Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope

With Flexible Arm Observation Stand for Windows, Mac, Linux (2MP, 250x Magnification)


Overview

The Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope is a digital microscope that uses a webcam chipset and sensor, which allows it to support just about any given OS (operating system) and standard webcam software. It allows up to 250x magnification (depending on the monitor) with 2.0 megapixels making it a useful device for collectors, students as well as hobbyists.




Some of the most important features of this microscope include:

 

  • LED halo light
  • Software (user can either use the software attached or download one from the website)
  • An arm stand (flexible)


Before anything else, it is recommended that users download the required software from the manufacturer's website for Windows and OS X and Linux. Once all the parts are connected, the microscope is powered using a USB bus power (It is advisable to only use the USB cable to connect to a PC or a smart phone without using additional cables). 

Once set up is complete, the microscope will work like a standard webcam. The microscope can be easily used with most devices that support USB webcams.

This includes:      


  • Computers      
  • Tablets      
  • Some of the new smart phones in the market


Plugable USB 2.0 Image Capture

For this microscope, a capacitive button is used for the purpose of capturing images. To capture images, the user can simply use this touch button at the top most part of the microscope. A capacitive button is preferred over a physical push button given that a simple touch produces blur-free images.

Image capture can also be done using the software on the PC (or tablet, smart phone).  Using the software, the user can simply capture images or take videos without the need to use the touch button or focus wheel.


Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand for Windows, Mac, Linux (2MP, 250x Magnification)Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand for Windows, Mac, Linux (2MP, 250x Magnification)



Compatibility

The Plugable USB 2.0 digital microscope is compatible with:

 

  • Windows, Vista, and XP
  • OSX - Mac OSX versions 10.4.2 and above
  • Linux - Built-in support for kernels 2.6.26 and above.
  • Chrome - The microscope will work on all chrome devices  that have in place a built in Camera application
  • Android – The microscope will also work well with most of the new android devices in the market and particularly those that use an OTG cable.


Lighting

The Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope comes with built-in LEDs, which can easily be dilated (increasing brightness) through several brightness levels when illuminating the specimen/object under inspection.

To eliminate a glare, the LEDs shine through a diffuser to give focused lighting that allows for clear images. This feature is particularly useful when viewing objects like coins which tend to reflect light. With the diffuser in place, light is evenly distributed across the surface of the object without any harsh glare that would otherwise distort the image.


Plugable USB 2.0 Pros and Cons


Pros

 

  • Ease of use - once the software has been downloaded and installed; the microscope can be used instantly. The ease of use also applies to children.
  • The built-in light has been shown to be particularly important allowing for objects to be viewed well at different adjustments
  • Convenience - Being a hand-held microscope that can be attached to smart phones and tablets, the Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope can be taken outside and used with ease.


Cons

 

At the highest magnification possible, the microscope may not produce very clear, crisp images.

 

Some of the other important features include:

 

  • An observation pad - the observation pad has graduated marks on its surface making it easier to make measurements of the object under observation
  • A flexible arm stand that can be easily bent and turned depending on where the user wants the microscope to face


Conclusion

Although the Plugable USB2.0 Digital Microscope may not be ideal for professional use, it is a great device particularly for kids, hobbyists and collectors who wish to observe a wide range of objects such as leaves, insects, stamps and coins among others.


Consider the following computer microscopes:


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