Assistive Technology
Screen Readers
Hardware
AT Services and ResourcesScreen magnification software: Many persons with low vision can use a computer with magnification software, which allows a variety of magnification sizes as well as contrasting colors. Two examples are ZoomText screen magnification software and SuperNova, which provides screen magnification as well as a screen reader to enable Braille display.
Screen reader software: This uses synthesized speech to read computer-based information to visually impaired people. Some products can also enable Braille displays (see below). Window-Eyes and JAWS are two examples of screen reader software.
Braille note-taking devices: These keyboards and portable devices enable people to take notes, save files and use calendar/schedule information using Braille or synthesized speech. They can connect to the Internet, a PC, and some can be used with a Global Positioning System. HumanWare produces a line of note-taking devices, and Freedom Scientific makes the PacMate Pocket PC solution for blind and low-vision users.
Scanner/reader software: In conjunction with a scanner, this lets you scan printed material and hear it via synthesized speech, or read it via a Braille display. One example of scanner/reader software is Open Book.
Braille displays: Refreshable Braille displays work in conjunction with screen reader software to enable persons to read and navigate computer-based information by providing a row of Braille characters on a device similar in appearance to a keyboard. Two examples of Braille displays are the Focus 40 and Focus 80.
Braille translation software: This converts text into Braille and formats it for an embosser (printer). Duxbury Braille Translator is an example of software that can help produce books, teaching materials, memos, signs compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and more.
Braille embossers: These produce a hard copy of any document in Braille by embossing paper. Two companies producing Braille embossers are Sighted Electronics and Enabling Technologies.
Screen Readers
JAWS See "Learning JAWS" page. http://www.gwmicro.com/Window-Eyes/
Windows Eyes Scripting on ACB Radio's Main MenuNVDA NVDA is a free and open source screen reader for the Microsoft Windows Operating System. This software can enable blind or vision impaired people to access computers running Come with Windows.http://www.nvda-project.org/ Natural Reader http://www.naturalreaders.com/ Windows Narrator For Windows XP Pro and Vista Pro. This also has magnification. Thunder Thunde is a free Open Source scren reaer. It has demo videos; and, has a following.
Hardware Peripherals
Keyboard
USB Screenreader
MyStick is a portable screen reader device that allows PC-users can access almost any PC which has a free USB-port available.
Services and Resources
Being able to keep up with the ever changing assistive technology is a challenge the Florida Division of Blind Services continues to strive to do. This is an overview of some services provided by Blind Services that might help you or your business. Learn about the Assistive Technology Demonstration Lab housed at the Manderfield Technical Training Laboratory (MTTL) in Daytona Beach, Florida.Click here!