Cheap microscope for soldering - BRESSER Junior 20x Stereo ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Miyuki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2016, 01:17:03 pm
content: HiI wan to ask about this microscope:http://www.bresser.de/en/Microscopes-Magnifiers/Bresser-Junior-20x-Stereo-Microscope.htmlI know it is designed mostly as a toy, but can it be used for soldering ?

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2016, 01:28:12 pm
content: The magnification is too high, for most soldering you probably want around 5x magnification.I looked at similar microscopes prior to getting my own, I came to the conclusion that the cheap plastic ones are not worth buying. Perhaps look at getting a good quality head band magnifier.Have a look here:http://www.amscope.com/stereo-microscopes/dissecting-stereo-microscopes.html?dir=asc&order=priceI was recommended Amscope by others here, I am very pleased with the build quality and image. You can select whatever eye pieces you need to achieve the magnification you want. Email them and tell them what you want, I found them helpful.With something like a microscope I think you need to save and buy the best possible unit you can, it will then last many years.I'm sure others with more informed opinions than min will comment as well.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2016, 08:00:23 pm
content: ^+1

author: Martin Hodge
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 30, 2016, 12:54:42 am
content: Quote from: Miyuki on April 29, 2016, 01:17:03 pmI have one almost exactly like it. It's tiny, lightweight, and toy-like. I've already had to replace the switch and install a brighter LED.My opinion, DON'T BUY!

author: uncle_bob
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 30, 2016, 02:13:52 am
content: Quote from: Miyuki on April 29, 2016, 01:17:03 pmHi20X is at the limit for soldering unless you are doing *really* fine pitch stuff. Some people run down around 3.5X for work on fairly normal boards. A variable scope that runs from 5X to 30X or 3.5X to 20X is what you see on most shop floors.+1 on the AmscopeBob

author: l0wside
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2016, 09:24:06 pm
content: I have one of these units, and for the price, it is definitely ok.True, the magnification is too high, but I got used to it. The biggest downside to it is the visible area. At less than 1/2" diameter, it is tiny. For occasional fine-pitch work, this is however sufficient.The working distance (eye to solder joint) is about 6". A better microscope will give you more distance, relieving your back. As always, you get what you pay for.Max

author: Smith
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2016, 10:30:24 am
content: I don't know about the Junior, but I have used the Bresser Analyth a lot. Even for some straight days doing SMD work. I have used more expensive scopes in the past wich where absolute rubbish compared to this. It's definitely better than I expected. It has quite a wider base than the Junior, wich I like. Some microscopes make you verry tired after a while, this one definetely didn't.Now I'm using a descent prehistoric Japanese microscope (wich costs a lot more) and it's definetly a big upgrade. I only rarely use the built in light, because my desk light is more than enough on the 20x setting. With the Bresser you do need an extra light.BTW, I mostly use 20x magnification for SMD (0805 / 0603 / 0402). Everything above 0805 is done without a microscope.