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
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. American Printing House for the Blind. Price: $1,395.
BrailleNote mPower: The BrailleNote mPower includes media player, 128 MB of internal memory, Compact Flash and SD card reader, USB ports, and built-in Bluetooth capability. It can be purchased with either an 18- or 32-cell Braille display with either a QWERTY or Braille keyboard. Both battery-powered (about 20 hours), notetakers use either Braille or a QWERTY keyboard with a refreshable Braille display and speech output. Both devices run the Windows CE operating system and provide numerous functions such as a word processor, scientific calculator, appointment planner, address list, Internet access, and the ability to use POP3 e-mail. These machines also feature an optional 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. Both 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, $4,395 and 32 cells, $6,195.
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, and 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.
Braillex ELba: This is a Braille notetaker with 32 cells and QWERTY or Braille keyboards. This model has the Easy Access Bar for navigation without removing hands from the Braille display. The standard package comes with modem, network card, serial and parallel interface, USB port, and PCMCIA slot. It can be operated on internal batteries or AC power. It is menu-driven and has quick key commands for easy entry. A unique feature is that the software is Linux based. Applications such as the Lynx Web browser and an e-mail program called Pine are included in the system. Manufactured by Papenmeier. Price: $4,795.
Braille Sense Plus: The newest edition to the Braille Sense line, this Notetaker is based on Windows CE technology. Hardware includes a 32-cell Braille display, Compact Flash, a 4GB hard drive (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: $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, note-taking 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: 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: for Models BX400 and QX400 without Braille display, $2,395. BX420, QX420 includes removable 20-cell Braille display, $3,795; BX440 or QX440 includes 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, $79; 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.
Level Star 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(R) 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.
VoiceNote mPower BT or VoiceNote mPower QT: Based on BrailleNote mPower technology (see above), 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, $15,995.
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, $39,995; Braillo 400S, $82,000; Braillo 400SR, $92,000; and Braillo 440SW, $95,000.
Dot & Print Braille Embosser and Print Printer: This Braille and print printer weighs 55 pounds and produces standard medium-sized Braille, along with print that can be scaled. It is controlled with its own software that produces only uncontracted Braille translation using a plain text file. In order to get contracted Braille translation, one must use the DBT Win application to create DXP and DXB files. These files are then imported into the Dot & Print software application in order to produce both Braille and print. The Dot & Print produces between 27 and 40 characters per line. American Thermoform Corporation. Price: $5,795.
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: $36,000.
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: $10,995.
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: $3,745 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: $4,395; basic acoustic cabinet, $1,020; sound-deadening acoustic hood, $695.
Index 4x4 Professional, 17-inch and 23-inch: 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: 17-inch version, $8,070; 23-inch version, $8,400.
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: $62,500 (includes: transportation, insurance, startup, and instruction of operators).
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.
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.
TranSend LT: This system can produce Braille and print on the same page. The company bundles one of its embossers (your choice) with an Epson dot matrix printer and a TranSend control box. A document is run through the ink printer first (producing standard or large print) and then run through the embosser to add the Braille. Enabling Technologies Company. Price, depending on which embosser you choose: a complete package (including the TranSend control box, an Epson printer, a Braille embosser, and suitable Braille translation software) will cost approximately $4,600; with a translator: $4,900; the TranSend LT control unit alone is $1,395. The price range is from $1,395 to $18,800, depending on the products you choose.
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.
Braille In (a Braille keyboard): The purpose of this device is to allow information to be entered into a computer using the Braille code. Braille In is a keyboard with 8 Braille keys, a space bar, and 10 function keys that take the place of a standard keyboard. Manufactured by Papenmeier of Germany. Price: $795.
Jot a Dot: The Jot a Dot is a portable Braille writing device used for taking quick notes on standard 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. 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 Braille Writer is a mechanical model that requires 40 percent less pressure on the keys. Perkins Products/How Press/Perkins School for the Blind. Price: Standard model, $640; Light Touch Model, $690; Electric/Blue Model, $900; Next Generation, $650.
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 Satellite: There are three models of this refreshable Braille display: the Satellite Traveler 544 (with a 40-cell display); the ALVA 570 Satellite Pro (with a 70-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; 570 Satellite Pro, $8,995; Satellite 584 Pro, $9,995.
