Stero trinocular microscope. Amscope, Which one?

[Radio Tech]

Ok guys. I know this horse has been beat to death. So here goes.
I know nothing about microscopes. I do not know about the lenses and stuff. But I do know what I like.

Will be working on circuit boards and using it to help shoot my YouTube videos.
I was looking on this page:
http://www.amscope.com/stereo-microscopes/dissecting-stereo-microscopes.html?dir=asc&order=price.

One I was looking at was this: Will link picture.
20X-40X-80X Trinocular Boom Stereo Microscope + Fluorescent Light
SKU: SW-3T24Z-FRL
 $673.43 $299.98 

So I like to stay in the 250 to 325 US dollar range. Was going to purchase today but though I would ask first and be happy later.

Thoughts?




 

[Radio Tech]

Ok, I think I made my mind up. This one comes with camera.
Not the best camera but will do in a pinch.

http://www.amscope.com/20x-40x-80x-boom-stand-stereo-microscope-fluorescent-light-camera.html

[uncle_bob]

Hi

Get the Amscope and see how you like the light. Some people are very happy with it. Others find they need more illumination. There is no reason to get a fancy light if you don't need it. They are as cheap bought as an add on as part of a microscope package.

Take a look at the stand and the room on your bench. If you have room for the double arm stand, that's fine. It's a big monster and I find them a bit more than I have room for. They are nice and stable for movies.

There are about a dozen threads on the various ins and outs of these scopes. If you have a week of spare time, dig into them. Bottom line - the Amscope is a pretty good deal.

Bob

[Radio Tech]

Thanks uncle_bob.
Yeah I been reading for the past couple of days. So much it started to confuse me. So many opinions.
Guess that is the good thing about them, if you do not like the light and camera you can always upgrade.
But for what I can see on this last one I posted it appears to be what I need.

Thanks again.

[Carl_Smith]

Ok, I think I made my mind up. This one comes with camera.
Not the best camera but will do in a pinch.

http://www.amscope.com/20x-40x-80x-boom-stand-stereo-microscope-fluorescent-light-camera.html

I got an Amscope and I am satisfied with it.  Mine is a binocular one I bought quick one night when it was inexplicably listed on Amazon for $89.99.  The next day it was back up at $189.    I kind of wish I got the Trinocular one with the camera, but then that would have been more than 4 times the price.

Here's the one I got:  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0080M11Y4

I'm guessing that if you are not satisfied with the camera it could be replaced with a better one in the future.  Maybe.  I guess that depends on if there is a standard for the optics on microscope cameras...

[uncle_bob]

Hi

I would spend another $15 or so and go for the two tube mount arm. It's no bigger than the one on the scope you show. It is more stable. For movies / pictures that's important.

You will probably find the included light OK for normal work. It's a bit under powered for work with a camera.

Bob

[Radio Tech]

Hi

I would spend another $15 or so and go for the two tube mount arm. It's no bigger than the one on the scope you show. It is more stable. For movies / pictures that's important.

You will probably find the included light OK for normal work. It's a bit under powered for work with a camera.

Bob

Did you see one with the two arms for 15 more? I saw some but no camera on them.
Thanks

[Radio Tech]

Ok, I think I made my mind up. This one comes with camera.
Not the best camera but will do in a pinch.

http://www.amscope.com/20x-40x-80x-boom-stand-stereo-microscope-fluorescent-light-camera.html

I got an Amscope and I am satisfied with it.  Mine is a binocular one I bought quick one night when it was inexplicably listed on Amazon for $89.99.  The next day it was back up at $189.    I kind of wish I got the Trinocular one with the camera, but then that would have been more than 4 times the price.

Here's the one I got:  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0080M11Y4

I'm guessing that if you are not satisfied with the camera it could be replaced with a better one in the future.  Maybe.  I guess that depends on if there is a standard for the optics on microscope cameras...

That was a pretty good deal. Even those it has no camera port. For general work it would be fine.
Thanks

[uncle_bob]

Hi

I would spend another $15 or so and go for the two tube mount arm. It's no bigger than the one on the scope you show. It is more stable. For movies / pictures that's important.

You will probably find the included light OK for normal work. It's a bit under powered for work with a camera.

Bob

Hi

Yes, it has a slightly different part number. The price delta between the stands is quite low. It is mentioned in one of the many threads and I confirmed it in my searching a month or two ago. It takes a good hour or two to sort through all the models and prices.....

Bob

Did you see one with the two arms for 15 more? I saw some but no camera on them.
Thanks

[DTJ]

Just a suggestion, I'd very strongly recommend going for a zoom microscope with continuously variable magnification from  7.5 to 45 and add a 0.5x barlow lens.

For fine pitch stuff I solder at lowish magnification (5x) and then zoom in to inspect with the twist of a knob on the side of the microscope.

