A digital microscope is a unit that makes use of optics and a digital camera to process an image and transmit it to a monitor which can be a computer or an iPhone or iPad that runs specific compatible software. The best digital microscope has a range of in-built user-friendly features. For example, it has LED lights which when switched on enhances clarity and brightness of the specimen being viewed.

The primary difference between a digital microscope and a conventional one is the absence of an eyepiece. In a digital microscope unlike its traditional counterpart, there is no provision to view the sample directly through an eyepiece. The image is focused on a digital circuit and has to be viewed through an external monitor to which the microscope is attached. The entire system is thus adjusted with a monitor image and the optics for the human eye to directly view the specimen is totally eliminated.

The best digital microscope is generally on the lines of a webcam that has been fitted with a macro lens for high magnification. Inexpensive commercial microscopes do not have the optics for illumination and are made to be used exclusively with a computer or smart phone. However, there are advanced digital microscopes that functions independent of a computer but these are very expensive and cost upwards of tens of thousands of dollars.

The first digital microscope was made in 1986 by Hirox Co Ltd, a lens company in Tokyo, Japan. It consisted of a control box and a lens that was connected to a computer. In the early stages, connection to the computer was through S-video, an analog system but later technological advancements were incorporated that enabled handling of large volumes of digital information from a digital camera. The best units have come a long way since then and today have in-built HD monitors.

The technology behind digital microscopes took a quantum leap after the invention of the USB port. Digital USB microscopes were invented with exceptional image quality and magnification that were much cheaper when compared to the traditional microscopes. Today, these digital microscopes have high resolution image output that can be recorded directly onto computers or iPhone. Through the USB port, the power of the computer is harnessed by the digital microscope to run its LED lights. The image quality of the microscope is sharp and clear with resolutions from 1.3MP to 2MP and often 5MP and upwards for the high range models.

The best digital microscope with high resolution images has a wide range of applications. These include science and education, research and forensics and law enforcement. With low priced digital microscopes flooding the market, it is a great tool for children with curiosity about nature and its many aspects. It’s easy portability and lightweight makes it easy to be carried on field trips.