Digital Microscope is a program that consists of utilities and drivers for working with the CoolingTech microscope, which is connected via the 500X USB interface. The installation package includes auxiliary components that ensure the operation of this device.
This software installs drivers and tools that activate the digital microscope. Digital Microscope is distributed officially. Having downloaded the archive with this program, you will not find .NET Framework libraries for owners of old OS Windows assemblies. The program includes detailed help, but the drivers are created without the Russian language.
About the device
Digital Microscope is not professional equipment, but this microscope has many functions. It is equipped with a high level CMOS sensor that operates at focal lengths from 0 to 40mm.In addition, the device is equipped with LED-backlighting, the level of "light" of which you adjust yourself. The device has such advantages as a fivefold increase in digital scale and the function of "capturing" a picture in a resolution of up to 640x480.
The microscope is powered from the USB port. The creators of the program and hardware announced support for the USB interface version 1.1 and 2.0. If your computer has version 3.0, then you may encounter problems. By installing the appropriate driver, you will connect the microscope to the computer, which will be automatically detected.
Installing drivers
After unpacking the downloaded archive, run the autorun.exe file. In the practical menu, you can select the required driver, the program itself and auxiliary utilities. Please keep in mind that this program works with problems on newer Windows OS. Run the installer using compatibility mode or under "Administrator".Key features
- installs the necessary software for the U500X microscope;
- a convenient startup menu in the drivers;
- the software consists of help and auxiliary tools;
- drivers are available for free;
- on newer OS Windows the program works with problems;
- the graphical interface of the program is designed in a simple design and does not contain complex functions;
- drivers work via USB 1.1 and 2.0 versions, and on 3.0 the microscope works only after installing a special driver in the operating system.
I am glad to welcome again my few rare regular readers.
Today I will describe one of my purchases, which I discovered twice.
It will be about, ordered from my "favorite" store.
I'll make a reservation right away that this brainchild of the Chinese hi-tech industry was bought mainly for soldering and looking at microfeed PCBs, for all kinds of homemade products and ... in general, for pampering.
Sending a hat is long enough: 16 days DealExtreme prepared the order and 34 days still hung out in the mail. But in the end, after the May holidays, I received my toy.
A more detailed description, photos and videos taken by a microscope further ...
Unpacking ...
Rubbing my hands nervously, I began to document everything in order to quickly start testing the device. Still, as I was in no hurry, I was not too lazy to take a few photos ... |
| Opening the package ... |
We get the miracle out of the box and prepare it for combat duty ...
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| Once the picture .... |
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| Two picture ... |
Installing Drivers and Software ...
For those who received a damaged disc or cannot be read, I decided to upload the archive from my disc. You can download it or
I want to say right away that with the drivers I got a complete jamb and at the same time everything worked O "k. Let me explain what I mean. The firewood that was on the disk from the box stubbornly does not want to be put - they find a device. But, fortunately, the omnipotent WindaHR, looking in its wilds, found quite workable drivers, since the camera is a standard video capture device ... Here are its parameters:
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| Parameters from the USBDeview window |
For those who are especially curious (and for robots), I will give the VendorID & ProductID parameters: Vid_0ac8 & Pid_3610
But the program did not work out very well. Everything was installed easily and with half a kick. In general, the functionality of the program can be called zero, if not for one BUT: it can measure dimensions taking into account the scale (which you have to set yourself first). In principle, to obtain photos and videos from a microscope, it is quite possible to use any program that can receive video from video capture devices (VideoDUB, VLC, or even Skype), but the feature of the built-in program I mentioned is sometimes very useful.
At the same time, I discovered one very unpleasant bug of the program: it does not have the ability to select a video source and it hooks, it seems, is the first video capture device that comes across. In my case, the program showed me a video from my webcam, until I turned off this webcam programmatically (turning it off in hardware is sooooo inconvenient - it is connected behind the system unit, where it is very difficult to crawl). This point should be taken into account and not panic when the program will show all sorts of crap - check if you have another video capture device connected.
