Freedom Scientific Releases the Opal Ultra-Portable Video Magnifier
Published: Jun 23, 2007
The Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) annual conference in Orlando witnessed the announcement of the new OPAL ultra-portable video magnifier. An ideal companion to the TOPAZ line of desktop video magnifiers announced in December 2005, this new product offers power-packed features for low-vision users.
The OPAL contains a small camera and displays finished images on a brightly lit four-inch screen. Firmly resting on the document, the unit can be worked to attain magnification levels of 3x to 6.4x with a sliding fingertip. As a highly portable unit, the magnifier can be slipped into a coat pocket or a purse when not in use. The OPAL can be used for a variety of needs, like verifying a prescription at the pharmacy, reading the menu at a restaurant or filling out a check at the bank.
The OPAL features simple and ergonomic controls that can be operated using minimum effort and with great comfort. A single button can switch between seven different viewing modes – indoor and outdoor full color mode and the five contrast modes for reading text. A major advantage of the OPAL is the ability to connect to electronic devices like TV and computer. The larger screen is able to take advantage of additional magnification. Brad Davis, vice president of Freedom Scientific, recently confirmed that the product is Freedom Scientifics’ commitment to bring out the most complete line of technology for the visually impaired. The OPAL is priced at $795 USD.
Source: Freedom Scientific
