RPi HQ Camera Microscope
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Turn standard DSLR camera lenses into a digital microscope
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Updated at source:
Model information
- Source
- Printables
- Category
- Photo & Video
- License
- GNU General Public License v3.0
This project combines a rigid aluminum extrusion frame, linear motion smooth rods, and a Raspberry Pi High Quality (HQ) Camera using standard extension tubes and lens adapters. It gives you extreme optical flexibility—allowing you to inspect PCBs, magnify small objects, or capture detailed macro photos using off-the-shelf DSLR camera lenses.
DSLR Lens Optics: Utilizes affordable Canon EF lenses (or similar mounts via adapters) paired with macro extension tubes for extreme magnification and crisp optical clarity.
Rigid Frame: Built on 2020/2040 aluminum extrusions and 8mm smooth rods with LM8UU bearings for smooth, precise height adjustments.
Open Source Software: Integrated software stack tailored specifically for the camera setup.
Bill of Materials (BOM)
Electronics
Raspberry Pi: 3A+ (Pi Zero W or Zero 2 W will also work)
Camera: Raspberry Pi High Quality (HQ) Camera (C-mount)
Power: Official Raspberry Pi Power Supply
Optics
Primary Lens: 85mm Samyang f/1.4 (Canon EF Mount) (or equivalent manual lens)
Adapter: Canon EF to C-Mount Adapter (to connect to RPi HQ Cam)
Macro Extension: EOS EF Macro Extension Tube Set (metal mounts recommended for rigidity)
Frame & Hardware
2x 20x40x400mm Aluminum Extrusions
4x 20x20x140mm Aluminum Extrusions
2x 8mm x 400mm Smooth Linear Rods
2x LM8UU Linear Bearings (8mm)
8x 2020 Internal Corner Brackets / Angles
Fasteners & Heat Inserts
4x M3 Heat-Set Inserts
4x M3 Nuts
8x M3 x 10mm Screws
Assorted M4 Screws & T-Nuts (for 20-series aluminum profiles)
Software & Control
The software repository for setting up and controlling the microscope is hosted on GitHub: GitHub Repo: ramba-zamba/microscope
Follow the installation instructions in the repository to get your camera preview and control interface up and running on your Raspberry Pi.
🪛 Recommended Print Settings
Material: PETG or PLA
Layer Height: 0.2mm
Infill: 25% – 40%
Walls/Perimeters: 3 to 4 walls for strong mechanical hold around bearings and heat-set inserts.