(This file contains messages relating to use of Kermit, and of computers, and even technology in general, by people with blindness or other disabilities.) Date: Tue 1 Oct 85 14:17:51-EDT From: Frank da Cruz Subject: Use of Kermit by the Blind To: Info-Kermit@CU20B.ARPA cc: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA, Info-Micro@BRL-VGR.ARPA I've had a call from Kenneth Reed at NASA in Greenbelt, MD (phone 301-344-8414) asking how Kermit can be used effectively by blind people. Back in the days when computers had terminals, you could put a device like a Votrax or DECtalk or whatever between the terminal and the computer, and it could try to speak the letters and numbers, or words, as they went by. But microcomputers don't generally have a place to attach such a device. Kenneth says his Apple II has a special card that somehow gets characters just before they're about to be put on the screen and presumably can transmit them to a speaking device, but that's just for the Apple. I'm sure there has been a lot of discussion about this elsewhere, but I must have missed it. How can blind people use microcomputer applications in general? Obviously, graphics-oriented stuff is mostly out (and therefore, presumably, also the Macintosh). In MS-DOS, maybe there are console drivers that can intercept characters, strip out (or interpret) formatting information, and send the text out the serial port to, say, a Votrax, or maybe there are IBM PC boards that "speak the screen" directly. Anyhow, Kenneth's department is selecting microcomputers and he'd like to see them pick one that text oriented applications (like Kermit) can be adapted to give comprehensible audible output. If you have any information, please post it and also give Kenneth a call at the number listed. By the way, the way the Kermit file transfer display is done is important here. On MS-DOS systems, a "form" is put up on the screen at the beginning of the file transfer, and then numbers and messages are filled in and updated randomly throughout. If one were to read this stuff in sequence as it appeared on the screen, it would be a pretty confusing jumble. Also, you'd need a pretty fast talker at high baud rates... The serial output of local-mode Unix Kermit or DEC-20 Kermit would be a lot more comprehensible when interpreted by a voice device. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 2 Oct 85 06:21:51 MDT From: halff@utah-cs.arpa (Henry M. Halff) Subject: Re: Use of Kermit by the Blind References: <1835@brl-tgr.ARPA> Let me suggest that your friend contact the following firm. Talking Computers, Inc. 6931 North 27th Road Arlington, VA 22213 703-241-8224 The fellow that runs the firm is Doug Wakefield. His business is putting speech synthesizers on computers for blind people. He pretty much specializes in IBM PC's, but he might be able to help with Apples. The software that he uses should have no problem with a screen display like Kermit's since the user can, at any time, get a readout of the entire screen or any line on the screen. Hope this helps. Henry M. Halff Halff Resources, Inc. halff@utah-cs.ARPA ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 2 Oct 1985 22:52 MDT From: "Frank J. Wancho" Subject: Use of Kermit by the Blind Frank, Have Ken contact Anda Lee in Florida. She is blind and runs a BBS. Her numbers are: Office: 800-237-2774 x8492 Home: 813-885-4420 BBS: 813-885-4369 She called me last year because she was having some trouble bringing up my RBSS4. I talked to her for about an hour about sections of the code before she up and told me she was blind. I couldn't tell up to that point. She has a VOTRAX-like device she uses and also markets... I haven't talked to her in a long time, so I don't know if those numbers are current. --Frank ------------------------------ Date: Sat, 5 Oct 85 10:28:24 mst From: Kelvin Nilsen Subject: Kermit for the Blind hate to sound like a pest, but it seems that versacom might be able to offer some assistance here too. versacom does not run windows! all i/o to the terminal is serialized through the bios, write tty (except of course when it comes to terminal emulation). this makes it possible to run versacom on a pc from a terminal and connect to another system to transfer files. for example: vt100 dumb tty emulation +-------------+ +---------+ +----------+ |home terminal|- 1200 baud -|office pc|-19200 baud-|office vax| +-------------+ +---------+ +----------+ xon/xoff handshaking is supported on both ports, in both directions and works independently. the amount of information reported by file transfers can be each packet, or each file transfered. anyway, this capability makes possible two solutions to the problem you mentioned. first, attach a votrax-type terminal to one of the com ports of the pc. second, modify versacom to send bios tty output to an internal voice synthesizer instead of or in addition