Technology Resource List
Table of Contents
Print Reading Hardware and Software
Communication Devices for the Deaf-Blind
Miscellaneous Software and Devices
Screen Access and Low Vision Programs for Windows, Apple and Mobile Devices
Vending Stand and Retail Sales Equipment
Reference Materials
Technology Magazines for the Blind
Tutorials
Other Materials
Companies
List of Major CCTV Manufacturers
INTRODUCTION
The National Federation of the Blind brings this Technology Resource List to you. Through our International Braille and Technology Center for the Blind (IBTC), we are constantly gathering information about Braille and speech technology. This list is our way of sharing some of that information. It is advisable to purchase extended warranties and/or maintenance agreements for this specialized equipment. Most products are returned to a repair facility or the original manufacturer for repair. When it becomes necessary to service the large Braille embossers, a repair technician may need to come to your site. These repairs can be very costly, making the cost of extended warranties and maintenance agreements a good investment.
We have made every effort to list products and services that are accessible and usable by the blind.
Disclaimer: Note that prices listed are subject to change. Please contact the manufacturer or dealer for the latest pricing information.
We plan to update our Web-site version of this Technology Resource List from time to time as new information becomes available. The print and Braille editions will be updated annually.
We should say a few words about our International Braille and Technology Center (IBTC) for the Blind. The IBTC was established by the National Federation of the Blind in 1990 as a demonstration center for computer technology used by the blind in the United States. It provides free tours, hands-on demonstrations and comparisons, evaluations, and consultations by telephone, letter, and electronic mail. You can contact the IBTC by calling 410-659-9314, choosing option 5 and leaving a message. Please contact us for an appointment. We welcome all visitors during regular office hours.
The National Federation of the Blind offers resources via Internet. Simply point your browser to http://www.nfbnet.org/ and avail yourself of the rich variety of mailing lists, files, and other services available.
As a general resource on blindness, we encourage you to peruse the Web site of the National Federation of the Blind: http://www.nfb.org/. This site’s depth and breadth of information has been of tremendous value to blind people throughout the world.
For more news about access technology, you can visit the Access Technology Blog and the Access Technology Tips .BRAILLE NOTE TAKERS
Braille notetakers are mobile information management systems, and these devices use either a Braille or QWERTY keyboard for input and voice and/or refreshable Braille for output. Notetakers can be connected to other storage media such as floppy disc drives, compact flash cards, USB memory sticks, and SD (secure digital) cards to expand onboard memory storage capacity. They can be connected to desktop or laptop computers so that information can be transferred between devices.
Braille Plus: This handheld, personal digital assistant boasts an 80GB hard drive, wireless Internet, Bluetooth, stereo speakers, a built-in microphone, and a Mini Secure Digital storage slot. By using the telephone-style interface, the user can access an address book, music, digital books (including those from Audible, Bookshare.org, NFB Newsline and the National Library Service for the Blind), a word processor, a calculator, a stopwatch, the Internet, RSS feeds and podcasts, and more. The Braille Plus includes a set of Perkins-style Braille input keys for rapid text entry. A portable docking station with a QWERTY keyboard, USB host and client ports, and ethernet connectivity is also available. American Printing House for the Blind. Price: $1,395; optional QWERTY Docking Station: $600.
BrailleNote Apex: Building on the success of previous BrailleNote products, the Apex slims down its form factor, while still packing in many features for mobile productivity. The BrailleNote Apex comes with a 32- or 18-cell Braille display and either a QWERTY or 8-dot Braille keyboard. The Apex is powered by the KeySoft operating system, and its application suite will provide a word processor, calendar, address list, book reader, media player, web browser, e-mail client, database manager, scientific calculator, and more. The device features 8GB of internal memory, 3 USB host ports (for connecting to other devices including USB flash drives), a USB client port (for connection and data transfer between a PC), built-in Wireless networking (802.11B/G), Bluetooth, 10/100 Ethernet port, and a Secure Digital storage card slot; the unit also has a user-replaceable battery. Apex can be configured as a speech synthesizer or Braille display to support a screen access product on a computer. Optional add-ons are available including GPS solutions, a dictionary, and Nemeth Tutor. HumanWare. Price (Braille and QWERTY keyboards): 18-cell, $4,395; 32-cell $6,195.
BrailleNote mPower: The BrailleNote mPower includes a media player, 128 MB of internal memory, Compact Flash and Secure Digital card reader, USB ports, and built-in Bluetooth capability. Available with an 18-cell Braille display with either a QWERTY or Braille keyboard. Battery-life is approximately 20 hours. This device runs the Windows CE operating system and provides numerous functions such as a word processor, scientific calculator, appointment planner, address list, Internet access, and the ability to use POP3 e-mail. Built-in connectivity options include an internal modem, a PCMCIA slot, a serial port, a parallel port, a Compact Flash slot, and an infrared port as well as an optional SuperDisk drive and optional GPS system. The BrailleNote mPower can function as an external speech synthesizer or a refreshable Braille display when connected to a computer running appropriate screen access software. HumanWare. Price (either keyboard): 18 cells only, $4,395.
BrailleNote PK: The BrailleNote PK functions as a mobile information system for blind users that gives one the user interface of the KeySoft system common to the BrailleNote family, and the convenience and portability of a PDA. Weighing under one pound, it ships with an 18-cell Braille display plus speech, a media player, wireless Internet browsing capability, and can connect to other devices via Bluetooth or wireless access. It can be used to synchronize files, e-mails, contacts, and calendar with the PC. HumanWare. Price: $4,995.
Braille Sense Plus: The newest addition to the Braille Sense line, this Notetaker is based on Windows CE technology. Hardware includes a 32-cell Braille display, 8-dot Braille or QWERTY keyboard, Compact Flash, 8GB internal memory (enough to store the entire SenseNav map database) USB, Ethernet, parallel, serial, and infrared ports. There is a built-in small LCD display that shows what is being written on the device. Software includes file management, word processor, scheduler, e-mail, media player, digital audio recorder, Internet browser, DAISY player, and scientific calculator. The Braille Sense has a removable battery pack and does not require the return of the product for battery replacement. Manufactured by HIMS of Korea and distributed and supported in the U.S. by GW Micro, Inc. Price (Braille or QWERTY keyboard): $5,995.
EasyLink Pocket PC: This device uses an off-the-shelf Portable Data Assistant with optional Bluetooth Braille or QWERTY keyboard. Features include document editing with Easy Word and a basic calculator. The user can synchronize with a laptop or desktop computer to read e-mail, and to manage calendar and contacts. Using the DECTalk software synthesizer, one can customize voice and verbosity settings. Manufactured by Optelec; distributed in the United States by VisionCue. Price without Braille display: $495; with Braille display: $1,995.
Maestro: A portable data assistant, it uses a tactile membrane and speech output to allow the user to interact with the device. The user can input data using uncontracted or contracted Braille. Contracted Braille is translated seamlessly to uncontracted in all applications except for text notes. When using text notes, a translator is provided to translate from text to Braille, and Braille to text. Applications include the Victor DAISY player, voice recorder, notetaking application, calendar and contacts, e-mail, and a Web browser. The Maestro can be synchronized with a PC computer. Optional accessories include infrared or Bluetooth Braille or QWERTY keyboard, and Trekker for a GPS solution. HumanWare. Price: Maestro, (without Braille keyboard) $1,295; Maestro with Braille Keyboard, $1,695; Trekker Option (without Maestro Features) $1,695; Maestro Trekker Pro combination, (without Braille keyboard, $1,995; with Braille keyboard, $2,395).
PAC Mate Omni: Two models are available as of this publication, the BX400 model with a Braille-style keyboard and QX400 with a QWERTY-style keyboard. A 20-cell or 40-cell Braille display can be purchased with either unit or added later. This handheld computer provides access to everyday Windows-based desktop data and the Internet (if the user has an Internet service provider). It uses a modified version of JAWS for pocket PC. The base unit comes with a carrying case and an AC adapter. For an additional charge, modems are available, including a 56K modem or an Ethernet card modem. Office 2007 file types including Word 2007 and Excel 2007 are now supported. Users can read PowerPoint presentations, but they cannot be edited. Both the BX400 Omni and QX400 Omni are now equipped with 128 MB of internal flash so no data is lost if the battery runs flat. The battery will last over 20 hours. Freedom Scientific. Price: Models BX400 and QX400 without Braille display, $2,395. BX420, QX420 with removable 20-cell Braille display, $3,795; BX440, QX440 with removable 40-cell Braille display, $5,595; 56K CF Modem card, $155.10; MPS Ethernet Card, $155. Optional applications include: FSTTY Deaf-Blind Solution, $1,200; StreetTalk GPS Solution, $599; FSReader for PAC Mate, DAISY Reader solution, Free; ScanTalker bar code scanning application $550, including barcode scanner $985. Owners of existing PAC Mate units can upgrade to the Omni for $699 without maintenance agreements and less if the user has a hardware or software maintenance agreement.
