Mechanic 8k Sony IMX678 microscope camera worth getting for micro soldering?

[artvandalai]

Is this Mechanic 8k Sony IMX678 microscope camera worth getting for micro soldering? I'm looking to purchase a camera for my amscope trinocular microscope.

https://www.diyfixtool.com/products/mechanic-mos-8k-microscope-camera-8k-4k-hdmi-usb-output

[thm_w]

Looks decent but cameras are usually for documentation or recording, the soldering itself you'd do with the stereo eyepieces. Are you thinking this will be some improvement over those?

[Corte]

Sorin checked this camera and compared it to his 500 camera, for the price its definitely worth it. Unless you are ready to spend at least triple of its price on different camera 

[neurotoast]

Looking at the specs I'm suspicious of the claim of 8k and 42 MP images given the IMX678 sensor is a 4k 8.29 MP sensor. Looks good for 4k though.

https://www.sony-semicon.com/files/62/flyer_security/IMX678-AAQR1_Flyer.pdf

[DaneLaw]

Looking at the specs I'm suspicious of the claim of 8k and 42 MP images given the IMX678 sensor is a 4k 8.29 MP sensor. Looks good for 4k though.

https://www.sony-semicon.com/files/62/flyer_security/IMX678-AAQR1_Flyer.pdf

The 8K claim is likely just a result of the Quad Bayer pixel arrangement (×4) many third-party spec-sheets love to inflate numbers that way.

Core specs (Sony IMX678):
* Sensor type - 1/1.8" stacked CMOS (BSI)
* Effective resolution - 3840 × 2160 = 8.29 MP (≈ 8 MP)
* Pixel size - 2.0 µm (effective, 4-cell / Quad Bayer)
* Output format - Up to 4K (4096 × 2160) video
* Max frame rate - 120 fps @ 4K
* Color filter - RGB / Quad Bayer

Even major brands like DJI use the same marketing math.
For example, the Sony IMX586 in my DJI Air 2 was promoted as 48 MP (native 12 MP × 4) thanks to its Quad Bayer filter.
When shooting in the 48 MP mode, the camera essentially performs pixel un-binning or interpolation. - it’s still based on a 12 MP native readout.

[neurotoast]

Thank you for sharing! I had not heard of this technique before. Good to know!

[djtaotao]

It doesn't output 4k@60fps on USB mode, even with a USB3.0 cable.

[artvandalai]

You got one?

[wolffyx]

Hey guys,
I have the camera too(paid ~110 eur).
Sensor is possible the 334 (this is what it says on the pcb) one not 678
The USB is not USB 3.0 I teste with all types of cable and it does not go to USB 3.0
Here are some pictures from teardown https://photos.app.goo.gl/AHLZLZUxvKmsFPf37.
I tried to find the contact details for Hayear but I didn't find them. Maybe we can use their firmaware directly, possible to be better and allow us to use the settings properly
Can you teardown yours too? To be sure that is the same inside, maybe I have a clone of that camera.

[thm_w]

IMX 334 and 678 are the same size module and interface but one is 128 pin one is 132 pin LGA.
I think you'd need a closer look at either the sensor or debug output to know for sure if its a scam or not.

nt98530 should support 4k60, so maybe as you say its a software issue.

https://www.1stvision.com/cameras/sensor_specs/IMX334.pdf
https://www.sony-semicon.com/files/62/flyer_security/IMX678-AAQR_AAQR1_Flyer.pdf

[danno_cj]

From PCB markings and low price I say you got imx334 sensor. The microscopes with imx678 are more expensive and I can't see how could be possible to get at so low price when we take in consideration production cost, seller margins, AliExpress comission, postage, Vat.
There is a way how to check what sensor you got. Near the memory chip are three pads Gnd, Rx and TX. With serial to usb convert and Termite on PC, the true will emerge at surface. Connect Rx pad to Tx from serial to USB adapter and the other two, start Termite window and power on the microscope.
Don't be sad if your findings are not what you expect because imx334 is not a bad sensor. Of course Imx678 is better. I have this IMX678 on dash camera and the footage is very good.

[thm_w]

This sensor is supposedly $25 each, its the right package at least: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005008326826661.html

And here is a legit source for $160: https://www.arducam.com/arducam-8-3mp-imx678-manual-focus-usb-3-0-camera-module.html

I think its possible at $130, but Mechanic may still be scamming customers in this case, need more info.

