• High-quality image
• Large field of view at low magnification, typically 2x to 50x
• Long working distance – allowing access to repair & rework with hands & tools
• 3D image viewing for BGAs, solder joints and more

Stereo microscopes are designed to view material and surfaces via eyepieces, they consist of two distinct optical paths providing 2 images, one for each eye. The human brain combines the two images into one 3-dimensional image with increased depth of focus, thus providing 3D images. This is particularly useful for viewing BGAs, solder joints and more.

Stereo microscopes come with either a binocular or trinocular head.

With a trinocular head, the user has a choice of viewing directly through the eyepieces when a three-dimensional image is required or on a monitor when a camera is fitted.

A trinocular head has a third photo-port onto which an optional digital camera can be attached. HDMI cameras are now the most popular choice for PCB inspection as they connect directly to a monitor and no computer is required to view and save images. Embedded software provides all the necessary tools for saving images and views, performing measurements, annotation of images and more. Standard HD or Ultra 4K UHD resolution cameras are now available, the latter producing images with stunning clarity.

Stereo microscopes are designed for observation at relative low magnifications from 6.5x to 55x but can be expanded up to 200x. They are constructed with either a fixed or zoom magnification.

There is a choice of stands for all stereo microscopes. We recommend selecting a boom stand for applications needing a larger working area such as PCB inspection. To learn more read our guide to stereo microscopes. Price range from £600 to £2,500.

For repetitive tasks and long working hours at the bench or when work posture is important, we recommend the unique Vision Mantis Ergonomic stereo microscope.

The Vision Mantis provides superb 3D imaging without eyepieces and is used with total freedom of head movement. It allows the operator eyes and hands to work together naturally which reduces fatigue and eye strain. Mantis can even be used without taking prescription glasses off.

The vision Mantis is modular. It comes with several stand options and a choice of objective lenses providing magnification between 2x, and 20x (depending on the model selected: Compact or Elite). A quick-change turret allows users to switch seamlessly between low magnification inspection and high magnification, for fine detail tasks.

LED Illumination is integrated into the optical head providing bright white, true colour and shadow-free viewing.

The range also includes a model with a camera. Mantis Elite-Cam HD is a variant of the Mantis Elite stereo microscope and is equipped with an integrated digital camera for image capture capabilities.

To learn more read our guide to the Vision Mantis range. Price range from £1,500 to £5,000.

We recommend Dino-Lite for their excellent image quality and compact and portable design at an attractive price.

Dino-Lite High Speed Real Time Digital Microscopes connect directly to a monitor, so do not require the use of a computer. They can display magnification from 10x to 140x with a working distance up to 23cms and a field of view 39 x 31 mm.

Long Working Distance (LWD) models are the best choice for PCB inspection as they provide a larger field of view and adequate space for tasks such as repair, rework or assembly, or for working with fragile objects that cannot be touched.

Dino-Lite High Speed models offer real-time video streaming at a high frame rate of up to 60 frames per second minimising video latency (delay). Ideal for objects that need to be moved around under the microscope.

All Dino-Lite LWD microscopes require a stand to hold them steady such as the Dino-Lite RK-06A or RK-02 Stands.

The main limitation of all Dino-Lite high speed models is the lack of image saving and the need to re-focus when changing magnification. It's is simple and quick to focus, especially with a good quality stand such as the RK-06A or RK-10A. So if you need to save images or change magnification frequently then it maybe best to consider a digital zoom microscope as outlined below.

To learn more read our Guide to Dino-Lite Microscopes. Price range from £600 to £1,200.

These purely digital systems are at the top end of PCB inspection microscopes. Their stunning image quality, ultra wide field of view and intuitive software interfaces provide the most advanced systems available. Features include:

• Superb picture quality
• Double the field of view of a stereo microscope
• Larger depth of focus & working distance
• Constant focus when changing magnification
• Saving of images and video to USB key or networked drive
• Multiple options and accessories to configure a system that perfectly suits your needs.

Price range from £2,000 to £9,000.