NHBS: In The Field – Page 3 – Hoopoe

NHBS In the Field – Garmin GPSMAP 66s

The GPSMAP 66s is one of Garmin’s most advanced handheld GPSs. Originally released in 2018, the 66s builds on the success of earlier models to provide the best tracking possible, along with a plethora of other features and improvements.

Handheld GPS devices are used by researchers and ecologists in situations where there is a need to create or follow a particular route (e.g. a transect survey) or where there is an area of interest (e.g. a bat roost) that may need to be marked for later analysis or to allow the surveyor to return to that spot in the future.

Outside of environmental monitoring and research, handheld GPSs are primarily used by walkers, hikers and cyclists looking to plot and record their routes. In late September, I tested the usability of a Garmin GPSMAP 66s by taking one with me on an eight-day walk along the Cotswolds Way – a national trail covering around 100 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath.

How we tested

Setting up the path on the GPS

One of the most important things to understand with all Garmin GPS units is the difference between a “track” and a “route”. The published literature from Garmin does not do a great job of distinguishing this, but thankfully there are a few superb YouTube videos that helped clarify the distinction between these terms and allowed me to choose the most suitable option for my purposes.

Routes: Designed to help guide you along a strict path, similar to a Satnav in your car. A route is made up of a number of waypoints (coordinates) placed typically at places where the user would have to change course or direction – this means that more complex routes require more waypoints to provide accurate navigation (hiking trails in remote areas, for instance, would most likely need more waypoints than driving in the city). When following a route, the GPS gives you on-screen advice about the direction you should be heading to reach the next waypoint and can alert you when you need to be aware of an upcoming change in direction. The two major drawbacks I found when using routes for my purpose were that the dense number of waypoints required made the screen almost unreadable and I did not need or particularly want the device directing me exactly where to go the entire time.

Tracks: Designed to show you on a map where you or someone else has been previously, like drawing a line on a map. A track is in principle far simpler than a route. The GPS inherently has a running log of your current activity, including your location which is displayed on-screen as a cyan trail across the map you have loaded. When you are done with that period of activity, you can save this data as a track if desired. When needed, you can load this track and it will display your previous path on screen as a red line, which you can then use to navigate. Tracks, however, do not provide active navigational assistance; when you have a track loaded, the GPS will not direct you to go one way or the other and it will not alert you if you deviate at all. In my case, I did not want instructive navigation and the visual clarity offered by a track when compared to an equivalent route meant this was far more appealing to use for my walk.

Once I had decided the system I was going to use, I was able to easily find a track of the Cotswolds Way online. Tracks and routes can be exported from or imported onto your GPS as GPX files. A handy tool when checking a route or track is Garmin’s BaseCamp program. This free software can be used on your computer to view routes/tracks, add in waypoints and transfer files to and from your GPS. I used BaseCamp to make sure the track I found looked suitable and I also added in a few waypoints to mark specific points along the walk, such as our accommodation and a few shops. You can customise the icon and name of these waypoints to provide the best denotation, and additionally, you can add notes to each waypoint (particularly handy for noting down the contact details of accommodation).

Using the GPS

The GPS was able to operate for approximately 25 hours on the walk before needing to replace the batteries, so for my purposes, I only had to carry one additional set of batteries to power the GPS for the whole 8 days. The GPSMAP 66s comes with a carabiner clip piece, which is easily slotted onto the device. This was very convenient as it allowed me to attach the device to the outside of my backpack, meaning I could easily check the device without having to worry about it falling out of a side pouch. I ran the GPS for the duration of each day’s walking and saved these as individual tracks, which I later combined in BaseCamp for the purposes of this article.

What we found

I found that using the GPSMAP 66s was slightly intimidating at first as there are a lot of settings and it can be easy to push the wrong button and end up on a different sub-menu. However, I put a bit of time aside before we started to allow myself to test using the device, and this was enough to help me resolve a few small issues I was having.

On the walk, I found the GPS was easy to use and very handy. Turning on in the morning and saving the track at the end of the day’s activity is fast and simple, and having the on-screen route was an incredibly handy reference in areas where the written directions were unclear, or the route signage was lacking. My unit came with the TOPO Great Britain PRO Bundle, which includes Ordnance Survey maps of all Great Britain, and this was very helpful in getting a quick detailed picture of the surrounding area. This was of great help in one instance where we needed to find a safer alternative route to our accommodation to avoid a rather unpleasant walk along the A436.

One unexpected benefit of the GPSMAP 66s was the reward of reviewing your activity at the end of the day on the GPS. The device will give you a summary of your walk including interesting data such as your average movement speed, total elapsed movement time and, thanks to its built-in barometric altimeter, your total ascent and descent (also visible as an elevation graph). Being able to see these data after a particularly exhausting day was a fantastic morale boost!

The saved individual tracks were easy to import back into BaseCamp and, once imported, I was then able to merge these to form an overall track of the entire route. This is a very nice feature as you are then able to view your entire route and you are provided summary data along with this. One slight issue was that the summary data did not initially update properly, showing just a single day’s activity rather than the complete walk. However, deleting a single point of data was sufficient to kickstart the program into correcting this issue.

Our opinion

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by the Garmin GPSMAP 66s. It exceeded my expectations in terms of usability and usefulness. While there is certainly a slight intimidation factor involved when first using the device, it does not take long for those fears to dissipate and in a short space of time, it can become an incredibly helpful tool for navigating and recording.

Based on my experiences, I would suggest that the GPSMAP 66s would be suitable for ecological work in open spaces where there is a need to recording transect routes or coordinates. However, care should be taken when using the GPS to mark precise coordinates as the unit is only accurate to around 2 to 5 meters in good conditions and features such as tall buildings, steep valleys, harsh weather and dense tree cover can reduce this accuracy.

I would recommend the TOPO Pro Bundle option as the more detailed OS maps are a massive step up from the basic maps that come with all Garmin GPS devices.

The GPSMAP 66s can be found here. Our full range of handheld GPS devices can be found here.

If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – Rigid 20w Skóros Moth Trap

Recently added to our range, the Rigid 20w Skóros Moth Trap is a lightweight portable moth trap, comparable to the successful Heath moth trap in design. Featuring a compact, rigid base that requires no preassembly, Skóros (from the Greek word for moth) is ideal for children, beginners or the seasoned lepidopterist looking for a portable, no-fuss trap.

We tested the Skóros in a small, suburban garden towards the end of the peak-trapping season in late August.

Use in the field

The first thing I was struck by while setting up the trap is how robust it feels. Despite weighing a mere 1.7kg, all the plastic parts are sturdy and indicate the trap could withstand many years of use. It’s relatively small in size when compared to Skinner moth trap designs, for example, making storage and transport easy.

