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Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Bench Magnifier
1. Magnification Options
Bench magnifiers offer low magnification with models commonly available in 3.0, 3.5, and 5.0 diopters, equating to magnifications of 1.75x, 1.88x, and 2.25x, respectively.
2. Field of View and Lens Shape
Higher magnification reduces the field of view, focal length, and working distance; rectangular lenses provide a larger field of view compared to round lenses.
3. Lens Quality and Illumination
Crown glass lenses are preferred for their clarity and durability over acrylic, and LED illumination with a CRI of 80 or higher is ideal for accurate color rendering. Some applications require the use of UV light. Bench magnifiers with UV lighting provide inspectors and operators with an easy way to inspect conformal coated circuit boards.
4. Arm Construction and ESD Safety
Flexible, sturdy arms with spring-balance support are crucial for ease of use, and ESD-safe magnifiers are essential in environments sensitive to static electricity.
5. Warranty Considerations
Always review the manufacturer’s warranty to understand coverage and terms before purchasing.