Levelstar Icon: This handheld personal digital assistant boasts an 80GB hard drive, wireless Internet, Bluetooth, stereo speakers, a built-in microphone, and a Mini Secure Digital storage slot. By using the telephone-style interface the user can access an address book, music, digital books (including those from Audible, Bookshare.org, NFB Newsline and the National Library Service for the Blind), a word processor, a calculator, a stopwatch, the Internet, RSS feeds and podcasts, and more. Levelstar. Price: $1,395; optional QWERTY Keyboard Docking Station: $600.
VoiceNote mPower BT or VoiceNote mPower QT: Based on BrailleNote mPower technology, the VoiceNote is a speech-only notetaker. One version uses a Braille keyboard, and the other uses a computer-style keyboard. It can function as an external speech synthesizer when connected to a computer running appropriate screen access software. HumanWare. Price: Braille or QWERTY keyboard, $1,995.
Voice Sense: This notetaker is based on Windows CE technology. Hardware includes Compact Flash and Secure Digital storage slots, stereo speakers, microphone, headphone and external microphone jacks, USB 2.0 connections, wireless networking (802.11B/G), Bluetooth, and an FM Radio receiver. Software includes file management, a word processor, a scheduler, e-mail, a media player, a digital audio recorder, an Internet browser, a DAISY player, and a scientific calculator. The Voice Sense has a removable battery pack and does not require the return of the product for battery replacement. Manufactured by HIMS of Korea and distributed and supported in the U.S. by GW Micro, Inc. Price: $2,395.
BRAILLE EMBOSSERS
These embossers have the ability to produce Braille on small single-page documents up to large magazine- and book-style production documents. In order to produce Braille, you must have Braille translation software to convert an electronic document into Braille before the document can be embossed.
Note: Printing speeds, given as characters per second (CPS), are as reported by the manufacturers.
Note: New Enabling Technologies Company Braille embossers are equipped with USB and parallel connectors. Those who have an older model may purchase a USB to serial or USB to parallel adapter available from many electronics stores.
Bookmaker Braille Printer (also called Braille Bookmaker): This is a 50-pound portable or desktop 80 CPS interpoint Braille printer with built-in ET Speaks speech synthesizer, and a 512K-text buffer. The menus are spoken, and the printer can be used as an external speech synthesizer. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: $9,995.
Braille Express: This printer is available in two speeds: 100 CPS or 150 CPS. Weighing 50 pounds, the Braille Express is an interpoint Braille printer similar in design to the Braille Bookmaker. The Braille Express is shipped with ET Speaks speech included. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: 100 CPS, $11,995; 150 CPS, $16,995.
BraillePlace: This is the fastest Braille embosser made by Enabling Technologies. Rated by the vendor at nearly 300 CPS for a 45-character line of standard Braille, this interpoint Braille embosser is designed to be a rugged, high-capacity embosser. Serial and parallel connections to the computer are supported, and speech is built in. The BraillePlace can produce Braille of varying sizes from jumbo Braille to petite, and it can generate regular and high resolution Braille graphics. It requires a 220/240-volt electric line for power. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: $42,995.
Braillo: Braillo interpoint printers emboss from 200 CPS to 400 CPS, depending on the model selected. Four models are available: the Braillo 200, the Braillo 400S, the Braillo 400SR, and the Braillo 440SW. Models 200 and 400S are tractor-feed printers; models 400SR and 440SW print on a continuous roll of paper. The Braillo 200 embosses at 200 CPS, and the Braillo 400S, 400SR, and 440SW emboss at 400 CPS. Manufactured by Braillo Norway and distributed by the American Thermoform Corporation. Price: Braillo 200, $45,495; Braillo 400S, $94,495; Braillo 400SR, $104,245; and Braillo 440SW, $115,495.
4 Wave Professional: This production Braille embosser prints at 300 CPS. Weighing 339 pounds, this embosser uses four individual module units to emboss single- or double-sided Braille on continuous tractor-feed paper. It has Braille and print labels on the front panel, plus speech output. It connects to the PC via USB, TCPIP, or parallel ports. Index Braille. Price: $31,450.
ET Braille Printer: This interpoint embosser is rated at 60 CPS. It has low- and high-resolution graphics, weighs 51 pounds, and has a portable desktop case. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: $3,995.
Gemini Print & Braille Embosser: The Gemini Print and Braille Embosser is a very quiet single-sided embosser producing print with Braille in one simultaneous pass. The Gemini uses Braille tractor paper, and you can choose regular print or large print with Braille, or Braille alone. The Braille embossing speed is 32 CPS. The maximum Braille line length is 32 characters. Printing is done with a 24-by-24 dot matrix printer that can print a maximum of 92 print characters (at 10 CPI) per line. Manufactured by Nippon Telesoft, Co., Ltd. (Japan). Sold in the U.S. by Enabling Technologies Company. Price: $10,895.
Index Basic D: This compact interpoint embosser uses tractor-feed paper and prints at an approximate speed of 120 CPS or 340 pages per hour. This embosser has the ability to switch between interpoint and single-sided embossing at the touch of a button. It has Braille and print labels on the front panel, plus speech output, Ethernet, USB, serial and parallel ports. An optional desktop sound enclosure cabinet is available for an additional cost. Index Braille. Price: $3,150; Sound Enclosure Cabinet: $685.
Index Everest: This sturdy 30-pound desktop model is a high speed, 340 pages per hour, 91 CPS, interpoint Braille embosser for normal cut-sheet paper. It has a Braille- and print-labeled front panel, speech feedback, a 512K-text buffer, and two options for cabinets to cut down on the noise of embossing Braille. Index Braille. Price: $4,070; basic acoustic cabinet, $1,270; sound-deadening acoustic hood, $983.
Index 4x4 PRO: The Index 4x4 PRO is a heavy-duty production interpoint Braille embosser for magazines or books in saddle-stitch binding format. Depending on the paper size, this printer can create material with a page size of 8½ by 11 or 11 by 11½ inches. It automatically reformats text into a magazine format and holds up to 200 Braille pages in memory. This embosser can use ordinary card stock paper. It comes with its own sound enclosure. Index Braille. Price: $4,675.
Interpoint 55: Rated at 800 CPS, this interpoint high-speed embosser prints on a continuous roll of paper. It can also print sideways in magazine-style with double pages. N.V. Interpoint of Belgium. Price: $102,350 (includes: transportation, insurance, startup, and instruction of operators), valid for US customers only.
Juliet Classic Braille Printer: This is an interpoint embosser weighing 51 pounds in a desktop case. It is rated at 55 CPS when set for 56 characters per line (CPL) or 42 CPS when set at 42 CPL (a standard setting for Braille paper). Enabling Technologies Company. Price: $3,995.
Juliet Pro Braille Printer and Juliet Pro 60: The Juliet Pro prints at 55 CPS when using 56 CPL or 42 CPS at the standard Braille page line length of 42 CPL. The Juliet Pro 60 can print at 60 CPS when set to 40 CPL. Both printers are interpoint, weigh 51 pounds, have low- and high-resolution graphics capability, a desktop case, single-sheet or tractor-feed capability, and ET Speaks speech system (speaking printer settings as you enter them). The Juliet Pro can print on wider paper (56 CPL), whereas the Juliet Pro 60 cannot. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: both models, $4,495.
Marathon Brailler: High-speed, 200 CPS, single-sided Braille embosser. The Marathon Brailler weighs 75 pounds and has its own aluminum case. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: $16,995.
Paragon Braille Embosser: This single-sided tractor-feed Braille embosser prints 40 CPS and can accommodate a variety of paper sizes and weights. HumanWare. Price: $3,495; Contact HumanWare or your reseller for pricing and availability.