If someone succeeds in installing the firewood coming from the disk, please, write down in the comments how you managed it. Here are some pictures taken with a microscope in the native program.
We photograph a metal gost ruler with different magnifications (I will write about this a little later):
The program provides several interface languages, including Russian, but I strongly do not recommend using it, because with the localization, the Chinese again messed up: instead of Russian letters, "krakozyabry" are displayed. Those interested can try to fix the localization file - this will probably help. Will definitely help ...
Adding ... After a little digging, I decided to "localize" the program in a normal way, more precisely - Russify software for Digimicro... For those who are interested, I present here the contents of the Russian.ini file, which is located in the Language folder in the directory with the program.
Unfortunately, I could not find an opportunity to attach a file, insert a spoiler or highlight in any other way (except for color). It is necessary to select everything that is purple and insert it into the Russian.ini file, completely replacing its contents (if the file does not exist, create it). Then choose in Options-> Language-> Russian, and enjoy the Great and mighty !!! Don't kick it for mistakes. At least in Russian software for Digimicro is more understandable than non-Chinese.
1 = No device detected, please connect your Microscope directly to the USB port of your computer (do not use hubs)
2 = File
3 = Exit
4 = Preview size
5 = Date / Time
6 = On
7 = Off
8 = Language
9 = Properties
10 = English
11 = Germany
12 = Spanish
13 = Korean
14 = Skin
15 = Settings
16 = Capture picture
17 = Photo
18 = Video
19 = Help
20 = About us (more precisely - about them)
21 = Take photo
22 = Record video
23 = Save
24 = Save As ...
25 = Copy
26 = Delete
27 = Copy image to clipboard
28 = Enlarge image
29 = Reduce image
30 = Fit to window (adjust to size)
31 = Natural size
32 = Full screen mode
33 = Version
34 = Open
35 = Rotate
36 = Clockwise 90 degrees
37 = Counterclockwise 90 degrees
38 = Pen style
39 = Pen Thickness
40 = Feather color
41 = Font
42 = Freehand Drawing (Pen)
43 = Line
44 = Rectangle
45 = Text
46 = Roulette
47 = Multi-Roulette
48 = Radius of circle
49 = Circle diameter
50 = Angle
51 = Units
52 = Please enter the magnification
53 = Return
Description of controls
There are only three controls on the microscope: a sliding backlight switch for 3 positions (disabled - minimum backlight brightness - maximum backlight brightness), a red button: judging by the description, it should take screenshots, but since The native drivers could not be installed, it does not seem to work and the focus / zoom wheel does not work.
The last governing body deserves special mention. I do not remember well the school optics course, so I will try to explain it on my fingers. Apparently, this wheel moves the lens (or lenses) closer / further from the CMOS matrix, thus both focusing and magnification are performed (the farther from the matrix the lens is, the higher the magnification).
In the first days of using the microscope, I was disappointed for the second time when the magnification I received was only 50 times - for some reason I could not achieve another magnification: the whole image was blurred. As it turned out later, focus should be adjusted more carefully. So, I'll tell you more. This optical system has two focusing points: at short focus and at long focus (when the lens is close to the sensor and vice versa - when it is far away). One of the focuses provides a magnification of about 50, the second - about 200. To set up a clear image, you need to turn the wheel very slowly to achieve a clear image when the wheel is in one of two almost extreme positions. It is quite easy to adjust focus at 50 magnification, but it is quite difficult to catch a clear image at 200 magnification: the so-called depth of field affects, i.e. Depth of Sharply Imaged Space. Those who are fond of photography will certainly be able to correct or supplement me. Because of this DOF (which is very small, that is, a little closer or a little further from the focusing plane - and everything will be blurry), the object you are going to examine must be "securely fixed", i.e. the distance from the lens to the subject must remain constant. The easiest way to do this is to rest the lens hood against an object (or a glass slide), as I did. It was in this mode that magnifications of 50 and 200 times were obtained. In the case of moving away / approaching the object to the lens / matrix, the magnification will change, I think. which you can get 400 if you remove the transparent hood, but I'm not sure.