The supplied 20w bulb is bright enough to have a successful attraction rate while not being overly intrusive to any immediate neighbours.

As previously mentioned, the rigid base requires no preassembly so set up is a straightforward affair; simply slot the three plastic vanes into the cone and place the lid on top. Finally, screw the supplied bulb into its fitting, taking care to handle it by its base rather than the fragile glass envelope. Remember to place egg boxes on the base underneath the cone so that any moths that fly into the trap have somewhere dry and dark to settle until they are released the next morning.

Checking the weather for favourable trapping conditions (preferably a calm, warm and dry night), the trap was deployed on a muggy, overcast August evening around dusk. This timing increases the chances of catching some of the crepuscular or day-flying species.

We left the trap tucked in the corner of the garden, taking advantage of the white garden wall to reflect some of the light and the 5m mains cable was suitably long enough to run alongside the wall through a nearby open window to be plugged in. The Skóros was left running from just before dusk to a little after sunrise.

What we found

Returning to the trap early in the morning we were greeted with a decent sized catch, perhaps smaller than some of the larger-based traps in our range but still enough to keep us busy examining and ID’ing for an hour or two!

Accessing the catch itself is also very straightforward; the plastic cone pops easily out of the base, allowing easy access to the egg boxes laid down the night before.

Many of the moths caught were starting to look a little ragged, but using a copy of Field Guide to the Moths of Great Britain and Ireland and some magnifying pots for the smaller micro-moths, we recorded the following list of species:

Knot grass (Acronicta rumicis)

Purple bar (Cosmorhoe ocellata)
- Brimstone
- Lesser broad-bordered yellow underwing
- Bird cherry ermine
- Lime speck pug
- Blood vein
- Large yellow underwing
- Flame shoulder
- Square-spot rustic
- Purple bar
- Vines rustic
- Mullein wave
- Small square spot
- Common carpet
- Double-striped pug
- Pale mottled willow
- Several hard-to-definitively-ID micro-moths!
Brimstone moth (Opisthograptis luteolata) and mullein wave (Scopula marginepunctata)

It’s also worth noting several species perched themselves on the walls and foliage around the trap, so we would recommend searching the immediate area surrounding the trap where it has been running overnight.

Our opinion

The Skóros strikes a good balance between portability and affordability. Its no-fuss assembly, compact size and affordable price point makes it an ideal first moth trap for beginners or children.

I did feel that the cylindrical base meant that there was less floor space on which to place egg boxes than some of the rectangular Heath traps, but considering the relatively small urban garden the trap was deployed in, it had a respectable catch and retention rate and the slight disadvantage of small floor space is easily offset by its ease-of-use and ergonomic design.

The Rigid 20W Skóros Moth Trap can be found here. Our full range of moth traps can be found here.

If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – EasyLog USB Temperature and Humidity Logger with LCD Screen

The Easylog USB Temperature and Humidity Logger with LCD Screen (EL-USB-2-LCD) from Lascar electronics is a great addition to any field kit bag. This is one of the most popular models in the EasyLog range, offering a very high degree of accuracy for its recordings, measuring a range from -35°C to + 80°C, plus a humidity range from 0 to 100% RH.

What’s in the box

The EL-USB-2-LCD is packaged inside a static shielding bag and comes with a translucent plastic cover to protect the USB stick. A quick start guide is included with clear step-by-step instructions on set up, replacing the battery and a mini-guide to the different LED flash alarms.

Setting up

The first step in preparing to use your EL-USB logger is to download the EasyLogUSB software from the website here.

The software is free to download and is compatible with 32 bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 7, 8 and 10. Please note that the software is not compatible with Apple or other devices not specified.

Once installed you will need to insert the logger into a USB port and click the Setup and Start USB data logger which will take you through a series of steps to calibrate and personalise your logger, ready for use. This will give you the opportunity to set the parameters of the logger to your requirements.

Some of the features of the logger that can be customised include:

Logger name
°C / °F
Logging rate (10s, 1m, 5m, 30m, 1hr, 6hr, 12hr)
High and low alarms
Immediate, delayed, and push-to-start logging
Display off, on for 30 seconds after button press, or permanently on
Data rollover (allows unlimited logger by overwriting the oldest data when memory is full)

Once the setup is complete, you will receive a confirmation message and the logger should then be removed from the USB port, to preserve its battery life and cool down before use. It is now ready to go.

Use in the field

We tested the logger on the banks of the River Dart in south Devon in early August 2021. We set the logger to record every 10 seconds and monitored the site from mid-morning to early afternoon.

When using the logger, always keep the clear plastic cap on to protect it from the elements. When ready, start the recordings using the single button.

This button can be used to navigate between settings, although we found it rather stiff, requiring a firm push for activation. The LCD screen then displays the live temperature or humidity reading (you can switch between the two) and previous maximum and minimum readings for both too. The little LED for both will also flash to indicate when recording is in progress and will alert you to any temperature or humidity alarms, if reached, too.

In many circumstances, where the logger is being used to record temperature or humidity at a static field site, it can be attached to a tree, cane or post via a cable tie or tape, or placed in a secure location. Alternatively, it can be simply carried or clipped onto a belt/lanyard if needing to accompany a surveyor along a route.

We found the accuracy of the readings superb and far more sensitive than those that might be produced by, for example, a phone. The device is small, lightweight, and easy to navigate, so is ideal for taking out into remote or inaccessible locations. It can be equally as helpful for constant monitoring, for instance when checking incubators, animal habitats and enclosures, or even a room or fridge. With an impressive battery life lasting up to two years and the capacity to store 16,000 temperature and humidity readings, it’s a particularly versatile logger, suitable for many circumstances.

The EL-USB-2-LCD is also one of the EasyLog’s most robust models with a sturdy casing that has been tested to IP67 standards. And so, when the protective cap is correctly fitted, it has excellent protection against water and dust.

Software

Once you have collected your readings, insert the logger back into a USB port and click the Stop USB Data Logger and Download Data. The data will then be transferred to your computer and can then be viewed. The display will first default to show your temperature, humidity, and dew point readings all in an axis graph.

Here is an example we produced from our readings:

Below is a key to the graph information.

Vertical axis, including scale and unit
Horizontal axis, including time-related information
Data logger name
Low alarm trigger level, a horizontal dashed line
High alarm trigger level, a horizontal dashed line
Plotted data line
Marker line that follows the mouse pointer
Marker line data for the current marker line position, or the logging period if no marker line is shown

Within the top toolbar, there is the option to save, export, zoom in and out, and switch from a graph to a data view. Under the view tab, you can also sort and organise your data under very useful different parameters that include data range, gridlines, mark samples, statistics, and data view.