Braille Star 40, 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, $5,995, 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 a serial cable or 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. Optional Bluetooth wireless capability may be added for an additional cost. Manufactured by Handy Tech and distributed in the United States by Handy Tech North America. Price: $5,290; with Bluetooth, $5,690.
Braillex EL 2D Series: Two features distinguish this line of refreshable Braille displays from other Braille displays: the Easy Access Bar and the vertical Braille display. The Easy Access Bar is essentially a long lever that allows the user to navigate the screen without removing hands from the Braille display. The vertical Braille display is used to provide tactile information about the structure of lists and menus displayed on the screen — essentially, a quick and easy double display that allows the user to select an item without removing either hand from the Braille display. The Braillex EL 2D models are numbered to reflect the number of Braille cells in the display. Manufactured by Papenmeier of Germany. Price: EL 2D 66, $9,900; EL 2D 80, $14,075.
Braillex EL Series: This line of refreshable Braille displays is similar to the EL 2D line (see above) except that the vertical Braille display is not present. The Braillex EL 40S (slim) is a 40-cell Braille display housed in an aluminum magnesium case, weighing less than two pounds. This display is connected to a computer with a USB cable, and does not need batteries or a separate power supply. Models noted as slim may be placed in front of the PC keyboard and are smaller in size than their larger companion models. Model numbers reflect the number of Braille cells available. Manufactured by Papenmeier of Germany. Price: Braillex EL 40S (slim), $5,695; Braillex EL 66S (slim/large), $9,900; Braillex EL 80S (slim), $10,495.
Braillex Trio: This Braille display has both USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Each Braille cell has a routing button above it. Above the Braille display is a Perkins-style eight-dot keyboard for input. There are 40 cells for Braille output. Navigation buttons are located at the left and right side of the Braille display, and the Easy Access Bar is located along the front just below the display. The unit has 4 megabytes of internal memory for note taking. It also has a built-in calculator, clock and scheduler. Using Bluetooth, files can be transferred to and from the Trio. With Bluetooth the display can be operated wirelessly. As noted earlier for the slim models, the Trio fits in front of the keyboard and comes with a stand which holds the PC keyboard. It has four rechargeable AA batteries. It receives its power either from the USB cable connected to a computer or a power supply that connects through the USB port when not connected to a computer. Manufactured by Papenmeier of Germany. Price: $4,795.
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 Braille Connect 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 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 and optional Bluetooth wireless capability, which may be added for an additional cost. It is possible to update Braillino and Easy Braille without the need to purchase another Braille display. 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.
Focus Braille Displays: These displays come in two sizes: 40 cells, and 80 cells. Both require a Windows screen access program such as JAWS for Windows. 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 4 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. Freedom Scientific. Price: Focus 40, $3,495; and Focus 80, $6,995.
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.
Voyager: Two models are available, a 44-cell and a 70-cell display. Both models feature cursor routing buttons above each Braille cell, eight Braille keys above the display for keyboard entry, and front thumb keys for navigation without removing hands from the display. The Voyager 44 is portable and includes a cover with a handle for easy carrying. It obtains its operating power directly through its USB port. The Voyager 70 has an external power supply, 70 Braille cells, and is for use on a desktop computer. Otherwise, it has the same functionality as the Voyager 44. These displays are manufactured by Optelec and distributed and supported in the United States by VisionCue. Price: Model 44, $3,795; Model 70, $5,995.
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 and DOS operating systems and older versions of OSX for Apple computers.
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, DOS, 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 is 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. Duxbury Systems. Price: $595. Complete MegaDots includes a customizable Braille translation option called Beginner Braille and MegaMath, $895.
NFBTrans: This DOS-based program, developed by the National Federation of the Blind, is a Braille translation system for ASCII text files. In 1992 the source code was released to the public domain and has since been modified. Foreign language versions are also available. Available from the National Federation of the Blind at http://www.nfb.org/nfbtrans.htm. Price: free.
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
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 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.
Kurzweil--National Federation of the Blind Reader Classic: The K-NFB Reader Classic consists of a PDA (Personal Data Assistant) attached via a USB connection to a digital camera. The two units fit together to form one portable reader. It is held together with a simulated leather case. This hand-held unit, slightly larger than a PDA, 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. Two voices, RealSpeak and Eloquence, are selectable by the user. The K-NFB 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. This product is a joint development project of the National Federation of the Blind and Kurzweil Technologies, Inc. Available from Kurzweil Educational Systems, Inc. Price: $3,495.
