For as long as mankind has walked the Earth, we've wanted to know if there are little bugs crawling in our eyelashes. Well, maybe not — we're probably better off not knowing — but we've long been fascinated by the possibilities of an unseen world all around us.
The first attempt to shed light on the microscopic realm came in the 14th century, with the creation of the first ground-glass lenses. These were designed only to improve eyesight, but the basic concept would be used a few centuries later by a pair of Dutch lensgrinders, Hans and Zacharias Janssen. They put two lenses together in a tube, creating a primitive compound microscope.
This new device was mainly seen as a mere novelty until the 1660s, when naturalists in several countries began to use them to study biology. The most famous of these was Antonie von Leeuwenhoek, who was the first person to describe cells and bacteria. He was able to do so by modifying his microscope, adding a glass ball lens that allowed him to magnify subjects up to 300 times.
The main limitation of these early microscopes was their ability to capture and focus light. Until electric lamps became available, it was very difficult to evenly light your subject, and it turns out that it's extremely hard to use a microscope in the dark. In 1893, the German scientist August Kohler developed a form of illumination that bears his name, allowing for sharper images and improved analysis.
However, about a half century later, an alternative to the light microscope was created. Designed by German physicist Ernst Ruska, this model used electrons instead of light to illuminate the subject, allowing for significantly better resolution. It would eventually lead to the ability to visually identify viruses, making it easier to quickly respond to infections. Ruska won the Nobel Prize for his efforts.
Since then, there have been many more advancements in the field of microscopy, with scanning probes, x-rays, fluorescence, and super resolution microscopes all helping to further our knowledge of the infinitesimal world around us. We can now see things that were previously only discussed theoretically, like nanoparticles.
Of course, we can also now see things we wish we could unsee, like the mites crawling around in our eyelashes right now..
This model was discontinued in July 2015 in favor of our new, redesigned microscope. Please go have a look at plugable.com/usb2-micro-250x
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Features
- Optical Zoom from 1x to 50x
- Digital Zoom up to 200x
- 8 LEDs with dimmer for fine tuning illumination
- Live view with video capture or snapshot feature
- Solid alloy stand for stability.
- Functions like a simple web cam, so it works with PC, Mac and Linux
(including Raspberry Pi Raspbian)
Product Description
Learn moreThe Plugable USB2-Micro-200X USB microscope provides up to 50X magnification optically and up to 200x and can be used on computers running Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux simply by plugging it into a spare USB 2.0 port and it requires no external power. It operates like a standard webcam and can be used with the default webcam software included in your computer’s operating system.
Setup and Drivers
Since our microscope uses a standard webcam chipset, it will automatically install default webcam drivers when plugged in to a computer. It can be used with any webcam app, like the camera app built in to Windows 8.1, Photo Booth in OSX, or a third party program like VLC media player.
We also have custom Windows and OSX software designed specifically to work with the microscope. The download for this can be found below:
Windows: https://s3.amazonaws.com/plugable/bin/Digital_Viewer_3.1.07.exe
Mac OSX: https://s3.amazonaws.com/plugable/bin/Digital_Viewer_3.1.07.dmg
Raspberry Pi running Raspbian:
***NOTE: Working with the current version of Raspian Jessie***
We have tested our Microscope with Linux using GTK+ UVC Viewer by using the following terminal commands:
“sudo apt-get install guvcview”
“guvcview”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I zoom in on an object?
A: The level of magnification is controlled by the silver focus wheel, then the microscope or the object must be moved to the appropriate distance in order to be in focus.
Q: I can’t get my microscope to zoom past ~30x indicated magnification, how do i get to 200x?
A: At the closest distance with the clear shield touching the object, there are two possible magnifications. The first is at around 30x indicated, but if you continue to rotate the focus wheel, the image will get blurry, then sharp again at around 200x indicated!
Q: How do I dim the LED lights?
A: The LED lights can be dimmed or turned off by rotating the black LED light control wheel near the rear of the microscope. If you are having problems with glare, try viewing your intended object at an angle.
Q: I see a “device not detected” message in MicroCapture when it’s clearly connected. What gives?
A: You may have to disconnect and reconnect the microscope when restarting MicroCapture, and it can take up to 30 seconds for MicroCapture to detect the microscope. It’s also possible that the microscope isn’t running under it’s specialized driver that MicroCapture requires in order to see the microscope. If none of this helps, please contact us at [email protected] and we can help troubleshoot the issue.
