Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a visual data playback apparatus such as a video disc player whereby control is executed in response to input commands which are generated by scanning a printed code, e.g. bar code, on a document to produce code signals which are supplied to the control apparatus of the invention. Portions of the code are positioned close to respective sections of a printed document, so that a user can cause moving or still images relating to a document section to be produced on a monitor display, without the need for the user's eyes to move away from the document being read, e.g. to operate a separate control unit.