Here is such a lengthy description of the focusing process, tk. I didn’t understand right away, and I’ve read user questions on the Internet more than once: " How to use the damn ( [email protected]") thing?!?"
Impression from the CMOS-matrix ...
I would like to note right away that the real resolution of the matrix seems to be 640x480, i.e. our favorite (more precisely, beloved by the Chinese) 0.3 megapixels, and not 2 MP, as stated on the box. I made such a strict conclusion from the contemplation of the photos in which the squares are visible, as well as from the fact that in third-party programs the maximum available video resolution is 640x480. The native program seems to interpolate up to 1600 * 1200 (just the declared 2 MP), while shyly mentioning that this is just a PreviewSize.
The rest of the matrix works quite tolerably, it gives out its 30 frames per second (under normal lighting provided by the built-in LEDs). White balance is automatically adjusted, but you can also adjust it manually (as well as some other parameters that are standard for all video capture devices such as webcams, etc.)
As I already mentioned, the microscope has a built-in LED illumination, which is made on eight white 3mm LEDs.
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| Lens and LED light (taken with another camera) |
The light from them is rather slightly bluish, it feels like somewhere in the 5000-6000 K color temperature. Nevertheless, the software of the camera (or the processor) adjusts quite tolerably to this glow and the white balance suits me quite well.
The brightness of the LEDs is discretely adjustable: off - minimum brightness - maximum brightness using a sliding three-position switch on the left side of the microscope.
The microscope lens is protected from dust by a transparent cap, which can be easily removed when using the microscope. Do not forget to put it back on, as dust will be very detrimental to photos and videos. The cap itself can be used as a glass slide.
Sample photos and videos ...
And here are a couple of videos (recently I noticed that in some browsers the embedded video is not displayed, so I added a direct link to YouTube):
I noticed one characteristic feature in the video: when there is movement in the frame, horizontal "like stripes" appear on the video. I don’t know how to explain exactly, when viewing it you can clearly see it, as if the frames are torn. This effect is not present in frame-by-frame playback. I tried to apply various filters (anti-aliasing) in virtual oak - it does not help.
There are similar stripes on video from car DVRs and I saw them somewhere else, I don't remember. As I understand it, this is some kind of feature of all cameras of this type. A big request, if anyone knows how to get rid of these bands, write in the comments ...
Summarizing...
Summing up all of the above, we can say with confidence that the toy is worth its money. For $ 29.90, you can get a fully functional device that can be used as a toy (both my daughter and my wife ran to the computer for a long time to look at a midge, an insect, a leaf from a flower, or a mole or sore on the skin - in general, they are a toy I liked it too), and as a quite a tool for such applications as soldering small parts, analyzing the condition of the skin, analyzing banknotes for their authenticity, and in any application where there is a need to increase something with a multiplicity close to 200. By the way, I got this pleasure in general for $ 24.90, taking into account the $ 5 discount I received on the calendar from DealExtreme.com.
P.S. A big request, if you liked the review, put Like or leave a positive review. Feedback, including criticism, is highly welcome. I would be glad to any constructive criticism.
And one more small addition !!!
By the way, I found something interesting.
You can add, or rather replace, the standard lighting with such a ring. The brightness will be several times higher and more uniform. I haven't tried it myself, but I saw it on the Internet, similar things are put on cameras (only there is a larger inner diameter) for macro photography. Happy experiments.
There is a wide variety of image capturing equipment available in stores today. Among such devices, USB microscopes occupy a special place. They are connected to a computer, and with the help of special software, video and picture are monitored and saved. In this article, we will take a closer look at several of the most popular representatives of such software, talk about their advantages and disadvantages.