to the bios tty output. alternatively, it sounds like the SOURCE people have a version of UNIX-kermit that runs on the PC. it seems that would offer similar capabilities. Who knows how robust and user friendly that implementation is? kelvin nilsen ------------------------------ DATE: October 07, 1985 11:29:44 EDT FROM: NUNNALLY%VPIVM1.BITNET@WISCVM.ARPA SUBJECT: TERMINAL FOR THE BLIND WE ARE TRYING SEVERAL DIFFERENT PRODUCTS FOR THE BLIND HERE AT VA. TECH ONE IS A PACKAGE ON THE IBM PC CALL ED FREEDOM. VERY NICE PACKAGE. WORKS OUTSIDE OF ALMOST ANY OTHER PACKAGE ON THE PC. WE USE THE TERM EMULATOR YTERM WITH IT NO PROBLEMS. WE ALSO USE THE AUDIOTRONICS TALKING KEYBOARD FOR THE PC. HAVING SOME SPEED INTERFACE PROBLEMS. QUESTIONS CALL 703-961 5961. ------------------------------ Date: 5 Oct 1985 1454-PDT (Saturday) From: randy@uw-bluechip.arpa (William Randy Day) Subject: Re: Use of Kermit by the Blind I am part of a research project here at the University of Washington aimed at developing software for deaf-blind (both deaf and blind) users. The presentation problem is severe. As you say, graphics-oriented software is out. As you describe in you posting, even ``non-graphics'' programs like kermit can prove incomprehensible if a straight screen output to speech translation is made. We have come to the conclusion that a simple hardware/software translation unit sitting on top of normal software is inadequate, particularly for our severely handicapped target group. We have taken the custom software approach. I know this is Kenneth Reed's ball and not yours, but your message didn't have an email address for Kenneth. Besides, I don't have an answer, just a comment. Randy Day. UUCP: {decvax|ihnp4}!uw-beaver!uw-june!randy ARPA: randy@washington CSNET: randy%washington@csnet-relay ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 7 Oct 85 20:31:19 EDT From: Doug Gwyn (VLD/VMB) To: info-kermit@cu20b.ARPA Subject: terminals for the blind I don't know why nobody seems to be mentioning the VersaBraille (another company makes a similar device). I used to have a blind programmer working for me, and we tried various talking terminals, optical scanners, and so forth. Her conclusion was that the VersaBraille (with communications software cassette) was much easier and faster, although for graphics (yes!) she resorted to an optical scanner (sorry, I forget the trade name). This topic really seems orthogonal to KERMIT, other than to the extent to which it points out the silliness of fancy user interfaces in what was supposed to be a file transfer program. ------------------------------ From: Peter da Silva Newsgroups: net.micro Subject: Re: Use of Kermit by the Blind Date: 2 Oct 85 16:54:45 GMT To: info-micro@BRL-VGR.ARPA Attach the votrax to the printer port & turn on echoprint, perhaps? ^PrtSc on the IBM, ^P on CP/M. ------------------------------ Date: Wednesday, 9 Oct 85 07:59:43 PDT From: Robert Jaquiss To: INFO-KERMIT@cu20b.columbia.edu Subject: EQUIPMENT FOR THE BLIND I am a blind programmer at Tektronix Inc. I have used Kermit on several occasions. For my work I use a Thiel braille printer from Maryland Computer Services. To the computer it looks like a teletype that can send and receive upper and lowercase. Of course graphics are useless cursor movement is impossible. It is possible to deal with num- bered or lttered menus where you select the item you want by entering some character. I have a Versabraille as a backup terminal on which I have also used kermit it worked fine. The micro I am using runs CP/M so I don't have to contend with menus. Here are some equipment sources that have reliable hardware. Maryland Computer Services sells a very good braille printer. They have a specially modified HP150 [an MS-DOS PC with a touch-screen] that talks and a accessory for a PC that will allow users to use screen oriened software. Telesensory Systems Inc. sells the Versabraille (a refreshable braille display) and the Optacon (a hand held scanner that will show you the shape of letters). Vtek sells a tactile display device for use on a ibm PC or Apple. Maryland Computer Services Inc. 2010 rock Springs Road Forest Hills, Md. 21050 Phone (301) 879-3366 Telesensory Systems Inc. 455 N. Bernardo Mountainview, Ca. 94039 Phone (415) 960-0920 Vtek 1610 26th Santa Monica, Ca. 90404 Phone (213) 829-6841 If you need moe help call me at (503) 627-6346 (work) or (503) 640-6473 (home). Robert S. Jaquiss ucbvax!tektronix!robertj (uucp) robert jaquiss@tektronix (csnet) robert jaquiss.tektronix@rand-relay (arpanet) ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 11 Oct 85 9:34:53 EDT From: Robert I. Isakower (IMD-SEAD) Subject: Use of Kermit by the Blind The following letter was sent to Kennith Reed 10/10/85 at your request. 