SHARPENED MICROSCOPE IMAGES

●Inquiries from customers who want to sharpen the image quality

We receive inquiries daily from users of our microscopes, many of whom ask us if it is possible to achieve
the same beautiful image quality as a high-end microscope with a microscope costing several hundred thousand yen.

 

●What is the difference?

Camera pixels?
Camera performance?
Lens performance?
Lighting method? etc.
Of course, those things have a lot to do with it, too. ・・・・・?

 

●Image processing instead of raw images?

Many high-end microscopes costing several million yen are equipped with a dedicated high-speed processing computer
and do not display raw images as they are, but instead perform various image processing before displaying them.

 

●Even Shodensha’s microscope images can be used for image clarification!?

Our company There are ways to obtain the same beautiful image quality as those high-end microscopes,
even with microscopes costing several hundred thousand yen.

 

It is a software called “Real-time image processing software REAL Effect”.
With this software
●Live-view image processing instead of still image processing.
●Move the object while the image is being processed.
●Intuitive operation for professional image processing.
●Live-view image processing can be performed using only the software, without the use of a clarification device or unit.

 

印刷した文字を観察
Observe printed text
 

 

ファイバーの端面を観察
Observation of fiber end face
 

 

クリームの粒子を観察
Observation of cream particles

 

Demo units are available for loan, so please feel the beauty of this product.

 

HOW TO USE A MICROSCOPE WITH A HANDHELD

When using a microscope with a handheld type, the following should be noted.

 

1.Display speed

When shooting hand-held, the screen will inevitably “shake”.
If the display speed is slow, the “shake” will not stop.

 

 

2.Power source

Microscopes require two power supplies, one for the camera and one for the lighting.
The Handy’s dedicated unit can be supplied by a single USB port.

 

 

3.Brightness adjustment

Since one hand is occupied, it would be easier to use the camera with automatic exposure. As a dedicated handheld device, DinoLight’s products have a wide lineup, are inexpensive, and easy to obtain.

 

DinoLight

 

Some of our products can also be used as handhelds, depending on the combination. (Since this is a combination product, it is not listed in the catalog as a set product.)

 

・1.3 megapixel USB 3.0 camera (fast display speed “Global Shutter USB 3.0 Camera”)
・Low-magnification SG2 lens (small and thin lens for handy use) *Not shown on the website
・16 ring lights (can be connected directly to the lens and powered by a PC USB port)

 

The following is an image of the size of the product.

 

 

Both the camera and lighting can be powered from a PC. (No separate power source is needed)

 

ハンディマイクロスコープ

 

Due to the small size and narrow diameter of the lens, the zoom ratio is not that wide.

 

ハンディマイクロスコープ

 

IS IMAGE PROCESSING NECESSARY AS A PRE-PROCESSING STEP FOR IMAGE INSPECTION?

●Problems with automated visual inspection

Recently, many users have adopted automatic visual inspection using images.
 Pixel check type automatic visual inspection,
 Pattern check type automatic visual inspection
 Automatic visual inspection using AI to inspect the above types
There are various methods.
Some of them are not detected well by the automatic visual inspection,
and we sometimes receive inquiries about NG through the automatic visual inspection.
In many cases, the NGs are not clearly visible in the inspection image.
If they are not visible, neither software nor AI can detect them.

 

●Need for image processing

 In such cases
Camera pixel count
Camera performance
Lens performance and magnification
Lighting method, etc.
We often review and reconstruct the hardware.

However, the reality is that even after reviewing such hardware, it is often not possible to detect them successfully.
The aforementioned basic principle, that you can’t see it and you can’t detect it, is the same for humans, software, and AI.
No, software and AI are still inferior to humans at this point.
In such cases, the need for image processing as pre-processing comes into play.

 

Instead of passing raw acquired images directly to the inspection software, image processing is performed as pre-processing,
and then the processed images are passed to the inspection software.
Of course, the takt time (inspection time) will increase if image processing is applied as pre-processing.
Although it would be better to be able to detect the defects without preprocessing,
it is impossible to detect the defects if they are not visible in the image.

 

 

●What types of image processing are available?

It includes binarization, contrast correction, brightness correction, color correction, color limitation, smoothing, edge enhancement,
contour enhancement, denoising, sharpening (crispness), and in a broad and narrow sense, enlargement and reduction,
measurement and line generation.

 

 

●What is image processing?

Still images are often saved and then processed using an image processing unit.

 

 

●Is it possible to process images in live view (real time)?

The answer is possible.
If the view function of the microscope’s display software has an image processing item,
some microscopes will process the image during live view and then save a still image.
However, in many cases, this is only available in the high-end price range, and the only way to get a microscope
was to purchase an expensive microscope.

 

Shodensha has a method to obtain the same beautiful image quality as such high-end machines,
even with microscopes costing several hundred thousand yen.

