Closed Circuit Television CCTV (Hardware)

CCTV (Closed Circuit Television)

Description of Technology: A video magnification tool consisting of a television screen and a camera. Video magnification occurs by a process of "electronic conversion from the small camera imager to the larger display screen" (2).

Features: "Enlarges text-based documents for easier reading" (1) Units display in full color and/or high contrast black and white.

Models avaliable: Clearview, Tablemate, Discovery Plus, SmartView, Aladdin, Chrisma, Atlas, ZACC, Penguin, Alpha Plus, TVi Autosensing Reading Aid

Users/Benefits: Low vision users; "Allows visually impaired students to more easily read textbooks, magazines, maps, charts or fine print" (3).

Issues:

• Choosing the best CCTV for you (In-line or Out-of-line)
  In-line CCTVs: the "video display is mounted over the camera" (2) Out-of-line CCTVs: "they are not 'portable'...the camera unit is a full size camera and the devices are meant to be used on a desk" (2).
• Space, this is especially may be a problem for out-of-line systems
• Being susceptible to CVS (computer vision syndrome) "This condition can be defined as visual fatigue or neck, shoulder, or back pain that results from using a computer for long periods of time" (5).
• Cost In-line SmartView Extend $2295(black and white) $2595(color) http://adaptivetech.net/products/smartview_xtend.htm
• Cost Out-of-line OVAC ZACC $1795 (does not include monitor)http://www.ovac.com/zacc.htm