Hardware Requirements

Because inspectAR is an augmented reality tool there is some required hardware needed to get started. Augmented reality is based off of the field of computer vision, the study of creating algorithms to make computers interpret the real world. This required the use of a camera. Because inspectAR is a specialized software package which uses augmented reality to interpret circuit boards, which are generally flat, planar objects, you will likely need a stand as well to position the camera orthogonally above the board.

For the mobile versions of inspectAR, only the device's onboard camera is supported. As such there are no hardware requirements for the mobile version. Typically the mobile version is only used for very quick references, so holding it in your hand is acceptable and you can also forego buying a stand. For extended use of the mobile version a simple gooseneck stand is recommended.

For the desktop version, you will need to attach an external camera to your computer. The minimum resolution of the camera is 1080p, however 4k is recommended. inspectAR operates at a maximum resolution of 1080p, so the advantage of higher resolution is an ability to zoom further on small components, etc. The value of this cannot be overstated, and all major inspectAR customers use a 4k camera. 

To position the camera above the board, which is the optimal position for zooming in on components and calibrating, you will need a stand. We recommend a scissor jack stand since this gives the best tradeoff of stability and manoeuvrability. 

For a detailed guide of cameras, including links to buy our recommended 4k camera and scissor jack stand, please see our hardware requirements. 

If you have questions about a specific piece of hardware you have on hand, or want to recommend something new for us to try please leave a post below.