 

It is a software called “Real-time image processing software REAL Effect”.
With this software, you can process images not as still images, but as live-view images.
You can move the object while the image is being processed.
You can perform image processing to your professional liking with intuitive operation.
Live-view image processing can be done with just the software, without the use of a sharpening device or unit.

 

 

印刷した文字を観察
Observe printed text
 

 

ファイバーの端面を観察
Observation of fiber end face
 

 

クリームの粒子を観察
Observation of cream particles

 

Learn more about REAL Effect real-time image processing software

 

Demo units are available for loan, so please feel the beauty of this product.

HOW TO ACCURATELY MEASURE DIMENSIONS WHEN OBSERVING AT AN ANGLE WITH A DIGITAL MICROSCOPE

3D arm for convenient oblique observation with a digital microscope.

 

TG-3D3

マイクロスコープ用3Dアームの詳細はこちら

 

From time to time, we receive questions like this.

 

Q. I want to use measurement software to measure dimensions while observing at an angle.

 

<Observation image>
3Dアームで斜め観察時のコツ1
                                  Taken from right beside the microscope

 

3Dアームで斜め観察時のコツ2   3Dアームで斜め観察時のコツ3
Taken from the front   Image

 

 

A. Of course, it can be used without any problem, but there are some precautions to be taken.

 

 

Vertical and oblique observations at the same magnification

 

The aspect ratio changes when observed from an angle.
(Below is a glass scale of 0.5mm x 0.5mm)

3Dアームで斜め観察時のコツ4

Therefore, the vertical calibration value cannot be used as it is, even for the same magnification observation.
When measuring with oblique observation, it is necessary to apply calibration under those conditions.

 

 

conclusion

In order to measure accurately with oblique observation, it is necessary to calibrate the microscope with it tilted at an oblique angle.
However, if the microscope is tilted in two axes (not only to the left or right, but also to the front or back), calibration should be performed with both axes considered.

MICROSCOPES “SUITABLE” AND “UNSUITABLE” FOR DIMENSIONAL MEASUREMENT

Many microscopes are sold with a dimensional measurement function.
However, even if they have a measurement function, some types are difficult to use.

When using the measurement function, a microscope is suitable for dimensional measurement if the following 2 points apply.

 

(1) It is a zoom lens.
(2) It has a scale, and each scale has a latch function.

 

In the following sections, each of these items will be presented in detail.

 

 

(1)Zoom lens

There are two types of lenses with continuously variable magnification.

 

・Variable magnification lenses

・Zoom lenses

 

Variable magnification lenses” are not suitable for measurement because the focal length changes significantly

when the magnification is changed.

Zoom lenses” are suitable for measurement because the focal length remains almost the same

even when the magnification is changed.

 

 

<Not suitable for measurement> Variable magnification lens (our SG series)

(at maximum magnification)  

(at minimum magnification)

寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ01   寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ02

 

 

<Zoom lenses (other than our SG series)

(at maximum magnification)  

(at minimum magnification)

寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ03   寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ04

 

 

 

(2)Scale and latch function

When taking dimensional measurements, reproducibility of conditions is important.

If the lens has optical magnification (scale) marked on it and a latch function for each scale,

variation from operator to operator is eliminated and repeatability is maintained.

 

<Not suitable for measurement> No latch function

Low-cost microscope (SG series)

 

Low Magnification Microscopes (LRS Series)

Long-Range Microscopes (LRA Series)

寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ05   寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ06

 

<Suitable for measurement> All other series have a scale and latch function.

寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ07

 

 

 

(Supplement) When you want to measure with a low-power microscope

Our “low-power microscopes” (LRS series) are not suitable for dimensional measurement as mentioned above.

(because it is not reproducible)

Although the magnification cannot be as low as that of the LRS series, the TG series can be used as a low-power microscope

with reproducibility by adding a 0.5x auxiliary lens.

TG Series 0.5x auxiliary lens
USBマイクロスコープ 寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ09

 Microscope TG500CS

0.5x auxiliary lens TG-0.5

 

 

Although the LRS series cannot achieve as low a magnification as the LRS series, it can provide a field of view of about two coins while still allowing repeatable measurements.

 

寸法測定に向き・不向きマイクルスコープ10

 

HOW TO OBSERVE FROM AN ANGLE WHEN USING A SMALL STAND BASE

1. Attaching the 3D arm to a small stand base

 

When performing this operation, it is recommended to add weights, as small stands may lack stability due to the small area of the base.

 

小型スタンドベースに3Dアームを付ける 錘

 

※ In order to install the 3D arm on a small stand, a pole for a normal stand is incorporated. The stand can be customized.

If you need more information, please contact us.

2. Attaching an inclined stand to a standard small stand

 

The following is an inclined stand from Takai Seiki.

Its surface is of the suction cup type, and it can be easily adsorbed if it is a lightweight object.

Since no adhesive is used, there is no residue left and it can be used again and again.

標準の小型スタンドに傾斜スタンドを付ける 標準の小型スタンドに傾斜スタンドを付ける

 

USEFUL GOODS WHEN YOU WANT TO STRETCH YOUR W.D.