You're lucky you are in the USA, the shipping cost me almost as much as the microscope.

[Radio Tech]

Just a suggestion, I'd very strongly recommend going for a zoom microscope with continuously variable magnification from  7.5 to 45 and add a 0.5x barlow lens.

For fine pitch stuff I solder at lowish magnification (5x) and then zoom in to inspect with the twist of a knob on the side of the microscope.

You're lucky you are in the USA, the shipping cost me almost as much as the microscope.

Now that is the information that I would have missed.  Thanks for taking the time to reply and tell me this.
Yes very lucky with the shipping here.
Now to go back and search their site more for one with a zoom.

[DTJ]

For illumination I added two ikea lamps, one on either side. I removed the base and mounted them to the scope base. Good illumination, easily positioned, no heat and no shadows. Lamps were cheap, au$15 each. I did find bright ones at office works (210 lumen) after I'd used the idea ones (70 lumen).


http://www.ikea.com/aa/en/catalog/products/60169661/

[Radio Tech]

So I think I found it.
http://www.amscope.com/stereo-microscopes/dissecting-stereo-microscopes/7x-45x-trinocular-stereo-boom-zoom-microscope-fluorescent-light.html

It busted my budget so will have to order with out the camera. Will get that later.

But this one is 3-5x-45x
http://www.amscope.com/stereo-microscopes/dissecting-stereo-microscopes/3-5x-45x-trinocular-stereo-boom-zoom-microscope-fluorescent-light.html

[Psi]

That's the one i got, but i bought it through aliexpress (exactly same thing though)
Paid $582 inc DHL shipping
I really love it, works well and its so handy being able to just push it out of the way when its not needed.

I recommend getting the 0.5x barlow lens attachment, its like $20
Gives you a huge amount more working distance and the minimum stock zoom is a bit too much anyway. Since you have variable zoom there's plenty of room to zoom in even with the 0.5 lens on.

Did the same as you, blew budget to get a better mounting system on it instead of a camera.
We got the fixed mount version of this microscope at work for $400 inc shipping with a camera, but the camera is a bit shit. It's HDMI/USB2 and works ok, but the optics could be better. So waiting a bit and buying a better camera is a good plan.

Have been trying various ways to assemble the thing to see what i prefer. (you will see what i mean if you compare mine to the stock image)

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-3-5X-90X-DOUBLE-BOOM-STAND-TRINOCULAR-STEREO-ZOOM-MICROSCOPE/565564367.html

[Radio Tech]

Thanks PSI for that information. Very nice.

I found this one at a cheaper price. But it is 7x instead of 3.5x.
What difference will this make?



http://www.amscope.com/7x-45x-trinocular-stereo-zoom-microscope-with-double-arm-boom-stand.html


7X-45X Trinocular Stereo Zoom Microscope with Double Arm Boom Stand
SKU: SM-4T
Availability: In stock
 

  $799.96    $359.00 

•7X-45X continuous stereo zoom magnification power
•Super widefield optics provides crystal stereo erect images
•1-1/4" (33mm) SUPER widefield of view and 4" (100mm) working distance
•3D boom stand allowing point microscope head in any direction desired
•Trinocular port for adding photo/video capability

[DTJ]

Thanks PSI for that information. Very nice.

I found this one at a cheaper price. But it is 7x instead of 3.5x.
What difference will this make?

That's the same body as I have, except mine is binocular.


If you add a 0.5x Barlow lens to that it would be ideal.
In my opinion 7x is too high for a minimum magnification.

Adding a Barlow lens (0.5x) will halve your magnification , roughly double your working distance and double your width of field view. All gains, no drawbacks.

This advice was given to me by Ian and others on this forum and was spot on.

[Radio Tech]

That's the same body as I have, except mine is binocular.


If you add a 0.5x Barlow lens to that it would be ideal.
In my opinion 7x is too high for a minimum magnification.

Adding a Barlow lens (0.5x) will halve your magnification , roughly double your working distance and double your width of field view. All gains, no drawbacks.

This advice was given to me by Ian and others on this forum and was spot on.

That's good to hear. So I can order that one and an 0.5x barlow lens. Should have enough money left for a cheap camera. That part can always be upgraded later.

Thanks for this information.

[DTJ]

This is a link to the Barlow lens I have on order, recommended by Ian.rees
The price seemed quite good.


http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Free-Shipping-Free-Shipping-SZM-0-5X-AUXILIARY-OBJECTIVE-LENS-FOR-STEREO-ZOOM-MICROSCOPE-WD-165mm/2100001_32630790654.html

[Radio Tech]

Thanks, much cheaper than Amscopes lens.

Scope ordered.

[Skimask]

That's good to hear. So I can order that one and an 0.5x barlow lens. Should have enough money left for a cheap camera. That part can always be upgraded later.

Thanks for this information.