[danno_cj]

159 USD is without Vat and postage. With those the price will break 200 dollars barrier.  Some carriers ask for clearance fees, another reason for high price. For EU countries IMX678 microscope is around 180 USD. 130 USD/110 EUR it is just sweet dream for EU citizens at least now. Maybe after 3-4-5 years the dream may come true.
I also believe was scam but from which one: Hayear the real manufacturer, Mechanic or the store?

[wolffyx]

From PCB markings and low price I say you got imx334 sensor. The microscopes with imx678 are more expensive and I can't see how could be possible to get at so low price when we take in consideration production cost, seller margins, AliExpress comission, postage, Vat.
There is a way how to check what sensor you got. Near the memory chip are three pads Gnd, Rx and TX. With serial to usb convert and Termite on PC, the true will emerge at surface. Connect Rx pad to Tx from serial to USB adapter and the other two, start Termite window and power on the microscope.
Don't be sad if your findings are not what you expect because imx334 is not a bad sensor. Of course Imx678 is better. I have this IMX678 on dash camera and the footage is very good.

I will try to do that to see what sensor it is(can you share a serial to usb board?). I will not be sad that the sensor will be 334 but it is sad that they would lie about the sensor used. Besides some software issues like the usb not working on usb 3 protocol and the firmware used, the camera si really decent for the price. But I am currious if other people have this sensor or it is just me

[wolffyx]

IMX 334 and 678 are the same size module and interface but one is 128 pin one is 132 pin LGA.
I think you'd need a closer look at either the sensor or debug output to know for sure if its a scam or not.

nt98530 should support 4k60, so maybe as you say its a software issue.

https://www.1stvision.com/cameras/sensor_specs/IMX334.pdf
https://www.sony-semicon.com/files/62/flyer_security/IMX678-AAQR_AAQR1_Flyer.pdf

Yea I saw that the mcu can dp 4k60 and I think it uses the full power of the 334 sensor. But it will be nice if I can get a firmware from Hayear that works with this setup.

[danno_cj]

Pick any chip do you like: CP2102,  FTDI Ft232, CH340. This video may be helpful:
https://youtu.be/5upKluG-qi8?si=-GE1fnzK00IgURh9

[Oli.Hall]

Hi,

[TL;DR] This camera does appear to have a Sony IMX678 sensor, and does output 3840x2160 60Hz via HDMI.

I have the Mechanic MOS-8K camera with firmware V1.0.6.25.9.16
I ordered mine from Aliexpress from a store called "MECHANIC Pro Store(Trader)" and it is the version with gold (as opposed to white) writing.
I am using it with a Meiji EMZ-8TR with the MA151-8TR C-mount adaptor with built-in 0.6 reducing lens.

Here are some of my observations:

• The camera screws into my C/CS-mount phototube without the need for any additional adaptors or spacers
• I see proper parfocal behaviour. i.e. When I zoom in and out, the camera stays in focus
• I get full frame coverage and I do not see any vignette (no digital zoom needed)
• I see 4k output (3840x2160@60Hz) on the HDMI port - confirmed in the bootloader logs and by my Dell monitor
• I see connection at USB 2.0 speeds (not USB 3.0 or 3.1) - confirmed by USBdeview (the cable is a USB 3.0 cable from a Logitech Brio 4k)
• The sensor visually looks like an IMX678 sensor - see attached photos below where you can compare the MOS-8K sensor with photos of genuine Sony sensors
• The sensor diagnostics in the bootloader suggests an IMX290 sensor - doubtful since the IMX290 is a 1080p sensor - maybe they are using an outdated driver?
• The board silkscreen appears to suggest an IMX334 sensor
• OSD Menu is only available on HDMI output
• When USB is connected to a computer device, the OSD menu is disabled on the HDMI and the USB output
• Can output on HDMI and USB at the same time, although the OSD menu is only operative when connected through HDMI only

I grabbed the bootloader output and the relevant bit when the sensor is initialised is:

Code: [Select]

PhotoExe_InitSensorCount() sensorCount = 1, FL_DUAL_CAM = 0
PhotoExe_InitSensorCount() localInfo->DualCam = 0
root[0] A:\DCIM\
ERR:ImageApp_Photo_Config() Unknown config_id=14
PhotoExe_OnOpen() PhotoExe_OnOpen ,dualCam=0
SensorMapping = {0, 1, 2, 3, }
CHK: 349, System_GetSensorInfo
p_str=/isp/ae/imx290_ae_0
CHK: 487, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 488, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 489, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 490, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 491, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 496, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 499, System_GetSensorInfo
p_str=/isp/iq/imx290_iq_ldc_0
CHK: 504, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 518, System_GetSensorInfo
ImageApp_Photo_Config: cap_timeput=-1