If you don’t mind the decrease in magnification, you can increase the working distance (W.D.) by using a 0.5x auxiliary lens.

 

If you are willing to sacrifice magnification, you can use a 0.5x auxiliary lens to increase the W.D.

 

標準レンズ専用0.5倍補助レンズ

0.5x auxiliary lens for standard lenses

TG-0.5

 

<Example>
By attaching a 0.5x auxiliary lens to the TG500PC2, the magnification of 23x~140x is usually reduced to 11x~70x, resulting in an extension of the focal length of 90mm to 160mm.

 

However, doing so may dim the lighting because the LED ring illumination worn on the tip of the lens will be farther away from the subject. In order to compensate for this, it is necessary to adjust the lighting, such as replacing it with a brighter light or removing the diffuser.

 

 

高輝度80灯LEDリング照明 GR-80N2

High-brightness 80-lamp LED ring lighting

GR-80N2

着脱可能な拡散板付き With detachable diffuser

There is also a way to change the position of the light by adjusting the angle of the LED, but this can interfere with the purpose of lengthening the W.D. Therefore, we recommend the use of twin-arm lighting (SPF-D2) or LED spot lighting (SPF-FL3).

 

LEDアングル Even though a 0.5x auxiliary lens is used to increase the working distance, if the illumination is lowered by adjusting the angle of the LED, the W.D. expansion effect will be impaired.

 

 

For this reason, it is again recommended to use twin-arm lighting or LED spot lighting.

 

ツインアームLED照明 SPF-D2

Twin-arm LED lighting  

SPF-D2

 

Stationary dimmable LED twin-arm lighting.

   

If you need more information, please contact Technical Support.

POOR REPRODUCTION OF PRINTED OUT IMAGES

The imported image may not be printed with the desired color reproduction.

 

If the resolution of the imported image is sufficient, the performance of the printer may be affected.

 

<Use of genuine paper>

Use the genuine paper of the printer manufacturer or paper that is as similar to the genuine paper as possible. 

 

<Use a 6-color type (or more)>

Color printers cannot represent colors lighter than the ink that is SET.
Light colors such as light cyan, light magenta, and gray can be used to accommodate subtle color changes.
For a dual-price printer, four colors are most common, but for printing images, use six colors (or more).

 

<Use a high quality printer for photographs>

The following is an excerpt from Epson’s website. You can get even higher quality prints if you use a high quality printer for photos as shown below.

 

プリンター

REPLACES VISUAL INSPECTION UNDER A MICROSCOPE

Visual inspection from microscope to microscope

 
In many cases, microscopic inspections are performed on inspection lines. Inspections using microscopes can be very tiring, and this places a commensurate burden on the inspector. For this reason, many people want to replace microscopes with microscopes.
However, there are many different types of microscopes, and if the most appropriate one is not selected, it may cause unnecessary strain.
There are three points to keep in mind when transitioning from a microscope to a microscope.

 

 

 

3 Important Points in Microscope Selection

 

① Selecting a model with a high frame rate

 

Microscopes are displayed on a PC or monitor as video images.
If the frame rate is low, the projected image does not move smoothly, which causes unnecessary stress.
The frame rate is expressed as a numerical value, and the value that people do not feel uncomfortable is about 50 to 60 fps.
If the frame rate drops below 30 fps, the feeling of discomfort becomes noticeable.
The frame rate of the type that can be connected to a PC is often low due to the problem of USB communication speed.
Therefore, we recommend that you choose a type directly connected to the monitor.
 
 

② Select a model with good color reproduction

 

The way the microscope sees depends on the camera used for the microscope.
Therefore, there are some that reproduce colors beautifully and some that reproduce colors less beautifully.
When colors are not reproduced beautifully, the human brain feels a sense of discomfort, which causes stress.
If a red object looks a little bit orange, it is uncomfortable and stressful.
If you choose a full HD camera, the color reproduction is relatively high, so you can get a clear image.
 
 

③ Select a model with a wide dynamic range

 

The term “dynamic range” may not be familiar to you, but to explain it simply, when a bright object and a dark object are simultaneously projected, matching the brightness to one of them may cause the other one to be washed out or blacked out. To eliminate this phenomenon, a camera with a wide dynamic range is necessary. Dynamic range is a status that a camera has, but it also varies from camera to camera. Compared to general-purpose cameras, the human eye is very good and has a very wide dynamic range.
A large part of the discomfort between what we see with the human eye and what we see through a camera is often due to the difference in dynamic range.
There are some models that have a wide dynamic range, so I think it is best to choose such a model.
 

 

Recommended models

 
We have models that meet all three of the above requirements.
Microscope full HD 
Frame rate = 60 fps
Color reproduction = Very clear due to full high definition resolution
Dynamic range = Wide with HDR (High Dynamic Range) function
We have a demo unit available, so please try it out for yourself.

