Overview

 

Technical

  FAQ
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  FAQ  
   
What is the difference between auto focus and adjustable focus?  
Does the Claris use LEDs or fiber optics for lighting?  
Is the Image the same when the sheath is on?  
Can I freeze an image with the Claris?  
Will the camera work with my existing software?  
If I don’t want to use a computer, how can I use the camera?  
Is the Claris wireless?  
Is it possible to print images?  
Is the Claris camera digital?  
How would the Claris improve my practice?  
Why should I buy the Claris?  
     
     
     

What is the difference between auto focus and adjustable focus?

 
The term “auto” focus is more of a marketing point. One is led to believe that there is an automatic mechanism that adjusts the focusing on the camera. However, this is not the case. All “auto” focus cameras are actually fixed focus cameras. What this means is that the focal range is fixed and the depth of field is set to cover a certain area, i.e. a single tooth to three teeth on a typical fixed focus camera. The majority of intraoral cameras come with an adjustable focus. The Claris camera is designed to provide the highest image quality in its price range. That is why it features an adjustable focus as well, which allows the user to vary the range to capture clear images as close as 1/2 molar, and as far as full face. On a typical fixed focus camera, the depth of field is set at a focal point that allows you to have a clear image from a single tooth to three teeth. Images in the outer limits of the range, such as the full face, full arch and smile images, are hazy. Also, with a fixed focus camera, you can never adjust the focal point. Thus, the overall range covered while still capturing a crisp image is significantly greater for an adjustable focus camera. The design concept behind the Claris Series was to provide the sharpest image available in the market. That is why it has an adjustable focus, or sometimes referred to as variable focus. With the Claris, the user can capture sharp, clear images in the half molar, as well as the full face, and everything in between. Also, Claris comes equipped with an easy-to-use ergonomic finger focus button that allows you to focus the image using only one hand.  
     

Does the Claris use LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) or fiber optics for lighting?

 
  In most cases, ambient and chair lighting is not enough to illuminate intraoral images. Thus, intraoral cameras have a light source either in the handpiece (LED based cameras) or in the docking station (fiber optics-halogen lamp based cameras) to illuminate the mouth and provide enough lighting for the image. A common problem with many LED cameras is that they tend to produce a bluish light that makes images look unnatural, especially in the mouth. However, the technology behind Claris was able to resolve this issue. Thus, the Claris camera provides a clear, natural look. Because the Claris operates on LEDs, the docking station is conveniently portable and can be installed in various manners without taking much space.  
     
Is the Image the same when the sheath is on?  
  Yes, you are able to capture the same quality image with the sheath on. Be sure the clear sheath covers the prism smoothly. Read the Sheath Installation procedures to learn the technique in achieving optimal clear images. We recommend using the sheaths only for intraoral use since they are not needed for extraoral images. However, if you insert the sheath properly, you will be able to achieve clear extraoral images as well. Learning the proper method takes some time and practice, but once you learn the technique, you can do it every time. Please contact Customer Support if you need assistance, and be sure to review your sheath installation instructions.  
     
Can I freeze an image with the Claris?
 
  Yes, you can capture images either with the handpiece button or through the use of a foot switch pedal. With the Claris i310F you can capture multiple images by utilizing the foot pedal switch.  
     
Will the camera work with my existing software?  
  Yes, the Claris will work with any practice management or imaging program that supports a video signal. In order to utilize the Claris on your computer, a video capture card needs to be installed, which allows for the computer to receive input from the Claris. An important detail to remember about intraoral cameras and software compatibility is that many dental practice management and imaging software companies will proclaim that only their camera will work with their software. However, this is not true. All intraoral cameras output a standard video signal that is universally compatible with video capture cards.You can simply install a video capture card that is compatible with your software, and plug in the intraoral camera you prefer. It is not necessary to purchase your software and camera from the same supplier in order to achieve a successful outcome.  
     
If I don’t want to use a computer, how can I use the camera?  
  You can use the Claris with any standard monitor. All you need to do is plug in the camera either through an S-Video input or a Video Composite input. We recommend using a 15-19 inch monitor, which is ideal for viewing Claris images. If you are looking for a monitor to purchase, you can contact Customer Support and we can recommend good monitors.  
     
Is the Claris wireless?  
  The Claris i310 has a wireless option. Please be aware that the quality of the image of the wireless version could vary due to environmental conditions. If an operatory has significant RF interference, then there will be degradation of the image quality. Potential sources of RF interference include cordless phones, other WLANs, and microwave ovens. However, in some operatories where the only feasible option is a wireless version, we have tested and implemented wireless Claris cameras. In certain cases, the wireless version provides the optimal solution and operates successfully.  
     
Is it possible to print images?  
  Yes, the Claris can be attached to a video printer directly for hard copy printing of images without the use of a computer. Or, if the Claris is networked to a computer, any acceptable quality inkjet or laser printer can be used to produce printed output.

However, if you need to print to a digital printer and do not have the Claris networked to a computer, we can recommend a device that allows you to store the Claris images so that you can transport them to the digital printer.

 
     
Is the Claris camera digital?  
  This is a commonly misused term in the intraoral camera industry. If you are referring to the Claris being able to operate with a computer, then the answer is yes. However, if you are referring to the video signal by which the camera operates, then the answer is no. Many manufacturers claim their cameras as being digital when they actually are not completely digital. None of the intraoral cameras on the market today are truly a digital device. The video technology used in intraoral cameras, called the CCD (Charged Coupled Device), is an analog signal that can be converted to a digital signal.  
     
How would the Claris improve my practice?  
  The Claris would provide you with a better and faster workflow, improved patient education, better disease detection, and overall, better integration with your practice management. Having the Claris would be an excellent marketing tool for the practice and would provide an efficient method of dealing with obtaining reimbursements from electronic claims submissions.  
     
Why should I buy the Claris?  
  Every dentist has special needs for intraoral cameras, and the Claris provides a practical solution for many of these needs. At its price point, it has the highest quality image available, comparable to many high end cameras. SOTA has been manufacturing intraoral cameras for 7 years, and has specialized in manufacturing and engineering optics and optical housings for 15 plus years. In making a decision for a camera, you should consider a few things. First, learn about the company that makes the camera. How long have they been in business? Will they be around to provide technical support and service in the future? SOTA has been in business over 15 years. Since our company’s founding, there have been close to forty intraoral camera companies that have started and failed. This leaves many dentists with “orphan cameras,” cameras that can no longer be serviced for maintenance since the manufacturers have closed down. Second, examine the camera closely. There are many details that are commonly overlooked by other camera companies. What is the quality of the components used? Does the camera look and feel well-engineered? What is the quality of the lenses in the camera? Lastly, it is important to consider the overall value. For the amount of features, durability of the camera, and the overall image quality, the Claris is a clear value.  
     
     
 
 
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