Full bootloader output:

Code: [Select]

NDD>TLZMA

UNZOK!ini ver[0x30221123]
zq_trim[10]
ddr_speed 3200
CPU1400 DONE
>S
RPA
ddr init done

UNZOK!
Loader Start ...
LD_VER 04.00.07

530_LPDDR4_MIN_1600_4096Mb_4096Mb 09/25/2024 10:45:03

usb_pd done
SD identify fail
card open fail
Pad driving increased: lv6

0xF0400008: 0x00103004
0xF040000C: 0x0500A000
0xF0030100: 0x22226666
0xF0030104: 0x88888666SPI NAND MID=000000EF DEV=000000AE
 THIRD=00000021
tmp_addr 0x08000000
LdCtrl2 0x00000008
l_bl31
bl31_addr 0x02000000
bl31_size 0x00009078
l_rtos
part1_size 0x000A0000
core_cnt= 0x00000004
smp(bl31)
fdt 0x01800000
shm 0x00007E00
        core2_jump 0xFE0300D4
  code2JumpCodelen 0x00000010
      core2_entry2 0x00001000
       core2_entry 0xFE0300E4
 code2EntryCodelen 0x000001B4
      core2_entry2 0x00001000
bl_core2_reset
64core2_jump_program 0x01006AE3
64code2JumpCodelen 0x0000018C
warm reset core0
jump_entry 0x02000000
###%%> no ai
[Start] /etc/init.d/S00_PreReady
[Start] /etc/init.d/S05_FS_Overlay
[fs overlay] ubi mount rootfs1
[Start] /etc/init.d/S10_SysInit2
insmod: can't insert '/lib/modules/4.19.148/kernel/fs/fat/fat.ko': No such file                                                                       or directory
insmod: can't insert '/lib/modules/4.19.148/kernel/fs/fat/vfat.ko': No such file                                                                       or directory
/etc/init.d/S10_SysInit2: line 64: //ipp: not found
isp_id_list: 0x3F, ae_id_list: 0x3F, awb_id_list: 0x3F, iq_id_list 0x3F
[Start] /etc/init.d/S12_SysInit3
[Start] /etc/init.d/S14_APP_Overlay
mknod: /dev/mtdblock9: File exists
[app overlay] ubi mount app
crond[269]: crond (busybox 1.31.1) started, log level 8

mknod: /dev/ubi1_0: File exists
[Start] /etc/init.d/S14_MMC_FS
vos_mbx_init() g_max_mbxid_num 16

Hello Linux World! (Sep 16 2025 - 10:46:17)