9 October 1985 Dear Mr. Reed, Recently a request was forwarded to me from Frank da Cruz asking if I had any information on the use of Kermit or the MS-DOS system by the Blind. Perhaps this request was directed to me because I have tunnel vision (Retinitis Pigmentosa). I also have a degenerative hearing problem which places very demanding requirements on any voice synthesizers used with visual aids for my eyesight problems. I have found SMOOTHTALKER on the Mac difficult to understand. DECTALK provides, for my personal use, the best voice output. Please realize that I am not a judge of what constitutes good speech because everything sounds to me as if it were coming from a distorted radio receiver. The following information that I am including in my letter are my notes and results of my own findings of a computer show that I attended in Ewing, New Jersey this past September. I have no corporate nor financial interest in any of the company products and the information and comments that I am offering is my personal opinion. I sincerely hope that my enclosure will be of some assistance to you in your research. If I can be of any further assistance, please feel free to contact me. Robert I. Isakower C, Technical Systems Division Four vendors featuring "talking computers" were at the show for aids for the blind and the visually impaired. I was unable to get prices for all the equipment. VTEK (formerly VISUALTEK) 1625 Olympic Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90404 1-800-345-2256 VOYAGER Electronic Magnifiers: $2,395 to $2,895 Large Print Display Processor (*) : $2,695 (This device magnifies, up to 16X, whatever is on the screen, with character enhancement. It recognizes the ASCII code and redraws it as a solid line vector, instead of an enlarged matrix of dots and spaces.) MBOSS-1 Braille Printer: $3,225 Braille Display Processor (*): $3,495 This is a neat paperless braille output with a 20 cell tactile refreshable braille readout. It will provide the braille equivalent of 20 contiguous character spaces on the computer display. Audio signals indicate the "position" of the 20 cell braille window on the video display. (*) for APPLE II, II+, IIe and IBM PC, PC-XT, PC-AT COMPUTER CONVERSATIONS 2350 N. Fourth St. Columbus, Ohio 43202 (614) 263-4324 (after 6 PM) ENHANCED PC TALKING PROGRAM: $500 Written by a blind programmer, (Ronald Hutchinson), this is interfacing software only, and requires the user's own computer, voice synthesizer, and application progams. Application programs are the programs that you wish to use in a speaking mode and would be an additional expense with all talking computers. This company's program interfaces with the most used computers, speech synthesizers and application software in the marketplace. The company will offer to recommend the configuration best suited to your needs and budget. MARYLAND COMPUTER SERVICES 2010 Rock Spring Rd Forest Hill, Maryland 21050 (301) 879-3366 TOTAL TALK PC (microcomputer, display, speech synthesizer, keyboard) AUDIODATA/IBM PC KEYBOARD (2 slider keys, speech synthesizer, speaker, and display magnification with optional low cost monitor)-provides audio output from your IBM PC. The vertical slider key locates the desired line and the horizontal key locates the character on the line. In this manner, the user can hear the screen, one line at a time, character by character. THIEL BRAILLE (high speed-120 cps) EMBOSSER CRANMER-PERKINS BRAILLER (4000 character memory typewriter, braille printer, plotter, smart terminal, portable): $2,350. READY READER optical character reader (typewritten material to braille or voice): $11,500. MCS computer systems are based upon Hewlett-Packard computers which are very well constructed. Unfortunately, none of the above equipment was demonstrated to me, for one reason or another. A fourth vendor was demonstrating a speech synthesizer that works with the APPLE II. I wasn't stirred by it and left early, not being offerred any literature. COMMENTS: VTEK and MCS have been around a long time, know the business of electronic visual aids, have the most varied product line and are probably my best bet for the future. They have equipment for both the visually impaired and the totally blind. MCS's AUDIODATA/IBM KEYBOARD promises the simplest, cheapest and quickest fix for IBM PC users. Although it is a very competitive computer marketplace, a small software manufacturer and system iterfacing company such as Computer Conversations, probably with lower production costs and more self-motivating talent, cannot be discounted. Another company that should be investigated is the one that manufactures a portable tactile (pins) readout device called the OPTICON. I've watched this used with great success and speed on printouts and teletypewriters (on line), and I heard of some sort of adaptation to a computer display. Note that the OPTICON is difficult to learn to use. ------------------------------ Date: Monday, 7 October 1985 22:53-MDT From: