Hi Marlo,

I also have a Swift microscope, with a triocular head. You can view some of my pictures on my webpage http://www.home.global.co.za/~peabrain

From my experience I'm going to try and answer some of your questions:

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>
> 1.  Is it worth the additional cost to go with zoom over dual power?
I don't know, I have not.
> 2.  Can I really get satisfactory picture detail through one of the viewing
> eyepieces, or will a trinocular make a substantial difference?
You buy a camera adaptor for your camera for the triocular that fits tightly, I'm getting good results, haven't try the eye pieces
> 3.  If I go trinocular, what features should I be sure to get?  Esp. as
> regards optimizing light throught the photo tube?
The light from your microscope is suffisient
> 4.  Whether I go thru a viewing eyepiece or trinocular viewing port, what
> features are a must for the adapter tube?
You must be able to buy the adaptor for your camera type
> 5.  What would be the most cost effective continuous (as opposed to flash)
> lighting arrangement without going to fiber optic lighting?  And, what
> precautions should I take?
The light from your microscope is suffisient, but you have to buy Tungsten film (only available in slide film in South Africa where I am). Tungssten film is for artificial light. You can use normal film, but your white shells will show very yellowish, and you cant make use of filter on the Swift microscope. If you use Tungsten film in daylight, your white shells will show Blueish.
> 6.  Any experience with brands/dealers and comments or suggestions?
> 7.  Any suggestions/recommendations as to an SLR body (I'm planning to go
> with a film camera)?
I'm using Pentax. Doen't matter, as long as you can get the camera adaptor. Your dealer will be able to help you with this.
> 8.  What's the most important aspect of the system to focus upon?
Buy the best you can afford. With any optical system, the more expensive the thing is, the better quality you will get on the lenses.
> 9.  Any general comments, cautions or advise would be appreciated.
>
> Marlo

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