. Any normal microscope glass cover should work.

I think you'll find this useful:
http://braukaiser.com/wiki/index.php/Microscope_use_in_brewing

 

[xico]

Sadly in my experience you get what you pay for with these. I've bought several iterations of the one you showed in a link and they are all a waste of money.

I haven't ponied up the money for the 180-200 dollar ones only because I am able to borrow one from a friend but the difference is night and day. The cheap ones don't have a calibrated well so fluid drains off the surface over the grid. The margin for error with a bad one nullifies the point of doing a count over using a calculator to estimate yeast growth.

One alternative is to try the disposable ones, they are a dollar a piece but you will get comfortable with the counting process and show you what a good glass one should look like.