Head lamp magnifier for eyeglasses wearer

[Mudfoot]

I see literally tons of pleasantly priced magnifiers. After my cataract surgery, my up close vision is horrible. Anyone in my shoes have something like this? I sure would like to see what your using that allows me to use both hands and will accomadate my spectacles.

 

[sunbulls]

I use prescription glasses from the VA for reading. Both eyes are not exactly the same, but for reading they come very close to the cheap 3.5 strength glasses found in stores. I often use those as a substitute. That strength doubles every time I wear one pair over the top of the other. This is what I do while soldering or doing other close-up work. In the extreme, I also have a pair of 8.0 glasses for reading the numbers off of small diodes etc. The only downside for using super high power glasses is that your head needs to be kept very close and steady to maintain focus. Magnifying lamps avoid that problem, but it’s not always convenient to place bulky objects under them.

 

[Mudfoot]

I used to be able to take my glasses off and see up close pretty good. After I had cataract surgery, they put lenses in my eye for distant vision. When I take my glasses off, I can't see nothing less than 4 feet. Doctor didn't explain it very well. I should have had lenses that gave me closeup vision, then glasses for distance. I wish I would have spent the $3000 and had the bifocal type in plants. Chances are I wouldn't have needed glasses at all. I have a large handheld magnifying glass. I'm probably gonna have to rig it up somehow to get my drone repaired.

Most of the magnifying things I'm seeing on Amazon are iffy.

 

[unit_399]

Mudfoot -
I have been using the OPTIVISOR by Donegal Optical. Sturdy, comfortable and comes in several focal lengths. Ground prismatic glass lenses mounted in a plastic frame. I don't remember what I paid for mine, but it wasn't real pricey. Works with or without glasses

Check out their full line here:

OptiVISOR - Donegan Optical Company, Inc.

OptiVISOR is a precision binocular headband magnifier which permits unrestricted user efficiency while reducing eye strain—leaves both hands free and allows three dimensional vision. Used by anyone whose profession or craft requires close accurate work. Can be worn over prescription or safety...

doneganoptical.com

J.J. 399

 

[Mudfoot]

These seem to be the best you can buy, at least on Amazon. I wish they included multiple sets of lenses. They are $$$, but appear well built. I read a review that mentioned they sold different lenses. Just need to figure out which focal length I need, then order. I see other models that include multiple lenses, but they just seem cheap.

I managed to get my project done today. It was rough without magnification, but got it done.

Thanks for the link.

 

[unit_399]

I bought the #5 lens. Kinda middle of the road. I think you can get just the lens if you order from Donegal. Really like the OPTIVISOR

 

[2RT307]

Man, I can totally relate, since I had cataract surgery in December. I went from being able to read things up close, and wearing glasses for distance, to the exact opposite. I found some glasses on Amazon that are line-less and go from .5/1.5/2.5 magnification (top to bottom), and they also have the blue blocker lenses. Two pair for about 19 bucks. Still need a magnifying glass for super small print, and my wife bought me one that has a light built in. It works pretty well. Otherwise I end up taking a picture and blowing it up on my phone. Getting old ain't for sissies!

The link that 399 posted looks great for close up work... I may end up buying a pair myself.

73,
Brett

 

[Mudfoot]

I think my doctor should have explained the different lense implant options. I mean, I can drive without my glasses. Never could do that before. If I could redo things, I'd definitely choose the implant for close-up vision.

For those reading this and are gonna have cataract surgery, make sure you choose wisely. I totally regret the decision I made.

 

[2RT307]

I think my doctor should have explained the different lense implant options. I mean, I can drive without my glasses. Never could do that before. If I could redo things, I'd definitely choose the implant for close-up vision.

For those reading this and are gonna have cataract surgery, make sure you choose wisely. I totally regret the decision I made.

I 100% agree with you. They made it sound like it would be great to not have to wear glasses, but you still have to wear glasses, just the opposite from what you are used to.

 

[Eldorado828]

I bought this kit a while back and have been very pleased. Several strengths of lenses and it has a built in light that them even better. I use them pretty regularly because up close I can't see squat. These make working on smd components very easy, I just have to remember not to drink coffee a few hours or the problem is instead shaky hands.

 

[19wrc333]

While the head lamp isn't a bad idea and I probably should look for one myself one day. Personally I prefer a little microscope.
I have this one. It's detachable, can change height too.
It's no problem putting a PCB under it and solder while it is underneath the microscope. Got it from my elmer as he got himself one with a larger screen.

 

[unit_399]

I had cataract surgery 6 years ago. Our Colombian health insurance paid 100%. I opted for the best lenses ($100 USD out of pocket.) She said they would give me the best range of vision. Now I see from one foot close to maximum distance. Changed my life.

- J.J. 399

 

[unit_399]

While the head lamp isn't a bad idea and I probably should look for one myself one day. Personally I prefer a little microscope.
I have this one. It's detachable, can change height too.
It's no problem putting a PCB under it and solder while it is underneath the microscope. Got it from my elmer as he got himself one with a larger screen.

I wish you had included a brand name or a link to your 'scope. Looks great.

- J.J. 399

 

[19wrc333]

I wish you had included a brand name or a link to your 'scope. Looks great.

- J.J. 399

It's a fantastic little kit and I've used it many times. As mentioned I got it from a radio amateur down here when he bought a bigger one, so I have no link.
There's also no brand on it, it only says "Microscope"
Nothing in the menu either.

Pretty sure he got it from AliExpress, so the original link probably doesn't even exist anymore. A quick search gives me links like these:

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805493559206.html

--
Skyline

 

[19wrc333]

I wish you had included a brand name or a link to your 'scope. Looks great.

- J.J. 399

Figured to ask my elmer what he replaced it with as he's pretty happy with the new one.

This is what he's using now:

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805425325164.html