Which device was designed for individual viewing of films?

Which device was designed for individual viewing of films?

• A. Cinematographe
• B. Kinetoscope
• C. Pinhole camera
• D. Projector

Answer: (B)

Single-person viewing of moving pictures was achieved by the kinetoscope. This cabinet-like device lets one person look through a small peephole to watch a short loop of film inside, so the experience is private rather than projected for a crowd. It was designed to be viewed by an individual at a time, unlike devices intended for audiences. In contrast, a projector is built to cast the film onto a screen for many viewers, and the Cinematographe served multiple roles (camera, printer, and projector) for group viewing. A pinhole camera is a simple still-image camera and isn’t used for watching films at all.

Single-person viewing of moving pictures was achieved by the kinetoscope. This cabinet-like device lets one person look through a small peephole to watch a short loop of film inside, so the experience is private rather than projected for a crowd. It was designed to be viewed by an individual at a time, unlike devices intended for audiences. In contrast, a projector is built to cast the film onto a screen for many viewers, and the Cinematographe served multiple roles (camera, printer, and projector) for group viewing. A pinhole camera is a simple still-image camera and isn’t used for watching films at all.