> On the subject of reading a LED display, what about reading
> a mechanical display, namely the utility meters.  One my list
> of things to invent (now watch someone go out and do this :-(  )
> is a device to place over the meter face and take a reading, store
> to a database and then download to the main office computer.

I hate to rain on your parade, but there seems to be little point to your
idea.  You can already buy electronic untility meters with serial
interfaces.

Eric