First on the list is a program whose functionality is focused solely on capturing and saving images. The Digital Viewer does not have any built-in tools for editing, drawing or calculating found objects. This software is suitable only for viewing the picture in real time, saving images and recording video. Even a beginner can handle the controls, since everything is carried out on an intuitive level and does not require special skills or additional knowledge.
A feature of the Digital Viewer is the correct work not only with the equipment of developers, but also with many other similar devices. All you need to do is install the correct driver and get started. By the way, the driver setting in the program in question is also available. All parameters are divided into several tabs. You can move the sliders to set the appropriate configuration.
AMCap
AMCap is a multifunctional program and is not only intended for USB microscopes. This software works correctly with almost all models of various capture devices, including digital cameras. All actions and settings are carried out through the tabs in the main menu. Here you can change the active source, configure the driver, interface and use additional functions.
As in all representatives of such software, AMCap has a built-in tool for recording video in real time. Broadcast and recording parameters are edited in a separate window, where you can adjust the device and computer you are using. AMCap is distributed for a fee, but a trial version is available for download on the developer's official website.
DinoCapture
DinoCapture works with many devices, but the developer promises correct interaction exclusively with his equipment. The advantage of the program in question is that, although it was developed for certain USB microscopes, any user can download it for free from the official website. Of the features, it is worth noting the presence of tools for editing, drawing and calculating on processed tools.
In addition, the developer paid the most attention to working with directories. In DinoCapture, you can create new folders, import them, work in the file manager and view the properties of each folder. The properties display basic information on the number of files, their types and sizes. There are also hot keys that make it easier and faster to work in the program.
MiniSee
SkopeTek develops its own imaging equipment and provides a copy of its MiniSee software only with the purchase of one of the available devices. The software in question does not have any additional editing or drawing tools. MiniSee has only built-in settings and functions with which you can adjust, capture and save images and videos.
MiniSee provides users with a fairly convenient workspace, where there is a small browser and a preview mode of open images or recordings. In addition, there is a setting for the source, its drivers, recording quality, saving formats and much more. Among the shortcomings, it should be noted the lack of the Russian language and tools for editing capture objects.
AmScope
Next on our list is AmScope. This program is designed exclusively for use with a USB microscope connected to a computer. Of the features of the software, I would like to note the fully customizable interface elements. Almost any window can be resized and moved to the desired area. AmScope has a basic set of tools for editing, drawing and measuring capture objects, which will be useful to many users.
The built-in video marker function will help you correct the capture, and the text overlay will always display the necessary information on the screen. If you need to change the quality of the picture or give it a new look, use one of the built-in effects or filters. Experienced users will benefit from the plugin feature and range scan.
ToupView
The last representative will be ToupView. When you start this program, you immediately catch the eye with many settings for the camera, shooting, zoom, color, frame rate and anti-flash. Such an abundance of different configurations will help you optimize ToupView and work comfortably in this software.
There are also built-in editing, drawing and calculation elements. All of them are displayed in a separate panel in the main program window. ToupView supports layering, video overlay and measurement sheet display. The disadvantages of the software in question is the long absence of updates and distribution only on disks when purchasing special equipment.
Above, we examined several of the most popular and convenient programs for working with a USB microscope connected to a computer. Most of them are focused exclusively on working with specific equipment, but nothing prompts you to install the required drivers and connect the available capture source.
Digital complexes are becoming more and more popular among laboratory microscopic equipment. After obtaining an image of the object under study with a microscope by means of an input system (photo or video camera), this image is digitized, and then it is analyzed and processed in the program.
In order for the results of working with a digital complex to be of high quality, the microscope must be distinguished by professionally made optics, and the image capturing device must have a high resolution. But it is the software that is decisive for the image analysis process. Ideally, it should control the camera, process the image and save it and the measurement results.
Difficulties in finding such software are found already when the first condition is met, since not even all manufacturers provide their cameras with accompanying programs for control from a computer, and it is no less difficult to find software that supports the desired capture device from third-party manufacturers.
