Binocular zoom works by allowing you to change the magnification level using a control, typically a lever.
Understanding Zoom Binoculars
Zoom binoculars are designed with a variable magnification range, unlike standard binoculars which have a fixed power. This capability is indicated in their designation, such as 10-30×60 or 12-36×70.
- The first number in the range (e.g., 10× or 12×) represents the minimum magnification.
- The second number (e.g., 30× or 36×) represents the maximum magnification.
- The number after the "×" (e.g., 60mm or 70mm) indicates the diameter of the objective lenses.
The hyphen connecting the two magnification numbers signifies that the magnification is variable anywhere within that range.
Example Zoom Ranges
| Minimum Magnification | Maximum Magnification | Objective Lens Diameter | Example Designation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10× | 30× | 60mm | 10-30×60 |
| 12× | 36× | 70mm | 12-36×70 |
The Zoom Mechanism in Action
To change the magnification on zoom binoculars, you interact with a physical control on the device. According to the provided reference, this is achieved by moving a zoom lever.
- Moving this lever allows you to smoothly adjust the magnification from the lowest setting to the highest setting in its range.
- To increase magnification (make the image appear closer), you "zoom in" by moving the lever in one direction.
- To decrease magnification (make the image appear farther away), you "zoom out" by moving the lever in the opposite direction.
This lever mechanism enables users to quickly adjust the view to suit their needs, whether observing a wide area at lower power or focusing on a specific detail at higher power.