Romeo Attaché and Attaché Pro: Both small single-sided printers print at 15 CPS on 8.5 by 11 inch paper. The printers weigh less than 17 pounds, and can be carried in an optional carrying case. Three different computer connections are available: Centronics parallel, serial, and USB. The Pro version includes single-sheet tractors and the ET Speaks speech system. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: Romeo Attaché, $1,995; Attaché Pro, $2,195; optional carrying case, $94.95.
Romeo Braille Printers RB25 and Pro 50: Rugged single-sided Braille embossers that print at 25 CPS and 50 CPS, respectively, weigh 32 pounds, and have a hard plastic carry case. The Romeo Pro 50 includes single-sheet tractors and the ET Speaks speech system. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: RB25, $2,495; Pro 50, $2,995.
Romeo Pro-LE: Based on the Romeo Pro 50, this single-sided 32-pound embosser is designed to handle the special requirements for the Library of Congress National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped labels for the digital cartridges and mailing containers. There are two versions listed on the Enabling Technologies web site, a 40-cell and a 24-cell version. It is highly recommended by both the manufacturer and the technology staff, to purchase the 40-cell version. This version handles up to 11 by 11 and ½ inch paper size, and can be used for regular Braille production as well. Tractor-fed plastic embossables, standard Braille paper, and single sheet tractors are accommodated. Special firmware works with the Duxbury Braille Translator to produce Braille dots of various sizes to accommodate many labeling needs, as well as standard Braille. Brailles up to 50 CPS, depending on the dot size selected. Operates with either USB, Parallel, or serial connections to a computer. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: $3,995 for both versions.
Thomas Braille Printer: This 51-pound, single-sided, 40 CPS desktop printer is physically designed like the Juliet line of Braille embossers and comes with a desktop-style case. The Thomas Pro has the same design and is equipped with ET Speaks and single-sheet tractors. Enabling Technologies Company. Price: Thomas Braille Printer, $3,495; Pro, $3,795.
OTHER BRAILLE WRITING DEVICES
The following devices are for manual Braille input entry for producing Braille onto paper or for direct Braille input into a computer.
Jot a Dot: The Jot a Dot is a portable Braille writing device used for taking quick notes on custom paper. The unit is very small and can be worn around the neck. The user can see what has been Brailled without removing the paper from the unit. Paper is rolled in the unit similar to a Perkins Braille Writer. Manufactured by Quantum Technologies, distributed in the United States by HumanWare. Price: $345.
Mountbatten Brailler Pro: This device can be used as a notetaker, Braille embosser, or electronic Braillewriter. Powered by a battery or by AC, the user can have optional forward and reverse translators (print to Braille or Braille to print) installed, and it can be connected to a standard computer keyboard. Users of the Perkins Brailler will find that this device generates Braille in a confusing way since it will punch each Braille dot separately. Manufactured by Quantum Technologies, distributed in the United States by HumanWare. Price: $3,995.
Perkins Braille Writer: This is the standard manual Braille typewriter with six keys and a space bar, plus backspace key and line space key. It has a rugged durable metal case and is designed for use over a long period of time. It takes up 15 inches of space, accommodates up to 11½-inch-wide paper, and includes margin stops and a bell to alert the user when the end of a line is reached. The Next Generation model uses 8 ½ inch wide paper and is significantly lighter, with high contrast keys. The case is hard plastic with some metal elements. An electric model, which, according to the manufacturer, is available only in the United States, may be purchased for an additional cost. Accessories sold include a dust cover, several carrying cases, and key extensions for one-handed use. A Light Touch manual Braillewriter is a mechanical model that requires 40 percent less pressure on the keys. Perkins Products/Howe Press/Perkins School for the Blind. Price: Standard model, $690; Light Touch Model, $690; Electric/Blue Model, $970; Next Generation, $650.
KGS BL-1000: This is a tabletop electronic Braille labeler that interfaces with a Windows-based computer via USB or RS-232 Serial connection. The labeling tape is standard width, but you must use tape especially produced for this device. The unit ships with 1 extra roll of tape, an AC power adapter, software CD, as well as Serial and USB connectivity cables. Contracted, uncontracted, and computer Braille can be produced using the label printing utility that comes on the software CD, or you can integrate the system with Duxbury Braille Translator. KGS Corporation, sold in the United States by Enabling Technologies Company. Price: BL-1000 $1,095, extra roll of labeling tape: $15.
REFRESHABLE BRAILLE DISPLAYS
A refreshable Braille display is a device that produces Braille dot patterns by electronically raising or lowering pins to display information printed on a computer screen. In order to take advantage of the features of a refreshable Braille display, one must have a screen access software application installed on a computer. Be sure that the screen access software supports the refreshable Braille display.
Alva BC640: This 40-cell refreshable Braille display has an integrated Braille input keyboard for text editing and speakers for audio or speech synthesizer output. Similarly to all of the Alva Braille displays, there are 40 cursor routing buttons located directly above each Braille cell. The display is both Bluetooth and USB compatible. The Alva BC640 runs on battery or it can draw power from the power supply included with the purchase. Alva BC640 provides users with the ability to access applications on the computer wirelessly without using a regular QWERTY keyboard when equipped with an extra purchase Braille Audio Feature Pack. Speech output from a screen access software and audio from media files from the computer can be heard through the speakers on the unit itself thus eliminating the need to have additional computer speakers. Users can perform text editing using contracted Braille via the Braille keyboard located on the unit. VisionCue, LLC Prices: Display without the Braille Audio Feature Pack, $4,795; display with the Braille Audio Feature Pack $5,495.
ALVA Satellite: There are two models of this refreshable Braille display: the Satellite Traveler 544 (with a 40-cell display); and the Satellite 584 Pro (with an 84-cell Braille display). All models have an ergonomic design, twin satellite keypads flanking the Braille cell array for direct control of speech and Windows functions, USB and serial ports, double-touch sensors, user-definable status cells, an internal power supply, and a fitted case. The Satellite 544 Traveler can operate using either its external power supply or through the USB port, which provides power to the unit for portability. Screen access software is required for proper operation of these displays. VisionCue, LLC. Prices: Satellite Traveler 544, $5,195; Satellite 584 Pro, $9,995.
Braille Star 40 and Braille Star 80: A 40-cell or 80-cell portable refreshable Braille display that can be used as a notetaker or in conjunction with a computer through a USB or serial cable connection. Text information can be stored in the unit or transferred to a computer. Handy Tech Braille displays have a unique concave-shaped display, which is curved inward so that fingers rest at a slight angle for reading. Navigation buttons are located to the left and right sides of the display and routing switches are above each cell. Below the Braille display on both models are additional keys for navigation and input. The Braille Star 80 has a 16-button keypad on the right side. The user may assign additional functions to these keys. A carrying case is provided. The Braille Star 40 operates approximately 20 hours on four user-replaceable batteries or AC power. Handy Tech North America. Price: 40 cells, $5,990; with Bluetooth $6,390; 80 cells, $10,990.
Braille Wave: This is a portable 40-cell refreshable Braille display that can be used either connected to a computer through either a serial cable or Bluetooth. Braille Wave can also be used separately as a Braille notetaker. Status cells can be turned on and off. Notes can be written using the Braille keyboard and stored in the unit or transferred to a computer. Handy Tech Braille displays have a unique concave-shaped display, which is curved inward so that fingers rest at a slight angle for reading. Navigation buttons are located to the left and right sides of the Braille display, and routing switches are above each cell. A leather carrying case is provided. Operates on built-in rechargeable batteries or AC power. This Braille display is primarily designed to be used with a computer; the portable notetaking feature is an additional convenience. Manufactured by Handy Tech and distributed in the United States by Handy Tech North America. Price: $5,290; with Bluetooth, $5,690.
Brailliant: This lightweight portable Braille display connects via USB and has Bluetooth capability. It can be charged through the AC power adaptor or through the USB connection to a computer. There are three vertical navigation buttons on both sides of the unit and cursor routing buttons above each cell. Model numbers denote the number of Braille cells. HumanWare. Price: Brailliant 24, $2,795; Brailliant 32, $3,795; Brailliant 40, $4,795; Brailliant 64, $7,295; Brailliant 80, $8,995.