Each of these tools can help further filter or analyse your results. Then using the Export function, you can easily produce and extract professional reports saved as either CSV data files, JPEG images, a PDF document of the data, a graph summary, or an Excel spreadsheet.

We found that extracting specific information from the data was quick and straightforward with these functions. The toolbar is kept simple so that the display does not appear cluttered with too many options and functions. Overall, the software is very intuitive to navigate.

Summary

Although there is now a wide range of temperature and humidity loggers available to choose from, the outstanding accuracy of this model, alongside its customisable features and tough weather-proofing makes the EL-USB-2-LCD a standout choice.

The EasyLog range starts with the entry-level EasyLog Mini USB, which is limited to only recording temperature and at 30-minute intervals. At the top end of the range is the EasyLog Professional Data Logger which covers the greatest temperature ranges, offers the longest battery life (3 years), recording capacity (32,000) and the most flexible parameter settings, including the option to record every second.

We find the EL-USB-2-LCD to be the best ‘all-rounder’ within the range, covering both humidity and dew, as well as a wide range of temperature recordings, all at an affordable price. We also feel it has an advantage over the similar EasyLog USB Temperature and Humidity Logger. For a relatively small increase in price, we found the LCD screen a particularly useful addition when out in the field, as we could check the live temperature or humidity before starting a survey or prolonged recording session. This screen also reassures you that your logger is working correctly, which is valuable if taking the logger out to a remote location, for example.

Users can rest assured knowing that their readings will be highly accurate and that their data can be also quickly converted into effective reports through the excellent software.

Overall, we found the EL-USB-2-LCD superb and would recommend this model for its versatility, accuracy and fantastic settings that should cover most needs and circumstances.

The EL-USB-2-LCD can be found here. Our full range of EasyLog products can be found here.

If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – The Anabat Scout product review

Here we review the Anabat Scout from Titley Scientific. The Scout is an easy to use active bat detector that offers excellent quality live audio and recording, plus many handy surveying features and durability that sets it apart from other detectors. It uses heterodyne, auto-heterodyne and frequency division audio that can be recorded in either full spectrum or zero crossing files.

Designed with professional surveyors as well as the more serious bat enthusiast in mind, the Scout is an ideal detector to take on bat emergence and transect surveys. This is thanks to great features such as a bat counter and GPS tracking transect mode.

How we tested

In early July 2021, we tested the Scout outside an old barn in South Devon to monitor the dusk emergence of several bat species. The building was known to host many common pipistrelles, brown long-eared, lesser horseshoes and some myotis species. We wanted to see how easy the detector was to use in the setting of a busy emergence and get a feel for its recording quality and its special features. The audio was set to auto-heterodyne to see how good this feature would be with multiple bats close by. Under the trigger settings is the option to adjust the sensitivity, which we set to high as there was unlikely to be too much undesired noise in this setting.

What we found

Firstly, it is worth noting just how lightweight (at 160 grams without batteries) and easy to hold the Scout is with its handy wrist lanyard and comfortable fit within your hand. These features are particularly important when undertaking long surveys and holding other equipment such as a clipboard for instance.

The OLED display screen is small, but bright, so key information such as peak frequency and time is easy to note in the dark. With just key information visible, the screen does not become too “busy” unlike some detectors, which in some circumstances is a real advantage as it avoids too much distraction. The buttons all glow in the dark, which we found very useful once it had become completely dark, as it kept navigation simple, without having to use a torch.

One of the Scout’s most handy features are the in/out bat counter buttons which enable you to easily tally the number of bats recorded coming out and back into a roost, without the need to look away to make notes and perhaps miss bats. The counter also time and date stamps and geotags each count (CSV file output), so saves you having to manually note this data.

The Scout has a transect mode which notes a GPS coordinate every second so maps out your route as you walk it. It also logs another GPS coordinate for every bat recording made which produces detailed transect maps.

We found that the adjustable volume control was very good and loud enough when needing to compensate for background noises such as a passing lorry.

Also noteworthy was the Scout’s ability to record voice notes. Once it has become fully dark or if you are surveying and need to keep your eyes fixed on bat watching, then the ease of just speaking into the device to add survey notes or further information is very helpful.

The Scout was very productive at picking up all the bats we encountered during the evening (although sometimes a brown long-eared emerged without calling and was missed). The auto-heterodyne tuning to the peak frequency was superb and saved much time. On a few occasions, we switched to manual heterodyne which enables you to adjust the frequency by moving the up and down arrows. This setting would be useful when first teaching beginners. The Scout’s range is also excellent, which was demonstrated when a high flying noctule was picked up probably over 30 – 40 meters away.

Two recordings taken on the Anabat Scout and visualised through the Anabat Insight Software.

The recordings were always clear through the built-in speaker, although there is also the option to attach a 3.5mm headphone jack. All recordings come with GPX track files attached. This gives accurate GPS data, that when viewed on the free software: Anabat Insight, a .KML (Keyhole Markup Language) file can be generated using Google Earth which will show your route with location tags for each bat recording.

All recordings were stored on an SD Card (recommended min: 32GB and max 512GB) and then output via WAV (Full spectrum) and Anabat sequence files (Zero Crossing).

Battery life lasted roughly 10 hours on 2 x AA (NiMh, Alkaline or Lithium) batteries with the remaining memory space and battery life displayed on screen, so we could keep a check during the evening.

Our Opinion

The Anabat Scout is certainly one of the easier to use, professional bat detectors available. It is highly accurate with its triggers and by being so lightweight and practical it makes for an ideal choice for both ecological surveyors and keen naturalists alike. The Scout has been designed with the needs of surveyors in mind and even those new to bat detecting, will find it simple to use and highly rewarding.

The main limitation found was that the Scout does not display full spectrograms like the Anabat Walkabout, therefore beginners particularly, may not find this detector so helpful for learning the differences in calls and identification in the field.

Overall, we feel the Scout offers very good value as an active detector that will fulfill the needs of most ecological surveyors. Its advantage of being incredibly easy to use and get to know, makes it fantastic for beginners, subcontractors and educational purposes also.

The Anabat Scout can be found here. Our full range of active bat detectors can be found here.

If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – H2a Hydrophone

The H2a hydrophone from Aquarian Audio is a mid-range hydrophone, allowing high quality recordings for professionals, whilst remaining affordable for marine naturalists.

Like most hydrophones, the H2a is powered via a compatible recording device. Available with either a TRS 3.5mm jack (plug-in power required), or XLR connector (phantom power required) and a variety of cable lengths, you are sure to find an option suitable for your requirements.