Dx_Open
Dx_Open
Dx_Open
Dx_Open
Dx_Open #4
PwrLost = 0, PwrSrc = 2
retry_count=1
[Start] /etc/init.d/S15_NvtAppInit
[Start] /etc/init.d/S25_Net
modprobe: module 8189es not found in modules.dep
Configuring loopback interface
ifconfig: SIOCGIFFLAGS: No such device
ifconfig: SIOCSIFADDR: No such device
random: Trying to read entropy from /dev/random
Configuration file: /etc/wifiap_wpa2.conf
Line 2: invalid/unknown driver 'rtl871xdrv'
1 errors found in configuration file '/etc/wifiap_wpa2.conf'
Failed to set up interface with /etc/wifiap_wpa2.conf
hostapd_init: free iface 0x25636700
Failed to initialize interface
[Start] /etc/init.d/S99_Sysctl
login[357]: root login on 'UNKNOWN'
NVTEVM Linux shell...
root@NVTEVM:~$ RetUSB=2,  bIsUSB3=1CONNECT to CHARGER
GxUSB_GetIsUSBPlug()=1
HDAL: Version: v3.300.2
^MSystem Boot start
Power On Sequence = Safe
CHK: 374, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 375, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 376, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 377, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 378, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 379, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 380, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 381, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 382, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 383, System_OnVideoInit
CHK: 384, System_OnVideoInit
System_OnVideoInit() LCD2 = 0xf696e0
System_OnVideoInit() HDMI = 0xf698d0
== video fixed [Display_HDMI]
System_OnVideoInit2() == video on - b
=============GxVideo_OpenDevice, DevID=0, cDevID=0, mode=0xffffffff
=============GxVideo_OpenDevice, DevID=0, cDevID=0, mode=0xffffffff
=============GxVideo_OpenDevice, DevID=0, cDevID=0, mode=0xffffffff
=============GxVideo_OpenDevice, DevID=0, cDevID=0, mode=0xffffffff
=============GxVideo_OpenDevice, DevID=0, cDevID=0, mode=0xffffffff
#1 GxVideo_OpenDevice
Dx_Open
Dx_Open
Dx_Open
Dx_Open
 -mode 0000ffff
 -HDMI auto mode - begin
CHK: 371, DrvHDMIGetcaps
CHK: 373, DrvHDMIGetcaps
 -HDMI auto mode - end
Dx_Open #4
#2 GxVideo_OpenDevice
#3 GxVideo_OpenDevice
CHK: 865, System_AttachDisplayHDMI
CHK: 866, System_AttachDisplayHDMI
CHK: 867, System_AttachDisplayHDMI
CHK: 371, DrvHDMIGetcaps
CHK: 373, DrvHDMIGetcaps
CHK: 378, DrvHDMIGetcaps
DrvHDMIGetVideoMode =======
HDMI Video Ability 0: 101
 -match: 11 3840x2160p60
HDMI Video Ability 1: 96
HDMI Video Ability 2: 95
HDMI Video Ability 3: 94
HDMI Video Ability 4: 93
HDMI Video Ability 5: 16
HDMI Video Ability 6: 5
HDMI Video Ability 7: 4
HDMI Video Ability 8: 2
HDMI Video Ability 9: 7
HDMI Video Ability 10: 22
HDMI Video Ability 11: 1
HDMI Video Ability 12: 20
HDMI Video Ability 13: 31
HDMI Video Ability 14: 18
HDMI Video Ability 15: 19
HDMI Video Ability 16: 39
HDMI Video Ability 17: 32
HDMI Video Ability 18: 33
HDMI Video Ability 19: 3
HDMI Video Ability 20: 6
HDMI Video Ability 21: 17
HDMI Video Ability 22: 21
HDMI Video Ability 23: 221
HDMI Video Ability 24: 222
HDMI Video Ability 25: 223
 -match HDMI format: 3840x2160p60
CHK: 883, System_AttachDisplayHDMI
#4 GxVideo_OpenDevice
System_OnVideoInit3() attach fixed display
UI_EnableVideo
UI_EnableVideo
UI_EnableVideo
UI_EnableVideo
UI_EnableVideo
UI_EnableVideo() disp[0] => device 00f698d0
UI_EnableVideo() -devicemode = 65535
UI_EnableVideo() -devicesize = 3840x2160
System_OnVideoInit3() DetHDMI insert
