can I reccomend a ccd camera with the C mount lens used for watching
cash registers? Usually a .6 foot to infinity focusing range, and
a.low cost USB frame grabber. Adding a small lens extension tube or
ring(s) gives you the adjustment range you would need. Thats what I
use.
Steve Roberts
I have a real microscope, but I have done what you suggested as well.
The key is to get a long focal length lens and then use c-mount
spacers. The spacers allow more working distance. You can get sets
(multiple lengths) of C-mount spacers pretty cheap on ebay. Joerg's
desire not to use a frame grabber does complicate using a CCD camera,
though you can get ethernet cameras from supercircuits.
Getting back to the maco, you need working room to solder. Regarding
gunk on the lens, a c-mount lens will be threaded. I got a nice 75mm
(very telephoto for CCD) on ebay for about $40.
I don't have the equations handy, but the macro spacer length is
related to the focal length of the lens, so a 75mm focal length will
use a longer spacer than say a 10mm fl. I set up a 12.5mm fl for use
in night vision (imaging the screen) and the working distance is
probably an inch. I can dig it up if Joerg gets serious.
I have a few Ernitec 12.5mm f1.3 as new old stock. but I think a
longer focal length would be better.
<
http://www.cloudynights.com/classifieds/showproduct.php?
product=7238&sort=&cat=27&page=1>
Ebay item120338467673 would do the trick with a macro spacer.
Incidentally, I find using tools while viewing a TV screen very
unnatural. While using a probe station like that is OK, soldering was
another story. The B&L Stereozoom works much better.