BrailleConnect: This lightweight portable Braille display connects via USB, and has Bluetooth capability. It can be charged through the AC power adaptor, or through the USB connection to a computer. There are three vertical navigation buttons on both sides of the unit, and cursor routing buttons above each cell. The difference between the Brailliant and the BrailleConnect is that the BrailleConnect has an eight-dot Perkins-style Braille keyboard on the top of the unit for data input. At this time, computer Braille must be used. HumanWare. Price: BrailleConnect 12, $1,995; BrailleConnect 32 $3,995; BrailleConnect 40, $4,995.
Braillino: This display is similar to the Braille Star, but is smaller in size with 20 concave style Braille cells. As with other Handy Tech displays, the Braille cells are tilted slightly forward for an ergonomic design. This Braille display will interface with many smart phones, PDAs, and cell phones operating under the Symbian operating system. It has Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. It has user-replaceable batteries and a USB port. Braillino has a calendar/clock, file editor, calculator, and notes may be stored in the unit. Handy Tech North America. Price: $3,990.
Easy Braille: This is a small portable Handy Tech Braille display with 40 Braille cells. The Easy Braille comes in three configurations; the Easy Braille with USB connectivity, Easy Braille with Bluetooth connectivity, and the Easy Braille with Human Interface Device support (HID). The Human Interface Device firmware provides plug and play support for the Easy Braille. When connected to a computer, the HID-Easy Braille will be detected automatically and start to function right away. Using wireless connectivity, the unit can work with a PC at a distance of approximately 30 feet. It uses standard AAA batteries and comes with an AC power adapter. Available from Handy Tech North America. Price: with Bluetooth, $4,995; with USB connectivity only $4,490; with HID support $4,990 (plus $45 shipping).
Focus Braille Displays: These displays come in three different models: 40 cells, 80 cells and the Focus 40 Blue. They work with screen access programs such as JAWS for Windows and VoiceOver for Mac. The built-in Whiz Wheels provide a unique way of navigating through a document. Its slimline case allows the display to be placed very close to the computer's keyboard. With the appropriate screen access software, the user can determine the location of up to four Braille status cells on the display, control the firmness of dots, and program the function of all buttons on the display. Both USB and serial connections to the computer are supported. Two audio inputs and one audio output support simultaneous connections with the computer and the telephone. As implied by the name, the Focus 40 Blue has an integrated Bluetooth connectivity and the new display type called "Seamless Construction." Reading Braille on the Focus 40 Blue feels like reading Braille on regular paper. Freedom Scientific. Price: Focus 40, $3,495; Focus 80, $6,995; Focus 40 Blue, $4,495.
Modular Evolution: With either 64 or 88 Braille cells, this Modular Braille display is the first to use the revolutionary Active Tactile Control (ATC) technology. Based on an earlier Handy Tech Braille model, which had a complete QWERTY keyboard, the Modular Evolution is a desktop unit including a complete typewriter-style keyboard. No other keyboard is needed. The components are modular so you can attach an additional numeric keypad if desired. All connections are USB, and one connection is made to the computer. No extra cables are required. There are three USB connectors to connect other devices, and the unit has 4 megabytes of text storage capacity. It features an ergonomically designed concave-shaped Braille display, which is the same display found on other Handy Tech models. ATC actually senses the location of the user's fingers on the Braille display and offers new and more efficient ways to use a PC. Handy Tech North America. Price: Modular Evolution 64, $10,990; Modular Evolution 88, $13,990.
PAC Mate Portable Braille Display: This display is available in 20- and 40-cell models. It can be used with desktops and laptops when connected with a USB port. It has a pair of three-way Whiz Wheels for rapid navigation and dual-purpose cursor routing buttons. Programmable hot keys can be used when the display is attached to a Windows or Windows CE operating environment. The built-in VariBraille allows the user to adjust the intensity of the Braille dots. Freedom Scientific. Price: 20 cells, $1,400; 40 cells, $3,200.
Seika: This light-weight portable Braille display features 40 cells. There are eight control keys, four on the front edge, and four on the top (two on either side of the line of Braille), used for navigation and limited control of screen access software. The Seika connects to the computer with a USB cable. Perkins Products. Price: $2,495.
BRAILLE TRANSLATION SOFTWARE
Braille translation software converts electronic files into Braille. At the date of this publication, Braille translation software is available for the Windows, DOS operating systems and the Mac operating system.
Braille2000: This Braille transcription program supports the sharing of Braille files over the Internet, simplifying the delivery of transcribed files between users. Additionally, multiple file formats including XML are supported. Add-ons including a Braille-to-print interpreter, Math, and a Children's Braille Grade Relaxer are available for an additional cost. Computer Application Specialties Company. Multiple pricing options are available including a monthly subscription. Please contact Computer Application Specialties Company for further details.
Duxbury Braille Translator: This Braille translation software supports a wide range of embossers, multiple languages, and systems under Windows, Macintosh, and a number of mini and mainframe computers. It supports conversion of documents from popular word processing applications such as Microsoft Word and Word Perfect. It has extensive formatting capability including use of styles. Options include translation to contracted and uncontracted Braille, computer code, and the use of math codes. Math or scientific notation can be imported directly from Microsoft Word through Scientific Notebook and MathType. Windows Vista and Windows7 32 bit and 64 bit are now supported. Duxbury Systems. Price: Duxbury for Windows, $595; Duxbury for the Macintosh, $595; call for pricing of other operating systems.
MegaDots: This DOS-based program is a combination Braille translator and word processor. It imports and exports many file types including HTML and uses "Braille styles" to format. It also includes a spell checker, which can correct common errors that occur in scanned text. MegaDots is now compatible with Windows7 32 bit version. Duxbury Systems. Price: $595. Complete MegaDots includes a customizable Braille translation option called Beginner Braille and MegaMath, $895.
ViewPlus Braille Translator: The ViewPlus Braille Translator, a part of the Tiger Software Suite, is designed to work with the Tiger line of embossers. It uses the Duxbury translation tables. ViewPlus Technologies. Price: Free license with purchase of an embosser. Tiger Software Suite can also be purchased separately for $295.
WinBraille: This program is designed to emboss and translate into contracted Braille directly from a Windows application to the Index line of Braille embossers. This is not a generic Braille translation package. It works exclusively with the Index line of embossers. Index Braille. Price: Free with the purchase of an Index embosser.
MATH HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE
HARDWARE
Math Window: This product consists of a magnetic board and magnetic tiles with large print or Nemeth math symbols. Blind students can arrange math equations linearly or vertically similar to how equations are arranged visually. This product is available in a basic edition or with an additional Algebra Add-on Kit. Wolf Products. Price: Math Window Basic, $74.90; Math Window Algebra Add-on Kit, $37.95; and Math Windows Basic, Magnets Only, $29.95.
Talking Business Calculator: This is a fully functional business calculator with speech output. Each key is announced when pressed. The visual display calculations and results can be spoken with a press of a button. In addition to the usual arithmetical functions, this calculator offers items such as: repetitive addition/subtraction, chain multiplication/division, constant multiplication/division, and much more. Electronic Technical Services, Inc. (ETS). Price: $358.66 (please use this order number–Canon TBC-1).
SOFTWARE
Audio Graphing Calculator: This software emulates the functions of handheld graphing calculators found in many classrooms. The software is self-voicing, meaning that menus and user input and program output are spoken without additional screen access software. Graphs can be presented to the user with audio tones and cues. Options to produce tactile output with the Tiger line of Braille embossers are also available. ViewPlus Technologies. Price: $295.
MathPlayer: Available as a free download from Design Science, it integrates into Internet Explorer 6 and above. MathPlayer renders math equations on a Web site that are written using MathML. A screen access software application is needed to hear what is on the screen. Using a refreshable Braille display, math equations are translated as computer Braille rather than the Nemeth Braille math code. Design Science at http://www.desci.com. Price: Free.
MathTrax: This product is available at no charge. A library of interactive software combines mathematical analysis, graphing, and sonification to represent math and science information. The purpose of MathTrax is to dynamically generate accessible text descriptions of graphs to make data, traditionally conveyed in visual graphs, available to blind and visually impaired users. Students can create graphs by entering an equation, selecting an equation from a drop-down menu, entering raw data to be analyzed, or activating a physics simulation. MathTrax graphs the equations and provides descriptions of those graphs using text and sound. The curves currently described are first and second order equations in two variables (i.e., line, parabola, ellipse, hyperbola, circle, null set, single point, and two lines). Java-capable screen access programs can read the dynamic text descriptions and sonification makes the graphs accessible to blind students. NASA Learning Technologies at http://learn.arc.nasa.gov/mathtrax/index.html. Price: Free.
