Cheap digital microscopes - are they worth it ?

[@joeemenaker]

Turns out I bought this same microscope about 3-4 weeks ago for soldering small SMD devices. I was pretty surprised at how well it worked for how inexpensive it was. It's not great, but it's easily enough for soldering even 0402 SMD devices.

[@Bloke-in-Stoke]

Glad I found you Nigel. Great review and I'll get one on order as soon as the wife's in a good mood. I'll go through the rest of your back catalogue as soon as I can and I'm looking forward to the old BBC Micro stuff. Had one of the very first Model B's and did more with that thing than any other machine since... happy days indeed. Cheers 🍺

[@ub321]

Huh, somehow the algorithm knew I was thinking about a microscope for electronics repair and suggested your video. Thanks for going over soldering considerations, including fumes - wouldn't have though of that. Even a cheap one like this seems miles more convenient than hunching over a PCB, squinting at it with head-mounted magnifiers. That arm-mounted solution looks very handy, but it would need to really stay put and not sag - cheapness might become a problem there.

[@Maulana_rhodes]

Yes no data is secure specially meta data every chat you do every thing you spek is recorded and analysed to serve you ads,vid,etc

[@johnhess351]

Hooray for the Mantises! I think I'll buy one of these digital units having seen your review. Nice video and presentation. If you could find a piece of anti newton ring glass off old copier or process camera, that would also be perfect for protective glass. Second choice might be a standard UV or Skylight camera lens filter. My fingers tremble in anticipation of doing mods, for which this digital magnifier/macroscope cries out. You mentioned flat black background which would also be my first. A DIY LED ring light comes to mind; the go to method for macro, which this is, not really micro, but 20X is all we really need, practically speaking. It looks good.

[@wildstar1063]

I have a full on stereo microscope on my bench out in the garage, but I bought this exact same microscope the other day for playing around in the house. I used it to recap my Mac SE/30 the other day. I absolutely have to use a microscope for SMD work, I have problems with my eyes due to diabetes.

[@PIXscotland]

I don't mind those style of microscopes. The usual marketing lies bother me a bit, but as a simple scope to let me easily read components and inspect soldering I'm perfectly fine with. They're not a Mantis, but I'm also not a NASA engineer! 😊

[@MrPeabody_here]

I got that same microscope on Amazon. It was branded 'XCLifes' but came in the very same box. I also just use the windows camera software and don't bother with the remote. I find it works well for watch repair.

[@WOFFY-qc9te]

God video thank you, I got a similar unit from Aliexpress £25 the stand was pants so I bought a angle poise magnifier and the bracket for a camera, that was another £18. If you go for an angle poise stand use the one that clamps to the desk as the freestanding one will fall over. Tip, stretch cling film over the lens cover. You large microscope bracket, it looks like you could fit a metal strap (0.5mm) on the outside and capture it with the bolt fixing, some epoxy bonding the strap to the broken plastic should effect a good repair. You have nothing to loose as it is broken and I suspect the other one will be doing the same sometime in the future.

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Yes I know I'll have to try some kind of strap but even a thin one might foul the body. Might have to file a valley into the bracket but anyway another job on the to do list :-)

[@ratvelvet6176]

I’m amazed at the quality of the image

[@jonathaningram4672]

I've got something similar, although the base is nice and heavy I found it to be conductive so I put a rubber mat over it. The big down side to these is the centre stand limits what you can put on it in line with the camera lens, would have been better if it was a flexi tube at the top so you could tilt the camera.

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

I have more of a problem with the reflections from the base. I've got an old antistatic mat from which I'm going to cut a piece to fit.

[@xXDannySilvaXx]

I have something like this one and I love mine. The image quality is better than expected and I can run it off my cheap 50 dollar powerbank from amazon.

[@fu1r4]

I have a TOMLOV with a 10" screen and i can connect it to an external monitor and record to SD card. It also runs on a 18650 cell if I don't have a power outlet nearby. I payed around $170 (incl VAT) for it from AE ...

[@kjamison5951]

I also have a TOMLOV with the same features you mention. My work colleagues have asked what camera I am using when I show them images taken by its camera. The focus is excellent. EDIT: Just to add that I chose the Tomlov because I was taking an IPC J-STD course and the master trainer recommended them.

[@roadkillraker]

They are an amazing value. I found one on a flash sale and it is way better that the head mounted magnifier I struggled with before.

