Assistive Technology of the Month December 2011

CCTV Magnification System

What it is:

A CCTV Magnification System is a device designed for people with low vision. It consists of a combination of a magnifying camera and a video monitor. This allows the user to view material at a variety of magnification levels.
Handheld portable CCTVS are also available.

What it does:

CCTV Magnification Systems have a variety of functions, including the following:

- A zoom lens which allows for rapid, significant changes in magnification.
- Multiple contrast options, including reverse or black letters on yellow to make reading easier or softer on the eyes.
- Making handwriting easier as the user does not have to hold a lens
- Higher levels of magnification than optical magnifiers and a much larger field of view.
- A viewing tray on which items are placed called the XY Table. Users can move the image without changing head or eye position.

In addition, portable CCTVs systems can be used on the go to read grocery store labels, menus, prescription bottles, mail and more.

Where to find it:

You can buy this product from any licensed vendors. The price range is $3000 - $5000 for desktop models and $600- $900 for handheld models.

Here are links to some of the vendors that provide this hardware:

Aroga http://www.aroga.com/lv_home.asp

HumanWare
http://www.humanware.com/en-usa/products?category=all&pgn=2

SightConnection http://www.sightconnection.com/colorcctvs.html

Assistance with purchase:

You may be eligible for the assistive devices program through the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care in Ontario. This program provides assistance for purchased to individuals who are eligible through the application process. To find out more information please visit http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/program/adp/adp_mn.html or call 1-800-268-6021.