1．Methods of Lateral Viewing with a Borescope

 

There are primarily two methods of lateral viewing using a borescope. I will introduce the characteristics of each method.

 

◆ Utilizing a lateral (90°) viewing borescope

 

The lateral viewing type of borescope, characterized by an optical path arranged in a single direction, may exhibit uneven brightness across the observed surface due to its directional lighting configuration.

 

 

The optical path is arranged unidirectionally.		Imbalance in brightness occurs across the observation surface

 

Additionally, since the illumination is not ring-shaped but directional, uneven brightness may occur on the screen when observing reflective objects.

 

 

 

◆ Covering a direct-view borescope with a side-view tube (side-view adapter).

 

– A side-view tube (side-view adapter) is an accessory designed for enabling lateral viewing with a direct-view borescope. Simply fitting it over the tip allows for easy lateral observation.

– Note: The diameter of the side-view tube (side-view adapter) for a φ4mm borescope is φ5.5mm, which makes it slightly thicker.

 

 

 

– Image of a Side-View Tube (Side-View Adapter) Installation

 

 

– The advantage of the side-view tube (side-view adapter) is that it can be rotated while attached, allowing for easy observation of a 360° field of view.

 

 

 

 

– The disadvantage is that the edges of the mirror are visible, preventing the use of the entire field of view.

 

 

 

– Using a direct-view type results in ring-shaped illumination. Additionally, the mirror is more susceptible to the effects of dust and dirt (reflections).。

 

 

 

 

2． When connecting a camera to a borescope.

 

– When connecting a camera, the differences in this method significantly impact the results, as cameras generally have a lower dynamic range than the human eye.

 

– Advantages and Disadvantages of Lateral Viewing Type	– Advantages and Disadvantages of Direct-Viewing Type
– Bright and dark areas occur on the same surface. – In the presence of lateral holes, the walls and bottom surfaces of these holes will be shadowed.	– When observing the same surface, the central area appears bright while the periphery remains dark. – Light also reaches the walls and bottom surfaces of lateral holes. – The edges of the mirror are reflected in the view. – The attachment and removal of the side-view tube allow for both direct and lateral observation.
– However, depending on the reflectivity and shape of the object, the lateral viewing type may provide a clearer view.
＜Lateral Viewing Type＞ ・The observation surface is easier to see.。	＜Direct Viewing Type with Side-View Tube＞ ・Illumination is reflected in the central area.

 

 

 

 

 

3. Recommended Camera Feature for Borescope Observation: “WDR (HDR)”

 

Our company recommends cameras with WDR (HDR) functionality for borescope use.

WDR (HDR) stands for Wide Dynamic Range (High Dynamic Range), a feature that expands the camera’s dynamic range.

Below is an image taken with a camera equipped with WDR functionality connected to a side-view type borescope.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The “Lateral Viewing (90°) Type” and “Direct Viewing Type” borescopes introduced here are available through our company.

For more details, please visit the product pages below.