In this article, we aim to shed light on the uses of borescopes, how to identify which borescope best suits your purposes, and what the best devices on the market are right now.
What Is a Borescope?
A borescope is an optical device consisting of a rigid or flexible tube with an eyepiece or digital display (built-in LCD or computer/device) on one end and an objective lens or camera on the other, linked together by an optical or electrical system. This tool is also known as an inspection camera or a videoscope.
A Brief History of Borescopes
While eyesight is crucial in diagnosing and repairing vehicles, it often isn't powerful enough to see the full picture in every circumstance. To address this, scientists and machinists developed technologies like the borescope. The first borescopes, called endoscopes, were employed in medicine. Doctors needed precise instruments with narrow tubes and enhanced vision to examine the inside of organs for surgical procedures. Aviation mechanics soon recognized their use and began incorporating them into routine maintenance and diagnostics. Modern borescopes feature articulation, small probe sizes, and image/video capture, making inspections faster and more efficient. These devices are now essential in aviation and automotive inspection.
Uses of Borescopes
Borescopes allow us to see into places that are normally impossible to view with the naked eye or would require dismantling to inspect. They are used in various industries and applications, from diagnosing home problems to industrial, automotive, aviation, home inspection, plumbing, HVAC, and more.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Borescope
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Application: Your specific use will determine the features needed.
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Probe Diameter: Smaller diameters can access tighter spaces but may be less bright and more expensive.
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Probe Length: Important for specific uses. Standard lengths are around 1 meter, but they can range up to 30 meters or more.
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Articulation: Necessary for certain jobs, allowing the camera head to bend and turn.
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Dual Camera: Features both front-facing and side cameras.
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Camera Resolution: Larger diameters generally offer brighter and higher resolution images.
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Focus Range: Some are calibrated for close-up views, while others for a greater depth of field.
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Screen Display: Options include USB, LCD screen, and wireless through Wi-Fi.
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Visual: Many probes can take digital photos and videos, often with removable media cards for easy file transfer.
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Ingress Protection: Waterproof or water-resistant probes are needed for certain applications.
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Cost: Prices range from $30 to tens of thousands of dollars. Balance quality with budget.
Types of Borescopes
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USB Digital Borescope: Equipped with USB and Wi-Fi connectivity for using phones or computer screens as monitors.
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LCD Screen Borescope: Comes with a built-in LCD screen for viewing without a separate device.
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Articulating Borescope: Can make full turns for use in difficult-to-access areas.
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Dual Camera Borescope: Features two camera lenses for switching between views.
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Wireless Borescope: Equipped with a wireless transmitter to send live video to a receiver and display device.
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Joystick Borescope: An articulating borescope controlled by a joystick for 360-degree articulation.