Video Microscopes

Video microscopes provide a live feed image directly to a computer, TV or a LCD projector. There are several different setups for video microscopes which differ mostly based on the type of camera and the frames per second that the camera provides. The main goal for a video microscope is typically a smooth real-time video image that does not jump and is fluid.

Video Microscope

High quality live feed video microscopes utilize a HDMI microscope video camera that provides a live video directly to a TV or LCD projector with a fast frame rate. Many digital video microscopes offer high quality HD (high definition) output images and are commonly used in teaching environments. Video microscopes connect to the TV or projector through either an HDMI cable or a VGA cable. Some of the more advanced HD cameras also offer image capture to a microSD card. Video microscopes can have either a detachable camera or a built-in camera.

Digital Microscope With Video Capability

Many digital microscopes use a microscope digital camera that connects to the USB port on a computer, and they offer video capture. However, the frame rate on these USB videos is not as high quality as a video camera provides because the frames per second that are captured are much lower. A microscope digital camera is a better choice when the primary focus is capturing images and possibly making measurements, with only the occasional need for video capture. Because of the lower frames per second on many microscope digital cameras, the live image feed is often not as smooth as one offered by a video microscope. For example, if you were soldering printed circuit boards under a microscope and needed to view quick real-time movements, a digital USB camera would not be the best choice for a fast frame rate.