TRANSMITTED ILLUMINATION WHEN COMBINED WITH A SMALL STAND AND AN XY TABLE

(1)When to use XY tables

 

Place the transmitted lighting (RD-95) under a compact stand.

On top of it, a glass XY table (TK-100N) is installed.

This completes a handy transmissive lighting stand.

XYテーブルを使う場合

 

 

(2)When using a rotary XY table

 

The size of the turntable and the size of the transmitted lighting (RD-95) are the same.
If you remove the observation plate of the rotating table and install transmissive lighting (RD-95), it becomes a simple transmission stand.

 

回転式XYテーブル使う場合

 

 

Of course, if you use a rotating XY table, you can also use it as a transmissive light stand by placing a transmitted light under the stand and placing a glass plate on the rotating table.

スタンドの下に透過照明を設置

 

 

TK100-N (点板:ガラス)   Transmissive Lighting Stand Compatible Type
TK100-N (Point plate: glass)
     
回転式簡易XYテーブルTK180-K   Rotary simple XY table
TK180-K

HOW TO OBSERVE AN OBJECT FROM AN ANGLE

Our options include two options for oblique observation of the object. They are the “Universal Stand” and the “3D Arm”.

 

■ Universal Stand

<Advantages>
These options use the part that is flush with the object being observed as the fulcrum of rotation. Therefore, it has a structure that makes it difficult to lose sight of the object even when viewed from an angle.

This is especially true when you need to change the viewing angle frequently.

ユニバーサルスタンド

 

<Disadvantages>
However, these options rotate only on one face at a time, so you can’t strabissee four faces at the same time.

(This is possible by rotating the object using a simple rotary XY table.) )

 

回転式簡易XYテーブル Rotary Simplified XY Table
TK180-K

 

■ 3D Arm

<Advantages>

It is possible to strabismus from various positions, including four sides of the observer.

3Dアーム

 

Another advantage is that these options can handle large objects. (This is structurally deep.) 
対象物が大きくても対応できる

 

<Disadvantages>

Since the center of the lens (the hold part) acts as a fulcrum and rotates, it must remain in position to avoid losing sight of the object.

 

 

デメリット

TOOLS FOR FIXING THE SAMPLE AT AN ANGLE

We may observe the sample using the stand shown in the photo.

 

 

サンプルを斜めに固定する道具 サンプルを斜めに固定する道具

 

The surface of this stand is sticky, which stabilizes the object even when tilted. It is very convenient because there is no need to worry about it adhering to the object to be observed.

 

 

サンプルを斜めに固定する道具 サンプルを斜めに固定する道具

It is also possible to observe the object at an angle.

Since the surface is sticky, there is no need to worry about the observation falling off.

We also have other useful goods. Please feel free to contact technical support.

EXTENDING THE VGA CABLE

There is no limit to the length of the VGA cable, but it is usually recommended to be around 30 meters.

However, some commercially available cables are 60 meters long.

 

VGAケーブル

 

In addition, there are various extenders on the market, which can be used to transmit signals over distances of 300 meters or more.

 

The following is an extender using a LAN cable, which can be extended up to 300 meters.

 

モニタ延長期

SURGE COUNTERMEASURES

Surges are abnormal voltages and resulting abnormal currents caused by various factors.

Causes include “lightning surges” caused by lightning and “open/close surges” caused by turning power supplies on and off.

Electric power companies and telecommunication companies have taken various countermeasures against lightning surges.

Table taps for lightning surges are also available.

 

雷サージ用のテーブルタップ

 

A “open/close surge” is a surge that occurs when a circuit is opened or closed.

Be careful when large capacity motors, generators, high voltage circuits,

solenoids, etc. are connected to the same power line.

If the power supply or power circuit is frequently damaged or operates abnormally,

it may be necessary to take surge countermeasures.

In some cases, simply separating the power lines may be sufficient.

Various surge suppression products are available.

MICROSCOPE WITH SLR CAMERA LENS

An M26 microscope objective lens is attached to the end of a Nikon telephoto lens (f=300mm) in combination with a step-down ring.

 

ステップダウンリングを組みあわせてM26の顕微鏡用対物レンズを取り付け

 

The image is formed and a clear image can be confirmed.
Distance adjustment dial on the lens side is a fine adjustment level

取付例

 

 

Project a glass scale with a pitch of 0.2 mm. The horizontal field of view is 0.4mm.
Magnification of about 800 to 1000 times can be obtained.

0.2mmピッチのガラススケールを映してみます

 

 

Incidentally, this method can also be used with a standard lens (f = 50 mm or so).

Since the magnification is reduced, ring illumination can also be used.

標準レンズ(f=50mm程度)でもこの方法は使えます

The focal length is about 40 mm.
The focal length is shorter than that of a dedicated microscope.