Dan_Bower%RPI-MTS.Mailnet@MIT-MULTICS.ARPA To: Info-IBMPC@MIT-MC Subject: Output Devices for the Blind This is in response to the comments about making Kermit, etc. run via a voice interpreter. Although this idea is good, what about some sort of tactile display? A device called a Braille Writer (?) takes a serial input and displays it in a mechanical braille display: 1 row of 20 characters. The display consists of a large 'dot matrix', where the dots are pins attached to coils. To display a character, it charges the proper coils pushing the proper arrangement of blunt pins out of their sockets. To use Kermit with such a thing, why not a 25x80 set of character matrices that accepts the same inputs as a monochrome monitor? Technically, it is a relatively simple problem. In practicality, it will probably never hit the market. The development costs would be comparable to those of new printers or monitors, but the market is orders of magnitude smaller that for devices for sighted people. If it was developed privately, the unit cost would be terribly high. With the present government attitude towards spending money on charitible projects, it would likely never come to pass via Uncle Sam. Boy would I like to see someone prove me wrong on this one... [This is way off the subject for INFO-IBMPC, but am bending the rules a bit. Perhaps the people interested in this subject can get together on some appropriate forum. -wab] [This is not so off the subject, given the most commonly available engine for any project is a pc; certainly it is more relevant here than Info-Kermit. -elmo, feudal editor] ------------------------------ From: Sheldon Talmy Date: 19 Oct 85 18:36:58 PDT (Sat) Subject: Kermit for the blind In response to your msg about, "Kermit for the blind", there is a great deal being done for the visually handicapped in conjunction with computers. One company I suggest is IRTI: Innovative Rehabilitation Technologies Inc. 26699 Snell Lane, Los Altos Hills,Ca, 94022 415-948-8588 They have a huge catalog of products for the visually impaired, including synths & entire turn-key systems. If nothing else, the man who owns the company is an excellent resource for info on the latest products. I've been writing articles on computers for the handicapped for the last couple of years, & have gathered several sources for products, that are ready to go now. If I can be of any help, send me a msg, & I'll be happy to assist you. I note from other messages on the subject, that some research is going on that could conceivably come under the heading of "re-inventing the wheel". As i'm involved in the field, I might possibly be able to save time & effort, so contact me if you like. Shel Talmy<>Talmy@Rand-Unix ------------------------------ Date: 02 Nov 85 19:52:51 EST (Sat) From: dave@mimsy.umd.edu To: Info-Kermit@cu20b.ARPA Cc: Info-IBMPC@usc-isib.ARPA, Info-Micro@brl-vgr.ARPA Subject: man-machine interfaces for the blind the following companies have experts in understanding the specific problems of developing and using man-machine interfaces for the blind. Automated Functions, Inc. Washington, D.C. Maryland Computer Services Gambrills, Maryland Talking Computers Arlington, Virginia Telesensory Systems Inc. Palo Alto, California I own a Macintosh, but find it very difficult to use myself. I own it because, nevertheless, it is the best tool for the application for which I got it. I have heard of a blind Mac user who reads the screen with an OPTACON. Dave Stoffel Amber Research Group, Inc. ------------------------------ Date: 17-Jan-86 19:06:10-EST From: BLACK J EMMETT Subject: computer use by blind people... To: I can recall having "chatted" with a person on the SOURCE who was using an old TI-99/4a with voice synthesizer... which "read" the screen to him... Although possibly difficult to find, the price is likely to be quite low for a "dumb" voice terminal using the TI... I've seen a number of ads offering TI's for sale... ------------------------------ Date: Wednesday, 1 January 1986 18:04-MST From: Mark Becker To: KPetersen@SIMTEL20.ARPA Subject: BBS's for the handicapped Keith, are you aware of any bulletin boards anywhere that support both ASCII and Baudot code? I know of one in southern Maryland run by a Dick Barth... that's the HEX (for Handicapped Educational eXchange) machine. It supports ASCII at 300 baud *and* 45.45 baud Baudot code. His machine, build a couple of years ago from a Gov't grant, has quite a population of hearing-impaired and blind people using it. The Baudot modems aren't anywhere near Bell 103 or 212A; they use something called a Weibrecht (sp?) standard. Mark tone at 1400 Hz, space at 1600 Hz. Also, they are *half* duplex. Please forward this as you see fit - I'm curious if more than one of these "modified" BBS systems exist. Dick's hardware is oriented around a Smoke Signal Broadcasting frame with a 15 MByte