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

SAN DIEGO, CA--(Marketwire - March 18, 2009) -

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Optelec US Inc.

ShopLowVision.com

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.
    

"Our goal at the CSUN Center on Disabilities conference is to demonstrate that through Optelec's new innovative technologies and education awareness, visual disabilities do not need to prevent someone from living an independent and active lifestyle," stated Takashi Yamashita, chief executive officer of Optelec US Inc.

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. In addition, an HD image quality provides four times the resolution and the Reon HQV image processing technology achieves smooth de-interlaced images to increase the user's reading time and pleasure by eliminating image fading and eye fatigue. Zero-button functionality, ergonomic and module design allow for easy integration into any home, school or office environment for multi-functional uses. MSRP: Range $2,095 - $3,695.

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.

Pricing & Availability

All Optelec products and accessories are available through Optelec's dealer and distribution networks. Call +1 (800) 335-7970 or visit www.optelec.com for more information.

About Optelec US Inc.

Optelec was founded in 1985 and is recognized as the worldwide market leader in providing innovative solutions for the blind, visually impaired and learning disabled. In January 2007, Tieman U.S., Holding Company to Optelec US Inc., spun off ShopLowVision.com (www.ShopLowVision.com) and LowVision.com (www.LowVision.com) as sister companies, providing the one-stop-shop for optical, non-optical and daily living aids, products, solutions and education for eye care professionals and consumers. Visit www.optelec.com for more information.