How We Tested

We tested the H2a hydrophone across two days in varying weather conditions in early June 2021.

Our kit was made up of the 3.5mm jack H2a hydrophone, in conjunction with an old DR-05 Tascam recorder and a pair of earphones. The DR-05 is actually a discontinued model, however we do sell it’s successor, the updated DR-05X. The H2a will work well with any recorder with a 3.5mm port that can provide plug-in power. Many recorders offer this ability, but if you are unsure please do check your manual.

Setting up the hydrophone system was very straightforward. Once plug-in power was switched on via the recorder’s menu settings, we simply plugged in the H2a to the mic-in socket and were ready to begin.

Tests were performed in a number of environments including rockpools, off a small boat in deeper water and a controlled environment (container of water). Between these locations, we did find adjusting the gain accordingly was necessary, however this was straightforward, using the Tascam recorder’s input level controls.

In shallower, more disturbed water we tried attaching the cable to a makeshift ‘boom pole’ aiming to gain greater control over the movement of the hydrophone while reducing handling noise.

It is built to be durable, with a stainless steel core and rubber covering, but we still handled it with care and rinsed and dried it after each use. Aquarian themselves say the H2a can survive accidental drops, however we chose not to test this!

Recordings were made on the Tascam device, to a micro-SD card and then transferred to a computer. The open-source audio program Audacity was used to view the waveform, including adjusting levels, and also allowed us to plot the frequency spectrum.

What we found

Our initial impression was that the H2a was surprisingly lightweight and compact, measuring just 25mm x 46mm (without the cable) and weighing little over a hundred grams. This made for easy packing in a small rucksack.

The hydrophone comes in neat cardboard packaging which is not particularly suitable for use on location. Despite the hardiness of the hydrophone itself, it would certainly provide peace of mind to purchase or use some form of carry case. We would not, however, recommend a waterproof case as it may trap moisture and salts that could eventually lead to corrosion.

The hydrophone is highly sensitive and so was vulnerable to signal overload if knocked accidentally or handled roughly. During recording, our main obstacle was noise from cable handling, which was noticeable during playback. This is to be expected with any hydrophone and certainly was not the worst I have experienced, but was still slightly frustrating. We quickly learned to ensure the cable was lowered ‘hand over hand’ into deep water to minimise noise.

Even with only a 3 metre cable, slight tangling did occur, which over time could lead to damage. For future uses with longer cables we would consider investing in or making a cable spool/reel. A spool would likely also reduce the experienced cable handling noise.

In shallower water, especially along the tide line, the makeshift pole attachment was very successful and made a significant difference to cable noise level. It also allowed us to position the hydrophone with precision and avoid damage that could have occured from the stronger waves dragging it towards nearby rocks.

When working from the boat in deeper water, we simply released the cable by hand as the current was slow. We found the shape and weighting (high specific gravity) to be a clever design that kept the hydrophone more-or-less vertical even in currents. Although it is worth noting that we only tested this ourselves in relatively slow moving water.

Below is a sequence of recordings taken in varying locations. The first exhibits the sound produced by the paddling of the small boat. The hydrophone performed very well while being dragged behind the boat, catching the bubbling as the paddles broke the surface.

Of particular interest to us in the field was the man-made noise pollution from the nearby (0.5 miles away) docks. Despite being rather un-noticeable by air, loud hammering was clear through the hydrophone.

The final recording in the audio above was taken at a rising tide, with gentle waves shifting the sand and sediment below the hydrophone.

While we had heard reports that some people have found sensitivity dropping off at higher frequencies with this unit and other hydrophones, our field tests produced recorded sounds up to 10kHz easily.

Our Opinion

Clear audio with limited unwanted noise was easily produced with the H2a hydrophone. It provides a fantastic way for ocean lovers and scientists alike to explore life underwater.

A few practical accessories such as a pole and spool would be worth considering as they can really improve audio quality while also making work in the field just that little bit simpler.

With further experimentation and potentially a bit of luck with interesting sound sources, I am confident that the H2a will continue to yield high quality recordings at a very fair price point.

The H2a hydrophone is available from the NHBS website on its own or as part of a kit including the Tascam DR-05X recorder.

Note: When deciding upon a model it is recommended to choose based first and foremost on compatibility with your recorder’s connector type. XLR is however, often the preferred choice for professionals due in part to reduced electromagnetic interference.

Visit nhbs.com to view our full range of hydrophones. If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you, then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – Motic SMZ-140

There is something wonderful about microscopy – the examination of tiny insects and fungal spores feels like peering into another world that we seldom have the privilege to observe. For some naturalists, a stereo microscope might seem like an unnecessary extravagance but for many who work with tiny subjects like invertebrates, lichenous fruiting bodies or bryophyte spores they can shed a light on fascinating diagnostic features that a hand lens simply doesn’t have the power to show.

We have recently added the Motic SMZ-140 and -161 series to NHBS’s range of stereo microscopes. Known for their good quality, robust entry-level optics as well as their laboratory standard equipment, Motic Europe has an excellent reputation among industry professionals and hobbyists alike. As such, we were excited to have a look at their mid-range LED model, the SMZ-140-LED. Designed to be as flexible as possible, this series has the advantage of a very wide 10x-40x magnification range, rather than the 20x-40x that most stereomicroscopes offer in this price range, as well as reflected and transmitted LED illumination and fully modular design for further customisation.

How We Tested

The SMZ-140 was tested thoroughly with a variety of different subjects. Specimens used originated from an invertebrate monitoring program close to our South Devon office, along with a variety of botanical subjects selected to test the microscope’s use in different disciplines. The image clarity and brightness across its zoom range were noted, as well as our impressions of the mechanical systems such as zoom, movement focus. The different accessories such as stage plates and options like lighting methods were also used to get as complete a picture of the systems’ utility across as complete a range of applications as possible.

What We Found

First Impressions

The first thing that is apparent about the SMZ-140 is the compact design and packaging. The box that it is supplied in manages to be easily a quarter the size of other models of a similar price and specification, and noticeably lighter too, without sacrificing any protection. This is because the microscope itself is remarkably compact, the base built to centre the weight on a smaller footprint than any other I have seen. This makes a real difference when workspace is limited, or if there is a chance that the microscope might need to be moved to different venues. It is supplied with the head detached from the body but setting it up is a simple and intuitive process that takes no more than a few minutes. Comprehensive instructions are also supplied.

The look of the SMZ-140 is simple but professional. The positioning of the zoom and focusing wheels is intuitive, and both move smoothly without resistance or kick back. The supplied stage plates, one reversible black/white plate for use with the reflected illumination system and one translucent plate to complement the transmitted illumination option, are also robust and resistant to scratching. One slight drawback is the lack of any lens caps, but good-quality dust cover is supplied to protect the workings from any ingress.

