Closed Circuit TV (CCTV)

A CCTV system (sometimes referred to as an electronic or video magnifier) uses a video camera to project a magnified image onto a video monitor, computer monitor, or TV screen. Portable devices are available. Depending on the product, there may be a variety of options for viewing the image on the screen. Examples include: adjusting Zoom up to 60 times the original size; reversing the color contrast; selecting whether to view the image in color or black & white, and/or accessing split-screen technology. For CCTV devices that offer split screen technology, one half of the computer monitor would display the magnified image (e.g., hand-written correspondence) from the CCTV and the other half of the monitor would display whatever program the individual is using on their computer (e.g., desktop, word-processing program, etc.).

Why use a CCTV as a job accommodation? A CCTV may be an option to consider if a person with a vision impairment benefits from seeing an object magnified but may need something more powerful than a typical hand or stand magnifier. With a CCTV, an individual can view not only printed text but also handwriting, photographs, and even a medicine bottle if need be. The CCTV user is also able to view a form while filling it out or handwriting a memo or check.

For further information on job accommodations, please see Work-Site Accommodation Ideas for Individuals with Vision Impairments: http://AskJAN.org/media/Sight.html