Math Flash: This is a self-voicing math drill program. Exercises are customized and provide great fun for blind children of all ages. Does not require a screen access program. American Printing House for the Blind. Price: $24.
MathTalk/Scientific Notebook: This software package includes Scientific Notebook. Through voice recognition and speech output, this is a self-voicing application allowing one to independently input math equations. The program can provide verbal and Braille output of data that has been sent to the screen and provides nonvisual access to the functionality provided by Scientific Notebook. To take full advantage of this application, Dragon Naturally Speaking must be purchased. Metro Plex Voice Computing. Price: $295; package including Dragon Naturally Speaking Preferred, $495; Dragon Naturally Speaking Pro, $1,020.
Money Talks: This is a self-voicing accessible budgeting application that can be used with popular screen access programs. This application has the capability of handling imported financial statements from checking, savings, and credit card accounts from a financial institution or financial data imported from other financial applications. Once the data is imported into the program, you can navigate between the columns and rows to learn more about a transaction and organize financial data into categories. American Printing House for the Blind. Price: $49 by phone or $39 by Internet download.
Scientific Notebook: This is a mainstream application utilized by both blind and sighted people to perform mathematical and graphing functions using a PC. Although menus and operation of the program are generally accessible with speech output, reviewing equations and graphic results with screen access software can be difficult. The program is used by Braille transcribers to import mathematics and graphing material into Duxbury for Braille translation. This software includes the ability to translate math equations to the Duxbury Braille Translator or refreshable Braille displays into the Nemeth Braille code. MacKichan Software, Inc. Price: $222; for an upgrade, $52.
Virtual Pencil: This is a set of two applications: VP Arithmetic and VP Algebra. The programs are used to setup and work through arithmetic and algebraic equations using speech output. Henter Math. Price: Virtual Pencil Arithmetic, $199; Virtual Pencil Algebra, $399; Both Products, $598.
PRINT READING HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE
HARDWARE
Print-reading hardware devices are stand-alone products consisting of a scanning bed, optical character recognition (OCR) software, and text-to-speech software or a digital camera to capture a picture of the printed material. Depending on the quality of the text, printed material is scanned and converted to spoken text.
Extreme Reader: This is a stand-alone reading system. The system is comprised of a scanner, computer, and keypad. DAISY book reading software is also included. Various models are available. The ER-1 is the simplest unit (it uses a four-key keypad), followed by the XR-1, and the XR-10, which have more keypad functions. It is possible to upgrade from the ER-1 to the XR-1 or XR-10. Guerilla Technologies, Inc. Price: ER-1, $3,195; XR-1, $2,925; XR-10, $3,500.
Eye-Pal: This product is ideal for bulk optical character recognition. It consists of a custom camera with a right-angle stand and OCR processing software. The product can scan both pages of a paperback book at once, allowing much faster completion of the scanning phase. Since a picture is taken with the book face up, the user can easily flip through pages and quickly scan a book even if doing it one page at a time. The included software is self-voicing but can be used with screen access software. ABISee. Price: $1,995.
Eye-Pal Solo: A completely stand-alone version of the Eye-Pal (listed above). The Solo allows users to perform rapid recognition of text without using a full-function computer. The Eye-pal Solo LV is available which adds support for an external monitor and magnification of text. Eye-Pal Solo can be controlled by hand gestures or an external keypad. ABISee. Price: Eye-Pal Solo, $1995; Eye-Pal Solo LV, $2595.
Kurzweil-National Federation of the Blind Reader Mobile: The K-NFB Reader Mobile is a mobile phone (a number of Symbian phones are currently supported), loaded with the K-NFB Reader Mobile software package. The unit captures a picture of print material and converts it to synthetic speech. Place the Reader above printed material, take the picture, and hear the text read aloud. The Mobile Reader reads most printed material and United States currency. The use of headphones or an external speaker is recommended for additional volume or private use. Files are stored for later retrieval and can be sent to a computer or notetaker for reading. Available from K-NFB Reading Technology, Inc. Price: $995 for the software, plus the price of the phone.
MobilEyes: This device is based on an Ultra-Mobile PC and 10 megapixel camera mated together in a leather covering. MobilEyes has its own functionality laid overtop Windows XP and features voice recording, a media player, book and document reader, magnification, and Click and Read for printed document recognition. OCR is done through a camera or an included flatbed scanner. The device ships in a hard-sided plastic carrying case that contains a USB laptop keyboard, USB CD-RW drive, a metal stand, and a document scanner. MobilEyes is available in two versions; the MobilEyes Professional allows full access to the Ultra-Mobile PC and can also contain GPS capabilities. The MobilEyes Basic provides only access to the MobilEyes environment. Guerilla Technologies. Price: MobilEyes Professional, $5,000; MobilEyes Basic, $3,600.
Ovation: This is a stand-alone, compact, flatbed scanner that will scan text and read it aloud. It includes speech and volume controls, storage for 500,000 pages at a time, and direct connection to the BrailleNote. Telesensory Corporation. Price: $3,095.
Portset: This lightweight (12 pounds) stand-alone reading machine is manufactured in the United Kingdom by Portset Systems, Ltd. Sold in the U.S. by Technologies for the Visually Impaired, Inc. Price: $2,750.
SARA (Scanning and Reading Appliance): The SARA is a stand-alone text- to-speech scanning and reading unit that consists of buttons for scanning and reading, menu options, and help keys. In addition to keys for navigation and selection, the user can define up to four keys for customization and personalization. Rocker buttons are along the front of the unit for volume and speech rate control. Files can only be saved to the hard drive or burned to CD via the built-in CD burner, and file names are recorded by the user via the internal microphone. For additional functionality, S-Video and VGA ports allow the user to connect a display screen, giving the user the ability to output or magnify text while being spoken. Freedom Scientific. Price: $2,795.
ScannaR: This stand-alone, compact, flatbed scanner will scan text and read it aloud. It includes speech and volume controls, storage for 500,000 pages at a time, and direct connection to the BrailleNote. Manufactured by Baum of Germany. Sold in the U.S. by HumanWare. Price: $2,995.
Zoom-ex: Zoom-ex is a stand alone camera on a stand that connects to a computer through the USB port. No external power or batteries are needed because the camera receives its power from the USB port. The unit will magnify documents and provides an OCR (optical character recognition) function to read the text of the page aloud. The unit performs OCR of a document very fast. Zoom Office software is required to run the camera, and provides magnification and OCR. Books can be scanned and saved on the computer to read later. Up to 20 pages a minute can be captured. ABISee Inc. Price: $2,395.
SOFTWARE
Print-reading software is an application that is installed on a desktop or laptop running Windows. The user must purchase a scanner in order to use the print-reading software. While most scanners are sufficient, be sure to consult the vendor to confirm that the scanner is supported.
Cicero: This is a very basic text-to-speech software package that runs on a PC. Dolphin Computer Access LLC. Price: $495.
iRead: Scans and recognizes text. iRead works either with your existing screen access product or the free NVDA screen reader. iRead boasts the ability to automatically recognize headings and create a table of contents to allow quick navigation in a document. HandyTech. Price: $750.
Kurzweil 1000: This is a Windows-based reading system designed to convert printed documents into speech. A screen access program is not required. Additional features include a dictionary, thesaurus, and text editor. A variety of speech synthesis options are available, including a choice of different voices for reading documents and system messages. A commercial scanner must be purchased separately. Kurzweil Educational Systems, Inc. Price: $995; with DECtalk Access 32, $1,195.
OpenBook: This is a Windows-based system designed to read printed documents using a commercial scanner and convert them to synthesized speech. Version 8.0 now supports the RealSpeak Solo voices. Eloquence is also available, replacing the ViaVoice synthesizer. Windows Vista is also supported. This program does not require screen access software inasmuch as it creates its own speech. It also contains other features such as a dictionary, thesaurus, and editor. Freedom Scientific. Price: $995.
OBR (Optical Braille Recognition): This software allows the user to scan a Braille page and translate it into text. A printed version of the Braille document can be produced, and the document can be embossed by a supported Braille embosser. Neovision Industrial Vision Systems. Price: $1,265.
