Orbicule has released Macnification 2, an upgrade to its microscopy workflow solution for Mac OS X 10.6 or later. The adds the ability to interface with hundreds of cameras, so the user can acquire images directly from within Macnification.

The software supports most still photo cameras, many Firewire video cameras and some USB video cameras. Scientists can now walk into the lab, connect a microscope camera to their MacBook and capture images right away, without leaving the comfort of their own Mac. Also new in Macnification 2 is the ability to have multiple libraries, and to store them anywhere: on a local or external harddisk, on the network, or on optical storage media.

Macnification lets you create folders, smart folders, light tables and stacks with a single click. Smart folders can be based on image metadata. For example, you could create a smart folder that shows all images taken at 500x and above. Folders can be grouped into projects.

Macnification includes a full-screen mode. All adjustments are non-destructive: they don't alter the original image. You can view stacks in three different modes, taking full advantage of Core Animation.

A fully functional 30-day trial version is available from the Orbicule website (http://www.orbicule.com/macnification/). Prices start at US$229 for an academic license. Student licenses are available for $199 per Mac. Volume discounts are available. Version 2 is a free update for registered users.