Kurzweil--National Federation of the Blind Reader Mobile: The K-NFB Reader Mobile consists of a Nokia N82 phone, loaded with the K-NFB Reader Mobile software package. The unit, a candy-bar style phone, 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. Like the K-NFB Reader Classic, 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 current phone price.
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: $2,895.
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. Sold by 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.
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: $1,298.
COMMUNICATION DEVICES FOR THE DEAF-BLIND
These devices assist individuals who are deaf-blind by providing the ability to communicate using TTY.
Comm Lite: The Comm Lite allows a Braille Lite 2000 or Braille Lite Classic to serve as a TDD. It is a Baudot modem, attached by means of a cable to the Braille Lite. Special software is loaded into the Braille Lite to drive the modem. Two models are available, one for the Braille Lite 2000 and the other for the Braille Lite Classic. The user must use a disk drive to load the special software. Freedom Scientific. Price: $650.
Face to Face: Face to face is software that allows a Deaf-Blind person to communicate with another person using the Pacmate or a PDA or PC. Using Bluetooth, the Pacmate is paired with a PDA or a PC. The Pacmate output is displayed on the PDA or PC screen, while the PDA or PC response is displayed on the Pacmate Braille display. What the user types on the PDA or the PC is shown in Braille on the PacMate Braille display. Text can be copied to the clipboard, and pasted into the Face to Face program. Face to Face comes with an iPAQ PDA and the software to install to a PC. Face to Face is distributed by Freedom Scientific. Price: $1,400.
FSTTY: FSTTY is software and hardware that allows a Deaf-Blind person to communicate with others using a telephone line, a modem, and a Pacmate. 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 Pacmate will be displayed on the TTY. What the other person types on the TTY will be displayed in grade 1 braille on the Pacmate 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 Pacmate. 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: $5,995.
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, BrailleNote 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, maps, and either a 1 GB or 8 GB Compact Flash Card. Sendero Group LLC. Price: 1 GB, $1,549; 8 GB with maps loaded for PK, $1,799; for mPower, $1,975.
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 secure digital (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
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, $995; and Lite, $599.
i.d. Mate Omni: Formerly sold was model II which included an operating unit and a separate scanner, the i.d. Omni is now 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 compact flash 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. Envision America. Price: i.d. Mate Omni, $1,299.
J-say 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; $899.99; J-Say; $693. (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 previously inaccessible 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. Price: $99.
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. Ferguson Enterprises. Price: $649.99; SCANACAN Deluxe includes more extensive databases, $1,500; SCANACAN Professional Elite includes a cash drawer and receipt printer, $2,149.99.
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.
Sibelius Speaking 3 for Sibelius 3: Sibelius Speaking 3 is a set of sophisticated scripts for JAWS Screen Access software, for Sibelius 3. Sibelius 3 is a world-renowned music notation used by sighted individuals for composing music scores. Notes can be input using a standard computer keyboard and Midi input device, as well as the ability to insert lyrics. Once the score has been created, the music can be printed into standard music staff notation. Dancing Dots. Price: $289.
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, $450 (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 for the small base: $10.95; price for the 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. MarvelSoft. Price: $105.
Telephone Switchboard Access: Customized equipment is available that will allow a blind person to operate a telephone switchboard. Manufactured by Compusult Limited. Price: Call for pricing.
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; $500 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.
ALVA MPO: Mobile Phone Organizer 5500: This device is a mobile phone that uses a SIM card for accessing a GSM-type cell phone network. The MPO has a 20-cell Braille display, and can also serve as a notetaker. VisionCue, LLC. Price: $3,995.
Mobile Speak: Mobile Speak offers a nonvisual access solution to cell phones running the Symbion operating system. This includes certain Nokia cell phones, and one must consult the distributor to ensure that Mobile Speak works with the phone in question. Mobile Speak gives the user access to features of the cell phone including call log and caller-ID, contacts, phone settings, Internet browsing, e-mail, and text messaging. It can play a DAISY file or stream audio files. Installation options include self-installation or shipping the cell phone to the distributor to be installed. Handy Tech North America. Price: Self-Installation, $295. Professional-Installation, $395.