System_OnVideoInit3() DetLCD2 insert
UIDisplay_Init
UIDisplay_Init
UIDisplay_Init
UIDisplay_Init
UIDisplay_Init
UIDisplay_Init
UIDisplay_Init
osd_ 1920   1080
DeviceSize. 3840   2160
IDE0 maps to /dev/fb0     cDevID=0
fb_id(0) buf(0xa01a000) size(0x3f4800)
CHK: 460, System_OnInputInit
CHK: 461, System_OnInputInit
CHK: 462, System_OnInputInit
CHK: 463, System_OnInputInit
GxSound va=ac41c000, pa=aad1000, size=d000
^MSystem Boot end
^MOn Boot begin
Load_MenuInfo: ota upgrade failed
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0
uiFWUpdate=0x00000000
uiTmpBoot=0x00000000
ERR:ps_fs_OpenSection() open(/mnt/pstore/GYROCAL,2) fail with -1
ERR:Load_GyroCalInfo() Open PS_GYRO_PARAM section error
==PhotoExe_OnContrast=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnNR() 50
==PhotoExe_OnNR=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnBrightLess 50
==PhotoExe_OnBrightLess=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
WRN:DrvHDMIState() get state=0x04 not support!
WRN:DrvHDMIState() set state=0x04 not support!
PhotoExe_OnQuality() 0
PhotoExe_OnQuality() photo quality 0
CHK: 3892, PhotoExe_OnISO
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
CHK: 1295, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
CHK: 1319, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnISO() photo iso 0
PhotoExe_OnEV() 6
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnEV() photo ev 6
PhotoExe_OnWB() 0
==============PhotoExe_OnWB  uhSelect=0
CHK: 110, awb_manual_set
manual.en = 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnWB() photo wb 0
PhotoExe_OnColor() 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
PhotoExe_OnMetering() 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnFD() 0
PhotoExe_OnFD() photo fd 0
PhotoExe_OnCaptureSize() 0
PhotoExe_OnCaptureSize() photo capture size 0
==PhotoExe_OnSharpness=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnSharpness() photo sharpness 50
==PhotoExe_OnSaturation=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
MovieExe_OnWDR()1)
MntPath /mnt/sd, IsInserted 0, IsReadOnly 0, bIsFormatted 0
WRN:DrvHDMIState() set state=0x08 not support!
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnSHDR() 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
Display_ShowSplash():begin
Display_ShowSplash() Show Logo
frame blk fffffffffffffffe blk_size 5a000,width 640,height 360,pa ab64000 , va 7                                                                      fac249000
UI_IsForceLock #1
#2
#3
Date_Check=20251208
SysGetFlag(FL_LAST_RTC_DATE)=20251208
SysGetFlag(FL_LAST_RTC_TIME)=122107
#4
rtc_getPWROnSource()=2:::::::::::::::::::::
rtc_getPWROnSource()=2:::::::::::::::::::::
rtc_getPWROnSource()=2:::::::::::::::::::::
rtc_getPWROnSource()=2:::::::::::::::::::::
rtc_getPWROnSource()=2:::::::::::::::::::::
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
KeyScan_DetBatteryInSysInit
GxUSB_GetIsUSBPlug=1
#5
Wait FileSys e
#6
WRN:FileSys_GetDiskInfoEx() FileSys_Init not ready
RetUSB=2,  bIsUSB3=1CONNECT to CHARGER
UI_IsForceLock ulData=255
UI_IsForceLock UI_IsForceLock UI_IsForceLock UI_IsForceLock UI_IsForceLock UI_IsForceLock get_gsensor_mode=255
get_gsensor_mode=255
get_gsensor_mode=255
get_gsensor_mode=255
^MMode {PHOTO} Open begin
Mode {PHOTO} Open begin
PhotoExe_CommPoolInit()
vcap_buf_size=0xbdd800 ,vcap_fmt=0xf20c0000, 8576 4800

