Choosing the right Digital Inspection system can be confusing. There are many different types of systems available today at price points ranging from $150 to over $10,000. It is important to clearly establish what functions you expect the system to perform and what you hope to accomplish with the system. For example, will this be used at a desk infrequently for quick inspection or in a quality lab to take measurements or on a production line to reduce eye fatigue or for a variety of different applications. Below are typical types of digital microscopes on the market today with typical applications.
USB Digital Microscope
These scopes are generally lower cost and provide quick magnification on a computer. Most come with software that allows you to capture images and perform basic measurement functions. General magnification ranges from 10x-50x.
Typical Applications: Spot Check Inspection and Measurement, Portable for Field Applications
Example: Aven Mighty Scope
Dual HDMI & USB Output Scopes
These systems tend to be larger in size and higher in cost than a USB Digital Microscope. They allow the user the convenience of looking at an image directly on a HD Monitor without a computer, but also when needed a user can connect a computer to capture images and perform basic measurements. Higher end systems like this may have an auto focus feature.
Typical Applications: Presentations/Classrooms, Quality Controls, Low Magnification Product Line work.
Example: Aven Cyclops 3.0 Digital Microscope
All-In-One Digital Microscpe
Designed to be compact, efficient, and versatile. All-in-one digital microscopes usually include all the features required for your inspection processright out of the box, including a built-in screen, measurement software, image/video capture capabilities, and output to a larger display.
Typical Applications: Production lines, Quality Labs High Volume Quality Inspections and Documentation.
Example: MicroVue Digital Microscope
Compact and Portable Digital Microscopes
The scopes are versatile and can be used in a wide variety of settings. Typically these types of microscopes feature a rechargeable battery, making them an excellent device for field research.Typical Applications: Spot Check Inspection and Measurement, Portable for Field Applications
Auto Focus HDMI + USB Systems
These systems are the most advanced and generally feature a high quality HD camera with nearly instantaneous auto focus. In most cases, systems of this type offer a greater working distance and ease of use to the operator. The high-end HD camera allows the operator to work at various magnifications without sacrificing working distance. Premium Auto Focus HD Systems also generally feature a USB output to connect to a computer.
Typical Applications: Production lines, Quality Labs High Volume Quality Inspections and Documentation.
Example: Mighty Cam Pro Digital Microscopes
Streamlined HDMI + USB Camera Systems
These systems are designed to be an economic entry into digital microscopes. Ideal for applications where auto focus and on-screen measurement are not required, these digital microscopes provide a supurb on-screen image to your HD monitor or PC, and have on-board SD card capabilities for capturing instant snap shots or videos.
Example: E-Series Digital Microscopes