[@AndyM...]

Also have a Tomlov unit same as yours, don't use it that often but it has been great, decent size screen and very clear image !! 👍🤠😎

[@JehuMcSpooran]

That Amcap program is based on demo code for Microsoft Visual Studio. It's basically an old demo camera program to teach you how to code AV capture for Windows.

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Yes, that's exactly what it reminded me of, all those useless MFC demos from back in the day. The user manual points to a download which may be better, haven't tried it as the windows app is fine for me.

[@osgeld]

I have a very cheap usb microscope / borescope that plugs in to the computer ... i mean its better than nothing but for doing rework having stereo vision is really nice, just got to find room on my already filled desk for a small optical one that can be had around 100 ish dollars if your keeping an eye out

[@KayoMichiels]

Maybe take some measurements of that spare bracket and try some 3D printed spare for when the spare will break in the future.

[@lptf5441]

Wish you had supplied a link for the device on TEMU! I can't find anything similar for anything like the price you mentioned.

[@XGempler]

It does seem absurd not to Moro use a link or even mention the make/model. Feel like watching was a total waste of time.

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Sadly I can't find a way to link to the discounted price. It regularly pops up in my instagram feed, and when you click on it it wants you to download the temu app and sign up as a new customer. Only then do you get the cheap price. Also, the app is nag-ware. I've uninstalled it until I need it again.

[@nb1843]

mine came with the hdmi output on 1080p and it works great

[@Patrick-rd9qo]

Re. alternative stands: A search for 'spring microscope stand' will yield purpose made stands that are an improvement over what comes in the box - they're not cheap tho. Someone else mentioned modifying an angle-poise style magnifier, I have one of those myself but I'm not convinced it would be steady enough - if it drooped, even by a mm or two, it would drive one mad :-) I think Joey-does-tech has his microscope mounted on a modified monitor stand - that would definitely take the weight, but might not have a fluid enough motion in general use? Any other ideas out there? Perhaps something based around 2020 ali strut?

[@Loner0sir]

was wondering if I need one. thanks for the review

[@harrygood4783]

Hi think i would be inclined to put a stop at the base of the supporting rod, maybe a cir-clip to prevent the weight of the microscope from dropping down, if the two thumb wheels become loose and dropping the microscope camera head hitting the base of the unit, it does look like an error in the design, it looks quite flimsy.

[@SURGE101]

On your mantis microscope, what lens do you use for soldering ?because I have the same microscope but can’t solder under it because there not enough room. Thanks so much. Great watch as always

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Working under these isn't always easy. I have a x4 and x8. The working space underneath is 90mm and 40mm so its the x4 I use most.

[@SURGE101]

@@nigelsretroworkshop thanks so much, I’ll keep my eyes out for a 4x lens. Really appreciate the help. Thanks

[@MostLuckiest]

also on aliexpress they have a wide angle lens that goes on an Andonstar threaded, I wan't to try and mod it for our type of scopes. Which is a type of DM9 model made under a few different Chinese brands.

[@beautifulsmall]

For photos and close vids, these are ok but for live work I would recommend a stereo zoom 7-40x for SMD, botany, entamology work. the mantis gives me sea sickness, i hate them, a properly used stereo is unbeatable.

[@Guitargreat]

The tomlov scopes are actually pretty good

[@MostLuckiest]

i don't why my post keeps getting blocked.. You can use any 5/8's flex mic boom to mount these. Use the black nut with thread locker it's 5/8's.

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Sorry about the blocking, it isn't me!

[@XGempler]

No mention of make/model, no link in description, no mention of the purpose of the chrome diffuser…. There is an led light ring at the tip of the camera that you did not mention. These light can cause glare which that chrome diffuser can soften. For those that want something similar sear for 7” digital microscope on aliexpress or temu

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Actually there isn't a brand on the one I received but I did point to a company that sells what looks like the same one. I couldn't provide a link to the discounted price which is why I left it out. As this wasn't a paid review I didn't want to give Temu free advertising but as you say it's fairly easy to find with a search.

[@thedave1771]

Nice review. The worst part is this seems like a perfect microscope for my needs, but I refuse to buy products from manufacturers that outright lie about their specifications. 720p is perfectly fine, but if they’re going to lie, why reward it?

