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Magnification Facts

Magnifier ModelsPower vs. DiopterFocal LengthMistaken NotionInterchangeable LensesLighted Magnifiers SafetyVisual ImpairmentMagnifier Catalog Section

Magnifier Models

Magnifiers can be useful tools in hobbies, crafts, sewing, reading, painting, model work, etc. Magnification devices are available in various forms such as head visors, arm lamps and hand held models. Some also come with lights for better illumination on the subject.

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Power Versus Diopter

Determining the strength of the magnifier often has been confusing to people. Some products list the lens diopter while others list the actual magnification power. The diopter refers to the refractive information of the lens and the power refers to the actual enlargement of an item. Power is generally notated by an "X" after a number.

For example:

  • A 3 diopter magnifier usually produces 1.75X magnification.
  • A 5 diopter magnifier usually produces 2.25X magnification.
  • An 8 diopter magnifier usually produces 3.0X magnification
  • A 12 diopter magnifier usually produces 4.0X magnification

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Focal Length

Focal length refers to the distance an item is placed under a magnifier to focus properly. This can vary depending upon the sight of the person using the magnifier. Focal length is important and needs to be considered based on the use of the magnifier.

For example:

A 3 diopter, 1.75x magnifier has a focal length of around 12-13 inches. This means that the item should be placed 12-13 inches under the magnifier lens for best view. This is a good distance for needle work, painting, quilting, etc. because there is sufficient room for your hands and tools (i.e. needle, paint brush) to perform a task.

A 5 diopter, 2.25X magnifier has a focal length of around 6-8 inches. A 3X magnifier may have a focal length of 3-4 inches. A general guideline is that as the magnifier increases its power, the focal length shortens.

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Mistaken Notion: More Magnification Is Better

Many people have been ingrained with the concept of "bigger is better". This does not apply to magnification. Magnification can be too strong! If it is too strong, the eyes may hurt or have a hard time adjusting; a person may feel off balance or nauseous.

It is very important to sense how your eyes and body feel when you are using or testing magnifiers. Magnification is very personal.

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Interchangeable Lenses

Some people benefit by having a magnification product that has interchangeable lenses with different strengths available. This offers the opportunity to change out lenses so that they suit the project at hand. Refer to the ultra-slim magnifier.

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Lighted Magnifiers

Some magnifiers have lights attached. This can be invaluable in focusing the light on the task or project. Shadowing can be reduced or eliminated. It is suggested that the light bulb produce low heat since hands and / or face will be near the bulb. Total Spectrum circle bulbs and screw-in bulbs emit low heat and produce daylight quality light. This enables colors and detail to have more clarity and accuracy.

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Safety

Magnifiers lenses should be covered when they are not in use and located by a window or direct light. This is a safety precaution against a fire occurring as the light passes through the lens on to an object.

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Visual Impairment

It is recommended that persons with visual impairment have regular, comprehensive exams and eye care by a professional eye doctor to determine prescription needs. The magnifiers offered by Energy Dimensions Lights & Magnification are intended for hobby, craft and general use.

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Energy Dimensions™ Lights, Magnification & Vision Products
Light for Sight™ Products
Mailing Address: 4025 East Chandler Blvd., #70 D-18
Phoenix, AZ  85048  USA
Phone: 800-600-3070 (toll-free)
Fax: 480-603-1166
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