Campden Vibratomes – Precision Vibrating Microtomes
Campden Instruments manufactures vibratomes (also known as vibrating microtomes or brain slice microtomes) used worldwide for live and fixed tissue sectioning. Our 5100mz, 5100mz-Plus, and 9000SMZ vibratomes are trusted by leading neuroscience, histology, and organotypic culture labs to produce reproducible brain slice and tissue sections.
Our Vibrating Microtomes
5100mz Vibratome
Compact, user-friendly model ideal for entry-level use and fixed tissue sectioning.
- Semi-automatic
- Basic electrophysiology
- 50 - 80 Hz blade frequency
- Z-axis deflection 5 - 8µm
- Live or fixed tissue
5100mz-Plus Vibratome
Enhanced for live tissue slicing, offering ultra-low vibration and precision control.
- Includes Opti-Cal for Z-axis deflection measurement
- Z-axis deflection 0.0µm (±2.0µm)
- 50 - 80 Hz blade frequency
- Live or fixed tissue
9000SMZ Vibratome
Top-tier automation and accuracy for high-throughput slicing.
- Touchscreen control
- Full automation
- Z-axis deflection 0.0µm (±0.1µm)
- 20 - 120 Hz blade frequency
- 5 YEAR WARRANTY
Vibratome Applications
Our vibrating microtomes are used in:
- Neuroscience Research: acute brain slicing; brain organoids; spinal cord
- Cardiac Research: Living Myocardial Slices from human and animal tissue ➡
- Lung Research: Precision Cut Lung Slices ➡
- Liver Research: Precision Cut Liver Slices ➡
- Histology and pathology sample prep
- Plant biology: leaf and stem/root analysis ➡
- Preclinical & drug discovery labs
40x IR-DIC Entorhinal Cortex Slice from 9 month-old Rat. Slicing Parameters:
Blade: Ceramic;
Blade Frequency:
50Hz;
Blade Amplitude: 1mm;
Advance Speed: 0.05 mm/s.
Why Choose Campden Instruments?
✔ UK-Engineered Precision
All vibratomes (vibrating microtomes) are manufactured in our quality-controlled UK facility.
✔ Near-Zero Blade Deflection
Maintain soft tissue integrity with unmatched Z-axis control.
✔ Research Proven
Vibrating microtomes featured in 4000+ peer-reviewed studies across life sciences. Download Bibliography ➡
✔ Vibrating Microtome Global Support
Expert advice, training and servicing provided to the 500+ labs in 45 countries.
What Our Customers Say
Our lab has two [Campden] vibratomes used to generate precision-cut lung slices from both animal and human tissue as well as precision-cut slices from other organs. We are particular happy with the consistency in slice generation, flexibility and range of slice thickness, ease of use, and last but not least the customer support offered by Campden Instruments
— John Stegmayr, PhD, Lund University
Our laboratory uses both animal and human tissue in acute and organotypic culture brain slice experiments. We have two [Campden] vibratomes in daily use which form the backbone of our slice preparations – the reliability and repeatability provided by the slicer’s Z-axis stability and calibration mechanism means that our preparations get off to the best possible start. The [Campden] vibratome produces the highest quality brain slices of any vibratome I have used, allowing us to generate in vivo-like oscillations in slice preparations. On top of this the service and support from Campden has been second to none.
— Stuart Greenhill, PhD, Aston University
Trusted by Leading Universities Worldwide
Our vibrating microtomes are used in over 500 laboratories worldwide.
Download Our Vibratome Brochures
Access detailed brochures for each Campden Instruments vibrating microtome, including specifications, features, and applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a vibratome (vibrating microtome)?
Which Campden vibratome model is best for my application?
5100mz-Plus: enhanced stability and control for demanding live tissue brain slices.
9000 SMZ: premium stability and ultra-low Z-axis deflection for advanced live tissue work and long experiments.
What tissue types can I section with a vibratome?
What slice thickness range can I achieve?
Which blades are recommended?
How do I optimize settings for live brain slices?
What maintenance is required?
Do you provide training and technical support?
What are the lead times and shipping options?
Can I get pricing or a formal quotation?
Are Campden vibratomes CE marked?
Where can I download brochures and manuals?
Get a Quote or Demo
Ready to elevate your sectioning workflow? Get tailored advice from our experts today.
Contact our Experts