Three‐dimensional image formation in confocal microscopy

Three‐dimensional (3‐D) imaging in confocal microscopes is considered in terms of 3‐D transfer functions. This leads to an explanation of axial imaging properties. The axial response was observed in both object‐scanning and beam‐scanning microscopes and the influence of off‐axis examination investigated. By simple processing of multi‐detector signals, imaging in both the axial and transverse directions can be improved.

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