[Elecraft] head mounted lens or magnifier for SMT projects

[Ian White GM3SEK]

For the kind of SMT work that most of us are doing, a head-mounted 
magnifier is far better than any fixed microscope.

The problem with fixed microscopes is that they also fix YOU and the 
object you're looking at. The bulk of the microscope also blocks your 
normal direct view of the workbench, making it much more difficult to 
position the soldering iron tip without accidentally damaging other 
parts of the board. Fatigue, discomfort and irritation build up very 
quickly.

A head-mounted magnifier follows your head movements with no effort, and 
gives a clear, unobstructed view of the entire work area.

The best optical solution depends on your individual eyes, so one 
person's recommendation will not fit all cases. What works for me is a 
second pair of +4 half-moon reading glasses, perched in front of the 
varifocal (progressive) glasses that I wear all the time. These 
"preamps" magnify the downward view through the bottom edge of the 
varifocals, while still allowing a clear general view around the 
workbench.

<http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek/in-prac/best-of.htm#0809>

I do have several other optical aids, including a x7-20 swinging arm 
stereo microscope on a swinging arm, but for most work I still keep 
coming back to the simple "preamps".

The big microscope is great for checking and inspection *after* the work 
has been done, but not for doing the work itself.


The same web page contains a lot more information on choosing tools and 
equipment for SMT.

The little LED worklight from IKEA (top of picture) is *very highly* 
recommended - this is probably the last worklight you'll ever need to 
buy.


-- 

73 from Ian GM3SEK
http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek