Small Diameter Borescopes
A small diameter borescope is required for unique applications in industrial machinery, automotive, aviation, and other fields. A small insertion tube and camera can save hours of labor and money with just a quick look using a wire probe insertion tube with a small camera head on the end, equipped with either an optical viewfinder or digital screen. This eliminates the need for disassembly of your equipment or engine to determine an issue.
A small diameter scope is specified as one that has a probe with a diameter of 2mm or less. Using the imperial measurement system, which is used in the United States and other countries that do not commonly use the metric system, this would be approximately 0.08 inches.
Regardless of your application, we have an inspection camera that will fit almost any job requiring this type of device. Some applications are unique and require articulation, side-viewing cameras, or perhaps a forward, straight-viewing camera. If none of our current offerings are suitable for your needs, you can contact us for a customized camera, and we will explore the possibilities available.
Despite the small size of these cameras, the quality of the display and images is professional-grade for your applications. The image resolution for this type of camera is usually in the 640x480 or 400x400 range, with some even featuring higher camera resolutions.
With a smaller camera probe, it is important to ensure proper care during inspection and storage. While durable, these probes are small and vulnerable to damage, so they must be treated as sensitive instruments. Ensure proper care and storage of the borescope for yourself and your technicians to prolong its lifespan.
There are several types of small diameter scopes. Some are purely optical, using an eyepiece viewfinder with a fiber optic cable backlit by a light or a digital adapter to view through an LCD screen. Others are purely digital, with the camera and lighting fixed on the end of the borescope and viewed through an LCD screen.
The different types of rigidity for the probes we offer include flexible scopes, articulating scopes, side-viewing scopes, and fully rigid scopes.
Please contact us for assistance in finding the right small diameter borescope for your application.
Why or when do I need a small diameter borescope?
Small diameter scopes are best used for very specific applications that feature small bores/openings and enclosures. For general applications that do not require a smaller probe or camera, other options may be more applicable and cost-effective.
When is a flexible borescope required?
A flexible scope is required when the inside of the bore is in a tight space, such as a tube or pipe, and needs the flexibility to turn corners. Consider how tight the corners and turns are to ensure a particular borescope will work with your application. Additionally, consider the length of the camera housing and whether it is small enough to fit into the bends of your required application.
What is an articulating/articulation camera, and when would this be needed?
When considering buying a borescope, consider the application concerning the size of the bore/opening, the length required for the probe, the diameter size of the enclosure, and if there are any bends inside the enclosure. Would it require a more rigid rod, or a flexible one? Is articulation (camera head bending back) a feature that would be necessary or useful?
When is a rigid borescope required?
A rigid borescope is required when flexibility, such as bending around objects or corners, is not needed. Rigid scopes can be beneficial when looking into a small bore where there is an open space and a straight-ahead view of the object being inspected. A non-rigid borescope may not be able to hold its position firmly when looking into a wide space.
Since the camera is so small, can I get a clear, quality image on the display screen?
An articulation camera is one with the feature of bending back at different angles, offering the advantage of viewing angles that might be impossible or problematic with a standard straight-facing camera. Articulating cameras are operated using a swivel pulley system, joystick control, or other methods. Some articulating cameras bend back in one direction, some in two, and some have full articulation, bending back in every direction. Consider if your application requires this feature.
Can photos and videos be taken with the cameras?
Most cameras that use digital display screens have the function to take photos and videos. Optical (finder-viewing eyepiece) borescopes may not have this ability but may have adapters that allow this feature. Yes, the technology for smaller cameras has advanced significantly in recent years, offering clear and crisp resolution images usually ranging from 640x480, 400x400, with some cameras featuring even higher resolutions.
Does the borescope have a lighting feature in addition to the camera?
Yes. All borescopes, whether digital or optical, have a light on the end to provide clarity in dark spaces. The lighting is either placed at the end of the borescope and controlled by electrical wiring from the handle control box, or a fiber optic cable is used and backlit from a light in the control box/handle. Often, fiber optic cables are used with very small diameter borescopes. The lighting intensity on the borescopes is adjustable in most models.
Are the borescopes waterproof?
Some borescopes are waterproof to varying degrees, typically rated at IP67, IP68, or above. Please check the specifications or call us about the specific waterproof capabilities of the camera that interests you. Most of these are not meant for underwater applications but have waterproof capabilities to withstand exposure to moisture and oil. If you have any concerns about the camera that interests you, please call us for consultation.
What is the focal distance for the borescopes?
The focal distance varies among different borescopes, as some are designed for close distances and others for farther distances. Most small diameter borescopes have a close viewing focal distance.
What if my borescope is not getting an image?
This could be due to several factors. One possibility is that your borescope is not sufficiently charged. Keep in mind that your control box and monitor may require separate charges depending on the model you have. Charge the device for several hours and try again. Another possibility is that the connections on the scope may not be firm. Check all connections (cables snugly connected and secure, monitor connected tightly, etc.) to ensure everything is connected well. Additionally, the charging cable may have a problem due to damage, a break in the connection, or malfunction. Many borescopes use a standard C-type or micro-USB cable for charging. These are commonly used for electronic devices and may be available around your home or at most electronics stores. If another cable is available, it might be a good idea to try a different cable for troubleshooting.
How do I care for my small diameter borescope?
Make sure to store your borescope in a cool and dry place. Our borescopes come with either a hardshell or sturdy softshell carrying case. Although the borescope probes are sturdy, the small diameter makes them vulnerable to damage. During inspections, operate with care to avoid damaging the camera or probe. A gentle push or pull is usually sufficient for inspection as well as gently removing the probe. When storing, be careful not to close the case on the probe, which could pinch and permanently damage it. After a routine inspection, the borescope camera can become dirty, moist, or oily. To keep your borescope probe clean, use a thin microfiber cloth to wipe it dry and then use a small dab of isopropyl rubbing alcohol on the cloth to remove any residue.
Why are small diameter borescopes sometimes more expensive than larger diameter borescopes?
Small diameter scopes are more specialized for their unique applications, and production is more limited than larger borescopes, which have more demand for general applications. The technology and camera size also account for the higher cost of some scopes.
If the camera, probe, or viewing monitor gets damaged or breaks, can I buy parts separately to easily replace them on my own without replacing the entire unit?
In most borescopes, the probe and camera are affixed as one unit and would require replacement of both parts together. Depending on the model, some borescopes are designed for easy replacement of the probe, while others may require a return for repair or replacement assessment. Issues with the monitor can often be resolved with a phone call and troubleshooting with our staff. If the monitor has a technical issue that cannot be resolved with a phone call, a resolution via return or replacement may be necessary.