For the kind of SMT work that most of us are doing, a head-mounted magnifier is far better than any fixed microscope.
The problem with fixed microscopes is that they also fix YOU and the object you're looking at. The bulk of the microscope also blocks your normal direct view of the workbench, making it much more difficult to position the soldering iron tip without accidentally damaging other parts of the board. Fatigue, discomfort and irritation build up very quickly. A head-mounted magnifier follows your head movements with no effort, and gives a clear, unobstructed view of the entire work area. The best optical solution depends on your individual eyes, so one person's recommendation will not fit all cases. What works for me is a second pair of +4 half-moon reading glasses, perched in front of the varifocal (progressive) glasses that I wear all the time. These "preamps" magnify the downward view through the bottom edge of the varifocals, while still allowing a clear general view around the workbench. <http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek/in-prac/best-of.htm#0809> I do have several other optical aids, including a x7-20 swinging arm stereo microscope on a swinging arm, but for most work I still keep coming back to the simple "preamps". The big microscope is great for checking and inspection *after* the work has been done, but not for doing the work itself. The same web page contains a lot more information on choosing tools and equipment for SMT. The little LED worklight from IKEA (top of picture) is *very highly* recommended - this is probably the last worklight you'll ever need to buy. -- 73 from Ian GM3SEK http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
