We demonstrated a need for a proper visualiser by starting with a webcam
cable-tied to an angle poise. A few sessions with this proved that it
was a useful tool for presentations discussing manuscripts, but also
that it was inadequate. It had a tendency to go wrong, turning the image
into a variety of colours, which rather undermined the presentation.

We looked at visualisers that the University had installed in lecture
theatres, and were extremely impressed by the quality of image they
produced, giving the ability to zoom in far enough to reveal individual
letters or the detail of engravings. However, most had fixed camera
heads and lights which would allow small items to be placed under the
camera, but not leaving enough room for a large book on a suitable
supporting cushion.

After reviewing what was available, we selected the Samsung SDP-850-DX.
This has a different design and a smaller (detachable) cold light source
which makes it much easier to vary how it is set up, allowing for larger
books on supports to be viewed. It can connect directly to a digital
projector (reducing the amount of equipment required to set it up) or
via a computer. There are two versions: we chose the one with an
additional USB port for extra connectivity, which makes it easier to
create digital movies with the visualiser.

If you are in a large institution that has an educational role you may
find that your organisation has specific suppliers for this type of
equipment, which may limit your choice to certain models but may also
mean a significant discount on the price, so it is worth checking with
colleagues who use audiovisual, IT or similar equipment.

- - - - -
# Richard Higgins
# Durham University Library
# Archives & Special Collections
# Palace Green
# Durham
# DH1 3RN
# E-Mail: [log in to unmask] 
-----Original Message-----
From: Archivists, conservators and records managers.
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Elizabeth Gow
Sent: 27 August 2008 16:54
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Advice wanted re. visualisers

Hello All

At the John Rylands Library we are considering acquiring a "visualiser"
(see http://www.projectors.co.uk/pcp/Visualiser.html) to project images
of items displayed in collections based seminars.

We would be interested to know the opinions or experiences of colleagues
who have used this type of equipment. Information about particular
brands (e.g. ELMO, Samsung, AVerVision) and about how the equipment is
used in practice would be particularly welcome.  

Please could you send replies to [log in to unmask], or post
to the list if you think others would be interested.

Many thanks and best wishes

Elizabeth Gow



Elizabeth Gow
Assistant Keeper (Manuscripts and Archives) The John Rylands University
Library The University of Manchester

[log in to unmask]
0161 275 3541