PCL5 Slit Lamp: Specifications and Configurations

Optics and ergonomics

The PCL5 uses stereoscopic optics for great depth of field and colour fidelity, with specially coated optics and a parallel or optional convergent lens barrel. The bright slit is adjusted with one hand, and IR and UV filters are standard.

A 5-step changer covers magnifications of 6.3x, 10x, 16x, 25x and 40x. The stereo angle is 10° and the pupillary distance adjusts from 52 to 78 mm, so the instrument suits examiners with different anatomy.

One-hand slit adjustment matters in practice: the examiner's other hand holds a lens or manipulates the patient's lids. Test the controls with gloves and in low light, and check that the joystick moves smoothly in all directions.

• Magnification: 6.3x / 10x / 16x / 25x / 40x.
• Stereo angle 10°, pupillary distance 52 to 78 mm.
• IR and UV filters as standard.
• Weight 12.7 kg.

LED slit lamp or halogen: illumination options

Illumination can be switched between halogen (6 V / 20 W) and an optional LED (14 V / 5 W). LED is usually chosen for lower heat and long lamp life, while halogen remains familiar to many examiners. Ask for both side by side in a darkened room before deciding.

For the principles behind illumination techniques and how to use them, see our articles on slit lamp illumination techniques and slit lamp parts and functions.

Remember that lamp life, replacement cost and heat all differ between technologies, and ask what spare lamps or LED modules the supplier stocks in the UAE.

The slit lamp platform for A.R.C. lasers

The PCL5 is the slit-lamp platform for A.R.C. lasers: the CITO 532 SLT laser, the Q-Las Nd:YAG laser and the CLASSIC 514 photocoagulator are coupled to it. A head-up display variant shows laser treatment parameters and total applied energy without looking away from the eyepiece.

The Q-Las is offered with PCL5 ZL or PCL5 SHL slit lamps. If you intend to add a laser later, discuss with your supplier whether your slit lamp can be upgraded or whether a laser-ready model should be chosen now.

German slit lamp: how to compare slit lamps

Origin is only one indicator. Compare optical clarity at all magnifications, mechanical smoothness of the joystick and base, the slit mechanism, the headrest and chinrest ergonomics, build quality, service access and spare parts. Ask for a trial with your own patients' typical examination routine.

Our slit lamp buying guide expands this checklist and explains what a slit lamp is for new staff. If you need a slit lamp with a camera, ask your supplier which imaging add-ons are available for the exact configuration, because they are not part of the base specification described here.

Plan the table and chair together with the slit lamp. A height-adjustable table and a stable patient position improve both examination quality and laser accuracy.

Next steps

Tell us your intended use, whether examination only or together with a laser, the number of examination rooms and your preference for LED or halogen, and we will propose a configuration. Beckfinity can arrange a PCL5 demonstration and prepare a quote.

Contact our specialists, and confirm current device registration requirements with the relevant UAE authorities.