A bit of a side note...when I bought my Amscope, I emailed them directly and subsequently emailed back and forth to one of their sales rep's for awhile, and that sales rep...for a rather refreshing change...was very helpful in helping me figure out what I wanted/needed and even hooked me up with a bit of a camera upgrade in the process.

[Radio Tech]

That's good to hear. So I can order that one and an 0.5x barlow lens. Should have enough money left for a cheap camera. That part can always be upgraded later.

Thanks for this information.

A bit of a side note...when I bought my Amscope, I emailed them directly and subsequently emailed back and forth to one of their sales rep's for awhile, and that sales rep...for a rather refreshing change...was very helpful in helping me figure out what I wanted/needed and even hooked me up with a bit of a camera upgrade in the process.

Yes, this morning I emailed them. A guy named Nico responded. he was very helpful. Did not get any discounts but still was a pleasure to deal with.

[Skimask]

I got Karl.  Same...same...
One of the best $1200 I ever spent.

[KL27x]

FYI, unless things have changed very recently, it appears that Amscope cheaps out on the stand by omitting the hard chrome plating on the boom arm(s).

The upper arm is the one that rides on ball bearings. If you take apart the stand (little imperial hex head worm screws on the right side), you can slide the arm out and look at the sleeve bearings. There are two of them, one fore, one aft. If you turn the front bearing so the star points up and the back bearing so the star points down, this will keep the slightly-undersized and unhardened rod centered between the 4 rows of ball bearings (considering the balance of the microscope under rest/use). This makes it smoother in operation and results in a longer life before the rod becomes galled.

Be sure to lift up on the head a little when moving the boom in/out, to take some weight off the bearings.

[digsys]

FYI, unless things have changed very recently, it appears that Amscope cheaps out on the stand by omitting the hard chrome plating on the boom arm(s).
Be sure to lift up on the head a little when moving the boom in/out, to take some weight off the bearings. 

I have the original hard chrome version from ages ago. Even that needs graphite dust occasionally. Even so, lifting the head is a MUST. It's a lot of weight.

[Psi]

I found this one at a cheaper price. But it is 7x instead of 3.5x.
What difference will this make?

Micrscope is the same thing, just with or without the 0.5 barlow lens included.
Some sellers ship the x0.5 with the microscope and advertise it as 3.5x
Mine came with the x0.5 and the 2x lens.

Adding the x0.5 makes a huge difference to the working distance, it's ~16cm. Plenty of room to get the iron in.
From memory its like half that without any barlow lens.
It really is a win/win for electronics use. You get to zoom out more and fit more PCB in the field of view and get awesome working distance.  You lose the ability to zoom in as far, but the microscope head has more zoom than needed anyway, so it doesnt matter.

Side note: The 2x barlow makes the working distance like 1 inch. LOL

[Radio Tech]

Thanks PSI

I got my microscope in and featured it in a mail time video:
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/other-blog-specific/50-mail-time/new/#new

Also noticed it did not come with the tiny screws to hold the eye pieces in.

[DTJ]

Also noticed it did not come with the tiny screws to hold the eye pieces in.

When I got mine I was surprised the eyepiece screws were still in the housing. They were quite loose in the threads and I would not have been surprised if they'd vibrated out and gone astray. Perhaps that's what happened to yours.

[Radio Tech]

Also noticed it did not come with the tiny screws to hold the eye pieces in.

When I got mine I was surprised the eyepiece screws were still in the housing. They were quite loose in the threads and I would not have been surprised if they'd vibrated out and gone astray. Perhaps that's what happened to yours.

May be the case. I was not even looking for tiny screws to be running amuck.  I pulled the plastic off the head over the bench. So they may have fell out of the bag it was in and now lost in the Twilight Zone. Going to see if I can hunt some down today. Surly do not want to pull an eye piece off when removing the cover.

[Radio Tech]

Found some screws with correct thread from an old IPod. Not long enough to touch the eye piece but was long enough to keep them from being pulled out.  So can use one of them to determine thread size and find the correct length coated screw.

[Psi]

Yeah, mine didn't come with those 2 grub screws either.
Some day i'll get around to finding some, for now it doesn't really matter, the eyepieces are fine without it.

[TonyL]

Mine didnt come with any eyepiece screws either - queried the ebay seller and he said "Length: 2.39mm, Width: 1.6mm"
- does that mean M1.6?

SM-3TX-54S
3 = Single arm boom, 4 = double arm
X = Includes 0.5 Barlow

If its not "-xTP" then trinoc port will block left eyepiece

[DTJ]

Mine didnt come with any eyepiece screws either - queried the ebay seller and he said "Length: 2.39mm, Width: 1.6mm"
- does that mean M1.6?

I pulled one of my eyepiece screws and measured it:

Its a slotted cheese head screw
Head diameter = 1.4mm
Thread length = 2mm
Thread diameter = 1.5mm

I guess M1.6 is the likely candidate.

