This project came from having a variety of scavenged parts laying around, and a desire for a video microscope for soldering and inspection.

Goals:

• The result should be portable so that it can be removed from my bench and put away when not in use.
• The result should have a high level of usability without a lot of fiddling around or adjustments to get it going. In other words, it shouldn't take more work to use than it's worth.
• A good range of available magnifications for soldering and inspections.
• A long working distance to make it usable while soldering.
• A high enough resolution to make it usable while soldering.
• An ESD safe working surface.
• The ability to mount other cameras for other needs.

Main parts on hand (for possible use):

• Canon RE-650 Video Visualizer.
• Various zoom lenses from old video cameras and surplus. A couple macro lens adapters.
• Various C-mount video and USB cameras.
• Various old webcam, laptop and point and shoot cameras.