Adam Savage's One Day Builds - Fiber Optic Microscope Ring Light!
**Adam Savage’s One-Day Build: Upgrading an Inspection Microscope with a Fiber Optic Ring Light**
In this article, we’ll follow Adam Savage as he dives into a one-day build project, upgrading his inspection microscope with a fiber optic ring light. The video transcription below has been transformed into a detailed, readable article that captures the entire process.
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### **Introduction: A Tiny Problem and a Giant Solution**
Adam Savage begins his latest project in his workshop, known as "the Cave." He’s about to shoot a show in town but first needs to address a challenge: he’s received some exceedingly tiny parts from a fan—screws so small they’re barely visible at the bottom of a case. To inspect these minuscule components, Adam pulls out an old inspection microscope—a tool he purchased during his MythBusters days.
However, as he prepares to use it, Adam realizes something is missing: the microscope lacks a fiber optic ring light, which would provide the perfect lighting setup for detailed inspections. This oversight isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a problem he needs to solve today.
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### **The Setup: Pulling Off the Shroud**
The first step is to prepare the inspection microscope for modifications. Adam removes the shroud covering the microscope, exposing its internal components. He carefully disassembles the microscope, noting that it’s a Bausch and Lomb model with a reasonable depth of field.
As he works, Adam mentions an important tip: when taking something apart, he always places screws in the same orientation they were in on the device. This practice, which he learned from Robert Persing (the author of *Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance*), helps him avoid confusion during reassembly.
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### **The Challenge: Cutting Round Material**
One of the key components Adam needs to create is a coupling for the fiber optic ring light. He explains that the interior ring on the microscope’s bottom is threaded, which means he can machine a custom coupler out of Delrin plastic.
However, cutting round material on a bandsaw can be tricky. Adam warns that materials like Delrin and brass are “bitey,” meaning they can grab the blade and cause unexpected movement. To avoid this, he recommends clamping flats to the material or using a blade suited for the task. In this case, since he’s working with Delrin, he opts for a sharp blade and proceeds carefully.
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### **The Precision: Using Forstner Bits and Calipers**
Next, Adam turns his attention to cutting a hole in the coupler using a Forstner bit. He explains that the Forstner bit is about a quarter of an inch smaller in diameter than the fiber optic ring light, giving him enough material to work with.
He emphasizes the importance of precise measurements. Using calipers and a depth tool, Adam calculates the exact diameter he needs for the hole. He also mentions a helpful tip: when working with materials like Delrin, it’s crucial to take small passes to avoid breaking the blade or damaging the material.
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### **The Build: Machining the Coupler**
With the hole cut, Adam moves on to shaping the coupler using a lathe. He explains that he’s aiming for a diameter of 2.4 inches, which is a “nice round number” suited for engineering applications. Using his favorite lathe tool—an indexable carbide insert—he carefully machines the coupler to the desired size.
Throughout this process, Adam highlights the importance of patience and precision when working with soft materials like Delrin. He demonstrates how to measure the material using a gauge and adjust the cross feed to achieve the perfect fit.
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### **The Final Assembly: Attaching the Fiber Optic Ring Light**
Once the coupler is complete, Adam attaches it to the microscope’s bottom. He explains that the threaded interior of the coupler fits perfectly with the microscope’s existing threading, ensuring a secure connection.
Next, he connects the fiber optic ring light to the microscope. Using a belt sander, he trims any excess material from the coupler to ensure it fits smoothly. Finally, he tightens everything down and tests the setup by turning on the power supply.
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### **The Result: A Brilliant One-Day Build**
With the fiber optic ring light now fully integrated into the microscope, Adam is able to inspect the tiny screws with remarkable clarity. He marvels at the quality of the light source and the ease with which he can adjust the focus and zoom in on the minuscule parts.
Reflecting on the project, Adam notes that this was one of the fastest one-day builds he’s ever completed. The process involved just a few key steps: creating the coupler, attaching it to the microscope, and connecting the ring light. He also jokes about how small modifications like these can give old tools new life, calling it a “second act” for his inspection microscope.
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### **Conclusion: Tools with a Second Act**
In closing, Adam Savage encourages viewers to explore similar tool upgrades. He points out that while 3D printing could be an option for creating couplers and other accessories, machining or repurposing materials like Delrin is often just as effective—and much more satisfying.
As he wraps up the video, Adam expresses his gratitude to his audience, encouraging them to continue exploring their own creative projects. He also plugs his online store, offering viewers a chance to purchase a Tested-branded t-shirt as a token of appreciation for their support.
And with that, Adam Savage signs off, leaving his audience inspired and ready to tackle their next one-day build.