Text Cloner Pro: This is a scanning package designed to work with your screen reader's own voice capabilities. It features a high-performance Optical Character Recognition (OCR) engine, as well as a built-in spell checker. One-touch functionality means all important tasks can be accomplished with a single keystroke. Text Cloner Pro includes support for multiple columns, spell checking text, and several additional features. Technologies for the Visually Impaired Inc. Price: $99.
COMMUNICATION DEVICES FOR THE DEAF-BLIND
DeafBlind Communicator: The DBC consists of a BrailleNote mPower (Braille or QWERTY keyboard models available) and a companion smartphone running DBC chat software. The product allows deaf-blind users to communicate in person, through SMS text messaging, or traditional TTY. The full features of the BrailleNote mPower can be activated to give the user a mobile computing platform as well. HumanWare. Price (Braille or QWERTY keyboard) 18-cell Braille display: $6195; 32-cell Braille display: $7995.
Face to Face PC Communicator: This software allows a deaf-blind user to communicate, using a PAC Mate notetaker, with another person using a Bluetooth equipped PC. Messages are displayed on both units. Quick-messages can be pre-programmed for easy recall. Text can be copied to the clipboard, and pasted into the Face to Face program. Face to Face comes with the software for the PAC Mate and PC and a compact flash Bluetooth card. Freedom Scientific. Price: $400.
FSTTY: FSTTY is software and hardware that allows a deaf-blind person to communicate with others using a telephone line, a modem, and a PAC Mate. The deaf-blind person can make and receive phone calls and if the other caller is using a TTY, the text that is typed on the PAC Mate will be displayed on the TTY. What the other person types on the TTY will be displayed in grade 1 Braille on the PAC Mate display. The deaf-blind person can call relay to communicate with anyone on the phone. FSTTY comes with a modem, and software that is loaded onto a PAC Mate. FSTTY is distributed by Freedom scientific. Price: $1,200.
Intele Modem: This device turns your computer into a TTY. It works with standard communication software on your computer. It automatically distinguishes between ASCII and Baudot calls. Ultratec, Inc. Price: $329.
V-touch: This is a TTY unit with an additional QWERTY or Braille keyboard with a 20-cell Braille display. This device can be used for face-to-face communication, or as a TTY. The unit plugs directly in a telephone jack, or the receiver can lie in the acoustic cups. As the user types, the text is displayed in grade one Braille and shown in print on the screen. The unit has a rechargeable battery. If requested, a cell phone connecter can be installed. Distributed by Krown Manufacturing, Inc. Price: $6,295.
LOW VISION
The low vision section, unlike the rest of this resource list, does not aim to be complete. There are enough CCTVs, for example, to fill a volume, and there is not enough difference between different brands to make a full list worthwhile. As such, we have tried to give a few examples of different kinds of low vision technology, and hopefully give the consumer enough information to start on their search for which piece of equipment suits them best. Only electronic equipment and software aimed at enhancing the user’s vision is listed.
SOFTWARE
Magnification software is software that is installed on a desktop, laptop or mobile device. It provides adjustable magnification of anything in the operating system environment (e-mail, Web, Word, etc.) and usually allows the users to change the colors and contrast as well. Many versions provide text-to-speech so that the user can rely on the speech to render longer text items in a browser, text editor, or other application. Magnification for mobile phones is discussed in the mobile phone section.Note: Apple computers provide native screen magnification, as well as fully-fledged screen access software (VoiceOver). Visit http://www.apple.com/accessibility/macosx/vision.html for more detailed information. Zoom can be toggled on and off by pressing Command-F8. Inverted color and grayscale settings are also available.
Lunar/LunarPlus: Lunar is a magnification program from the Dolphin product line. It provides basic magnification at login and has a variety of color, magnification, and speech options available once the user is logged in. It lets the user create hooked areas, fixed areas of the screen (such as the clock, weather, or news widgets, etc.) which remain magnified regardless of what other actions the user performs. The user can also set application-specific settings. Many functions are keystroke-driven. Scripting capability is integrated in version 11, and a library of scripts is available on the Dolphin site; scripts can also be encrypted. Lunar and LunarPlus 11 run on Windows XP, Vista and 7. Dolphin Computer Access. Price: Lunar (no speech): $395; LunarPlus (with speech): $495.
MAGic: This is a powerful magnification program which integrates well with JAWS, using many of the same keystrokes. There are many options for customizing speech, magnification, color, and, if present, speech settings. MAGic is available with or without speech; versions with speech offer a choice of RealSpeak Solo or Eloquence. MAGic is the only program of the listed magnification packages to have created different versions based on the flavor of the Windows operating system. Support for Citrix and Terminal Services is available. Freedom Scientific. Price: MAGic Pro Scripting Edition (MAGic Pro Scripting Edition 64-bit can be used with all 64-bit versions of Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Server 2003; MAGic Pro Scripting Edition 32-bit licensing can be used with the following 32-bit operating systems: all versions of Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Home, and Windows Media Center Edition): $895; MAGic Professional With Speech (MAGic Professional 64-bit can be used with all 64-bit versions of Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Server 2003; MAGic Professional 32-bit can be used with the following 32-bit operating systems: all versions of Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Home, and Windows Media Center Edition): $495; MAGic Professional No Speech: $295; MAGic Standard With Speech (MAGic Standard 64-bit can be used with 64-bit versions of Windows 7 Home Premium, Windows Vista Home Premium, and Windows Vista Home Basic; MAGic Standard 32-bit can be used with 32-bit versions of Windows 7 Home Premium, Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Home Basic, and Windows XP Home): $445; MAGic Standard No Speech: $245.
ZoomText: ZoomText is a popular magnification program, available with and without speech, which presents a simple user interface to change magnification, color, contrast, and, if applicable, speech features. Dual monitor support is available for those wanting to use a larger screen area. In the versions with speech, the SpeakIt function reads any text the mouse points at; the App and DocReader automatically read documents and applications. Scripting capability is now available. The magnifier allows for full or partial magnification of text up to 16 times. Features include enhanced screen colors, visible pointers and cursors, Web link finder, and support for some PDF documents. The ZoomText Magnifier/Reader has additional features, such as screen access, automatic document reading, text navigation, and some special application support. ZoomText runs on Windows 2000, XP, Vista, and 7. Price: ZoomText Magnifier (no speech), CD version: $395; USB version: $495; ZoomText Magnifier/Reader (with speech), CD version $595; USB version $695.
HARDWARE
Tabletop CCTVs
Clearview+: The Clearview+ is a tabletop CCTV which will magnify up to 72 times. It has extremely simple controls, with one round control for the basic functions; it consists of a button in the center to change color settings/reading mode, and a dial around it to adjust the magnification. The on/off button is a small round button just above it. The other controls (brightness, etc.) are hidden under a small panel. The monitor is on an adjustable arm, allowing the user to reposition the screen to best advantage. The X-Y table has an electronic brake. Optelec. Price: Clearview+ 17” fullscreen system with TFT monitor, $2,595; Clearview+ 19” widescreen ultra flexible arm system, $2,895; Clearview+ 22” widescreen ultra flexible arm system, $3,095; Clearview+ system for use with a personal computer, $2,570.Journey: The Journey is a CCTV with three controls below the screen to control. The monitor can be folded back. The X-Y table has a manual brake. The Journey magnifies up to 50 times or 55 times depending on screen size. Magnisight. Price: 19" CCTV, $2,895; 17” CCTV, $2,595.
Handheld CCTVs
Amigo: At a screen size of 6.5", the Amigo is larger than most portable CCTVs, and offers an experience that is closer to that of a desktop CCTV. With a battery life of up to two hours, and magnification up to 14 times, this unit is a good crossover option for consumers looking to get a little more out of their portable unit, or for those who travel frequently. The device also comes with a writing stand. There is also a freeze frame function, and the Amigo can be hooked up to a TV. Enhanced Vision. Price: $1,695.
Compact+: The Compact+ is a portable CCTV small enough to fit in a purse, and has a 4.3" screen. It magnifies up to 10 times flat on the page and has five color presets. The unit has a hand that folds into the side of the unit. The rechargeable batteries yield about three hours of continuous use. The camera can be moved to site either at the center or at the end of the unit to make use more intuitive or more suitable for handwriting. Optelec. Price: $595.
