Hi, Christina,
You will face a learning curve with the machine, but definitely worth it in the
long-run.
Originally, 50 hours' training was recommended for new optacon users.
The muscle memory will kick in after a while, as you learn to track in a
straight line, at first it will feel very different, with the display tickling
your finger, and the inability to focus the camera, but this will go away.
Among learning tools, there was a neoprene pad on which to place your book or
paper, so as not to slide around. I bought a large gamers' mouse pad on Amazon
that serves the same purpose.
Another item in the training materials was a clipboard-type device that had a
hinged piece that would hold the camera to help you learn to track in a
straight line.
There were also various sheets with raised letters and numbers.
The first thing I did was to buy a paperback I wanted to read, which motivated
me to practice.
I didn't get the full 50 hours training, but have kept up with the optacon
regularly.
I would go on to blindads list and see if anyone is willing to part with
training materials.
Welcome to the list, and so glad you are finally getting the optacon.
BTW, I did forget to add, I did not use mine so much with our daughters as they
were growing up, but found that teachers were always willing to lend a hand
where needed. I had envisioned needing to check their penmanship at the
beginning, but they managed to develop that on their own, and our eldest
daughter does beautifully. Our younger daughter's is definitely legible, but
not as "pretty." They know to print if I am to read anything of theirs with an
optacon.
Judy
-----Original Message-----
From: optacon-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx <optacon-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> On Behalf
Of Christina V.
Sent: Monday, January 25, 2021 8:26 AM
To: optacon-l@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [optacon-l] Help Needed - New Optacon User
Hello, all. I'm new to this list, and joined a few weeks ago.
. I've wanted an Optacon for 25 years or more. I'm thrilled to say that I've
found one, and am waiting for the package to arrive!
However, I've only seen an Optacon once, don't remember it in detail, and have
had no training on how to use it. Are there any manuals, or is there any other
reading I can do to prepare? I would really appreciate some tips.
I am totally blind, btw. I know what print looks like. I understand there's so
much variation in how letters appear, though, so it will be interesting to see
that for myself.
I finally began to look for one recently, because my children are of an age to
begin to learn to read, and I'm struggling to teach them, without direct access
to books and charts and such things that aren't scanning very well, in
Openbook. But that aside, it will just be a joy to be able to read print, for
myself, although I imagine it may be too slow going for lengthy reading of
books, but I'll try.
How long does the Optacon take to charge its battery? I don't want to damage
it, the first day! Is there any way of knowing when it is fully charged?
I'm open to communication off list or by phone, as well, if that is easier.
Thanks for any help!
Christina V.
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