The Donegan OptiVISOR is a hands-free, headband binocular
magnifier that has optical glass lenses that are ground and
polished into prismatic lenses for quality and clarity, and is
available in multiple dioptric strengths (indicated by the number
in the model) which provide specific magnification power (X) at
specific focal lengths, or distance from object. This magnifier
enhances the size and resolution of an object or image, and is
commonly used for a variety of applications such as
jewelry-making, watch- making, needlework, artwork, electronic
inspection, book-reading, print inspection, and stamp-collecting.
The OptiVISOR magnifier features replaceable binocular lenses
that have beveled edges that are ed in an interchangeable
plastic frame. An adjustable headband with padded leather comfort
band conforms to a variety of head sizes and provides comfort for
hours of continuous use. It can be worn over prescription or
safety eyeglasses. A durable, plastic visor tips up above the
forehead when not in use. Spring-loaded pivot screws hold the
headband in a raised or a forward-facing position. The magnifier
weighs 0.67 lbs., and comes housed in a protective shell and
carrying case. It has a one-year limited warranty.
Diopter (D) is a technical term for the measurement of the light
curvature and thickness of a lens. A dioptric number and a
magnification number are not the same thing. Diopter strength
represents a specific magnification power (X). For example, a
5-diopter provides 2.5X magnification (at a distance of 8”). See
the magnification chart. The higher the diopter, the more
magnification a lens can provide. As magnification increases,
distance to the object (focal length), and field of view
(diameter, or narrowness of view) decreases. Magnifiers and
prescription eyeglasses have a diopter value, such as 1.5 or 2.
The dioptric strength of an accessory lens, such as prescription
eyeglasses or an eye loupe, must be added to the dioptric
strength of the magnifier to calculate total magnification.
Magnifiers are devices used to the visual appearance of
an object or image. Magnifiers come in a variety of styles such
as hand-held, headband, standing, clip-on, eye loupe, and those
that hang in a necklace form, or fit in a trouser pocket.
Magnifiers are commonly made of plastic or glass. They can have
one or more lenses with varying magnification abilities, and can
have a binocular configuration with a single lens, or two
separate lenses. They are sometimes used with LED or fluorescent
light sources to help control viewing capabilities. Magnifier
ability is often expressed as magnification at a specific length.
For example, 1.75X at 14” means that when a magnifier is held at
14” from a viewer’s eyes, the object will be magnified 1.75 times
(X) its actual size. As magnification increases, viewing areas
and focal length decrease. Magnifiers sometimes have a diopter
number, expressed as + or -D, which is a measurement of strength
(or power) of the lens. Some magnifiers are marked with a
dioptric number on the lens. A high diopter number has a higher
magnification than a low diopter number. Aspheric magnifiers,
unlike spheric magnifiers, produce a sharp image to the edge of
the lens for less distortion. Magnifiers are widely used in
jewelry inspection and fabrication, watch-making, needlework,
artwork, reading, print inspection, and stamp-collecting.
Determining Magnification
-------------------------
Diopter Magnification Focal length
(Distance from object) Sample view 20/20 vision 20" (50.8cm)
2-diopter lens 1.50X 20" (50.8cm) 3-diopter lens 1.75X 14"
(35.56cm) 4-diopter lens 2.00X 10" (25.4cm) 5-diopter lens 2.50X
8" (20.32cm) 7-diopter lens 2.75X 6" (15.24cm) 10-diopter lens
3.50X 4" (10.16cm) Donegan Optical manufactures and distributes
precision visual devices for hobbyists and professionals in
industry, home, office and crafts applications. The company was
founded in 1952 and is headquartered in Lenexa, Kansas.
What’s in the Box?
* OptiVISOR
* Fitted, plastic, carrying case
* Instruction manual
- Headband binocular visor with snap-in 1.5X magnifying lens plate for hands-free viewing.
- Ground and polished glass prismatic lens for improved focus and reduced eye strain.
- Visor size-adjustment knob for customized fit.
- Visor tilts out of way when not needed.
- 20" focal length for a variety of uses.