Quote from: wrenchmonkey on May 30, 2013, 08:02:47 PM

Quote from: LaserHorse on May 30, 2013, 07:36:53 PM

Quote from: BkkCoins on May 30, 2013, 01:53:33 PM

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To aid with inspection of test and assembled boards I'm going to order one of these USB Microscopes. It looks pretty nice for checking PCB traces and IC pins, and my eyesight is not what it was (as I realized while looking at some boards that I got yesterday). For $60 it seems like it'll be worthwhile.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=2te13V_YsPU

Anyone ever use one of these?

I have used a very similar model. They're certainly adequate for spotting solder bridges on SMT devices.
I found the LEDs a bit harsh and the image quality a bit lacking, though this is likely unimportant for your usage.

EDIT: Also this model looks quite lovely & capable:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-2MP-USB-Digital-Microscope-Circuit-board-Inspection-Camera-Aluminium-Stand-/190847055453?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2c6f5ef65d
likely same as this one: http://youtu.be/YDCicFZEINo?t=15s

That one looks awesome. I need it.

BKK, if you agree that this one will work for your purposes, send me your address, and I'll purchase one and have it shipped to you. Grin

Nice! That one is really beautiful and I like the stand as well. That seems essential for steadiness.
Thank You and I'm sending you a PM.