Is this a 'reasonable' microscope? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 10:14:17 pm
content: I decided to get a microscope for occasional SMD work (a hobbyist at home, I do at most 0402 and 0.5mm pitch ICs and my boards are small in general) and looked around at eBay and Amazon. The selection is huge and I am not sure that I understand all the technical details but eventually narrowed down to this onehttp://amzn.com/B00A15N1ZABefore I pull the trigger, is this a 'reasonable' purchase? Any better model in that price range (e.g. up to $600)? Some models are '144 LEDs' versus this one's '64 LEDS', does it matter?The features I like are stereo, zoom, light, small and light base (as opposed to full size boom base).

author: Mr.B
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 10:56:40 pm
content: I have an Olympus SD30.Just like this one:http://www.kitmondo.com/olympus-sd30-stereo-scope/ref49732410x and 30x mag.I find it perfect for my SMD work.I have home built an LED ling for it using the cheap 12v LED strip available on fleabay.I find 30x mag is sufficient for my use. I don't know if 45x would be too much...

author: Circuitous
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 11:18:21 pm
content: There's been a fair bit of discussion about microscopes on this forum... one thread:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/need-review-of-a-specific-amscope-model/msg344637/#msg344637For 0603 I like 4x, I only use higher magnifications if I need to check a solder joint. I normally leave the 0.5x Barlow on the microscope to increase the working distance.I found the working distance to often be more important than the magnification.My AmScope trinocular scope will go up to 90x with a 2x Barlow lens, although I've never needed more than about 12x for anything. But, it depends upon what you are doing.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 11:27:52 pm
content: Quote from: Circuitous on July 19, 2014, 11:18:21 pmI read about Barlow lenses. Can I add later one like this one to double the working distance?http://www.amscope.com/accessories/barlow-lens/0-5x-barlow-lens-for-sm-series-stereo-microscopes-48mm.html

author: Circuitous
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 11:44:05 pm
content: Yes and no... you should be able to add a Barlow lens, but you'll need to check a few things.First, I think the diameter and threads would be critical. The second is the lens shape. AmScope has at least two lens types and you don't want to put the wrong Barlow on or it will just distort. Or, that's what they told me when I called them to ask. If I recall correctly, I was asking about fitting a lens for their "Simul-Focal" to my normal trinoc.If you're not sure, just give them a call. They kept me from buying the wrong lens for my scope.Depending on the microscope you select, you might not need a Barlow lens. I like having 4 inches or more of working distance.My Mantis Compacthas 3.75" or so, and that's fine for using a soldering iron. But, if you want to use a hot air reflow under the scope then you will probably need more working distance.

author: mazurov
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 12:24:42 am
content: At a glance, the microscope on a picture looks too small for soldering. Preheater, fume extractor, vise, etc., all need to be fitted under it somehow and it seems that the base is getting in the way (and will absorb a lot of precious heat when you use hot air). Look for a "boom microscope" where you actually have your desk under the lens instead of a base. Five years ago I paid about US$300 for no frills boom Amscope with fluoro light.

author: pickle9000
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 12:38:41 am
content: I use this one daily and have zero complaints.http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Multi-Power-5X-60X-Stereo-Microscope-8W-Fluorescent-Ring-Light-2MP-USB-Camera-/171328579137?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27e3faa641

author: Circuitous
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 12:50:36 am
content: mazurov makes good points. I started out with the double arm and then upgraded to an articulated arm (all from AmScope).And as pickle9000 mentions, a ringlight is a critical accessory. I have an LED one. You want plenty of light, but it is nice to be able to adjust the lighting level.

author: pickle9000
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 01:37:08 am
content: The usb camera is handy for documentation or inspection, not for soldering. And I did end up with a LED light ring definitely better than the other one.I was originally looking for a boom but this one was a good deal. In my case it's just fine and have not found the need for a boom. I've had it for 3 years and while not as good as some others I have used it is a good price and the image quality is just fine.

author: Circuitous
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 01:42:59 am
content: Yes, the USB camera option can be very useful. I picked up a 10MP one, after which I read about not wanting to get too high a resolution camera for your microscope. Yep, I probably should have gotten a 2-3 MP camera.