disk attached. Regards, Mark ------------------------------ Date: Thursday, 6 March 1986 9:56am From: Frank da Cruz Subject: BYTE Articles on Computing for the Blind The March 1986 issue of BYTE Magazine has a couple articles in this area. One is called "Computing for the Blind User" by Aries Arditi and Arthur E. Gillman. It's an overview of the problems and solutions. The other is a review of Braille-Edit, by Henry Brugsch. The first article includes a list of products: Screen Talk Computer Aids Corp. 124 West Washington, Lower Arcade Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Phone 219-422-2424 The Enhanced PC Talking Program Computer Conversations 2350 North Fourth Street Columbus, OH 43202 Phone 614-263-4324 Total Talk PC Maryland Comuter Services 2010 Rock Spring Road Forest Hill, MD 21050 Phone 301-879-3366 Braille-Edit Raised Dot Computing Inc. 408 South Baldwin Street Madison, WI 53707 Phone 608-257-9595 Echo+ Street Electronics 1140 Mark Avenue Carpinteria, CA 93013 Phone 805-684-4593 VERT Versabraille Telesensory Systems Inc. 455 North Bernardo Avenue Mountain View, CA 94043 Phone 415-960-0920 Personal Speech System Type-'N-Talk Votrax Inc. 1394 Rankin Drive Troy, MI 48083 Phone 313-588-2050 ------------------------------ Date: Thursday, 6 March 1986 9:56am From: Frank da Cruz Subject: Catalogs Two catalogs I came across recently, both somewhat dated but perhaps useful nonetheless. There may be newer editions of each. TASH - Technical Aids & Systems for the Handicapped, Inc. (1984) 70 Gibson Drive, Unit 1 Markham, Ontario CANADA L3R 2Z3 Phone 416-475-2212 The TASH catalog is mainly useful to the physically impaired. It includes all sorts of alternate keyboards, switches, foot treadles, joysticks, etc, designed to allow data to be input to a computer by people who don't have full use of their hands. Some devices are very simple, like "keylocks", which hold control or shift key down. IBM Directory of Services and Specialized Equipment for the Physically Impaired (1st Ed, 1982) G320-0024-0 IBM Corporation Department 63C/028 Kingston, NY 12401 This publication is more than 400 pages long, and is not limited to computing aspects. It also discusses aids for daily living, cooking, clocks, etc. There are large sections on the blind, the deaf, the deaf and blind, etc. There is a 20-page list of agencies and organizations serving the physically impaired. It does not seem to be IBM-oriented in any way -- many products are listed from other vendors, even competitors. It invites submissions from readers for future editions; I'm submitting this collection of messages, up to and including this one. ------------------------------ Date: Sat, 10 May 86 00:53:31 EDT From: Richard Barth Subject: Discussion group for technology for the handicapped > A mailing list has been set up at North Dakota State University for > discussing computer and other technology for people with any kind > of handicap, plus meetings, conferences, funding agencies, and so > forth. It is run by Bob Puyear, NU025213@NDSUVM1.BITNET (via Arpanet, > NU025213%NDSUVM1.BITNET@WISCVM.WISC.EDU), who will add you to the > mailing list if you send him a request to do so. To send mail directly > to the list itself, replace NU025213 by L$HCAP in the addresses above. > Please add me to the list. I operate a computer bulletin board system in Silver Spring MD called the Handicapped Educational Exchange (HEX); data line is (301) 593-7033. It accepts calls at 300 baud ASCII (8N1) or in TTY/TDD format. It serves as a clearinghouse for information on the use of computers to aid the disabled. One of the reasons why I (very recently) got onto the net was so that I would be able to trade information with others having similar interests. I'll be putting out an announcement about HEX as soon as I get the feel of your group. Meanwhile, I'm glad to know you're around. ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 29-JUL-1986 20:50 EST From: Subject: information on computers for visually impaired APPLE RESOURCES FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED By Harvey Lauer and Leonard Mowinski, Blind Center (124), Veterans Hospital, Hines, Illinois 60141. (312) 343-7959 Details about these and information about many more resources will be found in the two newsletters called RDC Newsletter and BAUD. Three periodicals on Apple disks are listed which also discuss resources. Additional, extensive Apple resource lists are available from Sherry Lowry, 10622 Fairlane, Houston, Texas 77024. (713) 461-9654 Braille-Edit is a product of Raised Dot Computing, 408 South Baldwin Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53703. (608) 257-9595. It is a program system for word processing in braille, speech and large print. It has extensive utilities including braille translation and file transfer. You can upload and download files at any speed. RDC also