Video Magnifiers
A video magnifier is a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system that can use an internal video camera to project a magnified image onto a TV screen, a computer or laptop monitor, or the device's built-in LCD/LED screen. The devices typically include multiple magnification levels and different screen appearances (such as high contrast, color, black and white, inverted brightness, etc.) Some devices may include memory chips to store images captured by the cameras.
The devices come in different sizes and with different components:
Desktop -- Self-contained magnification devices that include a display screen, a camera, and, typically, a platform for the desired material to enlarge. These devices tend not to be very portable (up to 40 pounds) and are primarily meant to be used on a stationary table.
Portable -- Magnifiers that can connect to different televisions, computers, or laptops and project the enlarged image on these screens. Some may also have their own built-in displays as well. These devices tend to weigh 1-10 pounds.
Handheld -- Pocket-sized, lightweight magnifiers that can be held over desired material like a traditional magnifying glass. The devices usually weigh less than 1 pound, with 3-5 inch screens. Some may be connected to external monitors for additional magnification.
With speech -- Some devices, in addition to magnification, will scan the desired material and read it out loud using built-in synthesized text-to-speech software.
A desktop video magnifier that is somewhat portable which is able to adapt to multiple environments so you could take it from school, home and work.
Market Price Estimate: $3330
Manufacturer: Freedom Scientific
Economical high-definition (HD) magnifier with a 24-inch screen that emphasizes ease of use with single-function controls. The HD camera provides superior image quality, a wider field of view, and a lower magnification range.
Market Price Estimate: $3000
Manufactuer: Freedom Scientific
A lightweight, sturdy electronic magnifier for 'close-up work' and distant viewing up to 40X magnification.
Market Price Estimate: $2700-3100 (depending on model)
Manufacturer: HumanWare
A large but portable video magnifier with a stand.
Market Price Estimate: $2500
Manufacturer: Optelec
Full featured hand-held electronic magnifier
Market Price Estimate: $845
Manufacturer: Eschenbach
Visolux Digital HD by Eschenbach
A lightweight handheld video magnifier with a 7" LCD screen
Market Price Estimate: $1300
Manufacturer: Eschenbach
Explore 8 Handheld Electronic Magnifier
Portable video magnifier with 8" screen
Market Price Estimate: $1,275
Manufacturer: HumanWare
High definition hand-held video magnifier with 7 inch screen.
Market Price Estimate: $987
Manufacturer: Optelec
i-loview 7 HD Portable Magnifier
A Handheld, portable video magnifier with a 7" screen
Market Price Estimate: $1,295
Manufacturer: Chris Park Design
Handheld video magnifier
Market Price Estimate: $695
Manufacturer: Eschenbach
Handheld magnifier.
Market Price Estimate: $656
Manufacturer: Enhanced Vision
Handheld magnifier.
Market Price Estimate: $700-$1000
Manufacturer: Freedom Scientific
Handheld magnifier (can magnify close or distant objects).
Market Price Estimate: $695
Manufacturer: GW Micro
Portable magnifier.
Market Price Estimate: about $3000
Manufacturer: Enhanced Vision
A wearable magnifier device placed over the user's eyes to magnify their environment. The device has 101 degree field of view that includes auto-focus and variable magnification up to 18 times. Nu Eyes 2+ is literally packed with features including OCR/Text-to-speech, a powerful 3-5 hour battery life, wireless and overall a very lightweight design.
Market Price Estimate: about $2200
Manufacturer: Enhanced Vision