author: ivaylo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 07:28:56 am
content: Funny, I've playing with that exact one in the past few days (brother in law visiting and ordered one to take home). On the particular one we got what you see in the two eye pieces doesnt align when you zoom above 2x. Looks like you can adjust the prisms inside but that shouldnt be happening on a new scope.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 02:50:22 pm
content: Thanks everybody for the info. I just placed an order for the above microscope. Years ago I purchased two ebay non name boom/stereo/zoom microscopes and were very happy with both so I expect this to be just the same. Circuitous's good experience with AmScope service, the accessory availability on their web site (e.g. a Barlow lens) and being an Amazon prime item adds to the confidence. If it will arrive defective like ivaylo's I will just return it.I don't plan to use it with preheaters, vises, etc so the C stand height should be good enough. I may need to do something for the ESD safety, maybe a conductive path to the underlying ESD mat.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2014, 03:44:46 pm
content: Quote from: Mr.B on July 19, 2014, 10:56:40 pmThat is way too much. For SMD work you need x8 at most; x6 is optimal.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2014, 12:13:36 am
content: The microscope arrived today and is defiantly a keeper.http://amzn.com/B00A15N1ZASome notes in arbitrary order:* It feels well built for a cheap microscope.* Image quality and magnification range are more than enough for this hobbyist. I can easily see fine details that I could not see before, for example the ridges created by the PCB stop mask or the thickens of the 1oz copper traces.* The two holes that hold the eyepieces do not have springs which give the eyepieces some play (not a biggy but noticeable). I solved it by shimming it with thin cleaning paper.* The base is large and the depth of the C mount way more than I need.* Work distance is not great but enough. I was able to do soldering with no problem. The LED ring reduces the work distance by 1/2" or so. A small design change of the ring would avoid it.* The LED ring is required. I have a very good desk lamp but it is insufficient. This is the '64 LED' version (vs the 144 LED) and it gives sufficient light.* You need to carefully adjust the distance between the eye pieces and center your eyes. A small deviation and the image get darker. Might be a field of view thing, not sure.* This product is not a good solution if you want to use the microscope for hours and days. The eyes get tiresome.* I may get a Barlow lens for better work distance. This will also raise the eyepieces and may require some neck stretch. Need to try.* I tried to used it boom style and it worked reasonable. Turn the base 180 degrees, add some weight for better stability and you can place your work pieces directly on the bench surface.* The center of the base has a removable round plastic. I would prefer a plane metal surface all over.* Am not sure how to make it ESD safe when the workpiece is on base. Does it matter? Any suggestion?* The vertical stand tube does not have a limit ring. When you release it move it up/down it may fall all the way down. I will look for an aftermarket clamp.* The total weight is reasonable and I can easily move it around (not sure if this is the case with boom stands).* Zoom works well and requires very little focus adjustment when going from end to end.Overall it's very useful and excellent value.

author: Mr.B
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 24, 2014, 12:19:32 am
content: Quote from: nctnico on July 20, 2014, 03:44:46 pmI use x10 most of the time and use x30 for trying to find where my 'frypan reflow' has not worked properly...

author: Carrington
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2014, 01:05:47 am
content: I have this:http://www.amazon.com/AmScope-SE100-ZZ-LED-20X-50X-Cordless-Microscope/dp/B005C6O8KAIs like a toy (but enough for me)...Myopics, we take off our glasses, and we can see magnificently at very short distanceshttp://www.improveeyesighthq.com/Nearsightedness.htmlCheers.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2014, 02:29:53 am
content: Quote from: Carrington on July 24, 2014, 01:05:47 amHow close can you focus?

author: ivaylo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2014, 06:19:58 am
content: Congratulations. Glad you don't have the crossed eyes issue.

author: Smith
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 31, 2014, 07:07:21 am
content: The Bresser Analyth ICD might be an cheap alternative.http://www.bresser.com/microscopes/bresseranalythbioluxmicroscopes.htmlWe use it for SMD soldering and inspection. It is cheap and works very well. I even used it for 3 straight days (8 hours a day) and it worked perfectly. Although it's no led lightning but halogen bulbs it works really well. It's light is really easy on the eyes. Others who used it where very surprised by it too.Only drawback: It's not that easy to use with larger PCB's.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2014, 12:57:07 am
content: Quote from: Smith on July 31, 2014, 07:07:21 amFirst time I hear this name. This model has better (larger) base. It's nice to have the integrated light with the light control on the side of the base. The led ring with the hanging cable is kind of kludgy. Too late for me, already got the amScope. ;-)