PhotoExe_InitSensorCount() sensorCount = 1, FL_DUAL_CAM = 0
PhotoExe_InitSensorCount() localInfo->DualCam = 0
root[0] A:\DCIM\
ERR:ImageApp_Photo_Config() Unknown config_id=14
PhotoExe_OnOpen() PhotoExe_OnOpen ,dualCam=0
SensorMapping = {0, 1, 2, 3, }
CHK: 349, System_GetSensorInfo
p_str=/isp/ae/imx290_ae_0
CHK: 487, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 488, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 489, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 490, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 491, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 496, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 499, System_GetSensorInfo
p_str=/isp/iq/imx290_iq_ldc_0
CHK: 504, System_GetSensorInfo
CHK: 518, System_GetSensorInfo
ImageApp_Photo_Config: cap_timeput=-1

OpenDispLink imecrop_enable=0, SrcWidth 8576, 4800, DstWidth=3840, 2160 ,DstWRatio=16, 9
CovtInfo 0, 0, 3840, 2160
OpenDispLink ,HD_VIDEOOUT_PARAM_IN ,rect.x= 0, 0, 3840, 2160
OpenDispLink, HD_VIDEOOUT_PARAM_IN_WIN_ATTR x= 0, 0, 3840, 2160
UI_IsForceLock Src w 4800, 8576, uiDstWidth=3840, 2160 ,uiDstWRatio=16, 9
enc_buf_ms=6000
V_BSBuf=224c2000,106604
PhotoExe_DZoom_Fov  UI_GetData(FL_Dzoom_IDX)=0  vcap_id=536871169, vprc_id=603980037
GetDzoomTable_Index  ZoomType_PhotoMovie=0  modefov=0
GetDzoomTable_Index  ZoomType_PhotoMovie=0  modefov=0
GetDzoomTable_Index  ZoomType_PhotoMovie=0  modefov=0
GetDzoomTable_Index  ZoomType_PhotoMovie=0  modefov=0
PhotoExe_ZoomFunc  vprc_id=0x24000105
set HD_VIDEOPROC_PARAM_IN  vid=0, mirror_type=0x0 success
hd_videoproc_start  success
WRN:FileSys_ScanDir() FileSys_Init not ready
ERR:FileDB_Scan() Filesys ErrorERR:FileDB_GetInfoByHandle() Exceeds FILEDB_NUM(-1)
ERR:FileDB_internalSortBy() fileDbHandle=-1
ERR:FileDB_GetInfoByHandle() This Handle is not created(0)
System_OnVideoAttach()
CHK: 2224, System_OnVideoAttach
CHK: 2225, System_OnVideoAttach
CHK: 2226, System_OnVideoAttach
mode:3
CHK: 1579, System_EnableDisp
PhotoExe_OnEV() 6
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnEV() photo ev 6
PhotoExe_OnMacro() 0
PhotoExe_OnSelftimer() 0
PhotoExe_OnSelftimer() photo selftimer 0
PhotoExe_OnAFWindow() 0
PhotoExe_OnAFBeam() 0
PhotoExe_OnMetering() 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
==PhotoExe_OnSharpness=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnSharpness() photo sharpness 50
==PhotoExe_OnSaturation=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnColor() 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
value=0
PhotoExe_OnCaptureSize() 0
PhotoExe_OnCaptureSize() photo capture size 0
PhotoExe_OnQuality() 0
PhotoExe_OnQuality() photo quality 0
CHK: 3892, PhotoExe_OnISO
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
CHK: 1295, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
CHK: 1319, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnISO() photo iso 0
PhotoExe_OnWB() 0
==============PhotoExe_OnWB  uhSelect=0
CHK: 110, awb_manual_set
manual.en = 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnWB() photo wb 0
PhotoExe_OnRSC() 0
PhotoExe_OnRSC() photo rsc 0
PhotoExe_OnNR() 50
==PhotoExe_OnNR=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnDatePrint() photo datestamp 0
PhotoExe_OnImageRatio() ImageRatioIdx =6
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
MovieExe_OnWDR()1)
PhotoExe_OnSHDR() 0
PhotoExe_OnDefog() 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnDefog() photo DEFOG 0
==PhotoExe_OnContrast=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
SetupExe_EX_TIME----->
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
CHK: 1186, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
CHK: 1187, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
CHK: 1188, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
CHK: 1189, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
CHK: 1190, PhotoExe_AE_SetUIInfo
value = 0
PhotoExe_OnBrightLess 50
==PhotoExe_OnBrightLess=50
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
PhotoExe_OnGDC() 0
nvt_isp module is not initialised yet.
CHK: 5321, PhotoExe_OnGDC
geo_center_x=500,geo_center_y=500
PHOTO_gdc[61]=40101,movie_gdc[62]=39857,movie_gdc[63]=39612
PhotoExe_OnGDC:uhSelect==0
CHK: 5328, PhotoExe_OnGDC
CHK: 5335, PhotoExe_OnGDC
PhotoExe_OnGDC() photo LDC 0
PhotoExe_OnStartFunc() func=0x3
222OLD_Movie_Size 0   SysGetFlag(FL_MOVIE_SIZE) 4
PhotoExe_OnFD() 0
PhotoExe_OnFD() photo fd 0
Ntk_Mode_Data[NTKCODE_MODE_PHOTO] .jpg_mode ==3
^MMode {PHOTO} Open end
Mode {PHOTO} Open end
^MOn Boot end
System_GetState(SYS_STATE_FS) = 4
RetUSB=2,  bIsUSB3=1CONNECT to CHARGER
USBConnectType=2
Video plug!
DISPLAY_CB_PLUG
WRN:FileSys_GetDiskInfoEx() FileSys_Init not ready



thanks,
Oli.

[Spiki]

Im also lookingo into buying this miscroscope camera but I have mixed feelings about this. So far Ive seen two reviews, both are contradictory so I dont know whether or not should I buy this or a good known 1080P camera.
Here are the 2 reviews that I mentioned:

[neverendingstudent]

I've been looking into this and have been frustratingly unable to achieve certainty here.

I think we need (or do we already have somewhere?) a visual database of high-res pictures of sensor faces with their solder-pin layouts shown clearly so we can literally eyeball what we get and match it up with database reference pictures.  Ali Express / Alibaba / Taobao can be the wild west where sellers try to get away with anything they can, but there are other sellers that are reliable and honest - and we need to be able to tell who is who.

One issue with this is that, from my research, many sensors commonly called 'IMX334' or 'IMX678' appear to have variations from Sony and those variations could have different physical pin layouts.  So we would need to account for that.

Maybe someone here would be interested in starting such a website?  Does it already exist somewhere?

