While video borescopes offer superior image quality and hi-tech features, fiberscopes provide a range of unique advantages that make them the preferred choice in specific inspection scenarios.

Smaller Diameter Probes
Fiberscopes use fiber optic bundles to transmit images, which typically allow for significantly smaller probe diameters compared to video borescopes. The smaller diameters enable fiberscopes to access extremely narrow or tight spaces, providing a distinct advantage in applications where access is limited. It's worth noting that IT Concepts also specializes in designing and manufacturing unique small diameter (2.4mm probe) XLED PRO videoscopes that could be tailored to your specific requirements.

Greater Flexibility
The fiber optic bundles in fiberscopes provide greater flexibility than the electronic components in video borescopes. This added flexibility enables fiberscopes to navigate through complex and curved pathways more easily, offering a superior inspection capability in environments with multiple bends or angles.

Durability and Resistance
Fiberscopes tend to be more durable and resistant to environmental factors compared to their video counterparts. The absence of delicate electronic components within the insertion tube makes fiberscopes less susceptible to damage from moisture, temperature fluctuations, and vibrations. This durability ensures reliable performance in harsh environments and reduces the risk of equipment failure.

Lower Cost
Fiberscopes generally have a lower price point compared to video borescopes, mainly because of the reduced complexity of their internal components and no need for an external control unit with a display to operate. This cost advantage makes fiberscopes a more accessible option for businesses and industries that require RVI capabilities but must operate within budget constraints.

Easier Maintenance and Repair
Due to the simpler design and fewer electronic components, fiberscopes are often easier to maintain and repair than video borescopes. In the event of damage, a fiberscope's fiber optic bundle can often be replaced more easily and at a lower cost compared to repairing or replacing the complex camera and electronic systems in a video borescope.

Explosion Proof and Intrinsically Safe Nature
Fiberscopes can be more easily designed as explosion proof and intrinsically safe devices, meaning they can be used safely in hazardous environments where there is a risk of explosion or fire. This feature is especially important in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and aerospace, where inspections are often carried out in potentially explosive atmospheres. 

Fiberscopes have come a long way since their inception, with modern fiberscopes offering a range of advanced features and capabilities that that make them comparable in some aspects with video borescopes:

• High-Resolution Fiber Optic Bundles: Improved fiber optics offer better image quality and detail.
• Enhanced Illumination: Powerful LED light sources provide bright and uniform illumination.
• Articulation Control: Precise articulation control enables accurate navigation and positioning.
• Ergonomic Design: Modern fiberscopes prioritize user comfort and ease of use. 

Modern fiberscopes can be integrated with video recording and processing systems using fiberscope cameras and C-mount adapters. This allows operators to:

• Record inspection footage for future reference and analysis.
• Capture still images of inspection areas for detailed examination.
• Share real-time inspection images with remote teams for better collaboration.
• Utilize digital image processing software for enhanced defect detection. 

Modern fiberscopes offer a range of advanced features and capabilities that enhance their benefits over video borescopes. Improved image quality, flexibility, durability, and explosion-proof nature make fiberscopes an ideal choice for specific inspection scenarios. By understanding these features and capabilities, professionals can select the most appropriate RVI tool for their inspection requirements, ensuring optimal performance and results.