Maggie: The tiny Maggie magnifier (2.0 ” x 3.5” x 0.5”, about the size of a credit card) magnifies between 4 and 11 times, and has a freeze image option. Because the unit has no internal lighting, the user has to hold it above the text, rather than placing it flat on the page. With a 3” screen and only a narrow frame, the Maggie maximizes the viewing area. Bierley. Price: $198.
Ruby: The Ruby is purse-sized portable CCTV. It magnifies up to 10 times flat on the page and has five color presets; it also allows the user to freeze a frame. The handle of the unit folds back to form a stand, placing it at the optimal distance from the page. The screen is 4.3 inches. The buttons are high contrast and in primary colors to simplify use. The device has a rechargeable battery with up to 2 hours of continuous use. Freedom Scientific. Price: $745.
Other CCTVs
Jordy: The Jordy wearable CCTV is a one-of-a-kind device. It works the same way as the traditional CCTV, but is worn over the eyes. It can also be mounted on a stand to function as a desktop CCTV. Jordy magnifies up to 30 times in four viewing modes. Enhanced Vision. Price: $2,795; Jordy stand $400.MyReader2: The MyReader2 can be used as a traditional tabletop CCTV, but has a unique feature that at any magnification arranges the magnified text onto a single screen or single line of text, eliminating the need for manually panning from side to side. You can also store up to ten images on the machine. HumanWare. Price: $3,995; Optional travel case: $115.
GPS SYSTEMS
GPS systems are used to assist a blind person to find out about a city or particular location. A vehicle or pedestrian route can be created and interactively followed with a GPS. The system also provides directional information. A GPS system is not a replacement for a cane or a guide dog; however, it can be very useful in certain situations.
BrailleNote GPS: This system attaches to BrailleNote Apex, PK, mPower, or VoiceNote. When in use, the user will have a GPS receiver either connected to a BrailleNote serial port or via Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Systems include a GPS receiver, a pouch for the receiver, and maps stored on a 32 GB SD card. Sendero Group LLC. Price: Maps, GPS Receiver, and 32 GB SD Card, $1,495.
Mobile Geo: Mobile Geo is Code Factory's implementation of Sendero GPS for Windows Mobile devices. It provides wayfinding capabilities including direction of travel, approaching streets, nearby points of interest, and route navigation. The system works with the internal GPS receivers on some devices, however greater accuracy can be achieved through the use of a Bluetooth external GPS receiver. While indoors, you can virtually explore an area on the map before setting out. Sendero Group. Price: $895; iBlue GPS Receiver $99. Additional country maps sold separately.
Sense Nav: Sense Nav is the GPS package tailored for the HIMS BrailleSense line of notetakers. It works with a Bluetooth GPS receiver and the Braille Sense, Braille Sense Plus, or Voice Sense. Maps can either be stored on an SD card or in the unit's flash memory. The product is sold as a bundle including an SD card with all North America maps as well as Holux Bluetooth GPS receiver. GW Micro. Price: $1,549.
StreetTalk VIP: StreetTalk VIP is a GPS solution for the PAC Mate Omni BX and QX notetakers. It provides street announcements, point of interest notification, as well as virtual navigation and route planning. A CompactFlash card for map storage, GPS receiver, and Bluetooth connectivity card are required for the product to work correctly. The product can be purchased separately or bundled with GPS receiver, Socket Bluetooth CompactFlash interface card, and 16GB CompactFlash memory card. Owners of prior versions of StreetTalk will not be able to upgrade to the latest version unless they own a PAC Mate Omni. Additionally, earlier versions of StreetTalk VIP will not run on the PAC Mate Omni. Freedom Scientific. Price: StreetTalk VIP with one country map on disk, $1,499; StreetTalk bundle including GPS receiver, Bluetooth interface card, and maps on disk, $1,799; upgrade from StreetTalk 1.0 including US and Canada maps on disk, $699. A GPS receiver and Bluetooth interface cards can be purchased separately for $149 and $155 respectively.
Trekker: This is a stand-alone device that consists of a shoulder strap with a GPS receiver, power module, speaker, and PDA. Several GPS receivers are available including a Bluetooth receiver for wireless connectivity. When connected wirelessly the PDA may be stored in a pocket or on a belt clip. The GPS receiver is attached to the shoulder strap for ease of operation. Several maps may be loaded into the PDA, covering the regions the user is traveling in. Ear buds or an ear phone may be used in place of the speaker so the user can hear surrounding traffic and noise. HumanWare. Price: $1,695. With Maestro option, $1,995.
Trekker Breeze: The Trekker Breeze is a stand-alone unit with nine tactually discernable buttons and a volume wheel. The device uses GPS signals to plot your position on a digital map stored on a SD card inserted into the unit. Speech output for GPS and battery status, location, points of interest, and landmarks can be heard through the unit's built-in speaker, headphones, or a clip-on speaker provided in the package. Maps for the region of the U.S. where the user lives are provided with your Breeze, and more can be purchased separately. A carrying case with belt clip and wrist strap, a shoulder strap, AC Adapter, companion CD, and a User Guide audio CD are also included. Humanware. Price: $895. A map set for the entire U.S. is available for $75.
MISCELLANEOUS SOFTWARE AND DEVICES
AccessaPhone: The AccessaPhone software allows you to control a Voice over IP telephone (such as those found in many businesses). The software allows a user to dial their phone from the computer (entering the number, or utilizing an address book that can be imported from Microsoft Outlook's contacts folder), transfer calls, initiate conference calling, place calls on hold and retrieve them, review lists of dialed, received, or missed calls, and check voicemail status. AccessaPhone also includes talking caller ID which verbalizes the name or number of a calling party. AccessaPhone is currently compatible with Broadsoft, Cisco, NEC, Siemens, Tadiran, and Toshiba phone systems. Tenacity. Price: $1,400.
CakeTalking for SONAR Software: This software provides a set of customized configurations for the JAWS for Windows screen access program that makes it easier for a blind person to use Cakewalk, a music editing and recording program. Dancing Dots. Price: $289.
GOODFEEL Braille Music Translator and GOODFEEL Lite: This software makes it possible to produce Braille music from musical files that have been created using other software. The Lite version transcribes only one format—vocal, keyboard, or instrumental. The basic version transcribes all three formats. Scanning capability is built into both programs. Dancing Dots. Price: basic package, $1,195; and Lite, $749.
i.d. Mate: The i.d. Summit is one compact unit with the scanner included. It is a portable bar code reader with an Omni-directional Scanner. Bar codes on packages, cans, bottles, boxes, playing cards, compact discs, prescription drugs, and most anything that has a bar code can be scanned and read aloud. A database of products is supplied on a CompactFlash card containing many commercial products. For those products not in the database, a personalized description can be recorded and saved. A memo recording function is also available. It has an internal speaker, headphone jack, volume, and speed control. The unit is battery-powered or can run on AC power. Refurbished models of the i.d. Mate II (separate scanner) and v3 are still sold, but the current unit is the i.d. Mate Summit. En-Vision America. Price: i.d. Mate Summit, $1,299; i.d. Mate Omni, $699; i.d. Mate, $200.
J-Say Pro with Dragon NaturallySpeaking Professional: Dragon NaturallySpeaking Professional is a voice recognition program. J-Say is a package of scripts for JAWS that enables the coordinated use of Dragon NaturallySpeaking Professional and JAWS for Windows. Next Generation Technology. Price: Dragon Naturally Speaking Professional; $713; J-Say; $827.50. Contact Next Generation Technologies for combination pricing or multiple licenses.
J-Tunes: This script for JAWS for Windows provides an accessible interface to some parts of the iTunes software. The program allows a user to manipulate their music collection, purchase songs, and transfer content to an iPod. Developed by the T&T Consultancy, distributed in the U.S. by Next Generation Technologies. Price: $75.
PC Talking Typing Tutor: This program teaches touch-typing skills using speech and text instructions. It has 14 lessons to learn the keys to the QWERTY computer keyboard. Performance feedback on typing speed and accuracy is provided. The program will support multiple students. DeWitt & Associates. Works only with Windows XP. Price: Standard version $99; Educational version, $199.
