Harvy,

Although this device appears to be available to the market, it does not
seem to have gained too many followers.  The price is almost $3000 and
additional funds for accessories.  In addition, the company does not
provide any detailed information as to the operation of this device.
The basic information placed on their web site has been there for more
than a year.  I would hope that the company is willing to be more
forthcoming with information.  Without using the device in variety of
situations and divining its capabilities through personal use, I find it
hard to believe that a 4 MP camera is capable of taking a picture
of--say a printed page--and be able to define its resolution properly.
While the company's research may suggest it can be done,
carefully-controlled experiments with proper lighting and conditioning
with carefully-controlled material is not indicative of actual results.
Following threads on many informational related lists, I have not found
much useful information on this device.

I hope this meager info helps.  Let me know if you have any questions.
I have asked the company for more info and asked them to provide more
purchasing information.  I will keep this list apprised of any major
developments.

Pratik



Pratik Patel
Managing Director
CUNY Assistive Technology Services
the City University of New York
(718) 997-3775
[log in to unmask]



-----Original Message-----
From: VICUG-L: Visually Impaired Computer Users' Group List
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Harvey Boots
Sent: Monday, February 02, 2004 11:23 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Portable Print Reading Device


Is anyone familiar with or used the new portable print reading device,
P2RD (formerly known as Optacon).

The device is being sold by C.A.Technology, Inc (www.catechnology.net).

Harvey Boots


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