CCTV Cameras Guide

CCTVs for the Visually-Impaired

(The following article was written by Brian M. Smith, President of MagniSight, Inc., Presented at AFB/AER Technology Odyssey – CCTV Systems for the Visually-Impaired)

Tips on reading with a CCTV

1. Golden rule: The tendency is to over magnify with a CCTV.  Make it big enough to where you can see it comfortably but not so small that you struggle to see it.
2. Let the x/y table move the viewing materials back and forth under the camera instead of moving the material manually.  Exception: Small items like checkbooks, or business cards can be moved by themselves, without the use of the x/y table.
3. When a person is first starting out, have them use both hands on either side of the x/y table.  After the person has become an accomplished user then they can use just one hand.
   

   Example of CCTV for Visually-Impaired

4. Have the person use their finger when trying to locate something to view.  Place your finger on the beginning of the location you want to see and then go find your finger in the image.
5. When a person first uses the x/y table, have them use the brake and margin stops to slow or stop the table from moving.  After a person becomes more advanced, they may want to use their hands to slow and stop the x/y table from moving. *Especially when writing, use one hand to steady the table while the other hand writes.

Tips on writing with CCTVs

1. If a person is a beginner, have them write in the smallest magnification, increasing the magnification as they become more accomplished.
2. The smaller you make the image the bigger you write and the bigger you make the image the smaller you write.
3. Always use lined paper when learning to write with a CCTV.  With blank paper, it is hard to tell what is up and down.
4. When writing, try writing a few words, then stop and move the x/y table verses trying to move the table while writing.  Don’t write out of your “eye” viewing area.
5. A person needs to flip their pen around to find where the camera is viewing the paper.
6. It is recommended that you use a normal pen when writing instead of a big felt marker.
7. Write in positive mode verses negative mode.
8. If a person writes at an angle, then turn the camera right or left and keep the monitor facing straight.

Tips on user’s comfort when using CCTVs

1. Read in the lower half of the screen.  Looking from the table to the top half of the screen for reading can cause neck strain.
2. Use an adjustable chair to raise the person up and down to an ideal viewing position.  If a person is steady on their feet, use a chair that swivels and rolls.  That way you can swivel and roll the chair to get in and out of your machine.
3. An individual can use an adjustable table to raise and lower the CCTV to a comfortable position as well.
4. The person’s head should be facing straight into the screen at the material to be read.  Neck aches occur when they are looking to far up or down, or from one side to the other.
5. If a person is using a side-by-side system, position the monitor on the person’s better eye.
6. Use an in-line system when the individual needs to be close to the screen (less than 12 inches).

Tips on buying CCTVs

1. First evaluate how the person will use it.  What do then need to accomplish with the use of a CCTV?
2. When should you buy black and white verses color?
   • Obviously first issue is what can the person afford.  But money aside, if the person will be using the machine primarily to read text, then buy a black and white unit.  Reading material is generally a black and white image anyway.  Consider multi-color options for high contrast needs.  A color system is great for looking at photos, maps, recipes, magazines, and working with crafts.
3. What monitor size should a person use?
   • The smaller the monitor is the higher the resolution is. However, if a person is using more then half to two third magnification then I recommend a bigger monitor. Keep in mind that the individual can make the image smaller in a larger monitor, which produces a greater field of view.
4. Two-piece units should be used when an eye condition needs greater separation between monitor and camera.  This allows them to access the x/y table while the screen is a distance away.
5. When should options be used?
   • Different color combinations are ideal when a person sees certain colors better, or requires high contrast.
   • Line marking and windowing is ideal when a person needs to isolate text.
   • Computer options are ideal when a person needs to work with a computer and a CCTV.
   • Split screen computer systems are ideal when a person needs to transpose material.
   • Auto Focus is ideal when a person needs to keep it as simple as possible.  Manual focus override on an auto focus system allows for maximum versatility and allows complete control over unique viewing situations.

MAGNISIGHT, INC.

3360 ADOBE CT., COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80907

P.O. BOX 2653, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80901

719-578-8893  / 800-753-4767  /  FAX 719-578-9887

www.magnisight.com

By Reese Newman

Closed circuit TV cameras, CCTV installation and monitoring are vital for today’s protection. The evolution of CCTV cameras has rendered them practically necessary for many businesses and their high-tech development has made them more commonplace and affordable. Choosing a CCTV security system requires a large invest in time and research. There is a huge variety of types of security cameras and CCTV systems out there. It would likely take months to make heads or tails of all the information that’s available. The best possible solution is to talk to a CCTV expert.

The Latest & Greatest CCTV Security Systems
You don’t always need the very latest CCTV cameras, but you certainly want the most reliable. You’ll need to make a hearty list of your needs, such as “Secure and Safe building, 24/7.” CCTV systems are also used as deterrents from outside intruders and other potential crime. Understand exactly what you need before you begin your quest to find experts.

Finding CCTV Experts
There are virtually thousands of CCTV security and surveillance companies and vendors in the U.S. along. When searching for reliable CCTV companies, you can do an internet search for “CCTV surveillance” or similar – or look in a local telephone book. CCTV equipment is available for professional installation or do-it-yourself. Whether you need a home security system or security cameras for your business, there’s a lot to consider beforehand. Are you looking for a wired systems or wireless system? Do you need four cameras or 16?

Consider looking for a Better Business Bureau-accredited company first. Go to the BBB.org site and type in your zip code. You then will need to search for the type of service – such as “security and surveillance.” Once the listings pop up, you should have a few to look through. Call as many as you think necessary and begin asking questions. Some critieria you may consider asking:

• Are they also an installer of security systems, or just a retailer (don’t forget, depending on the system, you can self-install)
• Do they offer a wide range of products – including access control, intruder alarms and a variety of CCTV systems
• Does their staff have experience in surveying properties and designing systems
• Do they offer specific solutions and tailor individual programs to meet your needs
• Do they have a clear understanding of vulnerabilities and solutions
• Do they offer a warranty or guarantees of any kind

CCTV Equipment
The amount of different kinds of CCTV Surveillance equipment is huge. When you start looking, you’ll want to look for complete packages. CCTV security packages may include some or all of the following components:

• Cameras
• DVR
• CD-RW (CD burner)
• Backup Drive
• Hard Drive
• VGA for output to computer
• Audio capabilities (one way or two way)
• Real Time Display monitor
• Cables and connectors
• Power supply box to connect all cameras to

Ask your CCTV experts of they offer complete packages, be sure you understand all the components you’ll need for a complete system. And don’t forget to ask for an estimate and schedule.

Here’s an interesting tornado video from a security camera:

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