Using a direct image or a picture, the system was capable of identifying a species. Though it was capable of using drawings, it would be less accurate. It would give the species' name, planet of origin and other important information. It could connect to the TARDIS to print out the information, or be carried by the user to give information on a mirror screen. It also had the ability to recognise the Doctor, even if he had regenerated, as it printed pictures of the First Doctor and Second Doctor. Presumably, the other past nine lives and maybe even future ones might have been shown if the Doctor had waited long enough. If the identification was incorrect, it would respond to oral instructions to reassess. (TV: Vincent and the Doctor)