Optelec Offers New Solutions for the Visually Impaired and Low Vision User

SAN DIEGO (March 18, 2009) – Optelec US Inc., a world leader in innovative and life-changing assistive technologies for the visually impaired and blind, is revealing the FarView™, ClearView+ G2™ and ClearNote Portable™, which are three revolutionary electronic solutions that bring life back into focus for those living with low vision. All three products are currently on display, booth #323, at the 24th Annual International Technology and Persons with Disabilities conference, sponsored by California State University Northridge's (CSUN) Center on Disabilities, March 18 – 21, 2009, Los Angeles Airport Marriott.

The Optelec low vision solutions continue to improve the quality of life for every user, from the student unable to see the whiteboard to the business executive who struggles to view the color contrast on an important document. Below are two life stories of how Optelec’s technology is changing lives:

• Ali Reshamwalla, a 72 year old with only 5 percent of his eye sight remaining after a tragic car accident, is an active member of the Southern California community through his Saddleback Memorial Hospital volunteer work and training at the Braille Institute and Irvine Valley College. Optelec keeps him involved as he enjoys reading and taking classes daily.
• Amy Bower developed macular degeneration at an early age of 24. Now 41 years old, she uses Optelec at work as a research scientist in physical oceanography.
  

• Below is a glimpse at the electronic low vision products available for demonstration at the conference.
  

Optelec FarView – A powerful and portable magnification solution designed for the active lifestyle that redefines how low vision users are able to access, store, review, and share information in an ultra compact and stylish design. For real-time distance or close-up viewing, use the FarView on the go. The innovative capabilities of the built-in auto focus camera, zoom-in functionality, scrolling and auto-return allow the user to bring the environment within the scope of vision or preferred retinal locus (PRL) for best visual acuity. MSRP: $1,495.

Optelec ClearView+ G2 – A desktop electronic video magnifier (CCTV) that sets a new standard for low vision desktop reading machines and allows the user to read and write with magnified and illuminated viewing assistance. The ClearView+ G2’s five-directional Ultra Flexible TFT Arm with 90 degree rotating screen and pull flexibility make it easy to maneuver for the low vision user.

Optelec ClearNote Portable – A small and lightweight portable USB video magnifier that combines distance, document or self-viewing modes. This unit is convenient for on-the-go students and working professionals with low vision. Simply connect the ClearNote Portable to any desktop or laptop computer via the USB port and activate the Always-In-Focus™ technology and ultra-flexible camera head to ensure crisp clear contrasts on every image. MSRP: $2,495.