Altami Studio- an application that supports capture device standards such as Microsoft DirectShow, UVC, unicap, Qt Capture... As a cross-platform software, it can work with cameras (for example, camera models Canon PowerShot and Canon EOS) in various operating systems (Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista, Windows 7 (x86 and x64 architectures); Alt Linux, Open Suse 11.3, Ubuntu 10.04 LTS and later; Mac OS X 10.6 Leopard).
This application allows you not only to capture frames from the camera, but also to manage its settings. For example, exposure and capture settings, white balance and image parameters such as brightness, contrast, gamma, saturation, etc. In this case, the settings are saved along with the created documents, which is very convenient and makes it unnecessary to constantly carry out the same actions on camera setup.
Besides controlling the image input system, Altami Studio allows processing the obtained image and, which is especially important for microscopists, calibration and subsequent measurements. For processing photographs in the program, many filters have been developed: for the implementation of geometric, morphological, threshold and other transformations. You can perform various operations with color: converting to gray, gamma, negative, adjusting brightness and contrast. In addition, filters have been created to eliminate defects that arise taking into account the specifics of working with capture devices: leveling illumination, operations for smoothing noise and removing dust, etc.
Altami Studio most often it is used in conjunction with microscopic equipment: the Altami developers have implemented in the program the ability to carry out measurements and statistically process their results both on a static image and in real time. In order for the measurement results to be determined in real values, and not in pixels, a calibration is carried out in the program before starting measurements. After that, measurements are made either manually (using shapes such as a line segment, ellipse, polygon, etc.), or automatically (when using automatically configured filters to search for objects). In the application, statistical processing of the results is possible, as well as the generation of reports on the work done, in which not only the measurement data are given, but also the camera settings and much more.
Program Altami Studio made in both Russian and English versions, has an intuitive interface, so it is easy and convenient to work in it.
CONTACT INFORMATION
THANKSGIVING LETTERS
Forensic Center "Sever"
CJSC "GROUP SILICON EL"
CJSC "Cardix"
Research Institute of Chemical Reagents and Highly Pure Chemical Substances (FSUE "IREA")
Metal-expertise company
OOO "LabExpert"
Agrofirm "Oldeevskaya"
To work with telescopes and telescopes, ToupCam has developed an application called TopView. ToupCam software is unique in its kind and provides comfortable work with the entire product line of the manufacturer. Depending on the selected camera model, the program provides various functions and modes of working with images. ToupView software is compatible with all popular operating systems.
The software includes
ToupView is one of the most famous programs for controlling cameras and video eyepieces from TOUPTEK PHOTONICS. Provides functions for complete control, the video stream processed by the Ultra Fine TM color engine at high speed, also includes a data channel that converts the raw data into a finished image. In addition, for various purposes, a variety of useful tools are included that perform a wide variety of functions such as:
- PC connection
- camera setup,
- brightness calibration,
- take various measurements and save them,
- stitching images,
- extension depth of field,
- the attachment video watermark,
- c vet composition,
- image processing etc.
- saving images in various formats
An example of using the Russified ToupView software
To support language selection, a multilingual mechanism has been implemented, which includes many languages (English, Chinese, Russian, Turkish, Korea, Polish, and so on) and is not limited to them. ToupCam products significantly increase the capabilities of monocular, binocular and trinocular microscopes. Now ToupView is widely used in medicine, industry, mechanical engineering, astronomy, etc.
ToupView is fully compatible with the entire ToupCam series of digital microscope cameras. With a license, the ToupView software can be used with other cameras that support Twain or DirectShow interfaces. ToupView software is one of the best in the industry and the US Department of Education strongly recommends ToupView products.
OS
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Microsoft Windows:
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- Linux 2.6 or higher
Supported languages
Standard language pack:
- 1. Simplified Chinese, 2. Traditional Chinese 3. English
Additional language pack:
- 4. German, 5. Japanese, 6. Russian, 7. French, 8. Italian, 9.Polish, 10. Turkish