SCANACAN for Windows: This PC-based program comes with an omni-directional bar code reader. It is designed to identify bar code labels for more than 84,000 grocery and 62,000 hardware items. The user can label a bar code that is not recognized. The program requires screen access software for Windows, and runs on XP systems; Windows Vista and 7 are not supported. Ferguson Enterprises. Price: $365.99; SCANACAN Professional Deluxe includes more extensive databases, $849.99; SCANACAN Professional Elite includes a cash drawer and receipt printer, $2,149.98.
ScripTalk: ScripTalk is a tag-based system, which uses a small station to recognize and read the pharmacy-created label on the medication. The label contains the basic prescription information (prescription name, dosage, prescribing doctor, etc.) as well as the patient package insert. The user can consult this information by hovering the labeled medication over the active ScripTalk station. Because the system uses text-to-speech, rather than using a recording, the user can navigate to information he or she wants to hear by using the buttons on the station. The ScripTalk requires that the pharmacy dispensing the medication has a ScripTalk station and ScripTalk software, so that the pharmacist can prepare the labels for the medication. The labels can be attached to any kind of container. En-Vision America. Price for the patient station: $225; price for the pharmacy system (includes station, software, and 100 labels): $495.
Speaking Language Master Special Edition: This miniature talking dictionary is based on one made for the general public. It is a small battery-powered unit. Speech is fully integrated, speaking every entered letter and word, definition, synonym, or game. Franklin Electronic Publishers. Price: LM-6000SEV, $499.99 (please be sure to include this item number when ordering).
Talking Rx: This is a pill bottle base with a recording function. It records up to sixty seconds worth of instructions about the medication it contains (no other device needed for recording). To record, the pharmacist or caregiver presses the red button inside the base. The bottle message can be re-recorded as needed; the message is activated by the button on the side of the unit. Bottles bases come in two sizes, small (13/16 dram) and large (40/60 dram), and standard pill bottles will fit onto the base. The units use AG13 batteries, and come with the batteries installed. Millennium Compliance Corporation. Price: small base, $10.95; large base: $11.95.
Talking Typer for Windows: This self-voicing program can be used as an aid for developing and improving typing skills. It does not require a screen access program. American Printing House for the Blind. Price: $79/individual; site licenses available.
Talking Typing Teacher: Digitized human speech (MarvelTalk) is used for menus, options, student accounts, each lesson or practice session, and the help desk. A text-to-speech synthesizer is used to read your name and play back text you type with the word processor. The program includes large type options. It runs on Windows Vista, XP, ME, 2000, 98, or NT (Service Pack 4). MarvelSoft. Price: $104.95.
TypeAbility: This program makes use of the JAWS for Windows screen access software to provide a typing tutor for children and adults. Pre-programmed lessons are included, but the ability to design lessons is also available for teachers. The program will provide feedback on a student's progress as well as encouraging them along the way. YesAccessible! Price: $100 for a single installation; $300 for a 5-user site license; $400 for a 10-user site license; $500 for a 20-user site license.
MOBILE PHONES
This section describes some available solutions for accessible mobile phones. The reader is advised to try out any system before purchasing it.
iPhone 3GS: The iPhone 3GS is the latest iPhone model currently sold by AT&T and Apple. It is available in 16 and 32GB models. The touch screen device is made accessible with VoiceOver for iPhone that provides specialized gestures tailored for allowing nonvisual access to the system. A zoom function and color inversion are also available for low vision customers. Prices for the phone are substantially lower when purchasing a qualifying AT&T Wireless plan that includes iPhone data access. Apple Computer Corp. Price: 16GB $199; 32GB $299.
Mobile Speak/Mobile Magnifier 4: Mobile Speak 4 is a cross-platform screen access package for cellular telephones. One license allows you to install one copy of Mobile Speak on one cell phone, whether it be a SmartPhone (Windows Mobile without touch screen), PocketPC (Windows Mobile with touch screen), or Symbian-based phone. The software provides access to aspects of the phone such as contacts, calendar, e-mail, Web browsing, call logs, and phone status information such as battery level and signal strength. It also allows access to third-party applications like Twitter, GPS, Skype, and others. You can choose from a number of voices at initial purchase time or add additional voices for a fee later. Mobile Magnifier provides ten magnification levels, up to 6 times, a choice of 7 color schemes, and font smoothing. Handy Tech North America. Price: $295.
Oratio: Oratio is a screen access package specifically developed to support BlackBerry SmartPhones. The software allows access to e-mail, calendar, call logs, text messaging, and caller ID. Currently, only the BlackBerry Curve 8520 is supported. Code Factory, sold and distributed by Humanware. Price: $449.
Talks and Zooms: Talks is a Symbian-based screen reader for various mobile phones. It provides access to phone functions such as calendar, contacts, call logs, e-mail, and Internet browsing. It also allows editing and reading of Quick Office files. Other third-party applications are also usable with Talks. The premium license includes DAISY-To-Go, a solution for playing audio files and DAISY format publications, and Zooms, Nuance's magnification solution. Zooms offers up to 16 times magnification as well as color inversion. Support for Braille displays is also available. Talks uses Eloquence Speech by default, but additional Nuance voices are available in a variety of languages. Sold by Beyond Sight. Price: $295; packaged with a Nokia N86 phone, add additional $500.
SCREEN ACCESS AND LOW VISION PROGRAMS FOR WINDOWS, APPLE, AND MOBILE DEVICES
Screen Access software allows a blind person to access the text material on a computer screen. All Microsoft Windows operating systems: Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000, XP, Vista, and 7 are accessible. Computers running OSX 10.4 (Tiger) or higher work with VoiceOver technology. Linux systems can be made accessible but require an experienced user to set up an accessible Linux system.
Hal and Hal Professional: Both of these programs come with their own software speech synthesizer, and both support a number of other speech synthesizers and refreshable Braille displays for Windows XP, Vista, and 7. Hal Professional adds configuration tools. Dolphin Computer Access LLC. Price: Hal Standard, $795; Hal Professional, $1,095.
JAWS for Windows: This software provides speech and Braille access to the Windows operating system and a wide range of Windows applications. The install process talks. JAWS comes with its own speech synthesizer and many other synthesizers are supported, as well as a wide variety of refreshable Braille displays. Also provided is a powerful scripting tool that can be used to improve access to many applications that initially may not be compatible with JAWS for Windows. Freedom Scientific. Price: Windows XP (excluding 64-bit versions), Vista, and 7 Home versions, $895; XP (excluding 64-bit versions), Vista, 7 Professional versions, $1,095.
Supernova and Supernova Professional: These programs are a combination of the Hal screen access program (see above) and the Lunar screen magnification program. Supernova provides speech, refreshable Braille, and enlarged screen access to Windows XP, Vista and 7. The Supernova Professional adds configuration tools. Dolphin Computer Access LLC. Price: Supernova, $1,195; Supernova Professional, $1,495.
System Access: System Access allows a user basic screen access for many widely used Windows applications including the Windows operating system. System Access by default comes with Dectalk voices. For an additional fee, two Real Speak voices can be downloaded and installed. This program supports Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7. System Access supports Notepad, Wordpad, and Outlook Express, E-mail Center on a Vista machine, Excel, PowerPoint, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Microsoft 2007, Skype, and many other programs. It comes in a variety of hardware and software configurations. Price: System Access can be purchased outright; alternatively, the user can get a monthly subscription. Prices vary depending on the package you choose. Please contact Serotek for current pricing information, or visit http://www.serotek.com/cas.html. The AIR Foundation and Serotek now also offer System Access To Go, which gives free screen access to the Internet via the Web site www.satogo.com.
Talking Toolbox: This self-voicing program is designed for the beginning computer user or someone who does not desire a lot of features. Using a combination of pre-recorded messages and synthesized speech, this program offers a word processor, a calculator, e-mail, a calendar, an address list, and built-in help. Marvelsoft. Price: $79.95.
VoiceOver: This screen reading access application program ships with all Apple family of desktop and laptop computers running OSX 10.4 and later. VoiceOver works with Safari for Internet browsing, text editor for basic document editing, Mail for e-mail, and Telnet for remote login. In addition, VoiceOver allows the user to navigate files and folders, and perform general screen navigation tasks. Price: included in purchase of Apple product.
Window-Eyes Pro: Window-Eyes Pro supports nearly all Windows operating systems, including XP Home, XP Pro, Vista, and 7. Window-Eyes Pro includes four software speech synthesizers and supports all known Braille displays. GW Micro, Inc. Price: $795.