Mobile Speak Smart Phone: Mobile Speak Smart Phone is software that runs on a Smart Phone running Smart Phone 2005. A Smart Phone has no touch screen. When using a Smart Phone, a user can read Excel files, and Word files, but the files can’t be edited. Mobile Speak Smart Phone reads the screen of the Smart Phone. All features of the Smart Phone are accessible. Before purchasing Mobile Speak Smart Phone, the user can use it for thirty days at no charge. Mobile Speak Smart Phone is distributed by Handy Tech North America. Price: $299.
Screenless Talking Cell Phone: The Owasys 22C is a fully accessible cell phone. There is no screen so all functions talk. This is a basic cellular telephone. The phone has a standard touch-tone style keypad and the keys are reasonably spaced for ease of operation. All menus and functions talk including caller id, contact list, key entry, configuration menus, text messaging and more. The Owasys 22C uses speech by Babel. Several service plans are available from the vendor. Prices show some of the options. Available in the United States and Canada from Capital Accessibility. Price: $549.95 with existing cellular service. With the purchase from Capital Accessibility of a two-year contract from T-Mobile, price: $249.95 plus service fees.
TALKS: This software was made specifically for blind and visually impaired persons. TALKS Series 60 offers access to telephone functions only. TALKS Series 80 runs on Nokia 9290 mobile phones to supply functions of both a mobile phone and a personal data assistant. It speaks to the user in either English, German, or other languages using ETI Eloquence. The user can change ring tones for different callers, check who dialed the number, hear spoken voice messages, write and send an e-mail or a fax, and manage PDA functions. A portable Braille display can be attached. Manufactured by TALX in Germany (www.talx.de); sold in the U.S. by Beyond Sight, Inc. Price: Series 60 (for Nokia 3650, 3600, 7650, and N-Gage Cell Phone), $295; Series 80 (for Nokia 9290), $395.
Talks Premium Edition: This special version of the Talks application includes Talks standard edition and five bonus applications for blind users. The five applications are MiniGPS, Extended Recorder, Extended Profiles, Multimedia, and World Clock. VisionCue LLC is the main distributor. Price: $256.
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, and XP are accessible. Computers running OSX 10.4 (Tiger) work with VoiceOver technology. Linux systems can be made accessible but require an experienced user to set up an accessible Linux system.
Connect Outloud: This program provides speech and Braille access to the Internet for Web browsing using Microsoft Internet Explorer and for e-mail using Microsoft Outlook Express. It also provides access to basic Windows operating system functions and applications such as Notepad, WordPad, Windows Media Player, Windows CD Player, Windows calculator, and Windows Explorer. It comes with its own speech synthesizer, its own scaled down word processor, a talking installation process, and a tutorial mode for beginning users. Connect Outloud is not a full-function screen access program for Windows, but it does provide access to many of the functions that people want at home. This program will not work with Windows Vista or Internet Explorer version 7. Freedom Scientific. Price: $249.
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 98, ME, NT, 2000, and XP. 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 for Windows 95, 98, ME, XP Home versions, $895; Windows NT, 2000, XP Professional versions, $1,095.
Mobile Speak Pocket: Mobile Speak Pocket is software that can be installed on a PDA running Pocket PC 2003 se or Windows Mobile 5. The software reads the screen on the PDA similar to a screen reader for the PC. The hardware buttons of the PDA are reassigned to Alt, Shift, Control, and Tab. If the PDA has a built-in cell phone, the cell phone is also accessible. The PDA can be connected to several notetakers and Braille displays, and text can be entered on the PDA using the keyboard on the notetaker. Grade two Braille is supported. After purchasing a PDA, the user has thirty days to try the software at no charge. Mobile Speak Pocket is distributed by Humanware. Price: $595.
MAGic and MAGic Professional: These programs, designed for the low vision user, provide magnification (up to 16 times) of information on the computer monitor. Available options include no speech, built-in speech, or use with JAWS for Windows. The standard edition works with Windows 98 and ME. The Professional version works with Windows 98, ME, NT, 2000, and XP. Freedom Scientific. Price: $395 without speech; $595 with speech.
Supernova and Supernova Professional: These programs are a combination of the Hal screen access program (see above) and a screen magnification program. Supernova provides speech, refreshable Braille, and enlarged screen access to Windows 98, ME, NT, 2000, and XP and Windows-based applications. The Supernova Professional adds configuration tools. Dolphin Computer Access LLC. Price: Supernova, $1,195; Supernova Professional, $1,495.
System Access: System Access allows a person 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, and Windows Vista. System Access supports Notepad, Wordpad, and Outlook Express, Email 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, a 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. 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: Contact the nearest Apple Computer Store.
