I’m excited to walk you through the setup of the Upgraded Auto Dimming Lens (ADL). This tool is designed to enhance your micro welding experience and is compatible with all models of Sunstone’s micro welders, including the Zapp, Zapp Plus, Orion mPulse, and Orion PJ.
Unboxing the Upgraded Auto Dimming Lens
Let’s start with the unboxing. As soon as I opened the package, I could see that Sunstone Engineering put a lot of thought into the design of this lens. The first thing that struck me was its size—this lens is much bigger than the standard ADL, which immediately gave me the impression that it would offer a broader field of view and better overall visibility during welding.
Not only is it larger, but it also swivels, giving you more flexibility in positioning it exactly where you need it. This feature alone is a significant improvement over the standard ADL, which is somewhat limited in its range of motion. The upgraded ADL feels sturdy, and you can easily tighten or pivot it to achieve the most comfortable angle for your work.
Setting Up the Upgraded Auto Dimming Lens
Setting up the upgraded ADL is a breeze. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Connection: Start by connecting one end of the cable to your welder. The upgraded ADL is designed to be compatible with all Sunstone micro welders, so this step is straightforward regardless of which model you’re using.
- Attach to ADL: Next, insert the other end of the cable behind the lens of the ADL.
- Secure the Lens: Once the cable is in place, simply add the cap and tighten the screw to secure everything. The upgraded ADL is ready to go!
The entire setup process took me only a few minutes, and I was impressed by how easily the components came together. The design is intuitive, and even if you’re new to micro welding, you should have no trouble assembling this lens.
Comparing the Upgraded to the Standard Auto Darkening Lens
Now, let’s get into the comparison. I used the Orion mPulse 30 for this side-by-side test, but the observations should hold true across other Sunstone models as well.
1. Size and Field of View
The most noticeable difference is the size of the screen. This larger screen not only provides a broader field of view but also makes it easier to see fine details while you’re working. If you’re like me and often find yourself needing to magnify your work, the larger screen is a game-changer.
2. Swivel and Flexibility
Another key feature of the upgraded ADL is its ability to swivel. This added flexibility means that you can adjust the lens to different angles, making it easier to see your work from various positions. For example, if you’re working with a client whose hand is in a specific position, you can easily swivel the lens to get a better view. The standard ADL, while still functional, doesn’t offer this level of adjustability.
3. Light Reflection and Magnification
When I turned on the Orion mPulse 30 with the standard Auto Dimming Lens, I noticed that the screen reflected a lot of light due to the position of the lights on the welder. Unfortunately, the standard ADL doesn’t allow you to change the position of these lights, which can be a bit limiting, especially if you’re working in a bright environment.
In contrast, the upgraded ADL has lights positioned on the panel itself, which you can switch. This results in much less reflection and a clearer view of your work. Additionally, the upgraded ADL offers magnification, which makes it easier to see fine details without having to strain your eyes. Even from a distance, I could see that objects appeared slightly larger through the upgraded lens.
4. Depth and Clearance
Another area where the upgraded ADL shines is in the depth and clearance it provides. With the standard ADL, I often found that there wasn’t enough clearance to work comfortably on certain pieces, like anklets. The upgraded ADL goes in much farther, giving you more room to work. This added clearance is particularly useful if you frequently work on larger or more intricate pieces.
Is the Upgraded ADL Worth the Investment?
As someone who is always mindful of costs, I initially hesitated to upgrade to the new ADL. However, after using it, I can confidently say that it’s worth every penny. The combination of a larger screen, swivel capability, improved lighting, and increased clearance makes a noticeable difference in the overall welding experience.
The upgraded ADL is not just a luxury, it’s a practical tool that can significantly enhance the precision and comfort of your work. Whether you’re a professional jeweler or someone who enjoys micro welding as a hobby, this lens is a valuable addition to your performance.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the upgraded Auto Dimming Lens from Sunstone Engineering is a fantastic enhancement over the standard ADL. It offers improved visibility, greater flexibility, and better overall usability, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about micro welding.
If you’re on the fence about whether or not to upgrade, I’d recommend taking the plunge. The enhanced features and improved performance are well worth the extra cost, and I believe you’ll find that it makes your work not only easier but also more enjoyable.
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