Before purchasing a new camera or using your existing camera, it is best to test your options to see which camera solution works best for you.
For a list of cameras tested and recommended by Lightning Grader, click Lightning Grader Camera Suggestions.
Why do certain cameras not work with Lightning Grader?
Most companies follow the computer hardware industry USB Video Compliance (UVC) standards. Similar standards exist for printers, monitors, mice, etc. However, some manufacturers do not, and choose to work only with their proprietary software.
Cameras Known to Work
"Web Cams"- All cameras marketed with the description "web cam" adhere to UVC standards and are viewable in Lightning Grader to date, but note that some low-budget or older models have been too low-quality (grainy, blurry, low-light-intolerant) to work properly. (Please check product reviews or physically test them before purchasing.)
AverMedia- Most newer Aver Document Cameras should work with updated drivers, as long as the camera has a USB connection. Also, some models produce a backward image until you install their AVer+ software.
Elmo MO-1- The only Elmo camera confirmed to work with Lightning Grader thus far is the MO-1and the TT-12iD. Elmo's website says that the TT-12i, MX-1, TX-1, and LX-1 areUVC compliant, so it should work, but no users have yet confirmed this. All other Elmo models at this time are assumedNOTto work with Lightning Grader. See "Elmo" in the "Cameras That DO NOT Work" section below for more information.
Hovercam (Newer Models)- Some older Hovercams produce an image that is too grainy to use for bubble sheet grading.
HueHD
iPevo-Most iPevos are confirmed to work with Lightning Grader.
Lumens Ladibug (All except the DC190 - see below)- Reported to work as long as the driver is up to date and you are plugged in via USB.
Mimeo -These cameras usually come with software which runs in the background and will not share the camera with Lightning Grader. The Mimio software must be exited to allow it to work. To do this, look in your System Tray (bottom right side of your screen), find the Mimio Studio icon (may be hidden under an up-arrow you have to click), right-click it, and choose "Exit."
Recordex Simplicity
Samsung Digital Presenter Series
Lightning Grader Camera List
Click HERE to view a list of cameras that have been tested and confirmed in house, as well as a list of cameras that probably work but have not been physically tested by Illuminate.
This is not an exhaustive list of all document cameras that work with Lightning Grader.
Next Steps
To learn more about camera scanning, visit Grade with Camera.