The working distance, that is the distance between the head and the staging platform, is 80mm, which allows for easy manipulation of the subject, including dissection where appropriate. The pinions should be sufficient to hold most subjects in place and have an impressive range of movement for use with larger samples.

Eyepieces and Illumination

The eyepieces are comfortable to use, padded with rubber and with an adjustable interpupillary distance. Each one has a +/- 5 diopter adjustment, allowing for easy adjustment to the user’s eyes. The whole head piece can be moved from side to side at the user’s convenience. The zoom wheel moves easily and is mounted on the head, while the larger focusing wheel is placed on the pillar to minimize confusion between the two while the user is looking through the eyepieces.

The standard 10x eyepieces that come supplied with this model can be swapped out for 15x, 20x, or 30x options, and the 1-4x objective lens can be removed and replaced with lower magnification options such as 0.5 times as desired.

The illumination is bright and can be adjusted at will, allowing for the user to adjust it if they find themselves dazzled or if working with a reflective subject such as a beetle that risks being washed out by a powerful light source. The transmitted and reflected options are activated via separate switches, meaning that both could be used simultaneously if so desired.

The LED bulbs on this model are of use to many researchers as they provide heat-free illumination and will therefore not damage live specimens or dry out those that are at risk of desiccation, such as insects or lichen.

Magnification and Image Quality

In contrast to the standard 20x-40x zoom of most stereomicroscopes in this price range, the SMZ-140 has a range of 10x-40x. As previously stated, this can be increased up to 120x with 30x eyepieces, but for the vast majority of applications the standard range should be perfectly adequate.

The low minimum zoom makes the microscope very useful for larger specimens or jobs that require a wider field of view such as mounting medium sized insects. Motic’s lenses provide a clear, crisp, and bright image even up to the maximum magnification of 40x. The user might struggle with the diagnostic features of very tiny subjects, i.e. those below 1mm, but for the price range the image of the SMZ-140 is among the best I have seen. The keystone effect is noticeable with this model, as it is in most Greenough system stereo microscopes, but is barely perceptible next to the natural variation in focus of three-dimensional samples.

The 20x and 30x click stop feature of the zoom wheel is very useful when working at higher zoom levels, as it allows the user to standardize the magnification at which specimens are examined and makes accurate record keeping easy. The magnification is also indicated on the wheel for visual reference.

Our Opinion

With the SMZ-140-LED, Motic establish themselves as manufacturers of excellent, affordably priced stereo microscopes ideal for almost any use that a naturalist could desire. Among a crowded market of models with very similar specifications, it distinguishes itself through its compact, lightweight design, robust build, and wide zoom range. It is easy to use and provides consistently excellent results, and the modularity of its design along with a good range of accessories allows for simple adaptation to a wide array of jobs.

While some microscopists might prefer to look at more expensive models with wider lens apertures for an even brighter image (such as the SMZ-160 series), or even high-end models that utilize the advanced common mains objective optical system, among models in its price range the 140 certainly stands out. It’s clear that it is designed with flexibility in mind, and as such it is an ideal choice for anyone looking to dive a little deeper into the wonderful world of the tiny.

The SMZ-140-LED can be found here. Our full range of stereo microscopes can be found here. For further information why not check out Insect Microscopy by Andrew Chick.

If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – Telescopic Wi-Fi Video Endoscope

The Telescopic Wi-Fi Video Endoscope is the latest addition to our range of video endoscopes and is manufactured by the company behind the ever-popular Explorer Premium Endoscope. An endoscope is a fantastic piece of kit for any practicing ecologist, allowing you to inspect hard to reach or inaccessible locations. Typical examples of where endoscopes are used include checking burrows, bird nests and bat roosts, where direct visual access may be limited.

This model features quite a few changes in comparison to its predecessors. Although the camera is labelled as an endoscope, it is really a hybrid between a pole mounted camera and a traditional endoscope. All electrical and optical components of the camera are neatly contained in a cylindrical module measuring just 8cm x 2cm (excluding fixing points) which is quickly and easily mounted onto the included telescopic handle. The camera also comes with a 14cm long flexible arm, which can be connected between the camera and the handle to help when manoeuvring in awkward spaces. As the name suggests, the camera transmits footage over Wi-Fi and allows the operator to view a live feed wirelessly on a smartphone or tablet.

We tested this camera in several locations, including a few typical bat and bird boxes to gauge its overall suitability for different applications.

How we tested

In March 2021 we took a Telescopic Wi-Fi Video Endoscope out into the woods surrounding NHBS and simply attempted manoeuvring the camera into a few awkward and hard to reach locations; such as high up in ivy covered ash trees and over the edges of some of the more unstable riverbanks. Our aim was to try and gauge its effectiveness in extending a surveyor’s reach. We also tried using the camera to inspect several empty bird/bat boxes to see how it would measure up against a traditional endoscope in these situations. Additionally, we captured several images using the camera’s free to use ‘Smartcam Wi-Fi’ app.

It is important to note that it is an offence to disturb nesting Schedule 1 bird species and any bat roost without an appropriate license, hence we only inspected boxes we knew to be empty.

The fully assembled camera is incredibly lightweight, weighing little over a few hundred grams, and it comes with a semi-rigid compact carry case that we were able to fit easily into a rucksack.

The camera is powered by a built-in Lithium-ion battery. We charged the camera, using the included USB-C to USB-A cable, for approximately 70 minutes as indicated by the manual supplied with the camera. On a full charge the camera can operate for a total of 90 minutes which was more than sufficient for our needs.

What we found

Connecting the camera to a phone was quite simple. Once we had downloaded the Smartcam-Wi-Fi app, all we had to do was turn on the camera module and connect to its Wi-Fi signal on our phone. It is helpfully called ‘SmartCam-XXXX’ so it is easy to identify. The app has several controls for the camera, including LED brightness, freeze (holds the image displayed until turned off), capture image and start/stop recording. The adjustable LEDs were a very handy feature and allowed us to maintain the optimum light settings when using it outdoors or inside a nest box. One frustration we had with the app was that it lacks an option to rotate the video feed, meaning that it is often necessary to rotate your phone to maintain the correct orientation. Because of this it would be worth investigating whether there are alternative apps more suitable for using with the camera.

