I. 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 the text comfortably, but not so small that you struggle.
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 and business cards can be moved by themselves without the use of the x/y table.

3. When a person is first beginning, have them use both hands on either side of the x/y table. After they become more accomplished they will only need to use one hand.
4. Have the person use their finger when trying to locate something to view. Place the finger at the beginning of the location you want to see, and then find the finger in the image.
5. Use the top or bottom of the monitor as a “Line Marker”.

II. Tips on writing with CCTV’S

1. If a person is a beginner, have them write in the smallest magnification, increasing the magnification as they become more accomplished.
2. Always use lined paper when learning to write with a CCTV. With blank paper, it is hard to tell what is up and down.
3. Write 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.
4. It is recommended that you use a normal pen when writing with a CCTV instead of a big felt marker.
5. Write in positive mode verses negative mode.
6. If a person writes at an angle, turn the paper right or left and keep the monitor facing straight.
7. When writing, use one hand to steady the table while the other hand writes.

III. Tips on comfort when using a CCTV

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. The person’s eyes should be facing straight into the screen at the material to be read. Neck strain occurs when they are looking to far up or down.
3. Adjust the position of the monitor for an ideal viewing height.
4. If there are no mobility issues, use a chair that swivels and rolls, allowing easy access and exit from the machine.

IV. Tips on buying CCTV’S

1. Evaluate how the person will use the equipment. What do they want to accomplish with the use of a CCTV?
2. What monitor size should a person use?

   The smaller the monitor, the higher the resolution. However, if a person is using more than half of the available magnification, then we would recommend a larger monitor. Keep in mind that the individual can make the image smaller in a larger monitor, which produces a greater field of view.

3. When should options be used?
   
   
   1. Different color combinations are ideal when a person sees certain colors better, or requires high contrast.
   2. Line marking and windowing is ideal when a person needs to isolate text.