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2014, 08:38:25 pm
content: I have the microscope for a few months now and am very happy with it. I can hand solder now 0.5mm pitch with no problem and even more dense (didn't try). I decided to make a few mods to fit it better to my needs.1. Replaced the plastic led ring mount with a x1 Barlow lens. The plastic ring kept falling and the metal ring of the Barlow lense is rock solid. I could go with a x0.7 Barlow but this would make the eye pieces even higher and I like the current height.2. All my small devices work on 5V micro USB so I decided to convert the microscope as well. A small laser cut panel, a OSHPark board and a 5V/12V DC/DC do the trick. The cable is routed inside the vertical pole.3. I covered the base with a ESD mat, making sure to have good contact with the metal base of the microscope. Also added a small chain below to discharge the entire base to my main ESD mat. This gives a better working surface (flat, greipy) and ESD protection (the microscope as is is not ESD save because it stands on plastic feet).Here are some pictures

author: fpliuzzi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2014, 10:37:35 pm
content: I have one of the smaller microscopes made by AmScope (model SE305R-P) that I find adequate for occasional SMD work on small PCBs. As soon as it arrived I used a bit of silicone adhesive to bond a small piece of glass to it. This keeps the rising flux fumes from getting into the lens area (as you can see in the photo below it appears that the glass needs a de-fluxing now).This might make a useful addition to other low cost, simple microscopes (easily reversible mod).

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2014, 01:39:09 am
content: Quote from: fpliuzzi on September 27, 2014, 10:37:35 pmDon't you need a light ring? Mine is to dark without it.

author: fpliuzzi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2014, 02:08:24 am
content: Quote from: zapta on September 28, 2014, 01:39:09 amMy simple microscope has just a single lamp for illumination (it's shaped like a glass fuse in my photo above).

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2014, 02:45:08 am
content: Quote from: fpliuzzi on September 28, 2014, 02:08:24 amI see, that's nice, the light ring its sometimes in the way when soldering under the microscope.

author: motocoder
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 05:17:21 am
content: I have an AmScope that I bought (semi-used - it was a customer return) off of eBay for about 1/2 of the lowest price I could find new. I am very happy with it. My was initiallyThe unit shipped with a 2X Barlow lens that, if installed, gave it a zoom range of 7x-90x. I found 7x was too much for minimum zoom for PCB work, and even leaving that lens off, 3.5x was more than I wanted. So I bought a 0.5x Barlow lens from AmScope (off of Amazon.com). This gives me a great field of view, and I can zoom in as needed. Probably the 0.7x would have been perfect, but it costs twice as much.This is the unit that I have:SM-3TY-54S-10M :http://www.amscope.com/7x-90x-trinocular-led-boom-stand-stereo-zoom-microscope-10mp-camera.htmlIt came with a camera, which I wouldn't waste your money on. One thing that you may want to consider is a boom stand. It is nice to be able to position the scope over the working area. OTOH, it takes up significantly more space on your bench, so consider that.

author: artag
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2014, 12:08:00 pm
content: I have a good stereo microscope with reasonable eyepieces, but sometimes find the need to keep my eyes carefully positioned a nuisance.An alternative would be a USB microscope. This could give a huge, wide viewing angle display on a computer monitor, but would lack stereoscopic vision and perhaps be less clear.Can anyone compare optical and digital miscroscopes for smd work ?

author: KJDS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2014, 10:33:37 am
content: Quote from: artag on October 11, 2014, 12:08:00 pmI've got a couple o fCCTV camera based microscopes with decent lens on them. They are fine for inspection but I just can't get on with them for soldering, my brain isn't able to correlate what is on the screen with hand movements.For a stereo microscope then I have no problems coordinating what I see with where my hands need to go. Decent eyepieces make a big difference to how critical head position needs to be.