Thread: Quick and dirty microscope job.

I found a 50-500 microscope for twenty bucks and couldn't resist. The stand it came with stunk so I made this ghetto rig. I'll probably add a viewing base later but it works really well so far. I snugged the scope using tape so it won't wiggle.

Nice job: Will you be able to capture pictures with the scope too.

Yeah there is a camera to take pictures. I still have to fine tune it and make a nice viewing tray. I am thinking a chip clip to hold the razor along the spine.

Magnets work well also for holding a blade...can always get some better magnets and back it with velvet or some kind of padding.

That's a great idea. Right now I'm using a small spring loaded clamp. I'm gonna rework the entire design though. It is to difficult to properly access what is on the viewing tray at high magnification. Nothing worse than racking a finished edge across plywood! I'm gonna mimic the lift trays that are sold with other scopes.

Good idea. One of the problems of taking photos with USB cameras is the lack of light.

Perhaps changing the upper board from wood to Plexiglas and using an external light, I use a goose neck halogen table lamp.

For a non- slip base, I use a black mouse pad and a rubber eraser on the scale or a silicone wrist cushion for mouse use, to get the angle right. It is easier to move the razor than the scope for fine tuning/focusing.

This is one of the most frustrating things about these scopes, and the reason I rarely use mine.
Keep posting your ideas, good work.

Led strips would be good and are relatively thin

I have seen some USB photos using a light ring, that looked very nice and detailed.

Perhaps the LED light strips surrounding the razor and a way to control the intensity, might be a good idea.

If you use rare earth magnets, you will not have to worry about it slipping. They are amazing considering their size.

For light, you might consider a bore light for firearm maintenance. The light should be effective and they have a flexible neck to adjust it as needed.

Look here for software that might work for you.

Supereyes Digital Microscopes and Borescopes

With a usb connection, I think this would work.