HOW TO GET AN ANALOG RGB SIGNAL TO YOUR PC

The main advantage of our PC monitor direct camera GR80XGA3 is that you can instantly observe high-resolution images on the monitor without display delays or afterimages. At the same time, it is worth mentioning that it is easy to connect directly to a monitor (no PC is required, and no software is required).

 

任意ライン発生機能付PCモニタダイレクトカメラ  
With arbitrary line generation function
PC Monitor Direct Camera
GR80XGA3
 

The advantage of a camera is that it does not require a PC and can be directly connected to a monitor, but sometimes there is a need to connect this image to a PC or to both a PC and a monitor via a distributor.

Here are two ways to import the footage from this camera to your computer.

1. Capture board (desktop PC only)

Capture boards that support analog RGB (15Pin D-sub) video formats are usually expensive, but AVerMedia Technologies’ Game Broadcaster HD AVT-C127 is available at a relatively affordable price.

Game Broadcaster HD AVT-C127

 

Using this capture board, we tested whether it was possible to import images taken with a camera directly connected to a PC monitor to a computer.

This board is known for its easy ability to record iPhone/iPad images to a desktop computer, and is generally available at computer stores. In fact, I was able to use this board to shoot and save still images.

In addition, you can use the dedicated capture software (RECentral) that comes with this capture board to save videos in MP4 format. If you shoot a 20-second video with a resolution of 1280×1024, the file size is relatively small at about 30MB. In general, if you shoot a video of the same length in AVI format, the file size will be about 10 times larger than that of MP4 format. However, when “AVI” was selected in the dedicated capture software (RECentral), there was a phenomenon that the video could not be recorded for some reason. Of course, it is also available in our Viewer software. To use this capture board, you need a desktop computer with Windows 8 or Windows 7. We have confirmed that it works on desktop PCs with Windows 8.

 

Game Broadcaster HD AVT-C127

 

We can’t guarantee that it will work on all desktop computers, but we think it’s worth a try because it’s affordable and feasible.

 

2. Analog RGB-USB converter (can be used on desktop PCs and notebook PCs)

Below is a converter from Epiphan. It can be used on both desktop and laptop PCs.

 
 

アナログRGB-USB変換器

 

<Example of using Conceptual diagram>
アナログRGB-USB変換器

LONG DISTANCE AND MAGNIFICATION WITH SLR LENSES

Procedures for connecting an SLR lens to a C-mount camera to capture long distance and magnified images.

 

C-mount to F-mount conversion adapters are easy to find.

 

Cマウント⇒Fマウントの変換アダプタ

 

Nikon telephoto lens (focal length = 300mm) attached to the DN3V-130 via the appropriate adapter

 

DN3V-130に接続

 

Minimum possible shooting distance is about 3 meters

The image range when taken from a distance of 3 meters is as follows 60mm x 45mm

 

最至近距離は3m程度

WHAT IS ANALOG RGB (D-SUB 15 PIN)? ITS FEATURES AND RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

1. Features of Analog RGB

Analog RGB is a standard mainly for transferring video signals from personal computers to displays.

This interface uses an analog RGB terminal (also known as a mini D-sub 15-pin terminal, VGA terminal).

The analog RGB microscope is a microscope that is connected to a computer via an analog RGB cable and displays an enlarged image on the screen.

 

アナログRGB端子

 

 

2. Analog RGB recommendations

We refer to cameras with video output that conform to this standard as “PC monitor direct cameras” (this is not a general term in the industry).

In general, it is often called an “analog RGB output camera” or “analog color camera”.

Since it can be directly connected to a video device (PC monitor, projector, etc.) that has an analog RGB terminal, there is no display delay, making it a microscope suitable for inspection applications.

3. Analog RGB is now changing to HDTV!

For a long time, analog RGB terminals have been used to connect to PCs, but now, with the spread of HDMI terminals, the mainstream of PC monitor direct cameras and microscopes is changing.

Since the HDMI digital signal is uncompressed, it is characterized by less degradation of image quality. As a result, high-definition cameras and high-definition microscopes have become the mainstream at our company, replacing PC monitor direct cameras and microscopes.

 
 

 

 

 

 

Camera full HD

 

 

High-Performance HD Microscope 

SOFTWARE TO PLAY AVI FILES

Videos recorded with SD card-compatible video recorders sold by our company are saved in AVI format.

After transferring these videos to your PC, you can use another program to edit them, such as adjusting the speed or fast-forwarding.

 

With Windows Media Player, you can play, fast-forward, rewind, and adjust the playback speed. In addition to these functions, GOM PLAYER (free software) also allows you to play frame-by-frame.

 

For more information, please contact Technical Support.

ABOUT VIDEO SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION

It may be necessary to supply the video signal to multiple devices simultaneously (for example, simultaneous output to a monitor and a recording device).

One way to split a video signal is to use connectors or cables to split the signal in two, which is a widely used method.

 

 

ケーブル コネクタ
   

 

However, there is a risk of degradation of video quality if it is branched directly.

By utilizing a video splitter, it is possible to distribute the video signal without losing quality.

