Do any of the digital microscopes like the QX3 show all of a coin the size of a cent or a little larger? Any suggestions?
Comparison Shopping!!! Hi, i've been looking at USB microscopes. I never considered that fact. Thanks for posting. I've seen some that suggest their models for coin & stamp collectors, but i have'nt noticed any listed features on coin size. I notice that some models have LCD viewing screens. I hope that some people here post what their microscope features are. I'm finding it hard to compare models, even with online resources(confusing). :desk::headbang:
Andy The Q thingy has some issues, but with some determination can be made to work well on coins. Rlm uses one as does several others here. I am in the process of saving up for a Dino myself, I have seen both in use and pictures on the web, the Dino is worth the extra in MY case.
Here are some snapshots from my qx5 at 60xhttp://www.cointalk.com/forum/t54891/ Once the batteries charge I will post a picture of my new 1868 DDO shield nickel and maybe my 1883 shield nickel.
Most of the inexpensive USB scopes do not have the ability to image a whole coin except maybe a 3cent. They emphasis the magnification in the ads, but the optical field is very narrow ( due to the lens construction). Some of the better ( and more expensive) USB scopes have a more sophisticated lens system that combines a wide field ( they sometimes call it extended, WF, WD, etc.) with the magnification. These are more complicated to build and I think for most they are in the $300 + range. The find use in medicine, "CSI" , gemstones, jewelry, and and collectibles ( coins, stamps, insects, etc.) These can easily go from full Morgan size to 200X or more on pinhead size. They are usually limited to less than 5Mp. In microscopy, magnification is always second to the resolution. You could have a lens that magnifys 1000X with such a punk resolution, that you can't tell much. Jim
I generally use mine for looking at RPMs and RPDs or doubling in some cases. I don't need anything too fancy. After all it is a kids toy. The color is not always great but I'm looking for detail more than anything else. I tried a 3 Cent Silver at 10x and can't get the whole coin in the image. 200x is really difficult to focus. I use 60x mainly. It has served my purposes and I've had it for years but when it finally dies I'll step up a notch or so.
I'd be interested in some step by step. The kids have a QX3 I've been saving for the dog days of August that I can borrow.
Clembo, I really had trouble with the photo-program that came with the microscope. I found I could import the image directly into my Corel X2 photo program and it made a world of difference in the color and contrast. No more "blooming" from a small shift in light levels. If you have a photo program, see if it allows import from a camera. Jim