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Kevin on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkBob Boerner on Thunderbolt 3 dock not working in Windows 10 after the April 2018 update? We can help!Daniel Furrer on Thunderbolt 3 dock not working in Windows 10 after the April 2018 update? We can help!Elena Moreno on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkBob Boerner on Thunderbolt application not in use anymore error on Windows? Check your driver types and versionsTyler on Thunderbolt application not in use anymore error on Windows? Check your driver types and versionsKevin on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkCBO Connecting Technology on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkMarc M. on Troubleshooting the USB3-HUB-81×7 USB 3.0 7 port HubRoberto Argueta on Troubleshooting the USB3-HUB-81×7 USB 3.0 7 port HubGreat for kids, hobbyists, and professionals, the Plugable USB2-MICRO-250X Digital Microscope allows you to work quickly and effectively at the microscopic level. Common uses include classroom exploration, stamp or coin analysis, micro-soldering, garden parasite identification, and much more.
The companion software available on our website for Windows and OS X allows you to control aspects of the camera functionality directly from your computer. Capture resolution and exposure can be changed with a few clicks, and video or time-lapse modes allow for continuous observation of a subject.
Features
- Useful and fun for students, collectors, testers, and anyone interested in exploring the microscopic world
- 2.0 Megapixels, up to 250x magnification (Note: Final magnification corresponds to monitor size)
- Uses a webcam chipset and sensor to support a nearly any operating system and standard webcam software
- LED halo light with brightness adjustment control
- Flexible arm stand with observation pad includes graduated marks for easy measurement
- Optional software for Windows and OS X adds additional features
- Third party application allows support for Android devices using an OTG cable
Built-In Lighting
The Microscope includes built-in LEDs that can be dialed through a range of brightness levels to properly illuminate your subject. Unlike many other USB microscopes, these LEDs shine through a diffuser to combat glare.
This is especially useful when viewing reflective objects like coins. Instead of harsh glare, the diffuser gives even light distribution across the object being viewed.
Capacitive Capture Button
We used a capacitive touch button to initiate image capture rather than a physical push button. When viewing small objects at microscopic levels, the slightest bump can offset an image to an unviewable state. With a capacitive button, the lightest touch snaps a blur-free image.
![Free Usb Microscope Software Free Usb Microscope Software](https://www.dhresource.com/260x260/f2/albu/g1/M00/A6/75/rBVaGVbpOXKADgZ3AAERtOWXXoQ495.jpg)
Image capture can also be initiated from within the downloadable companion software, along with video or configurable time-lapse capture.
Setup
Here is a video on how to set the microscope up on Windows. Videos are also available for Mac, Chrome, and Linux!
Usb Digital Microscope Software Download
Mac Setup
Chrome Setup
Linux Setup
Usb Microscope Driver Windows 10
Technical Specifications
Interface USB 2.0Magnification Range 0x-250xIllumination 4 SMD LEDs (dimmable)Sensor Type CMOSMaximum Resolution 1600 x 1200 snapshot640 x 480 videoController EtronTech eSP570A
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I magnify an object?
A: The level of magnification is controlled by a combination of the distance to the object and the focus point set by the grey focus wheel. The closer the object, the higher the magnification possible.
Q: I can’t get my microscope to zoom past a very low magnification, how do i get to 250x?
A: At the closest distance with the clear shield touching the object, there are two possible magnifications. The first is at around 50x, but if you continue to rotate the focus wheel, the image will get blurry, then sharp again at a much higher magnification.
Q: How do I dim the LED lights?
A: The LED lights can be dimmed or turned off by rotating the grey LED light control wheel near the top of the microscope body. If you are having problems with glare, try viewing your intended object at an angle.
Q: When using the microscope, all I see is a black screen with no image. How can I fix this?
A: From the factory, the LED control is in the off position. For most indoor lighting conditions, you will need to turn the LEDs on by rotating the grey light control wheel in order to see anything.
Q: When I plug in the microscope, I see no image and the LEDs do not turn on. What’s wrong?
A: You must launch Digital Viewer or another webcam suite in order to use the microscope, nothing happens automatically on plug-in. The microscope’s LEDs won’t work unless the image sensor is actually being used.
Q: I installed Digital Viewer on Windows, but I can’t figure out how to launch the software. What do I do?
A: The installer creates a shortcut in your start menu, the default location being Start>Programs>Plugable Technologies (varies slightly depending on OS version). Many expect the installer to create a shortcut on the desktop, but we made the decision not to do this as we don’t want to clutter our customers desktop space without permission.
Q: When I open Digital Viewer, why do I only see output from my other webcam?
A: The microscope must be selected in the device menu under settings. The settings menu can be opened by clicking on the grey gear icon in the upper left of the window.
Q: After a Windows Update, why does Digital Viewer tell me that my camera is already in use?
A: There have been changes to how specific classes of devices are handled in Windows Privacy settings. We have a blog post detailing how to restore functionality here:
https://plugable.com/2018/06/27/microscope-camera-or-microphone-not-working-after-windows-10-april-2018-update-we-can-help/
Q: Why can’t I get this to work with my Android device?
A: Android support is on a case by case basis. The manufacturer of the Android device must allow USB webcams or this will not work.
