Everything is illuminated

The Ridgid SeeSnake micro (shown) could make household repairs that require peering into hard-to-access dark spaces a lot easier. At one end of the tool is a grip fitted with a 2.5-inch LCD monitor. At the other is an illuminated, waterproof LED camera that provides real-time video via a 36-inch coaxial cable. Think of the SeeSnake as a homeowner version of the video devices pros use to inspect pipes or chimney flues for damage. It  provides three hours of continuous use on four AA batteries, says Ridgid.

The images that I saw resembled the earliest LCDs in digital cameras. That doesn’t sound too impressive, but the picture should be clear enough for most uses. Future versions of the tool might include a crisper picture, according to the manufacturer.

The SeeSnake ($250) includes a mirror, hook, and magnet that attach near the camera. It is available only through wholesale plumbing suppliers, such as Ferguson, but by late summer it should be at Home Depot.—Ed Perratore