 

● Video degradation → Split by connector ● plitting with a divider → Basically no loss
コネクタで分割→映像劣化 分割器で分割→基本的には無損出
   

 

<Wiring example>
You can use a splitter to split the video signal into two parts, one to the video recording device and the other to the monitor.

 

分割器でビデオ信号を2分割して、ビデオ記録器とモニタに出力

24-HOUR VIDEO RECORDING WITH A VIDEO MICROSCOPE

Long-term recordings, such as 24-hour recordings with a video microscope, can be easily achieved by using a hard disk recorder.

For example, a 2TB (terabyte) hard drive can record for more than 10 days.

ハードディスク

 

It can be connected to the hard disk with various terminals, including BNC terminals.

 

ハードディスクに取り付ける端子はBNC端子でも対応可能

 

You can also convert the video signal to USB and save the video directly to your PC.

In this case, it is necessary to expect about 1 MB of data per second at VGA (640×480) resolution, so it is necessary to prepare an HDD or SSD with a capacity corresponding to the period required for recording.

We also accept introductions regarding hard disks, so please feel free to contact technical support.

VIDEO RECORDING WITH A VIDEO MICROSCOPE

Video signals are a widely used format, with a wide variety of peripherals at your disposal, including external hard drives, digital video recorders (DVRs), and USB adapters. This makes it possible to record long hours on a hard disk, and if portability is important, you can use a card video recorder or various memory cards. However, when using other peripheral devices, it is necessary to pay attention to the presence or absence of terminals that output video from the device to the monitor. Also, when using a DVR, it may not be possible to record still images due to limitations specific to video recorders, so please check the specifications of the device in advance.

The products we offer have the following features:

  • Still images and videos can be saved
  • A video recorder with a split function that supports USB memory and can display two screens, left, right, top and bottom

Both of these models can save and play back still images and videos while looking at the monitor.

 

ビデオマイクロスコープ Various video microscopes
USBメモリ対応分割機能付ビデオレコーダー USB memory compatible with split function
Video recorder 
GRAV-1

 

<Example of use: GRAV-1>

使用例

 

Please feel free to contact Technical Support for more information.

HOW TO TAKE STILL IMAGES WITH A VIDEO MICROSCOPE

We provide lightweight and compact video recorders with a USB memory function that can save and play still images and videos by operating a mouse through a monitor. The device is highly portable and includes a monitor output pin that can be connected to an external monitor.

USBメモリ対応分割機能付ビデオレコーダー USB memory compatible with split function
Video recorder 
GRAV-1

<Usage examples>

使用例

 

Please feel free to contact Technical Support for more information.

 

I WOULD LIKE TO INCREASE THE RESOLUTION (IN THE CASE OF A VIDEO MICROSCOPE)

It is difficult to increase the resolution with a video microscope.

This is due to the limited resolution of the video signal itself.

 

Possible ways to improve resolution are:

1. How to use a Full HD signal

2. How to use analog RGB signals 

 

テレビの裏

 

We provide full high-definition microscopes that support high-definition signals. This microscope achieves high resolution while maintaining the smooth movement of a video microscope. It is a type that does not require a PC and can be connected directly to a monitor.

Since each signal method such as video, HDTV, and analog RGB, as well as the shape of the terminals, are different, care must be taken when using them.

 

 

ビデオマイクロスコープ  Various video microscopes
ハイビジョンマイクロスコープ Various types of high-definition microscopes

I WOULD LIKE TO INCREASE THE RESOLUTION FURTHER. (FOR VIDEO MICROSCOPE)

You cannot increase the resolution with a video microscope.
This is because the resolution of the video signal itself is low.

 

As a way to increase the resolution by connecting directly to a TV monitor,
1. How to use full HD signal
2. How to use analog RGB signals

テレビの裏

 

We have full high-definition microscopes that are compatible with high-definition signals.
This type of microscope offers high resolution while retaining the smooth movement of a video microscope.
This is a type of microscope that connects directly to a monitor that does not require a PC.

Please note that video, high-definition, and analog RGB have different signal systems and terminal shapes.

 

 

ビデオマイクロスコープ  Various video microscopes
ハイビジョンマイクロスコープ Various high-definition microscope

WHEN USING THE LENGTH MEASURING FUNCTION OF A MICROSCOPE FOR QUALITY CONTROL

This article presents the key points, usage, and recommended microscope models for using the measuring capabilities of microscopes in the context of quality control.

 

Important points

Although some microscopes are equipped with measurement capabilities,
However, their use can be difficult due to the following two problems

 

 (1) Microscopes themselves may not be measuring instruments that guarantee traceability.

 (2) Except for high-performance models, calibration must be performed by the end user.

(This may lead to errors due to user manipulation.)

 

How to use

When used for quality control purposes, there is no problem if in-house calibration is performed.

However, in such cases, the reference standard used should be clarified.

 

In short, use is feasible if the following three conditions are met.

