The new ZoomText Camera feature allows you to use any high-definition (HD) webcam to view and magnify printed items and other objects right on your computer screen—including bills, magazines, photographs, medicine labels, craft items and more. 

We did exhaustive research to find which webcam works the best with the feature – taking out all that hassle for you! 

Simple controls allow you to quickly zoom in and out, choose between full and high contrast colors, and switch between Full and Split screen views where you can see the camera image and your Windows desktop at the same time.  And by utilizing affordable and readily available HD webcams costing well under $100, the ZoomText Camera provides a low-cost and portable alternative to conventional CCTVs.

Key benefits and advantages

Affordable

• Utilizes webcams costing under $100
• Camera with camera stand packages available for under $150

Portable

• Lightweight and compact
• Easily fits in your backpack or laptop bag
• Requires no AC power source (USB powered) - can be used with laptops even when you’re away from wall power

HD video quality

• Magnified print and graphics are impressively clear and easy to read

Full-featured (has all essential CCTV features)

• Auto-focus
• Wide range of zoom levels
• Full screen and split-screen viewing
• Full color and high contrast two-color modes

  FAQs

  • How does the ZoomText Camera image quality compare to conventional CCTVs?

  When properly configured the ZoomText Camera feature displays impressive image quality that rivals many conventional CCTVs—even in low light conditions.  A properly configured setup includes the following:

  • Using an HD webcam with 1080p resolution
  • Positioning the camera lens approximately 4 inches from the object
  • Moderate even lighting over the object
    
    
  • Does the ZoomText Camera feature require a special camera? 

  No.  ZoomText Camera works with standard HD webcams that are readily available from most consumer electronics retailers (e.g. Best Buy, Staples).
  
  

  • What HD webcams do you recommend?

  While any HD webcam (1080p or 720p) will work, Ai Squared is currently recommending any HD webcam from Logitech or Microsoft, including the Logitech c910 and c615, and the Microsoft LifeCam Studio.  These recommendations will likely change as new webcams are introduced.

  
  Ai Squared’s current favorite is the Logitech c615 for the following reasons:

  • Affordably priced: $79 retail (US)
  • 1080p HD resolution
  • Autofocus lens that supports positioning as close as 10 centimeters
  • Full 360 degree swivel design allows for quick/easy adjustment of camera angle.
  • Tripod-ready—contains threaded base that can be attached to a camera stand.
    
    
  • Does the ZoomText Camera feature require special lighting?

  No.  The ZoomText Camera feature works very well in a regularly lit room.  Special lighting is only necessary when lighting is very low or when circumstances have created uneven lighting in the camera’s view.
  
  

  • Will Ai Squared offer HD webcams for sale?

  Yes.  Ai Squared will be reselling the Logitech c615 webcam for $79.
  
  

  • Will Ai Squared offer a camera stand for sale?
  Yes.  Ai Squared is reselling a flex arm camera stand for $79. We do offer a discount if you buy the camera and the stand together ($149 for the bundle).