Monoculars explained. A superb low vision tool for viewing objects at a distance. What are they and how do they work?
The image a shows a young gentleman holding a monocular up to his eye.
Magnification
Enhanced Detail Recognition: Monoculars provide magnification, which helps people with low vision see details that they might otherwise miss. This can be especially useful for activities like reading text from a distance, recognizing faces, or seeing signs and notices.
Adjustable Zoom: Many monoculars offer adjustable zoom levels, allowing users to customise the magnification based on their specific needs and the distance of the object they are viewing.
Portability
Compact and Lightweight: Monoculars are generally smaller and lighter than binoculars, making them easy to carry around. This portability is crucial for individuals who need visual aids in various settings, such as when traveling, shopping, or attending events.
Versatility
Single-Eye Use: Monoculars are designed for use with one eye, which can be advantageous for people who have significantly different vision levels in each eye or for those who have lost vision in one eye.
Ease of Use: They are typically easier to handle and focus than binoculars, making them user-friendly for individuals with dexterity issues or limited hand strength.
Practical Applications
Reading and Writing: Monoculars can help in reading blackboards, whiteboards, or presentation screens in classrooms or meeting rooms.
Navigating Environments: They assist in identifying landmarks, street signs, bus numbers, and other important environmental cues, enhancing independence and mobility.
Cost-Effective Solution
Affordable Option: Compared to other low vision aids like electronic magnifiers, monoculars are relatively affordable, making them accessible to a broader range of users.
Overall, the combination of magnification, portability, versatility, and ease of use makes monoculars a valuable tool for individuals with low vision, helping them to perform daily activities more independently and with greater confidence.
The numbers explained:
The first number, in this case 8, is the magnification level.
The second number, in this case 20, is the lens diameter, so 20mm.
The third number, 7.2 is the field of view in degrees, you will find the stronger the magnification, the less view of view you get.