Window-Eyes Pro: Window-Eyes Pro supports nearly all Windows operating systems, including XP Home and XP Pro. Window-Eyes Pro includes four software speech synthesizers and supports all known Braille displays. GW Micro, Inc. Price: $795.
ZoomText Magnifier and ZoomText Magnifier/Reader: These are screen magnification programs. 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. Ai Squared, Inc. Price: Magnifier, $395; Magnifier/Reader, $595.
SCREENLESS LAPTOPS
These are laptop devices that are optimized for blind and visually impaired individuals.
DeskTalk: This is a computer that has the Window-Eyes Professional Screen Access software installed or can be built to your specifications. Includes a talking word processor, phone and address book, calculator, and phone dialer. The computer is sold without a monitor although one can be connected if desired. The company provides an accessible Internet service for a monthly fee of $16.95. Beyond Sight, Inc. Price: Standard, $995; Deluxe, $1,495.
LapTalk: This is a lightweight, battery-operated, portable computer that comes with the Window-Eyes Professional screen access software already installed and a talking word processor. A unique feature of this system is that there is no cover video monitor. You can add a monitor, but the purpose of the design is to use it without that added weight and space. Comes with carrying case, ear buds, external numeric keypad, and a restore CD. The company can turn the computer into a portable reading machine by adding OpenBook with a portable scanner for $695. The company provides an accessible Internet service for a monthly fee. Beyond Sight, Inc. Price: $2,195; Internet service $16.95 a month.
Outporter Notebook: This is a laptop that can be shipped with or without a screen. It is optimized for use by blind individuals and screen access software may be added. Compusult Limited. Price: $1,980.
Portico: Weighing 2 pounds, this lightweight laptop is optimized for screen access software and Braille display devices. The laptop can be purchased with or without the screen attached. CompSolution Assistive Technology, Inc. Price: $2,495.
Small Talk Ultra: This is a small palm size computer. It has a 1GB processor, 30GB hard drive, 512MB memory, and comes with a USB keyboard, USB CD-ROM drive, and a docking cable to connect other devices. The cable has connections along its length for power connection, USB, video for output to monitors, and wireless connectivity. GW Micro with Window-Eyes packages Small Talk Ultra. For those who already have Window-Eyes, GW Micro will install a copy and provide additional benefits at a reduced price. There is a small keyboard on the Ultra although most users will find the USB or optional Bluetooth keyboard a more practical solution. Because this is a Windows computer any Windows software may be installed and run on it. A user replaceable battery fits under the unit. A carrying case is included and this unit is ideal for traveling. The video output makes it possible to run slide shows or other audiovisual presentations. There is a stereo headphone jack or speakers may be used for increased volume. This is a fully functional computer. GW Micro. Price: (for new WindowEyes users) $2,595; (for those with the latest version of Window-Eyes) $2,295. Contact GW Micro for specific pricing and benefits.
SPEECH SYNTHESIZERS
HARDWARE
Hardware speech synthesizers convert text into electronic speech. The device must be connected to a PC running a screen access software application.
DECtalk USB: This is an external speech synthesizer that connects to the computer via the serial port. It requires and is supplied with specialized DEC-talk software that must be loaded before the computer can communicate with this device. Access Solutions, Inc. Price: $695.
DoubleTalk LT: An external speech synthesizer for Windows and some Macintosh operating systems, this connects to a computer by using a serial port. RC Systems, Inc. Price: $299.
TripleTalk PCI: This internal speech synthesizer plugs into a computer's PCI card slot. It uses the same text-to-speech technology contained in the DoubleTalk line of speech synthesizers. TripleTalk works with most popular screen access programs for Windows and a few screen access programs for DOS. Access Solutions, Inc. Price: $395.
TripleTalk USB: This external speech synthesizer connects to the computer's USB port and uses the same text-to-speech technology contained in the DoubleTalk line of synthesizers. Access Solutions, Inc. Price: $495.
SOFTWARE
Software speech synthesizers use a multi-channel sound card to convert text to speech. Be sure to verify which sound cards are most effective to run a particular software speech synthesizer. In general, any multi-channel sound card that is commercially available should be sufficient.
DECtalk Access32: This is speech synthesis software that produces speech through your computer's sound card. The software is designed to run in the Windows environment and is supported by the leading screen access programs for the blind. GW Micro, Inc. Price: $75.