Minibearings might have something. I could  not see M1.6 @ RS Components.
http://www.minibearings.com.au/

If you buy some get extras, they take 20 minutes to find if you drop them on the workshop floor..............

[Radio Tech]

Mine didnt come with any eyepiece screws either - queried the ebay seller and he said "Length: 2.39mm, Width: 1.6mm"
- does that mean M1.6?

I pulled one of my eyepiece screws and measured it:

Its a slotted cheese head screw
Head diameter = 1.4mm
Thread length = 2mm
Thread diameter = 1.5mm

I guess M1.6 is the likely candidate.

Minibearings might have something. I could  not see M1.6 @ RS Components.
http://www.minibearings.com.au/

If you buy some get extras, they take 20 minutes to find if you drop them on the workshop floor..............

Yep, suckers are tiny!
I ended up using some from a IPOD that was damaged beyond repair. So I have extras

[Radio Tech]

Got my 0.5X barlow lens in today. Screwed it on and wow! That made a big difference in the whole scope.
Went from 4 inches to a full 8 inches. Noticed also that the focus is not quite as tight as it was.
Thanks for that suggestion PSI.

[DTJ]

Went from 4 inches to a full 8 inches.

You have to be happy with that!

I had the same result.

[Radio Tech]

Went from 4 inches to a full 8 inches.

You have to be happy with that!

I had the same result.

Oh yes. I could not believe the difference it made.  Plenty of room to work under now.

[ar__systems]

Ok so I purchased Amscope stereo trinocular, and MA500 camera to go with it. All seems nice, but, there is a big problem: the FOV of the camera is considerably smaller than that of the eyepiece. I.e., with eyepiece the FOV is 30mm, and with camera only 9mm. I was kind of expecting to setup my view, switch to camera, and save the image.

Since I already use camera near or at lowest magnification level, I can't even zoom further out for a camera shot. SO8 chip takes pretty much entire frame of the camera! Definitely not what I wanted.

I spoke to Amscope and they are saying this is how it is designed to work. I don't understand this. How do you people use the microscope cameras?

[Psi]

Follow up...

I bought this 1080P 60FPS HDMI camera from aliexpress for the trinocular output.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-60fps1080p-HDMI-camera-for-microscope-SONY-sensor-USB-SD-card-Microscope-camera-support-windowsXP/32644622439.html

It's way better than the cheaper camera you find on aliexpress for these microscopes (the 720P one that's also blue but has 6 buttons on the top and often bundled with the microscope).

This one looks sharper and has USB mouse control for setting exposure/gamma/brightness etc.. and can capture direct to SDCard (haven't tried that yet).

[Psi]

Ok so I purchased Amscope stereo trinocular, and MA500 camera to go with it. All seems nice, but, there is a big problem: the FOV of the camera is considerably smaller than that of the eyepiece. I.e., with eyepiece the FOV is 30mm, and with camera only 9mm. I was kind of expecting to setup my view, switch to camera, and save the image.

Since I already use camera near or at lowest magnification level, I can't even zoom further out for a camera shot. SO8 chip takes pretty much entire frame of the camera! Definitely not what I wanted.

I spoke to Amscope and they are saying this is how it is designed to work. I don't understand this. How do you people use the microscope cameras?

Yeah, i found that with my scope/camera too when i used it in stock configuration.

Note that the info below may/may-not apply to your exact camera/microscope...

You probably need the trinocular adapter with a 0.5x lens inside.
Also, if you have a 30mm eyepiece FOV you probably want to get a 0.5x barlow lens as well.

If you open the trinocular port and hold a piece of paper above the opening with the room lights off but the microscope lights on you can bring the image into focus on the paper and see what the field of view actually is out of the port.

Using the adapter it's a lot better but still not 100% of eyepiece view.
Just did a check to see what i get.. 31mm on camera and ~50mm on eyepiece.

This is the trinocular and barlow 0.5 adapters that fit on my scope.

0.5x Trinocular adapter
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-C-MOUNT-LENS-ADAPTER-FOR-VIDEO-CAMERA-MICROSCOPES/565596888.html

0.5x barlow adaptor
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/0-5X-AUXILIARY-OBJECTIVE-LENS-FOR-STEREO-ZOOM-MICROSCOPE-MICROSCOPE-LENS/320845311.html

[Howardlong]

A couple of comments on the Amscopes.

The one I purchased a year or so ago now came with an LED ring. I found this was quite intrusive for getting the hot air iron in, so I removed the ring and instead I use two clip on gooseneck LED spots at different angles clipped onto the scope mount.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lloytron-L1507SV-Apollo-Clip-Silver/dp/B00GMFKRI2

The key points about this specific lamp are that (a) it's a concentrated narrow beam, and (b) it doesn't "beat" when taking video, a facet which I found to be very common in the various other illuminating options I tried.

