Stereo Microscope for general electronics repair

Other Hardware General Electronics
1

Does anyone use these types of microscopes: AmScope SE508 8X Magnification Binocular Stereo Microscope and AmScope SE400 10X Binocular Stereo Microscope? Which one is more handy for DIY electronics work, small item repair, soldering, inspection?

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2

I would say it depends on what you are trying to repair / inspect.

If you are looking towards surface mount parts, then maybe. If you are working with through hole devices, then I find (with my 60 yr old eyes) that a pair of cheap reading specs helps me focus without eye strain.

I'm happy working with 1206 and 0805 SMD components and some of the SOIC devices. I'm about to attempt to solder a Zilog Z84C15 to a carrier board and I think the pin spacing is 0.65mm.

3
  • I use the AmScope SM-4T Series Trinocular Simul-Focal Zoom Stereo Microscope 7X-45X

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4

Mainly for general electronics hobby, PCB inspection.

5
  • The terminology one should look for is:
    Trinocular
    Simul-Focal
    Zoom

A .5 Barlow lens is a recommended addition.

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6

I’ve used both microscopes and reading glasses. The microscope is in another room collecting dust now, as I primarily use 4X reading glasses for most tasks. I have some that go up to 9X. For me, the real challenge was getting the lighting right.

7

The type like AmScope SM-4 Series is overkill for me, the price is too high.

8

  • 8X might be a too much for your application.

  • Zoom control is a must.

  • Get a LED adjustable light source.

  • If you ever need a VGA monitor, get the Trinocular Simul-Focal version.

  • However, budget is important, maybe save up a bit longer :thinking:

9

For what tasks 8X would be the optimal magnification?

10

  • 8X would be good for looking at fine cracks on PCBS.

  • For soldering, 0603 to 1206 or larger I use the Zoom capability about 2 to 7.5

  • The focusing of the second microscope you show is (sorry to say) quite Mickey Mouse. :pleading_face:

11
  • Here is a 2mm component at a magnification of your 8.

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12

Depending upon how old you are you might do well to just get a visor magnifier.
The unit with only the gooseneck could be a challenge to set up depending on distance to work. I suspect that it will sag and require frequent compensation.

13

Nice setup, I see. I'm now thinking about my microscope upgrade to SM-4TP. Which camera you have on yours? Are it is something special or general cameras from Ali will fit?