Magnification

[smason]

So what do you all use for working on tiny SMD stuff?

I purchased a cheap 10x loupe with my last Digikey order, it's great except you have to be right on top of the device, and you can't always get close enough when there are other components in the way.

Also it's hard to solder under a loupe

[stj]

i just look!

[Radio Fox]

I found that a 3X eyeglass for inspecting a board is a good compromise. Anything higher, means you have to get too close to the board.

When soldering, I use a magnifying headset that I bought on ebay. This leaves both hands free.

[PowerAmpFreak]

Originally Posted by stj

i just look!

Yeah right, but most of us are interested in what we're looking at, He He

[stj]

i see just fine.
maybe it's because i spend most of my time in underground computer centers & workshops without many windows and havnt had my eyesight fucked up by decades of exposure to the UV from the sun.

[PlainBill]

I have a Luxo magnifier on an articulating arm (likethis one.) This works well when I am trying to identify components. As for soldering, thus far my eyeballs have worked well, but I suspect after next week I will be shopping for a magnifying visor of some sort.

PlainBill

[smason]

Thanks for the feedback. I have a similar Luxo laying beside my bench, I need to :

a) clean off the bench so I can use it, instead of the pool table
b) find a method of mounting it to the bench.

I may still look into a visor of some sort. Sucks to get old....

[PlainBill]

Originally Posted by smason

Thanks for the feedback. I have a similar Luxo laying beside my bench, I need to :

a) clean off the bench so I can use it, instead of the pool table
b) find a method of mounting it to the bench.

I had the same problem. Mine has a 5/16" diameter post designed to slip into a bracket. I didn't have the bracket so I drilled a 3/8" hole in a hunk of wood and clamped it to my desk. (My workbench also should be cleaned off).

Originally Posted by smason

I may still look into a visor of some sort. Sucks to get old....

True, but it beats the alternatives!!

PlainBill

[PowerAmpFreak]

Originally Posted by stj

i see just fine.
maybe it's because i spend most of my time in underground computer centers & workshops without many windows and havnt had my eyesight fucked up by decades of exposure to the UV from the sun.

You're lucky stj! I don't know your age, but I'm 35 myself and need more and more help from magnifiers these days.
Anyways - keep on stay away from the sun then!