Edit: Ok, I just ordered one of these and intend to do a teardown and, as best as I can, do parts lookup and verification on the internals.  Hopefully I can add a bit more clarity and confidence to what is actually inside the camera and what the real specs are.  Oli.Hall: if you are willing, I would be interested to know how you proceeded with disassembly so I can be more confident in taking mine apart without causing damage.  Please and thank you.

[Spiki]

I've been looking into this and have been frustratingly unable to achieve certainty here.

I think we need (or do we already have somewhere?) a visual database of high-res pictures of sensor faces with their solder-pin layouts shown clearly so we can literally eyeball what we get and match it up with database reference pictures.  Ali Express / Alibaba / Taobao can be the wild west where sellers try to get away with anything they can, but there are other sellers that are reliable and honest - and we need to be able to tell who is who.

One issue with this is that, from my research, many sensors commonly called 'IMX334' or 'IMX678' appear to have variations from Sony and those variations could have different physical pin layouts.  So we would need to account for that.

Maybe someone here would be interested in starting such a website?  Does it already exist somewhere?

Edit: Ok, I just ordered one of these and intend to do a teardown and, as best as I can, do parts lookup and verification on the internals.  Hopefully I can add a bit more clarity and confidence to what is actually inside the camera and what the real specs are.  Oli.Hall: if you are willing, I would be interested to know how you proceeded with disassembly so I can be more confident in taking mine apart without causing damage.  Please and thank you.

May I ask from what seller did you order yours?

[neverendingstudent]

I've been looking into this and have been frustratingly unable to achieve certainty here.

I think we need (or do we already have somewhere?) a visual database of high-res pictures of sensor faces with their solder-pin layouts shown clearly so we can literally eyeball what we get and match it up with database reference pictures.  Ali Express / Alibaba / Taobao can be the wild west where sellers try to get away with anything they can, but there are other sellers that are reliable and honest - and we need to be able to tell who is who.

One issue with this is that, from my research, many sensors commonly called 'IMX334' or 'IMX678' appear to have variations from Sony and those variations could have different physical pin layouts.  So we would need to account for that.

Maybe someone here would be interested in starting such a website?  Does it already exist somewhere?

Edit: Ok, I just ordered one of these and intend to do a teardown and, as best as I can, do parts lookup and verification on the internals.  Hopefully I can add a bit more clarity and confidence to what is actually inside the camera and what the real specs are.  Oli.Hall: if you are willing, I would be interested to know how you proceeded with disassembly so I can be more confident in taking mine apart without causing damage.  Please and thank you.

May I ask from what seller did you order yours?

"MECHANIC Pro Store" - I think that's the official store, and with the current sale they had the lowest price, I think $178, plus a coupon code on top of my total order, my end price on it was just under $154.

[Oli.Hall]

Oli.Hall: if you are willing, I would be interested to know how you proceeded with disassembly so I can be more confident in taking mine apart without causing damage.  Please and thank you.

Hi Neverendingstudent No problem, I’d be happy to help.

I am fairly certain that the sensor in this camera is a genuine Sony IMX678, or at minimum it is a clone which is visually indistinguishable from the original. In the photos I have taken of the sensor, the package, including the microscopic wire-bonding on the carrier, is visually identical to the images of a genuine Sony IMX678 sensor I have found on more than one other vendor site, including FRAMOS which is a reputable source of genuine Sony imaging sensor dev boards.

The guy in the “don’t buy this camera” video asked in his Youtube comments for viewers to get in touch with him if they could prove the camera did not have the faults which he observed. I dropped him a message and we had a video call where I demonstrated to him my camera connecting to my monitor at 3480x2160@60Hz, and I also showed him that using it with the appropriate photo-tube reduction lens (x0.6 in my case), it has no black circle on the picture without any digital zoom; Since these were his main gripes in his video.

Taking the camera apart requires removing the clear plastic top panel which is stuck down with ‘3M VHB’ style double-sided tape. Heating the top panel gently with a hair-dryer for several minutes to soften the adhesive, and prying at the edge of the plastic disc with two Stanley knife blades was how I disassembled mine. The adhesive is very strong, and two blades are needed to work around the circumference of the panel. Use one knife to stop the gap closing up, and use the other knife to work around the panel. Since this panel is clear plastic, it is very easy to mark or to crack. Working carefully, I was able to remove mine with no cracks and minimal visible marks. I also slid a piece of paper down between the top panel and the aluminium case, to protect the aluminium finish from being marked by the blades. I found the glue is weakest in the 5-o'clock, and 7-o’clock positions because this is where there is least tape at the corner of the button assembly. Once the top is off, disassembly from there is fairly straight forward. Although it is a good idea to mark the orientation of the sensor in relation to the case, since it is possible to reassemble it 180 degrees out of alignment and end up with an upside down image. Don’t ask me how I know this! 