Secondly, on the unit I purchased I discovered that despite being trinocular, the left side is switched mechanically between either being directed to eyepiece or to the camera port, you can't have all three ports active simultaneously.

Mine came with the articulated arm which clamps to the desk: this fits well in my situation as it minimises the amount of desk space used when it's folded away.

The FOV is indeed smaller on the two cameras I have used on the Trinocular port. I have an adapter to minimise this but the FOV is still significantly smaller.

Edit: I use a third party C-mount 60fps 1080p HDMI camera but despite the specs I still find it much worse than using the stereo eyepieces for working on stuff. Part of this is the latency and part is the camera itself, possibly to do with its dynamic range, but I get scintillating artifacts. Not being stereoscopic I am sure is also part of it too.

[Psi]

I agree that its easier to solder under the eyepiece than on a monitor. Probably because you get 3D with the eyepiece.
However the monitor is really useful for inspecting things.

[TonyL]

Secondly, on the unit I purchased I discovered that despite being trinocular, the left side is switched mechanically between either being directed to eyepiece or to the camera port, you can't have all three ports active simultaneously.

Yeah, that really isn't made clear in any of the descriptions IMO; if you want all 3 ports at the same time you have to get the "Simul-Focal" head

[ar__systems]

You probably need the trinocular adapter with a 0.5x lens inside.
Also, if you have a 30mm eyepiece FOV you probably want to get a 0.5x barlow lens as well.

Thanks! I thought of something like this but could not find. Yes, I already ordered the barlow lens, now I need to order the adapter.

[apelly]

That's the one i got, but i bought it through aliexpress (exactly same thing though)
Paid $582 inc DHL shipping
I really love it, works well and its so handy being able to just push it out of the way when its not needed.

In some thread, or youtube video, someone commented on the mild steel slidey bits and how the linear bearings are chewing them up. Have you noticed this issue?

[Psi]

Haven't noticed that yet.

However i set the length once when i got it and now simply rotate it in/out of the way. I don't usually slid it on the rods in day to day use.

[digsys]

...
In some thread, or youtube video, someone commented on the mild steel slidey bits and how the linear bearings are chewing them up. Have you noticed this issue?

There is a lot of vertical drag on those beams, and they do get stiffer as time goes on. I haven't noticed it myself, BUT I regularly lube them, usually with
graphite dust. I've had the scope for several years as well. If you don't lube, I guess it is possible.

[DTJ]

Just a comment on lighting.

I purchased two of these Ikea LED goose neck lamps and mounted them to the rear base of my Amscope. They work well, no shadows and plenty of light, they are $15 each. The goose necks allow them to not interfere with your hands / tools and they are easily re-positioned.

http://www.ikea.com/aa/en/catalog/products/60169661/


I later spotted this LED lamp at office works which has 3 times the light output, its twice the price, $30 each. I ended up with one for my other non-microscope soldering work.

http://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/brilliant-vega-led-desk-lamp-black-brvegalmbk

[KL27x]

In some thread, or youtube video, someone commented on the mild steel slidey bits and how the linear bearings are chewing them up. Have you noticed this issue?

Yes. Mine developed quite a noticeable drag. The ball bearings had made a distinct groove and a raised bur on one area of the rod.

There's a post on the forum if you can find it. A machinist noticed that the rods are basically lacking a chrome plating. So they're not only lacking the hard coating, but they are also undersized, at a bit under 20mm diameter, so they're loose in the bearings, which creates a few distinct high pressure points on the rod. (Per my calipers, 19.91mm)

Some have posted that their Amscope is unaffected. So it might be a recent thing where they stopped doing the chrome plating. You can tell by lifting up on the head. A non-plated scope will wiggle about 1/3" or so up/down when fully extended.

In an earlier post in this thread I explained how to fix this. Or at least to minimize it. By carefully aligning the bearings to best distribute the load, given the mismatched diameter of the rod to bearings. IMO. Anyway, since doing this a few months ago, my scope travel has remained smooth as when new.

[ar__systems]

I bought this one -- but I can't figure out how to mount it. I tried different compinations and nothing works. The result always a circle in the middle of the frame....

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-1-3X-C-MOUNT-Lens-Adapter-For-Video-Camera-Trinocular-microscope-SZMCTV-1-3-CCD/32627386318.html

[Psi]

I've only tried 0.5x on my microscope, so i don't know if 0.33x works.

Do you get a circle image with black around the edges? If so my guess is that 0.33x is so much negative magnification that you have zoomed out too far and are seeing more FOV than the trinocular port outputs.

[Genaugmen]

As some others have stated, you may want to look into a model with zoom. Also SIMUL-FOCAL if you want to use a camera and the eyepieces at the same time. I've personally been looking into this one...