Despite the limitations with the app, we were very pleased with the picture quality of the camera. Certainly, the 720p resolution is noticeably better when compared to an older style Explorer Pro endoscope, which has a slightly lower video resolution of 420p. When fully extended you do have to be careful in holding the camera steady as the image clarity can suffer a bit from camera shake. A nice feature of the camera is that it is waterproof to an IP67 standard, meaning we were able to submerge it briefly to inspect areas of the local river. One thing to note here is that while it was fine operating underwater, the Wi-Fi signal was severely reduced, and it was not able to maintain a stable connection for very long.

Image taken using the Smartcam Wi-Fi app while submerged in the River Dart

Other than when using the camera underwater, the Wi-Fi signal from the camera was very reliable. When testing the camera indoors we were able to maintain a high-quality live feed at a distance of around 15m with a clear line of sight. Certainly, in the field this was somewhat reduced by obstructions, but we found that the signal was still sufficiently strong with a distance of at least 10m between the camera and our smartphone.

The extended reach of 1m was useful, however we felt in most cases a surveyor would benefit from a greater total extendable length. The supplied handle does feature a thread at its base, meaning it would be possible to attach an additional handle to increase the overall reach. We found the flexi arm provided with the camera was sufficiently strong and allowed us to quickly adjust the camera angle or manoeuvre the camera into an awkward area when using it out in the field.

Investigating thick ivy with the endoscope at full extension

When attempting to use the camera with our nest boxes, we found that for boxes designed to suit larger birds (Barn Owls, Tawny Owls, Kestrels etc) the camera was easy to use and the benefits to workers looking to inspect these boxes were clear. However, its usefulness in inspecting bat boxes and garden bird boxes was more limited. The narrow crevice entrances of most bat boxes are simply too small for the camera to access, and a traditional endoscope style camera tube would be more appropriate in these instances. The 20cm diameter camera body could fit through the entrance holes of most bird boxes; however, it was not always possible to angle the camera as required and still fit it through the entrance hole of the box, meaning that the base of the box was not always visible.

Our opinion

Overall we found that, while the Telescopic Wi-Fi Video Endoscope is not always as effective as a more traditional style endoscope and the associated app is limited by certain design flaws, its affordable price, ease of use and versatility make it a great piece of kit for more general ecological surveying.

The Telescopic Wi-Fi Video Endoscope is available on the NHBS website.
To view the full range of endoscopes, along with other survey equipment, visit nhbs.com. If you have any questions or would like some advice on choosing the right product then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – Kite Ursus and Falco Binoculars

Winter migrant season is in full swing, and birders across the country are enjoying the spectacle of the ducks and geese that each year visit our shores. For the birder, no piece of equipment is more important than a good pair of binoculars, and this month we see two new additions to our range in Kite’s Ursus and Falco models.

Kite have been a powerful name in the crowded binocular market, producing high quality optical equipment for decades, and we were excited to see their new, beginner friendly binocular model land last month.

The Ursus is an entry level range, aimed at providing a quality experience for an affordable price. Easy to use and robustly built, boasting a waterproof coating, nitrogen filled interior to prevent condensation and rubber coating to protect the inner workings from impact, they are well-placed for the beginner or for a birder on a budget. There are four models, the 8×32, 8×42, 10×42 and 10×50. Generally speaking, birders will find binoculars with 8x magnification best for their needs, while a lens diameter of 42mm is generally the optimal trade off between being small and light enough to carry conveniently and allowing enough light through to provide a sharp, clear image. More information on choosing the right pair of binoculars for you can be found on a previous blog post, How to Choose a Pair of Binoculars.

Joining the Ursus, the mid-range Falcos are also new to NHBS, with the same selection of models. These are something of an update to the older Kite Toucans, an excellent set of optics in their own right, so we were curious to see how the new model measures up.

With all this in in mind, we were excited to take our new additions into the field and put them through their paces.

How We Tested

On a cold winter morning we headed down to the banks of the River Dart, loaded with the Kite Ursus 8×32 and more mid-range but equally new Kite Falco 10×42, to see how they measure up against each other. In addition to the irresistible delight of birding, we chose to focus the binoculars on a range of static objects at different distances and in different light conditions, including a buoy on the reflective surface of the river, a dead tree with the darker background of riverside foliage, and a flag set against the sky. The intention was to test how well the different models stand up against one and other at different distances and in different light conditions, hoping to pick up any lateral colour fringing or similar issues that might arise in specific conditions.

Back in the office we examined the pair closely, comparing them to other models across a diverse range of prices. It is important that portable binoculars balance a large enough lens to allow sufficient light for a good sharp image with a convenient weight for long periods around the neck or in a backpack. Comfort while holding is also important, as are practical concerns such as the quality of the waterproofing finish.

Long-Tailed Tit, viewed through the Kite Ursus

What We Found

First, the basics. The exterior of the Ursus and Falco models are quite similar, finished with the same textured soft-touch rubber to a conserved, simple design. The texturing makes them easy to grip, a particularly helpful feature in damp weather. The two-tone finish of the Falco is particularly comfortable and shows a marked improvement over older Kite models in my mind. While it may be a little unyielding for some tastes, I found that the finish on the binoculars was just as pleasant to hold as considerably more expensive brands and quite superior to the rubbery coating used by some. While the shallow thumb imprints on both models have a limited impact on the overall feel of the binoculars, they do provide a useful indication of where to place your thumbs to keep them well balanced.

As with all Kite binoculars, the finishing is meticulous. The waterproofing – IPX7 standard, indicating that an item can be submerged up to 1m, although I wasn’t brave enough to try it – means that they can be confidently used in any conditions that naturalists or star gazers are likely to encounter.

The newer Kite models are denoted by a red ring beneath the right eye cup. This is an entirely superficial but very smart feature that lends the brand a distinct identity.

Impressions of the mechanics were equally positive. The focus wheel moves smoothly and is not too stiff on either model. The hinges are a little more stubborn, particularly on the Ursus, but this is likely to become less noticeable with a bit of use and helps keep the binoculars at a comfortable width. It is worth noting that, although the Kite blurb describes the adjustable eyecups as 4 stage, they appear only to have three positions. This has no real impact on performance.

Undoubtedly the most important factor when it comes to binocular choice, the images provided by the Ursus and Falco certainly match up to Kite’s reputation of quality. Both are bright and crisp, Kite’s own brand of ‘MHR’ coating providing exceptional clarity. The Falco in particular combines a bright image with a spectacular field of view. While the clarity of the Ursus’ image did become noticeably distorted around the edges, this did not overly impact the experience and the centre of the image, where the user is likely to be focussing, was nice and clear.

We found that the Ursus performs best at medium to long distance while the Falcos are consistently impressive even at short range, and both models provide a clear view even in lower light. The Ursus do start to drop off a little earlier as the light fades, especially in shadowy areas.