 

・Select a microscope with high reproducibility.

・A reference standard that can confirm the accuracy of the selected microscope is clearly available.

・The company possesses a traceable reference standard.

 

ISO 9001 certified companies also use these standards.

 

Recommended microscopes

 

For the use of length measurement functions in quality control, we recommend the

CT200HD series microscopes

 

 

◆Adoption of the interlocking system between the lens and camera, which is rare in the middle class

Data from the lens is transferred to the camera, which automatically utilizes the built-in calibration data.

・No need for user adjustments

・No measurement value discrepancies caused by user operation

 

◆Optional dedicated glass scale for checking accuracy

Calibration certificates and test reports can be provided for glass scales (for a fee).

校正証明書1   校正証明書2

PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING THE HUB TO MOVE THE USB CAMERA

Basically, it is more stable to connect directly to the USB port of the PC.
(If the power supply of the PC is vulnerable, the self-powered HUB may be stable.) )
There are a few things to keep in mind when using HUB.

 

1.Please use USB3.0 HUB.

  If you use the USB 2.0 type, it basically does not work.
  However, if you adjust the number of clocks on the camera side, the image may be displayed.
  However, the speed is extremely slow, and the low-resolution camera is reflected, but the high-resolution camera is
  Abnormal operation such as not being displayed may occur.

 

2.Please use the self-powered HUB as much as possible.

  Especially if you are using a notebook PC, using USB bus power will increase the supply current to the camera.
  It may be insufficient and show abnormal behavior.
  Of course, it depends on the capacity of the power supply on the PC side, so it may work without problems.

 

USB HUB

 

(supplement)

Even if you choose a USB 3.0, self-powered HUB, the communication speed of USB 3.0 may be limited.
There are some HUBs that are not listed.
(Depending on the HUB, communication speed may decrease.)
In this case, the low resolution (low amount of data) camera will work, but
High-resolution camera (large amount of data) Abnormal operation such as camera not moving occurs
There may be cases.

HOW TO DEAL WITH “VIDEO FREEZES”, “SPEED DROPS EXTREMELY”,…

If the C-State function of the PC is enabled, some symptoms may occur.

C-State is a feature that switches the CPU to a low-power mode to reduce the power consumption of the PC. This feature can cause insufficient power supply via USB, resulting in video delays and unstable video display when using devices such as USB cameras.

In Windows 10, C-State is specifically enabled for the purpose of extending battery life and saving energy.

C-State is a separate feature from the energy saving mode in the power plan. If changing the power plan from Energy Saver or Balanced to High Performance does not help, it is recommended to disable C-State.

It is possible to disable C-State from the BIOS, but since the BIOS settings vary depending on the manufacturer, it is difficult to generalize the specific operation method.

For instructions on how to disable C-State, please contact our support.

JIG FOR QUICK OBSERVATION OF 4 CORNERS OF AN OBJECT

We propose two simple devices that allow an object to be moved and its four corners easily observed with a microscope.

 

■Proposal 1
対象物の4隅を素早く観察する為の治具
In this method, choose a material that is softer and slipperier than aluminum.
(e.g., polyacetal (a material suitable for gears used without lubrication, etc.))

 

対象物の4隅を素早く観察する為の治具

 

 

■Proposal 2
XYスライドテーブルを利用

 

We suggest the use of a slide table that can be moved in the XY direction.

 

XYスライドテーブルを利用

EXTERNAL DEVICE TO STORE THE VIDEO SIGNAL

A video signal is a general-purpose video signal.

One of the advantages of using a video signal is that you can take advantage of a variety of external devices at a low cost.

In this article, we will introduce some recorders.

 

 

 

(1)Conversion cable

This is the conversion cable introduced in “How to convert video signal to USB”. Since it is recorded using software on a PC, it is possible to record still images and videos depending on the software.

 

変換ケーブル

 

 

 

(2)Battery-powered logger

 

What is a bit unusual is that it is a battery-powered recorder. It is made overseas, but it can also be purchased on Amazon and other sites.

You can record not only videos but also still images.

This body is the recording medium. The recording data will be downloaded to your PC via USB. I can’t print it to the screen because there is no output.

電池駆動の記録器

 

 

 

(3)Video recorder with USB memory split function

 

The video signal recorders we sell can record both moving images and still images. The GRAV-1 is a split-function video camera that supports USB memory. The storage medium is a USB memory. You can record videos and still images. It is also possible to save with an external trigger. (Still images only. * There is also a special order memory for videos.

 

USBメモリ対応分割機能付ビデオレコーダー USBメモリ対応分割機能付ビデオレコーダー
   

For video signals, video recorders are the mainstream. If you don’t need to store still images, there are a number of low-cost options.

 

 

(4)Mini DVR

 

Small video-only DVRs are sold as security equipment.

 

小型DVR

 

 

 

(5)Hard disk recorder

There are many inexpensive hard disk recorders on the market.

The camcorder is also suitable for long-term recording.

