USB Microscope x200

Science is officially cool again - the television told us, so it must be true and these USB Microscopes might just be the coolest geek gadgets we've had land on our desk. They're really easy to install and even easier to use. Plug them in and the nifty viewing software brings the image up on your computer screen - you won't even have to strain your neck peering into a dusty eyepiece.

The original USB Microscope x200 has a fully adjustable stand, a 1.3 megapixel lens and has a magnification of up to x200. The new and improved USB Microscope x400 also has a stand but the lens has been upgraded to 2.0 megapixels with magnification of up to x400. I don't think we have to tell you how freaky the back of your hand looks that close up - but you're going to have an excellent time finding out.

You'll soon be looking at everything within reach (we strongly recommend you start with a five pound note - the detail is amazing!) and you can take digital stills or movies using the software provided. What's more, the included software will measure the items on the screen - all you have to do is provide a scale (the easiest way is to pop a ruler under the lens) and the brainy thing will tell you how big or small your item is. The last time most of us saw a microscope was a long time ago in a science class far, far away but these stylish designs are a long way off from those lumbering things so it won't take up half your desk. You needn't just use these microscopes for fun - the level of detail they bring makes them an essential tool for any aspiring model maker, electronics engineer and would be jeweller.

• The original Microscope has an adjustable table stand. 
• The table stand can be removed. 
• 1.3 Mega-Pixels. 
• Up to 200x magnification. 
• Records movies in AVI and still images in JPG or BMP. 
• AVI resolution up to 1280 x 960. 
• 4 x LEDs to illuminate objects during magnification. 
• Requires Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP/Vista, Mac O/S 10.5 or above (NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SIDELOADING CD ROM DRIVES) and at least 32MB free system memory plus 11.5MB Hard Drive Space. 
• Contains CD-Rom with Driver software and full instruction manual. 
• Powered by USB. 
• Suitable for ages 8 years+. 
• Size: 14 x 12 x 7cm.