One of my friends just got a used optacon and she has never used one. I got it working and found a sample document to read but the pins only showed straight up and down lines. I haven't used an optacon for many years so I wondered if I can still learn to use it or if the one I tried isn't working correctly. I was able to adjust the intensity and threshold but the appearance of the machine looked odd it had wheels on it and I had to roll the dispay part oout of the main unit to read. I've never seen something like that before. I would like to help my friend learn but I don't know where to start. I've also considered getting an optacon but if all I can get is vague lines when I read I'm not sure it is worthwhile. I'm sure I could use it there was a flip chart at work yesterday which I could have tried to read. If anyone has any ideas on how to help me or my friend let me know. Also, where do I find the model number of the machine? Dan To unsubscribe at any time, just send a message to: optacon-l-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx with the word "unsubscribe" (without the quotes) in the message subject. Tell your friends about the list. They can subscribe by sending a message to: optacon-l-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx with the word "subscribe" (without the quotes) in the message subject.