New pocket-sized video inspection system has numerous vehicle maintenance applications

Sept. 19, 2014
The new PalmScope (DCS950) from General Tools & Instruments (General) is more than the world’s first full-featured pocket-sized video inspection system.

The new PalmScope (DCS950) from General Tools & Instruments (General®) is more than the world’s first full-featured pocket-sized video inspection system. It’s also built to survive the harsh environments of vehicle maintenance and repair, not to mention any rigorous tasks DIY mechanics might subject it to. The PalmScope’s clamshell design allows the camera-tipped probe to be coiled safely and conveniently inside the device. Plus, it can be operated with one hand, leaving the other hand free to use tools. Retailing for less than $150, the PalmScope sets a new affordability standard and outshines competitors in utility, convenience and bang for the buck.

The PalmScope saves time and money by accelerating analysis and diagnosis—enabling the speedy and precise inspection of engines, cooling systems and any other densely packed, hidden or inaccessible areas without the need for disassembly.

• detecting and diagnosing problems, defects or damage in chassis, suspension, transmission and more

• inspecting internal engine components (e.g., gas and diesel cylinders) for carbon deposits, wear, corrosion and component failure

• easily accessing under dash, A/C and heating systems

• checking brakes without removing the wheel

• inspecting gear boxes, fuel injector nozzles, hydraulic assemblies and more

• detecting cooling system leaks or blockages in radiators and engine blocks

With just five control buttons—power on/off, brightness up, brightness down, video zoom and video flip— the PalmScope is incredibly user-friendly. The video zoom button allows the user to zoom up to 4X, increasing the odds of spotting elusive problems. The 180-degree video flip function makes it easier to read upside-down labels and serial numbers by instantly turning them right-side up.

The PalmScope’s easy operation is complemented by superior specs and safety features. The integral
2 ft. (0.6m) long probe with a 0.35 in. (9mm) diameter camera tip enables users to maneuver in very narrow, tight spaces. It’s also water-, oil- and dust-proof to IP67 standard. The camera offers a depth of field of 1 in. to 10 ft. (25mm to 3m) and a 60-degree field of view. General says four LEDs on the camera head produce bright, crisp video on a 2.7 in. (69mm) high-contrast color LCD screen with 320 x 240 pixel resolution (QVGA). Featuring thermoplastic rubber (TPR) housing, the unit is certified drop-proof to a height of 3.4 ft. (1m). The PalmScope includes four probe tip accessories—45-degree mirror, pickup hook, magnetic pickup and thread protector—plus a nylon pouch with belt clip.

For more information, visit www.generaltools.com. 

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