has the Braille Training Program, Tactile Graphics Program, and Math Blackboard Program. The hardware they selll includes the Echo speech devices, the Super Serial Card, the Cranmer Modified Perkins Brailler and many special connecting cables. We recommend the RDC Newsletter for all who are interested in computer aids. Foley's Low Vision Aids sells the following items. Their manufacturers listed here also market them. Echo Plus, Echo GP, Sweet Talker (including software), Braille-Edit, Braille Training Program. Foley's Low Vision Aids and Computer Aids are also Apple Dealers from whom all the hardware and most special software can be bought. Foley's Low Vision Aids, 1357 East David Road, Kettering, Ohio 45429, (513) 294-2433 The Bible on disks, (called The Word Processor), Bible Research Systems, 8804 Wildridge Drive, Austin, Texas 78759, (512) 346-2181. Price: $190.00. This is a valuable and unique service for clergymen and students. It facilitates searches and cross referencing and works with the Echo and Cricket speech devices. Data Capture, Southeast Software, 7743 Briarwood Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70128, (504) 246-8438. Useful terminal programs, some of which can be used with the Echo II, but not all features work with the speech. Computer Aids sells Info Database, Documents Word Processor, Agenda appointment calendar, Talking Transend terminal program, and a draft-quality braille translator called Braille Talk. Their word processor has been revised and improved. It is called Word-Talk. (See also the newsletter entitled Baud. and see IBM Resources.) Mr. William Grimm, Computer Aids, 124 West Washington blvd., Lower Arcade, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802. (219) 422-2424 Speech Synthesizers: Echo II for the Apple II models and the Echo Cricket for the IIc. Street Electronics, Inc., 1140 Mark Avenue, Carpinteria, California 93013. (805) 684-4593. They also make the Echo GP which works with computers other than Apple and other Apple cards. Their talking terminal program does not save to disk but is unique in that it runs at any baud rate. Electronic Typing Fingers, Personal Micro Computers, Inc., 475 Ellis Street, Mountain View, California 94043, (415) 962-0220. It works with the IBM braille writer to print braille. Explained in another article, it requires tinkering and is seldom advisable now that low-cost braille printers are here. Anti-Static Floor Mat, Misco, Inc., Box 399, Holmdel, New Jersey 07733, (201) 946-3500. Note: Also obtainable from computer stores. Cables and plugs for RS/232 connections, Telcom Products, 7550 Plaza Court, Willowbrook Court, Illinois 60521, (312) 887-0212. Note: Cables are also available from computer stores, but Telcom sells either parts, standard cables, or made-to-order cables often at better prices. A spell-checking program we recommend is Sensible Speller from Sensible Software, 210 South Woodward, Suite 229, Birmingham, Michigan 48011. (313) 258-5566. It is not as convenient to use as it should be, and it does not talk with the Echo; however, a version is available from the Cyberon Corporation which talks well with the Zero Card or the Print-it Card. A version is being worked on with Echo speech in Pro-DOS. The Adaptive Firmware card provides alternate input options for people with manual disabilities. These include Morse Code and puff-and-sip controls. Contact: Adaptive Peripherals, Paul Schwejda, 4529 Bagley Avenue North, Seattle, Washington 98103. (206) 633-2610. To get output to speech or braille devices while running protected software, you can use the Print-it Card. Contact: Text Print, Inc., 8 Blanchard Road, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803. (617) 449-5808. Computer stores also sell it. See also the Cyberon Corporation. Pronto DOS is a faster operating system then Apple DOS. It works with speech and is available from Beagle Brothers, 4315 Sierra Vista, San Diego, California 92101. (619) 296-6400. Diversi-DOS is another such operating system; however, a special version of the Echo II speech must be used with it. It comes from DSR, Inc., 5848 Crampton Court, Rockford, Illinois 61111. (815) 877-1343. We have had the Maggs-Visek program modified to work in the Apple under the CP/M operating system. It works with the Microsoft card and perhaps others. It will not work with the Echo boards but works well with external synthesizers. Contact us at the above address. Speak Up is a program to create customized high-quality speech using the Echo II. It comes from Laureate Learning Systems, 1 Mill Street, Burlington, Vermont 04301. (802) 862-7355. You can put the speech into your programs. They also have excellent talking software for young children. Note that the customized speech cannot be used in existing application programs. The Slot Buster Card is a new one from R.C. Systems, Inc., 121 West Winesap Road, Bothell, Washington 98012.