Lamp Magnifier - What's Best?

[McJack]

Relatively new to all this soldering business, but loving every minute of the learning curve

I've seen a few threads with guys talking about magnifying lamps help the process and make it easier to see what's going on with greater detail.

Does anyone here have a particular favorite lamp that they would recommend?
Thanks!

 

[Jotto]

One that you like, that you can see clearly through. Some have weighted bases, some you can drill a hole in your bench to mount it.

I use one from OC White Company.

 

[shrtrnd]

Luxo makes good quality ones.
If you want it to last, avoid the Chinese-made ones.
We went low-bid at work, the stands don't hold up, the cheap metal arms give out, the
thumb-screw locks don't hold the arms where you want them, and the bulbs are held
in place by sponge rubber that deteriorates as a dust onto your work.
The good ones cost three-times as much, but they last forever.
The choice is yours. Something that'll last a couple years, or one that you probably
won't have to replace later.

 

[McJack]

Hi Guys,
thanks for the responses! I agree that steering clear of anything chinese is a good idea.
I did a bit of Googling and found that this site was helpful

Magnifying Lamp Reviews

I like the look of the gooseneck models - lots of flexibility. And LEDs look really cool too, so I think I know where I am heading!

Thanks for your kind help with this
McJack

 

[CocaCola]

This is not a 'desk' magnifier but it's one of the most used tools on my bench for inspection, it's always in my hand when looking over solder joints and small components...

Radio Shack used to carry it in stores, rebranded as a Rat Shack item but it appears they have removed it from their stores now...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0046HI42E/...E&linkCode=asn

 

[Jack Francis]

Hi Guys,
thanks for the responses! I agree that steering clear of anything chinese is a good idea.
I did a bit of Googling and found that this site was helpful

Magnifying Lamp Reviews

I like the look of the gooseneck models - lots of flexibility. And LEDs look really cool too, so I think I know where I am heading!

Thanks for your kind help with this
McJack

Hey there!
I am in a similar boat. Quite new to the whole process.
Thanks for the link to that site.

LEDs are pretty cool
Jack