[@Nele_BiH]

Glue it scan it 3D print it

[@TheMatthooks]

I guess the remote is useful so that you dont end up knocking the thing and eother having to wait an age for the cheese bracket to stop wobbling, or have to refocus (see above about brackets made of cheese) That said, for £25, what do you expect?

[@Joe_Blo]

I'm old enough to barely remember being able to see circuits as clear as those scopes with my bare eyes.

[@orac229]

Pull it apart and see it you can change the lens for a different size.

[@Elberto71]

I've got one of these but didn't realise you can view it on your laptop via usb 👍🏻 Didn't RTFM 😂

[@andrew_koala2974]

Search for a foundry who would be willing to make a casting of the bracket ( ideally the bracket that is still intact and have some 'cast aluminium or magnesium alloy brackets made . Have a ten or more made - keep two and advertise the others for sale.

[@mohdfaizal2953]

Is it same model tomlov dm9??

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Mine doesn't have a brand name but the manual says the model number is DM9

[@AIJenkins]

1:05 The box tells you everything you need to know.

[@billynomates920]

there was a choice of a 4gb or 16gb, 2gb memory card....

[@vampalan]

you can get a 3d metal printed bracket made up for you online, you'll have to design it yourself, probably should get initial design in plastic before going for a metal print,.

[@stuartmcconnachie]

Hackaday seems to already have some posts on this with the STL files available.

[@sicks6six]

not much, if any better than a pair of magnified illuminated lab spectacles,

[@Cornz38]

You could have done a bit more research and bought one of the better quaility cheap microscopes.

[@robertnitschke89]

$98 in Australia.

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Yes they are about that price if you just browse for it, but if you see the ad on social media, click on that and it will give you an 85% discount. At least, that's how it worked for me.

[@RobertHammersteinArt]

@@nigelsretroworkshop I would like to buy it too, but never got such Temu ad :)

[@pietjepuk9575]

DO NOT DO IT , see my comment 😝😝👎👎👎👎

[@Joe_Blo]

I looked into these 6 momths ago. The AI tracking me g presenting content cant keep up.

[@Zodliness]

Humour me for a moment.... Chinese electronics that actually match the manufacturers specifications? 🤔😂

[@gregorydavis2568]

3D printer

[@jameswatters9592]

Oh dear as for the terminals what a basic amateur mistake not one but both

[@andrew_koala2974]

10:08 - Lower the microscope down ? That is a redundant statement Lower the microscope implies DOWN one cannot Lower the microscope up -- or any thing else UP and at 09:59 - Raise the microscope up ? again it is a redundant statement. Read more to improve your knowledge of the English language Learn correct grammatical Legal English. That would be easily achieved by reading Law books - or take a specific course in Legal English

[@Kinann]

For some reason, mics too close to the mouth without any kind of screen which allow the listener to hear ALL of the lip smacks and tongue noises make the video unlistenable to me, to the point of nausea. Literally trigger a queasy stomach. Had to stop watching.

[@nigelsretroworkshop]

Note to self, move the voice-over mic further away! Thanks for the comment.

[@Clutch275]

not a "micro" scope Microscope -" is a laboratory instrument used to examine objects that are too small to be seen by the naked eye" WORDS MATTER

[@g4z-kb7ct]

Yeah, it's essentially just a fancy magnifier. I have something similar but never use it. I have repaired thousands of things over 25 years and believe it or not I just use a helping-hands alligator-clip stand ($1) and an 8X stamp magnifier clipped to it and a desk lamp on a spring arm which can be put anywhere light is required. I've even mounted QFP304 chips with it. In reality you don't need more than 25mm clearance to get a soldering iron under there.

[@MostLuckiest]

Ebay seller has 3 left Andonstar ad407 listed under AD407 without the brand name when searched. Same as Joey Does Tech YT repair uses. They have listed for 30.99 with auto coupon free ship. I thought they were an off brand but, I got mine they were legit Andonstar Ad407!!. The weird thing was they were dropped shipped from Amaz on. I sent my off brand dm201 back and kept the 407. I liked the 201 a little better but, this was half the price and did what I needed. Just passing the info and deal along.

[@pietjepuk9575]

Please do not buy ANYTHING from bloody Temu , if youdo or register those a-holes got ALL you're info and they sell that to other a-holes . How do you think those Chinese make profit ? Been there and have the crap quality t-shirt 🙄🙄👎👎 Take care dude .