Industrial Inspection Microscope Buying Guide
Stereo inspection microscopes are not commonly heard of. Learn about it, and its uses to find out if it is the right choice for you.
After all, everyone wants to buy a microscope worth every penny, which can be possible if you know what to consider when ordering one. Nobody likes their investment going down the drain, and they want to get their hands on equipment that is useful for their career or studies.
But choosing which microscope to buy can be an overwhelming process because of the number of options available, and you should avoid buying something that you are unfamiliar with.
Learn what a stereo inspection microscope is and find out if it is the right type of microscope for you.
What Is a Stereo Inspection Microscope
To learn what a stereo inspection microscope is, know what a stereo microscope is first.
Stereo microscopes provide a 3D view of an object at different angles and need low-power magnification to view specimens. Thus they are referred to as a low-powered microscope. They are used to view opaque specimens with many details, such as insects, rocks, and gems.
Industrial Inspection Stereo Microscope with Boom Stand
Inspection is a simple stereo microscope commonly used in an industrial setting to check each product (the sample commonly placed on a moving platform) for fast quality assurance. It helps ensure the products have no defects.
Inspection microscopes can be in the simple form of a tube with an eyepiece and lens but are also available with complex parts. Inspection microscopes are considered stereo, no matter how their construction looks, because they use low power to magnify your specimen using illumination from above.
Is a Stereo Inspection Microscope the Right Choice For You
Any stereo microscope can be used as an inspection microscope, but there are dedicated inspection microscopes that are commonly simpler than the other types of stereo microscopes.
Industrial Inspection Microscope with High Articulating Arm
Factors to Consider When Buying a Stereo Microscope
Magnification
Stereo microscopes are available in different kinds of magnification: single, dual, and zoom. Single, as the name implies, provides one magnification, such as 40x. Dual power provides two magnification options, such as the Optico ASZ200 20x/40x or the Optico ASZ200 10x/30x. Meanwhile, stereo zoom microscopes provide a continuous zoom range from 10x-45x for example the Binocular Stereo Zoom Microscope
Stands
There are many different types of stand options available for example the dual arm boom stand allows you to inspect larger sized specimens up to 1 meter square featuring a heavy sturdy base with anti-electrostatic construction, also available in a single arm stand option these are popular art restoration and pcb inspections.
Stereo Microscope Articulating Arms allow for exact placement of the optical head over your sample to be examined and are used when limited bench space is a consideration, the arm is clamped to the work surface and can easily be swung out of the way to fully utilise your work area.
Single Arm Boom Stand Microscope
Comfort
Most stereo microscopes are available as binocular and trinocular head configurations. But as mentioned, stereo inspection microscopes may also be monocular. The choice depends on which is more comfortable for you to use.
Binocular has two eyepieces, and monocular has one. Trinocular allows you to install a camera to view your specimen.
Budget
If you have a limited budget, do not settle for cheap microscopes with a low-quality build, such as the ones made from plastic.
There are excellent microscopes out there that might not be as pricey as the branded ones but high-quality enough to last for a long-time.
Quality
The price you have to shell out to buy a microscope is a serious amount. That is why you should consider buying a microscope as if you’re buying a new investment, where quality is the most important consideration.
Many people believe a high microscope magnification equates to its quality. But that is wrong, especially for stereo inspection microscopes. It all depends on the application because it's possible to get the most out of a 45x magnification if it is what you need.
What you need to consider is the durability of the parts, the lens and the build.
If you want a good indication of the microscope's quality (although not all the time), look at the price. Understandably, manufacturers need to buy premium raw materials to build a microscope with excellent quality and features. That is why if you are looking for the best of the best, expect to pay a high price.
However, you can still buy a good microscope at a reasonable price with good quality. If you have trouble finding one, look for a reputable store with a microscope expert who can guide you in buying the best microscope.
Store
Besides the microscope itself, consider the store too. Read their return and warranty policies, and check for promos to get the microscope you need and protect yourself as a customer.
Ensure that if you buy the wrong microscope, the store can provide you with a new one without requiring you to spend more than necessary.
The shipment is also an essential consideration if you need to use your microscope soon. Look for stores that have their stock to ensure faster shipping.
Conclusion
When buying an industrial inspection microscope, you need to determine the best features suited for your application. High-power doesn't indicate the microscope's quality. It all boils down to application.
Microscope parts are also considerations to make sure that they are suitable for your needs. For example, if you need a microscope to install a camera, opt for a trinocular stereo microscope.
We understand that choosing the best microscope to inspect your specimen can be overwhelming because of the different varieties available in the market. But you do not have to be alone when buying a new microscope.
Although you can refer to this guide, you will get more personal insight and education if you have someone who can guide you.