SM-4TPZ-FRL-3M

[Genaugmen]

That's the one i got, but i bought it through aliexpress (exactly same thing though)
Paid $582 inc DHL shipping
I really love it, works well and its so handy being able to just push it out of the way when its not needed.

In some thread, or youtube video, someone commented on the mild steel slidey bits and how the linear bearings are chewing them up. Have you noticed this issue?

I'd use some synthetic bearing Grease on the slide. You only need a thin film, but it helps tremendously with metal to metal contact and rubbing.

[jasonbrent]

.. I realize this is an old thread; just commenting on Amscope quality. I just received an SM-4TPX-144 and apparently they still don't come with set screws for the eye pieces, the set screws for the drop post (unsure how else to describe it) where it holds on to the boom arm were stripped out, and the set screw that holds that boom into the 'slot' cut on the boom was also missing.

Based on one of the responses earlier in this thread, I just trashed an old ipod I had, but apparently it was too new to have the "large" M1.6 screws. =)

Purchased via Amazon.. I've reached out to Amscope, but just disappointed in the minor touches that have been missed.

*EDIT*: Eyeglasses appear to commonly have M1.6; the missing set screw on the drop post is an M4 fine thread, and I still don't know what the striped screws under the drop post are. They might be course threaded M3.

-j

[Psi]

Amscope dont make them, they are just rebranded from a factory in china.
You can get them direct from aliexpress and save yourself some money.
(Luckyzoom on aliexpress is a trustworthy store)

And yes, they still don't have the set screws for the eye pieces  .

[uncle_bob]

Hi

Because the 'scopes come from a lot of factories, the "what you get" on one may not be the same as on another ....

Bob

[cstratton]

Adding a Barlow lens (0.5x) will halve your magnification , roughly double your working distance and double your width of field view. All gains, no drawbacks.

Actually, there is a drawback. The 0.5x barlow lens increases the working distance to the point where the eyepieces can be ever so slightly too high for comfort when the scope is placed on a typical height bench.  I actually have my own (compact unit with integral base instead of an arm) sitting on a cabinet that's lower than bench height for this reason.

I recently saw someone recommending a 0.7x or 0.75x instead, which seems like it might be a better compromise - but haven't had a chance to try it.  That said, I do like having low magnification available - with my soldering tools setup there, and the good lighting I find myself habitually doing all soldering at and often through the scope, even when not really necessary.

Recently helped a client get something for their office and we settled on a an SM-3NTPX as the cheapest solution Unlike my own binocular amscope with the zoom knob at the back, the simul focus trinocular head with the zoom knob at the front is made with lots of plastic.  Still, it seems to work just as well, and without actually having them side by side I can't tell any performance difference.  Bench space in their current office is at a premium, so for the moment we packed away the boom arm and instead just mounted the head to the vertical pillar of the very heavy base until they accomplish a planned move to larger quarters.

Unlike mine, that one does have eyepiece retaining screws.

[Howardlong]

The way I dealt with the 0.5x Barlow was to adjust the height of my chair, which is simple enough, assuming you have a height adjstable chair of course!

[cstratton]

The way I dealt with the 0.5x Barlow was to adjust the height of my chair, which is simple enough, assuming you have a height adjstable chair of course!

It can indeed be dealt with.  Sometimes I simply sit up tall.  But the possibility that the 0.7x might be a better fit for typical needs than the 0.5x is an idea I find interesting.

[jasonbrent]

The issues I had with missing screws, amscope jumped on it and had the parts to me before the week was out. Impressed.

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

[Andrusca]

Hello,
I am looking for a stereo simul-focal microscope on a double arm boom stand. I have found this model:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3-5X-90X-Double-Arm-Boom-Stand-Trinocular-Stereo-Zoom-Microscope-For-Mobile-Phone-Chip-CPU/32801276370.html

As you can see, it cost USD 423.4; more than USD 100 cheaper than this Lucky Zomm's similar model:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-3-5X-90X-50-50-SPLIT-SIMUL-FOCAL-MICROSCOPE-DOUBLE-BOOM-STAND-TRINOCULAR-STEREO/32662991730.html?spm=2114.10010108.1000013.4.3fe799adhFDs4h&scm=1007.13339.99728.0&scm_id=1007.13339.99728.0&scm-url=1007.13339.99728.0&pvid=bdee9fac-e71f-4a0e-87f7-62f162da250f&_t=pvid:bdee9fac-e71f-4a0e-87f7-62f162da250f,scm-url:1007.13339.99728.0

and also includes:
* 144-led ring with power adaptor
* 0.5x SMZCTV 1/2 camera adaptor
* 0.7x Barlow lens
* 1x protective lens
* according to the picture, the eyepieces screws 

I noted that it does not even have the hole for the switch lever (which I have seen closed whith a plastic cup in the Lucky Zoom's simul-focal model) to select between one eye and the camera port. I have confirmed this with the seller.
I still don't get where is the trick for such price difference. Perhaps you can help me to spot it on and go for the more expensive Lucky Zoom model.
 

