Microscope for cartridge inspection

@johnss 

You may want to look for a direct view microscope either stereo or mono view with a 1500X or 2000x magnification range. 

Do you have a specific brand or model that you recommend?  the ones I am finding in my searches are prohibitively expensive.

I think 500X would be more than adequate to see assymetrical wear on a stylus tip.  That's the only thing I feel qualified to identify. If wear is symmetrical that means the stylus is evenly worn, and I don't have the expertise to determine how much symmetrical wear is permissible, not to mention the fact I probably could not detect it if it's there.

+1 @elliottbnewcombjr - USB digital microscope

@audiorusty unfortunately, that is correct. 

really tough to find a high powered scope like that for an inexpensive price. 

Elliot, I’d need a camera attachment for my Olympus to take photos. Can be bought for a few hundred bucks but haven’t bothered, in order to post photos.