(206) 771-6883 or (800) 227-1617. One version has a parallel port, a serial port and a buffer. Of main interest to us is the version that has those ports and a speech synthesizer using the new SSI 263 chip. The speech is fast and clear, and there are commands written for us similar to those available with the Echo speech. The only exception is that screen review in Applesoft is not yet available but soon may be. The BAUD Newsletter (see Publications) and a substantial library of public domain software that works with speech is available from Joe Giovanelli, Audio-Tech Laboratories, 1158 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714. (516) 433-0171H$p A talking database called Lister Talker is available from CiderWare, Attention: Mike Firth, 104 north St. Mary, Dallas, Texas 75214. (214) 827-7734. A bank book and check writing program is called Trax Pax. It comes from Howard Traxler, 6504 West Girard, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53210.. (414) 445-5925 A program to handle budgeting and check writing is Personal Accounting. It comes from Kieth Creasey, 1956 Melwood Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky 40206. (502) 896-0132. Two talking word processors are sold by Larry Skutchan, 337 South Peterson, Louisville, Kentucky 40206 Work: (502) 895-2405 Home: (502) 896-1288 Tutorial programs to teach you programming in BASIC are sold by Program Design, Inc., 95 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, Connecticut 06830. (203) 661-8799. Their new programs do not work with speech, but their old versions work with the Echo. if you can get them. They were not designed for that, so you need to be experienced with the Echo II before using them. You also need the workbook, so it should be tape recorded. Several Apple manuals and the Echo II manual are available on VersaBraille tape from Harvey Jossem, 1432 Sunny Avenue, Eureka, California 95501. (707) 442-7247; or from Olga Espinola, 763 Grafton Street, Apartment 2, Worcester, Massachusetts 01604. Audio Cassette versions of many manuals have been made by Recordings for the Blind and other organizations. The Echo Enhancer is a little black box with volume control and jacks that facilitates using the Echo II with earphones, tape recorder, etc. It comes either from RDC or from Greg Mark, 207 Paisley Court, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007. (616) 344-4592. Ciderware also has such a box with a different configuration. A talking terminal program called Talking TermExec is available from Quinsept, Inc., P. O. Box 216, Lexington, Massachusetts 02173. (617) 641-2930. For details and technical support, contact Henry Brugsch, 1645 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, Massachusetts. (617) 391-0020. The program is not recommended and may be discontinued for lack of support. Quality educational software in a wide variety at levels ninth grade through adult which speaks with the Echo or Cricket is available from Sliwa Enterprizes, Inc. SEI, 2360-J George Washington Highway, Yorktown, Virginia 23692. (804) 898-8386. Their talking Spanish course is also unique and well done. A magazine on Apple disks is Softdisk Magazette, P. O. Box 30008, Shreveport, Louisiana 71130. (318) 868-7247. It features articles and programs mostly usable with the Echo II. Softyme is a bimonthly magazine on Apple disks. Many, if not most of its offerings are usable with the Echo II. The price is $48 per year. Write Softyme, P. O. Box 299, Newport, Rhode Island 02840. Apple Talk is a quarterly periodical on Apple diskette. It is packed with information, programs and ads. The price is $10 per year. Contact Jeff Weiss, 3015 South Tyler Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72204. (501) 666-6552. SELECTING COMPUTER AIDS FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED by Harvey Lauer and Leonard Mowinski "I've read the literature on computer aids, but I am still in a quandary." Hearing this again and again from both consumers and counselors prompted us to write this paper. We'll attempt to fill in some gaps in the literature and in courses on the state of access technology for the visually impaired. Some familiarity with computer aids is assumed. This is not an evaluation of any particular aid. Our purpose is to present a theoretical framework for comparing the aids; we do use some brand names in our illustrations. We want to discuss the expertise needed to implement this challenging access technology, and the reasons why computers can be a mixed blessing for blind people. Aids Can Play Three Roles There are three categories, roles, or "personalities" for computer aids. Understanding this is crucial for anyone issuing, teaching or using the aids. They can serve as "stand-alones", as the "heart" of a system, or as "peripheral devices". Both the VersaBraille