[uncle_bob]

Hi

What you can easily see in a picture is the mechanical construction of a microscope. It is pretty much impossible to evaluate the quality of the optics. They can save a *lot* of money on optics ( or at least mess them up in a number of ways).  Unfortunately I have learned this over and over again on a variety of gizmos .... Buying this stuff is a bit like buying a stereo without frequency response or distortion specs. There's no way to figure out that this or that one is the 20% distortion / 300 Hz to 3 KHz model and that the other one is the 0.1% distortion / DC to 40 KHz design.

Bob

[Psi]

One BIG thing of note between those two sellers.
One is shipping it EMS and the other DHL.
If you change the "Insein Li Fung" microscope from EMS to DHL it ends up more expensive than the luckzoom version via DHL.

For something filled with optics i would NOT want to use ems shipping.
Dont get me wrong, i love EMS shipping, but not for anything containing glass
Microscope + EMS shipping should scare you 

Don't let this be your microscope.




Luckyzoom have been around for a while and shipped many microscopes.
Me, my work and my friends have ordered 5 in total.

[Andrusca]

Thanks Psi and uncle-bob.
Yes, it is really scaring the package handling service of EMS! No way to choose it.
Anyway, I was already thinking about using an import agent intead DHL or Fedex because tariffs are quite expensive (and somehow unpredictable) when shipping this kind of heavy stuff to Argentina. Also, if customs find by chance you have a wall-mount power supply (for the led ring) included without an approved electrical certification they can even block all the shipment until you fix this issue. It is a painful process to get this kind of equipment here.  I pay a freight and a "bonus" to the import agent and somehow he manages to get thought all this problems. This also have the advantage that Chinese sellers often offer free shipping to a warehouse in China, so I have only to account for the costs required by my import agent. I have done this for some lighter equipment (power supply and IR camera), worked fine and cheaper that DHL or Fedex and most importantly I am sure I get the stuff and know in advance how much I am going to pay for shipping + taxes.

As you and uncle-bob suggested I'd better go for a Lucky Zoom's microscope, mostly because I have no way to compare the optics and the mechanical quality just from pictures.  I had thought that maybe "Insein Li Fung" had the similar quality than "Lucky Zoom" judging from the pictures, but considering how easily Chinese companies copy each other, now I am really in doubt.

[NivagSwerdna]

I have been thinking of changing my microscope after watching...

[Andrusca]

Perhaps you can consider this from the same store:
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/3-5X-90X-Double-Boom-Stereo-Zoom-Trinocular-Microscope-16MP-Camera-Objective-Lens-Microscopio-Free-Shipping/3210043_32875915511.html?spm=2114.12010612.0.0.1b01247evGFwHu

It seems to be the same microscope head model I had seen, I put the link in a previous post . You can distinguish it from the Lucky Zoom's  because it has not the hole (not even capped) for the switch lever on the left side of the head.
Well, we are not going to know their relative quality, but either Lucky Zoom is ripping you off or this microscope is way worse. 

[Andrusca]

Ok so I purchased Amscope stereo trinocular, and MA500 camera to go with it. All seems nice, but, there is a big problem: the FOV of the camera is considerably smaller than that of the eyepiece. I.e., with eyepiece the FOV is 30mm, and with camera only 9mm. I was kind of expecting to setup my view, switch to camera, and save the image.

Since I already use camera near or at lowest magnification level, I can't even zoom further out for a camera shot. SO8 chip takes pretty much entire frame of the camera! Definitely not what I wanted.

I spoke to Amscope and they are saying this is how it is designed to work. I don't understand this. How do you people use the microscope cameras?

Yeah, i found that with my scope/camera too when i used it in stock configuration.

Note that the info below may/may-not apply to your exact camera/microscope...

You probably need the trinocular adapter with a 0.5x lens inside.
Also, if you have a 30mm eyepiece FOV you probably want to get a 0.5x barlow lens as well.

If you open the trinocular port and hold a piece of paper above the opening with the room lights off but the microscope lights on you can bring the image into focus on the paper and see what the field of view actually is out of the port.

Using the adapter it's a lot better but still not 100% of eyepiece view.
Just did a check to see what i get.. 31mm on camera and ~50mm on eyepiece.

This is the trinocular and barlow 0.5 adapters that fit on my scope.

0.5x Trinocular adapter
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-C-MOUNT-LENS-ADAPTER-FOR-VIDEO-CAMERA-MICROSCOPES/565596888.html

0.5x barlow adaptor
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/0-5X-AUXILIARY-OBJECTIVE-LENS-FOR-STEREO-ZOOM-MICROSCOPE-MICROSCOPE-LENS/320845311.html

Hello Psi,
Apart from the 0.5x trinocular adapter, do you need other mounting adapter to attach the model of camera you have?

