On 3 Nov 2020 21:42:16 GMT, Bob Eager wrote:

snip

For *really* micro / desktop type work (sm component / track repairs) I
have a USB microscope but that's really too inflexible for most everyday
stuff (and makes my fine tipped soldering iron look like the end of a
scaffold pole). ;-(

What do you use?

I use reading glasses quite a bit.

Then one of those headbands with fold down lenses of varying
magnifications - in front of the glasses.

That was the sort of thing I was thinking might have been the most
common reply Bob but I guess it's how to how good other peoples eye
are and what they are doing.

For close up stuff, a jeweller's loupe (I have two different
magnifications). I take the glasses off when using them. There is no loss
of binocular vision since the other eye is missing and I'm used to it. I
also wear a monocle quite a bit so it's no strain to use the loupe for
longer periods.

The loupe works for me for inspection but not for actually doing the
job where I need two hands.

I also have a USB microscope but use it rarely.

A mate has a really good (and expensive) binocular microscope but then
he repairs mobile phones for a living. ;-)

Is the headband elastic on yours or do you have to fit it etc?

Cheers, T i m