Home: Programs and Services: Closed-Circuit Televisions (CCTVs)

A Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) is an electronic magnification reading system that enables visually impaired users to continue reading a variety of materials and with some models also facilitates handwriting. A CCTV uses a stand-mounted or hand-held video camera to project a magnified image of user-selected printed matter onto a dedicated video monitor or a TV screen.

Stand-mounted CCTVs
To use a stand-mounted CCTV, you place the reading material flat on the unit's viewing surface (like a small desktop) under the camera. Stand-mounted units usually feature a moveable viewing surface that can glide from top to bottom and from side to side, making it easier to navigate through the material. Stand-mounted models are good for reading and are particularly effective for writing because your hand can easily fit under the camera on the viewing surface.

Hand-held CCTVs
Hand-held units make it possible for you to position the camera on the material that needs viewing rather than requiring you to place the material on a unit-based viewing surface. Depending on the model, the image is then shown on a dedicated video monitor, attached to a standard TV, or if battery operated, used with a portable small flat video screen or a head-mounted display. These units can magnify almost anything within reach of the camera, including labels on food and medicine. Some hand-held cameras include, as an accessory, a fixed stand.

Common features
Available in black and white or color, CCTV systems come in various screen sizes. All black and white CCTV systems offer a reverse contrast option of viewing black letters on a white background or white letters on a black background.

Controls for contrast and brightness are also standard on today’s units. Video monitors generally provide a sharper image than do some televisions, and many CCTVs that use a dedicated video monitor may include special features such as underlining/over lining text options or masking (viewing one line of text at a time).

CCTV systems have limitations, but here are several advantages to consider as you decide whether a CCTV is the right tool for you:

• Viewing the screen from a normal reading distance enables people with binocular vision to use their vision better.
• The zoom lens allows for rapid change in magnification.
• Reverse contrast option (white on black) may be less fatiguing for eyes.
• Easier handwriting abilities than conventional magnifiers.
• Higher level magnification than possible with purely optical solutions.
• A larger field of view is sometimes helpful.
• Moveable viewing table may help people with field restrictions keep their place when reading.

Price range and payment options
For many people, CCTVs are an investment, but a very worthwhile one. Many models have a range of magnification that allows users to continue using them for many years even as vision continues to change. Most machines come with a two-year warranty. Through the years, we have found most machines to be very durable with little need for repair. Extended maintenance contracts can be purchased on a year-to-year basis, and there are local service centers if repairs are necessary.

As of 2007, CCTV systems range in price from $305 to $4900 (plus tax), and include delivery and set-up within our primary, tri-county service area (King, Snohomish and Skagit Counties of Washington State) and other nearby cities like Tacoma, Bremerton, and Bainbridge Island. CSBPS accepts cash, checks, Visa or MasterCard for CCTV sales. CCTVs available through CSBPS are competitively priced at the Manufactured Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). What’s more, net proceeds from these sales go to support the programs and services of CSBPS.

CSBPS has a CCTV rental program and coordinates consignment sales of used CCTVs, as well as other low vision devices. The availability of units varies and is usually quite limited. Rental rates range from $30 to $70 monthly plus tax, depending on the unit. Delivery and set-up (if needed) costs are extra and varies with location. If you are interested in renting, purchasing or selling a used CCTV, please contact CSBPS at (800) 458-4888.

To view CCTV models available through CSBPS

For more information, product literature or a personal demonstration, call us at (206) 525.5556 or (800) 458.4888. You may also view CCTV models by visiting www.SightConnection.com, click on CCTVs.

Please note that an appointment is strongly recommended if you wish to see the selection of CCTVs available through CSBPS. To fully understand the potential of these tools, a one-on-one discussion is the surest way to best answer your questions about CCTVs. At CSBPS, our focus is not on sales, but on making sure you get the most appropriate devices that will support you in meeting your needs.

Closed Circuit Televisions