[Psi]

The 0.5x adapter i got screwed directly onto my microscope and onto my camera.

I cant be sure about your microscope and camera though.

[toli]

I have been thinking of changing my microscope after watching...

I got one of these a few weeks ago, must say I'm very happy with it. I've used (and owned) better units, but despite this I think this one will fit my needs better.
It was about 380$ delivered (+ import tax on top of that obviously) which is a great price for what you get: the microscope head + simple base with height adjustment + FHD 30FPS HDMI output camera + 2 (10X) eye-pieces + CTV1/2 lens for the camera mount + X0.5 objective lens + LED light ring.
What I like most about it compared to my previous unit is that its much smaller and takes up less space on the bench. When I don't need I can easily pick it up and put it in the closet.
The X1/2 lens for the camera gives similar viewing angle to what you get in the eye-piece, but not exactly the same. For instance for the minimum zoom position I get ~40mm through the camera and >50mm through the eye-piece. Close enough if you ask me - especially considering what you see in the eye-piece depends on how exactly you place your head. When using the camera it is easy to note the center of the frame is focused while the edges aren't. It good enough for the price and definitely not a major issue in my opinion, but it is visible.
With the X0.5 objective lens the working distance is about 17cm, so very easy to work under. While the maximum zoom will suffice for everything I'll have need to solder/inspect.
For these of you who have a high working bench, keep in mind that with the X0.5 objective lens, the eye-pieces might end up being a bit too high for comfortable use. You could get a X0.7 lens which will reduce this height by ~4cm. This will still give ~13cm of working distance which is sufficient, but you won't have to stretch your back as much. Or you could just get a higher chair

[Discotech]

I've been looking at this one https://www.aliexpress.com/item/simul-focal-Continuous-Zoom-3-5-90X-Trinocular-Stereo-Microscope-HDMI-VGA-microscope-camera-56-LED/32851330647.html?spm=a2g0s.8937460.0.0.7c4c2e0eNz5ySv

which seems perfect for my needs but the price just seems too good to be true for simul focal trinocular + a decent stand + the hdmi camera (granted the camera is crap managing only 1280*1024 but it's better than nothing)

It hasn't had many orders for that item but the seller seems to be decent looking at their overall feedback (over 15k sales) the only thing that puts me off is the $70 delivery fee, obviously if something goes wrong ali express would never refund the delivery fees

[toli]

Looks like the microscope itself is quite similar to the one I got. So I'd expect to get similar image. If you don't need the extra freedom of adjustment of position you could get the one I got for just a little more. It did come with a very nice camera actually.
Have a look at the youtube video I've quoted in my previous post. He has links there to the sale page, and you can see some sample shots through the microscope through his videos.
I'd shoot some videos myself, but turns out the cheap GDMI->USB converter I got from eBay is actually an HDMI->composite->USB converter, so the quality isn't very good. I'd like to get a nice one, but at the moment just don't see it as a useful way to spend money

[Discotech]

Looks like the microscope itself is quite similar to the one I got. So I'd expect to get similar image. If you don't need the extra freedom of adjustment of position you could get the one I got for just a little more. It did come with a very nice camera actually.
Have a look at the youtube video I've quoted in my previous post. He has links there to the sale page, and you can see some sample shots through the microscope through his videos.
I'd shoot some videos myself, but turns out the cheap GDMI->USB converter I got from eBay is actually an HDMI->composite->USB converter, so the quality isn't very good. I'd like to get a nice one, but at the moment just don't see it as a useful way to spend money

Yep I saw this a few weeks back when I watching some videos on Shenzhen and it's how I found the Eakins one as previously I'd had one of the Lucky Zooms on my wishlist as I'd seen them recommended on this forum, I wonder if they're all made in the same factory ?

[Psi]

I wonder if they're all made in the same factory ?

They almost definitely are, but there will be 'quality grades'.
eg, the 'grade A' units are probably sold to professional microscope wholesalers to be re-branded and sold for massive markup.
There is probably B and maybe C grades too, and then there's all factory rejects that someone takes from the trash to sort through and try to get something working they can sell. (eg the lone aliexpress seller with a single microscope listed and under 5 previous sales.)

When you buy stuff on aliexpress you want to pick the seller carefully to avoid getting crap grades.
Seller feedback is a good indicator, if they are selling reject stuff they will have lots of complaints.
The bigger name aliexpress stores that have sold lots of them previously are pretty safe.
They will have an arrangement with the factory and avoid getting the shit ones. And they know how to ship them without getting damaged.

Luckyzoom on aliexpress are my go-to seller for microscopes, had only good experiences with them (5 microscope so far)
But there are probably other good sellers too.