live view magnifier for smd assembly

Question

Thinking about using a video magnifier, in live view, suspended above a pcb for placing smd components to a board, you would look at your monitor rather than the board. any thoughts on this ?

shabaz · Answer

Hi William,

There is a prototype system documented here: Building a Digital PCB Inspection Microscope with the Gizmo 2

which offers some ideas perhaps.

Here are some brief experiences from the whole project:

1. Perhaps discuss directly with camera vendors which lenses they recommend for their cameras given your requirements. And discuss with lens manufacturers if you can too. I used a Computar lens, but I would strongly consider asking Fujitsu too, their lenses look great.

2. When it comes to the camera stand, use very thick steel (about 25mm dia); with any less there is a risk of oscillations if you accidentally touch the camera. I used 12.5mm which is just-about acceptable (I just avoid touching the camera or stand) but I wish I'd gone with 25mm. For similar reasons make sure you clamp it to steel or aluminium. I used a short length of timber, and this too causes oscillations that travel to the camera.

3. Lighting is super important, and it is not just about directing a strong beam of light from one direction otherwise you get glare. Sometimes even bouncing the light off walls is good, combined with some light aimed at the workpiece.

live view magnifier for smd assembly

Top Replies