Visually Impaired Resource Guide Assistive Technology For Students With Low Vision Room Viewer (Remote Camera Attachment)

Room Viewer (Remote Camera Attachment) for use with a video magnification system (CCTV)

The remote camera (room viewer) is a camera attachment compatible with some CCTV models. It is used to focus on and display, a distant chalkboard/ overhead projected image or activity. The CCTV provides several viewing options which are controlled by a simple switch. These include a full monitor display of the distant object or materials viewed through the remote camera attachment or a full monitor display of what is placed on the CCTV viewing table or a split screen monitor display with both images.

Placement of the CCTV with a Remote Camera Attachment within the classroom setting can be challenging. Consideration must be given to accessibility, size, weight, fragility, power source and lack of portability. Each consideration may present some difficulty when deciding where to set up the system. The students receptivity and comfort in using this technology, particularly in an integrated classroom must also be taken into consideration. Introducing and incorporating the system as part of the classroom equipment, may be helpful in reducing perceived stigma and increasing the comfort level.

This system has been found to be useful for a variety of classroom subjects including math, science labs, art and sculpture. A fun activity for younger students is I Spy.

Prerequisites

• Independently use a CCTV
• Ability to follow two to four step operations sequentially

Skills

• focus the camera thereby adjusting the sharpness of the selected viewing object
• adjust the size of the displayed image
• adjust the aperture ring which controls the amount of light entering the camera.
• customize the remote camera viewing position by adjusting the camera using the camera tilt arm, camera arm swivel and base plate tilt.
• adjust screen configurations (line/window switch) to allow split screen viewing
• change split screen from vertical to horizontal image
• change the displayed image from CCTV application only to remote camera operation and finally to split screen application.

Strategies

• aim the camera directly at the object to be displayed
• adjust the size ring for the maximum image size
• adjust the focus ring until the image is clear and sharp
• readjust the size control for the desired magnification. The image should stay in focus
• adjust the aperture ring to lighten or darken the displayed image, according to the existing lighting conditions.

Recommendations

• Regularly check/tighten the attachment knobs as they loosen with the constant movement/repositioning of the camera.

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