Introducing a hard disk recorder with a screen that can record for up to 2 months.

 

ハードディスクレコーダー

 

 

 

(6)Skip-Back Recorder

 

There is also something called a skip-back recorder.

Records images before and after the shutter is released by a sensor or other device.

スキップバックレコーダー

HOW TO INPUT A VIDEO SIGNAL TO A PC MONITOR

I think the easiest way is to use a USB-connected video capture device.

It comes in a variety of formats.

 

USB接続ビデオキャプチャー  USB video capture
変換機

 With a video microscope the photos you took using the converter to convert NTSC to USB displayed on your PC.

 

We will also introduce you to the recommended converters. Don’t hesitate to contact technical support.

FLEX-RESISTANT COAXIAL CABLE

Our camcorders usually come with a BNC to RCA video cable in the box. BNC connectors have a locking function, while RCA connectors have a plug-in design.

In environments where the cable is frequently moved, RCA connectors are not suitable. For this reason, the majority of flex-resistant coaxial cables on the market are BNC type cables at both ends.

 

There are many products on the market, such as:

耐屈曲同軸ケーブル

 

耐屈曲同軸ケーブル

 

If you want to use one of the terminals with RCA, you can buy a cable with a bend-resistant BNC terminal and install the RCA terminal yourself if necessary.

 

耐屈曲同軸ケーブル

 

Alternatively, you can attach the following conversion plug to a flex-resistant BNC-BNC cable.

 

変換プラグ

ABOUT VIDEO CABLE EXTENSION

There are no clear regulations for video cables as there are for USB cables.

 

For video signals, the optimum length is approximately 10 m when using ordinary pin cords (RCA terminals).

 

When using coaxial cables (BNC terminals), signal degradation is hardly noticeable even at lengths of 100 to 200 meters.

 

If you prefer to use RCA terminals, products are available on the market that use RCA terminals for terminals and coaxial cables for cables.

 

同軸ケーブル

ABOUT VIDEO CABLE EXTENSION

There are no clear regulations for video cables as there are for USB cables.

 

For video signals, the optimum length is approximately 10 m when using ordinary pin cords (RCA terminals).

 

When using coaxial cables (BNC terminals), signal degradation is hardly noticeable even at lengths of 100 to 200 meters.

 

If you prefer to use RCA terminals, products are available on the market that use RCA terminals for terminals and coaxial cables for cables.

 

同軸ケーブル

VIDEO SIGNAL CONNECTORS

There are three main types of video signal interfaces (connectors).

 

 

RCA Terminals

BNC Terminals

S Terminals

RCA端子 BNC端子 S端子

 

There are various types of conversion connectors and cables for video signals on the market.

Below is the cable that comes with our 12-inch monitor.

ケーブル

 

If you want to connect this to a device with BNC output, an RCA-BNC conversion connector is convenient.
(If you attach an RCA-BNC conversion connector, you can connect to a BCN type camera.) 

 

RCA-BNC変換コネクタ

 

RCA-BNC変換コネクタ  

HOW TO MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND ANGLES

There are two methods: manual measurement and automatic measurement.

 

1. How to measure dimensions and angles manually

 

 

<High-performance image processing measurement software MFShip>

 

 

高機能画像処理計測ソフトウェア MF Ship  

High-performance image processing measurement software
MF Ship

[Measurement items]
Distance between two points
angle
Circle Diameter
Distance between 2 circles
perpendicular line
Polygon area

 

2.How to make fully automated measurements

 

 

<Pattern Check Type (Rule-Based Type) Automated Visual Inspection Software EI710>

 

 

パターンチェック型(ルールベース型)自動外観検査ソフトウェアEI710  

Pattern-based (rule-based) automated visual inspection software
EI 710

Register a non-defective image as a master.
Inspection images and different parts of dimensions and angles
It is an image inspection software that detects.

Both the MF Ship and the EI 710 are available for free evaluations, please call Technical Support for more information.

HOW TO SAVE STILL IMAGES BY LEAVING THE DATE AND TIME

We have software with a so-called timestamp function that burns the day and time into a still image.

 

If you use the following trigger software, it will be displayed down to the second level, and when you save a still image, you can burn a time stamp into the still image.

 

タイムスタンプ

 

 

● High-performance trigger shooting software Hi TriggerF Pro

● High-performance trigger shooting software (multi-unit version) Hi TriggerF PRO4

HOW TO CONVERT VIDEO SIGNAL TO USB

Video signal is a widely used video transmission method, and many external devices are available in the market.

There are various types of USB adapters, many of which do not require a power supply, are compact and low-cost.

 

ビデオ信号外部機器

 

In the video signal (NTSC method), the total number of scan lines is 525.

When converted to USB, the resolution is generally 640×480 (about 300,000 pixels).

Modern USB cameras have a standard resolution in megapixels, and the video signal resolution is a bit lower than these.

However, its fast frame rate and small data size make it a good choice for recording videos.