We found the Falcos’ close focus to be particularly noteworthy. The 10x magnification of the pair I tested makes them a little unwieldy for this purpose but might also be advantageous when it comes to observing insects such as dragonflies. We have noted that other Kite models, such as the Lynx, excel at short distances and were pleased that this pair continue that trend. Unfortunately, the Ursus suffer a little here, providing an image that is noticeably less clear than their sister model and not focussing so close, but still perform well for their lower price bracket.

One fairly common issue among binoculars, from the most entry level models to pairs costing thousands, is lateral colour-fringing (chromatic aberration), a phenomenon in which objects, particularly dark shapes against a light background, appear with a small corona of distorted colour. This is generally a minor annoyance at worst, but I was pleased to discover that I could not spot its occurrence in the centre of either model’s image, even in dark birds set against pale clouds in the middle of the day. While fringing will inevitably crop up sometimes, the fact that it is not obvious in these conditions really does say good things about the quality of the ‘MHR’ coating.

Conclusions

The Kite Ursus are a standout contender among entry-level binoculars. While no optics in this price range are going to be perfect, the clear image and sturdy yet lightweight design create a convenient and very enjoyable user experience. I was able to spot and identify small birds at a range that I would really have struggled with when using some competitors, and their performance in lower light levels is a welcome bonus. The included neck strap is good quality, secure and extremely comfortable, well padded, and easy to attach. I would note that people planning to take them into hot environments may wish to go for something without rubber padding, but for use in the UK I’ve seldom seen better.

The intermediate Falcos join a selection of Kite binoculars that stand out positively in a crowded market. They are a marked improvement on the already quite impressive Kite Toucan, which they replace, with an improved field of view and more comfortable grip. A combination of excellent image quality, robust, distinctive design and consistently strong performance whether used at short or long range makes for an easy recommendation.

The Kite range has been respected among birders as a reasonably priced mid-level selection of good quality, robust optics. Indeed, they are so confident in the quality of their optics that they offer a staggering 30-year guarantee. The Ursus represent the welcome addition of a beginner-friendly pair that balance the lower price bracket with the quality that has become synonymous with the brand, while the Falco continues their long tradition of exceptional, reasonably priced mid-range optics that balance a robust, modern design with a surprisingly lightweight body. Whether you’re a beginner, an improver or a veteran, Kite have a model that will suit your needs.

Kite Ursus and Falco binoculars are available from the NHBS website.

To view our full range of binoculars, visit nhbs.com. If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – Mammal Footprint Tunnel

Footprint tunnels are a useful, cost-effective, non-invasive tool for presence/absence surveying of small mammals. Food left in the centre of the tunnel encourages passing animals to walk over the ink pads, leaving their footprints on the tracking paper. With the use of a guide, the mammal in question can then be identified from the footprints left behind.

There are a number of benefits of using footprint tunnels. As they are non-invasive, the tunnel can be set up and left without fear of harming animals and are a good way to assess a site prior to in-depth species studies. They are also quick to check compared to other methods. For example, although camera traps are also useful for presence/absence studies, it can be time consuming to sift through captured images and videos.

As is useful for any piece of equipment, footprint tunnels (and their replacement materials) are very light (55g), and so are easy to take out into the field. However, as they are quite long (119.5cm) they can be cumbersome to transport. Despite this, transportation is made easier due to their ability to be flat packed – their plastic construction allows for them to be folded easily.

The NHBS Mammal Footprint Tunnel comes flat packed with helpful assembly instructions. When assembled, the tunnel is wide enough to fit a full sheet of A4, saving you the trouble of cutting paper to size to use in the tunnel, and is large enough to allow access to animals such as hedgehogs but not larger mammals, such as foxes or badgers.

In addition to the kit you will need eight paperclips per trap, masking tape, some vegetable oil to mix with the included charcoal to make the ink, and some bait (chopped unsalted peanuts or dog/cat food is recommended).

Our work building is situated alongside the river Dart, only separated from the riverbank by a small wall and we wanted to find out what mammal species we have in the vicinity of our building. So we field tested a single NHBS Mammal Footprint Tunnel and here we share what we found and our thoughts on the tunnel.

How We Tested

The above image shows the kit contents: to the left is the tracking plate and on the right is the flattened prism that forms the tunnel. In the top right corner are the pins that secure the tunnel to the ground, charcoal, paper and masking tape (please note, paper, masking tape and vegetable oil are not included in the kit).

To set up the tracking plate, a sheet of A4 paper is placed at each end and secured with tape (ordinarily the paper would be secured with paper clips as is suggested in the instructions). Then we put several strips of masking tape across the centre of the tracking plate to create a large area of tape. The ink (a mixture of charcoal and oil) was painted on the two grey strips across the centre and bait was placed in the central area between the two ink pads.

Pictured is the tracking plate with the paper and masking tape attached.

We first set up the trap next to a bird feeding station – we already knew that the feeder is visited by voles and squirrels, and so would be an ideal place for us to put the footprint tunnel to the test! Although the feeder is raised, we opted to put the tunnel on the floor so that it was accessible to small mammals. As the tunnel was not placed on soft ground, bricks were used to secure the tunnel in place rather than the metal pins included in the kit. For bait we used bird seed as this is what the animals are used to eating at this particular location. The trap was left here for one (wet) night.

The first location that the tunnel was set was next to a bird feeder known to be visited by squirrels and voles.

The first tunnel set up, secured by bricks.

The second set up was just outside of our office alongside the wall that bordered the river. We hoped that this area would be patrolled by a number of small mammals, particularly hedgehogs as they have been seen here before. We baited the tunnel with cat food and the trap was left for three nights over the weekend – being outside office hours, we hoped disturbance would be minimal during this time.

The second placement of the tunnel

What We Found

The inner tracking plate was slightly fiddly to insert into the assembled prism tunnel, and we found that it was much easier to assemble the (pre-bent) prism round the tracking plate rather than sliding the tracking plate in. We used masking tape to secure the paper rather than paper clips as is suggested; this was beneficial when trying to get the tracking plate inside the tunnel as it was more secure than using paper clips.

In order for the bait to stay in place in the centre of the tracking plate the bait needed to be inserted after the tunnel was assembled. And so, because of the length of the tunnel, placing the bait into the tunnel was a little awkward. We found using a trowel to insert the bait made access easier, especially when trying not to disturb the ink.

In the first set up we were pleased to see that a vole had visited our tunnel and that the recording paper had stayed relatively dry despite the very wet weather. Sadly for our second attempt our bait of cat food was eaten by a cat!

Vole footprint tracks from first sighting. The photo is taken to scale of an A4 paper (the page filled the photo).