Thanks,
Oli.

[Spiki]

Oli.Hall: if you are willing, I would be interested to know how you proceeded with disassembly so I can be more confident in taking mine apart without causing damage.  Please and thank you.

Hi Neverendingstudent No problem, I’d be happy to help.

I am fairly certain that the sensor in this camera is a genuine Sony IMX678, or at minimum it is a clone which is visually indistinguishable from the original. In the photos I have taken of the sensor, the package, including the microscopic wire-bonding on the carrier, is visually identical to the images of a genuine Sony IMX678 sensor I have found on more than one other vendor site, including FRAMOS which is a reputable source of genuine Sony imaging sensor dev boards.

The guy in the “don’t buy this camera” video asked in his Youtube comments for viewers to get in touch with him if they could prove the camera did not have the faults which he observed. I dropped him a message and we had a video call where I demonstrated to him my camera connecting to my monitor at 3480x2160@60Hz, and I also showed him that using it with the appropriate photo-tube reduction lens (x0.6 in my case), it has no black circle on the picture without any digital zoom; Since these were his main gripes in his video.

Taking the camera apart requires removing the clear plastic top panel which is stuck down with ‘3M VHB’ style double-sided tape. Heating the top panel gently with a hair-dryer for several minutes to soften the adhesive, and prying at the edge of the plastic disc with two Stanley knife blades was how I disassembled mine. The adhesive is very strong, and two blades are needed to work around the circumference of the panel. Use one knife to stop the gap closing up, and use the other knife to work around the panel. Since this panel is clear plastic, it is very easy to mark or to crack. Working carefully, I was able to remove mine with no cracks and minimal visible marks. I also slid a piece of paper down between the top panel and the aluminium case, to protect the aluminium finish from being marked by the blades. I found the glue is weakest in the 5-o'clock, and 7-o’clock positions because this is where there is least tape at the corner of the button assembly. Once the top is off, disassembly from there is fairly straight forward. Although it is a good idea to mark the orientation of the sensor in relation to the case, since it is possible to reassemble it 180 degrees out of alignment and end up with an upside down image. Don’t ask me how I know this! 

Thanks,
Oli.

How come you were able to order this camera from the Mechanic Pro Store seller? I have tried different regions from EU (UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, Romania) and it says that this product cannot be shipped to these countries.
Just to confirm, you ordered it from here? https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005009375662925.html?pdp_ext_f=%7B%22sku_id%22%3A%2212000048913744835%22%7D&sourceType=1&spm=undefined.0.0

[Oli.Hall]

How come you were able to order this camera from the Mechanic Pro Store seller? I have tried different regions from EU (UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, Romania) and it says that this product cannot be shipped to these countries.
Just to confirm, you ordered it from here? https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005009375662925.html?pdp_ext_f=%7B%22sku_id%22%3A%2212000048913744835%22%7D&sourceType=1&spm=undefined.0.0

Yes, that is the exact link which I used to buy mine from "MECHANIC Pro store (trader)".
I checked just now and I am seeing it in-stock at £137.77, minus a £13 voucher, with free shipping to UK.

[Spiki]

How come you were able to order this camera from the Mechanic Pro Store seller? I have tried different regions from EU (UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, Romania) and it says that this product cannot be shipped to these countries.
Just to confirm, you ordered it from here? https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005009375662925.html?pdp_ext_f=%7B%22sku_id%22%3A%2212000048913744835%22%7D&sourceType=1&spm=undefined.0.0

Yes, that is the exact link which I used to buy mine from "MECHANIC Pro store (trader)".
I checked just now and I am seeing it in-stock at £137.77, minus a £13 voucher, with free shipping to UK.

May I ask to which city you were able to order it from? I tried ordering it to Leicestershire and it says it cannot be shipped there. Something is really sketchy here... sometimes it shows that Im able to order it, but when I add it to the card and I try to finish my order, it says it cannot be shipped. And sometimes, it doesn't even allow me to add it to the cart.
Maybe something changed in the meantime? Are you able to order it right now?