Q: Will this work on my iPad/iPhone or other iOS device?
A: No, this will not work. iOS devices do not have support for external USB cameras.
Q: When I plug in the microscope, it is only listed as an Audio device and I have an Oculus Rift
The microscope uses the same chipset as the Oculus DK2 sensors making the system believe it is just an additional Oculus sensor. The steps below should correct this problem! If not, please reach out to Support!
- Disconnect the Oculus Rift sensors and cameras.
- Connect the Plugable USB Digital Microscope.
- Open the Device Manager in Windows. This can be done several ways, if you’re uncertain how to access Device Manager perform these steps:
- Press the Windows key and R (Win + R).
- In the window that pops up, type “devmgmt.msc” (without quotes), then click OK.
- Look for the microscope. It will likely be listed as a Rift DK2 sensor, under ‘Oculus VR Devices’. If you’re not certain if you found it, disconnect the microscope and the entry should disappear. Reconnect the microscope and the entry should come back, that’s how we’ll know for certain we’re looking at the correct device.
- Once we’ve found the microscope, right click on it. Choose ‘Update Driver’ > ‘Browse My Computer For Driver Software’ > ‘Let Me Pick From A List Of Device Drivers On My Computer’, then look for ‘USB Video Device’, then click next to complete the install.
NOTE: After completing these steps, Windows will still name the microscope as ‘Rift DK2 Sensor’. To confirm these steps worked, look for an entry for Rift DK2 Sensor under Imaging Devices (if the steps did not work it will be listed under Oculus VR Devices still). The user will need to select ‘Rift DK2 Sensor’ to use the microscope in Plugable Digital Viewer or other applications.
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Where to Buy
MSRP $49.99
Plugable 250x Digital USB Microscope with Observation Stand![Usb Usb](https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1.35xOVXXXXbiaXXXq6xXFXXXx/5MP-font-b-USB-b-font-Cmos-Camera-Electronic-Digital-Eyepiece-font-b-Microscope-b-font.jpg)
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Video Tutorials and Product Intros
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Recent Comments
Kevin on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkBob Boerner on Thunderbolt 3 dock not working in Windows 10 after the April 2018 update? We can help!Daniel Furrer on Thunderbolt 3 dock not working in Windows 10 after the April 2018 update? We can help!Elena Moreno on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkBob Boerner on Thunderbolt application not in use anymore error on Windows? Check your driver types and versionsTyler on Thunderbolt application not in use anymore error on Windows? Check your driver types and versionsKevin on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkCBO Connecting Technology on Selecting the Right USB-Ethernet Adapter for your Computer and NetworkMarc M. on Troubleshooting the USB3-HUB-81×7 USB 3.0 7 port HubRoberto Argueta on Troubleshooting the USB3-HUB-81×7 USB 3.0 7 port HubSince our microscopes use a standard webcam chipset, they will automatically install default webcam (UVC) drivers when plugged in to a host device. They can be used with any webcam app, including the ones built-in to most operating systems.
Some features of our microscopes aren’t available in some webcam applications. We designed our software package, Plugable Digital Viewer, specifically for use with our microscopes. This enables features such as resolution switching, video processing amplifier control, and the capture button to be utilized.
Setup Instructions
Windows
macOS
Chrome OS
Linux
Android
iOS (Not supported)
Windows
Plugable Digital Viewer is a custom Windows (XP SP3 and later) software package designed specifically to work with the microscope. The download for this can be found below:
Download: https://s3.amazonaws.com/plugable/bin/Digital_Viewer_3.1.07.exe
Mac
Plugable Digital Viewer is available for Mac OS X / macOS (10.5 and later). The download for this can be found below:
Download: https://s3.amazonaws.com/plugable/bin/Digital_Viewer_3.1.08.dmg
Chrome OS
Our microscopes can be used with the default Camera app that comes with Chrome. In the Camera app, you may need to select the ‘Switch Camera’ button next to the red ‘Capture’ button. Some Chrome machines with built-in cameras may need to have the device pointer changed. This can be done by going to Settings > Advanced Settings > Privacy > Content Settings > Camera, and change the device in the dropdown to “USB Microscope”
Linux
Krishna flute song. We have tested our microscope with many Linux distros utilizing either the Cheese app or GTK+ UVC Viewer. These can either be installed by searching by app name through the app store in your Linux distro (if available), or by using the following terminal commands:
“sudo apt-get install guvcview” OR “sudo apt-get install cheese”
Android
Using the microscope on an Android device requires an OTG cable. We recommend the app CameraFi, available at: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vaultmicro.camerafi&hl=en
Please note that Android support is on a case-by-case basis. Device manufacturers must have support for USB Video Class devices built in or this will not work.
iOS
iOS is not supported. iOS hosts specifically do not work with standard external USB Video Class devices.
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