Our Opinion

The Mammal Footprint Tunnel is an easy-to-use, lightweight monitoring device and a great tool for many small mammal presence/absence studies. Due to its simplicity and low cost, it is ideal for students or for those involved in public engagement.

Despite its light weight, its size makes it a bit of an awkward shape to carry, both when assembled and when flat packed. However, its ability to be flat packed allows for multiple tunnels to be transported without any additional difficulties. Placing ink on the outer edges of the paper may result in more footprints- in our experience something seemed to enjoy munching on the paper before getting to the actual bait. Getting the ink to the right consistency takes some trial and error, but we would recommend using less oil to achieve a thicker ink so that any footprints left behind are as dark as possible so that they are easier to identify.

The pins were sufficient in securing the tunnel and saved it from being blown away by the wind, but a medium-sized mammal (a cat in our case!) could move the trap when secured in soft soil, so this is something to bear in mind when situating your trap.

Overall this is a very easy-to-use, affordable tool and we would highly recommend it as an effective presence/absence surveying method for small mammals.

The Mammal Footprint Tunnel is available through the NHBS website.

To view our full range of mammal surveying equipment, visit nhbs.com. If you have any questions about our range or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.

NHBS In the Field – Dino-Lite WF4915ZT Wireless Microscope Kit

Within the last 15 years the availability and quality of USB digital stereo microscopes has vastly improved, and these fantastic devices are now regularly used by naturalists and hobbyists looking to view the hidden details of the natural world.

Dino-Lite are a well-known manufacturer of USB microscopes. Their range comprises basic models for those new to the field of microscopy, alongside cutting-edge models that produce stunningly detailed high-quality images and have additional features such as wireless video streaming.

We recently tested the Dino-Lite WF4915ZT Wireless Microscope Kit. This kit is from Dino-Lite’s professional range and it includes an AF4915ZT microscope and a WF-20 wireless adapter. The AF4915ZT is a dynamic microscope and has a number of features which are not available on more basic models. These include: Extended Depth of Field (EDOF), which helps achieve greater overall focus on surfaces with varying heights; Enhanced Dynamic Range (EDR), which helps when viewing objects with large variations in brightness; Flexible LED Control, which allows you to turn on/off pairs of LED lights to achieve the best possible illumination; and Automatic Magnification Reading, which allows the DinoCapture software to automatically register and display the current magnification.

Our aim was to see how easy and intuitive the device was to setup and use, and to explore the benefits offered by its advanced features and wireless functionality.

How We Tested

First we installed the included DinoCapture 2.0 software onto our computer. All DinoLite USB microscopes come supplied with this program loaded onto a CD-ROM, however it is also available online as a digital download. We tested the microscope using DinoCapture 2.0 on a desktop computer, however, you can also use this microscope wirelessly on either a smartphone or a tablet via the free DinoCapture app.

The WF-20 module was charged overnight and then connected to the AF4915ZT. The WF-20 was easy to attach, as the wired end piece of the AF4915ZT has two release buttons which, when pressed simultaneously, allowed us to gently remove this module and then connect the WF-20. When powered on, the WF-20 appears as a wireless network on any nearby Wi-Fi devices. Once connected to this network we were able to view a live feed from the microscope on DinoCapture.

We used the microscope to view a number of plant and insect samples.

Moth eye – viewed with Extended Dynamic Range

What We Found

The 1.3MP resolution is certainly a big improvement over some of the more basic models. Using the microscope at some of the higher magnifications is hugely rewarding, as you are granted some fantastic views of the minute details that are otherwise easily missed. The advanced features (as listed in the introduction to this review) may not be entirely noticeable to those new to digital microscopy, however, compared to older and more economical models they make operating this microscope far simpler. Previously, one would struggle at times to deal with structures having varying levels of brightness (particularly common with iridescent insects for example), and have little control outside of the overall LED brightness to try and address this. However, with the great LED controls and EDR the overall image can be brought closer together and previously obscured features become visible in much greater detail.

The EDOF is also a really helpful tool, especially at lower magnifications and on specimens with a variable structural height (which in our case was an acorn cup and a seed pod). Despite the differing heights, the microscope was able to keep most of the specimen in focus. Both the EDR and EDOF take around five seconds to process, meaning you can view the results and adapt your settings quickly to achieve the best image possible.

Manoeuvring the microscope freehand was relatively easy as it only has a few buttons on its main body, so there wasn’t any accidental mis-clicking. The focus ring is also light enough that it can be manipulated using only the middle and index fingers. Trying to keep the microscope steady and operate the DinoCapture software at the same time was rather difficult, especially at higher magnifications, and so when taking any images I opted to use the device with a stand (specifically the Dino-Lite RK06A). This allowed me to configure the microscope into the perfect position and then operate the computer without fear of losing that positioning.

When used in its wireless configuration we did find that occasionally there were moments of lag on the live feed. While these were only minor interruptions, it was certainly something that had to be considered when making any adjustments to the magnification and focus.

Leaf: (a) Normal mode, (b) with Extended Dynamic Range

Seed pod: (a) Normal mode, (b) with Extended Depth of Field

Acorn: (a) Normal mode, (b) with Extended Dynamic Range, (c) with Extended Depth Of Field

Our Opinion

Although we only used the WF4915ZT on a few select samples, it offered us a great opportunity to learn how to operate this advanced USB microscope. Thankfully the literature provided with the microscope was clear and easy to follow, and within 15 minutes of opening the box I was able to install the software and connect to the device in both its wireless and wired configurations. The image quality and the benefits offered by its advanced settings were also hugely impressive, particularly the EDOF, which really stands out as a key feature for this microscope.

While the wireless functionality of this microscope was a very interesting feature of the WF4915ZT, in practice it is not necessarily universally valuable. In the study of Natural History for example, most microscopy happens at a desk on pre-prepared specimens and as such you do not need the greater manoeuvrability that a wireless microscope offers. In other trades, however, these digital microscopes are used to inspect large objects (e.g. automobile manufacture) and in these situations a lack of trailing wires would be of huge benefit for the operator. In a situation where the operator does not have access to a computer/laptop, the Wi-Fi module allows you to connect to the microscope using a tablet or a smartphone, which is especially useful if you are planning to use it in the field.

In summary, we would highly recommend the WF4915ZT for any hobbyist or professional looking for a high quality and portable USB microscope. The AF4915ZT would be an excellent (and more economical) alternative for those who are unlikely to use the device away from a desk.

The Dino-Lite WF4915ZT is available through the NHBS website.

To view our full range of USB microscopes, visit www.nhbs.com. If you have any questions about microscopy or would like some advice on the right product for you then please contact us via email at customer.services@nhbs.com or phone on 01803 865913.