CCTV stands for closed circuit television. A CCTV system would use a video camera to project magnified images on a monitor. The video camera would have a zoom lens. It would have a magnification range of 2x to 60x. The monitor component would be able to switch polarities. A CCTV system would have controls for focus, magnification, and other imaging variables.

Easy On The Eyes

Most users tend to magnify excessively when using a CCTV. Make the text large enough so you can see it comfortably. You can also use the x/y table to move material back and forth instead of moving the material manually. The exceptions are small items such as pens and pieces of paper. A new user should have both hands on either side of the x/y table. After some experience, he can go with just one hand. Another great tip is to use your finger when trying to locate something. Finally, when using the x/y table, use brake and margin stops to keep the table from moving. Use one hand to steady the table when writing

How's Your Penmanship?

Beginners should write at the smallest magnification available. Make your writing bigger when you are making the image smaller. Use lined paper when learning to write with a CCTV. Blank paper will confuse your sense of orientation. When you do write, write a few words then stop and move the x/y table instead of trying to do so while writing. Use a normal pen instead of a big felt marker. Also, write in positive instead of negative mode.

Get Comfy

You should start reading in the lower half of the screen. You can also use an adjustable chair to adjust and swivel your viewing position. Or go the other way. Use an adjustable table to raise and lower the CCTV to your level. If you are viewing a side-by-side system, position the monitor on your better eye. Finally, use an in-line system if you need to be really close to the monitor

How To Buy

As with anything, the user should decide what it will be used for. Having determined that, he should try to find something within his budget. Money aside, he should buy a black and white unit if it is primarily for text. Having a smaller monitor will mean having higher resolution. Also two-piece units should be used if an eye condition requires greater distance between the monitor and the camera. As far as options go, one can go for different color combinations, line marking, windowing, computer options, split screen options and auto focus options.

The important thing about CCTV is to know what you are going to use it for and purchase and set up accordingly. In the end, it is all about how effectively it will serve the user's needs. So a potential buyer should read up on all the latest technology to see exactly what will suit his purposes. Once that is done, he can make an informed purchase and be on his way to learning to use a CCTV.