and Kurzweil Reading Machine are billed as "stand-alone" devices. That label does fit the KRM fairly well. It is designed as a dedicated system; it is inefficient as a peripheral talking terminal at present. Unfortunately it will never serve as a word processor or run a database. As a reading machine, it does stand alone. However, when it is used to scan print and then send data to a computer for processing and reprinting, it is technically a peripheral device. The VersaBraille, due to its useful overall design, fits into all three categories. It has enjoyed success despite its small computer, slow operating system, limited keyboard and the fact that it does not send its commands to its port. Let's examine these three roles in detail: The VersaBraille can stand alone for taking notes and record keeping. Paper braille and recordings are nearly as useful for those tasks. The VB would not be fully exploited if it was only used as a stand-alone device. But when it is used as the heart of a system, the VB becomes more valuable. You can connect a keyboard, drive a printer and a speech device. Then you can create, edit and print texts without retyping and losing control of your material. It does require a lot more training and study to use the VB at this level. Using the VB as a peripheral can be even more effective and requires yet a higher level of training and teaching skill. Remember, however, that if it were nothing but a peripheral, it would lose much of its value. You are using it as a peripheral when you interface it with a main frame computer, either directly or through a telephone modem. Many jobs now require that capability. It is a peripheral when you use it with a personal computer running special software. The VB really shines when the user learns all three of these roles. If the only instruction is "how to use the VersaBraille as a stand-alone device" then both the user and the machine are shortchanged. Any computer worth its chips for sighted people will also perform those three roles. But most of them are not accessible to blind people. Fortunately for us, there are specialized hardware and software application that do perform these three crucial roles. (Examples include the Brailink, the I.T.S., the Avos System, the IBM PC, and the Apple.) For example, when we play games or run a talking database in a microcomputer, we are using it as a stand-alone device. When we boot a talking terminal program and telephone a data bank, we are using it as a peripheral. The same is true when we interface it (as a talking or large-print terminal) to another microcomputer. In that case, the other micro runs the applications programs. When we run a multi-media word processor such as BRAILLE-EDIT and generate texts in braille, speech, and print, we are using an Apple as the heart of an accessible computer system. Training Training is the least understood aspect of computer aids for the blind. Vendors and users often sabotage their own long-range interests by claiming that sophisticated aids can be learned easily from manuals. Some people can do that, but we have all had enough experience to know that many people cannot learn to use their first computer aid from any manual. People's ability to learn how to use any computer-based system varies widely. At one extreme, there are those who can work from a list of commands on a reference card. At the other end of the scale, many need several weeks of training before they can make any sense of their manuals. Teachers are no different. Most lack the requisite experience to train students in the new access technologies. The fear, awe, and hostility surrounding computers is a serious handicap. We only exacerbate the problem if we try to dazzle people with an illusion of simplicity. The bald truth is that both the teachers' and the users' needs are not met by the existing manuals. Any training center considering adding "computer aids" to its list of prosthetic devices should ponder four things: -- Computers and related equipment must be evaluated as they become available. Funding for evaluators, as well as for equipment purchases, is needed. -- Most centers do not now have sufficient staff to teach computer literacy and use to their clients. In the past, the Living Skills department taught the use of sensory aids (such as the Optacon and Kurzweil Reading Machine). It's wrong to assume the same staff will be able to teach Versabraille, Visualtek, Viewscan etc. in addition to their regular duties. We recommend that one full-time position per VA center be added for the express purpose of teaching computers and other sensory aids as they become available. Centers with no such program will need additional staff. These same people can also be responsible for helping out the Living Skills and Research departments if computer training slows down. -- We need to develop a computer literacy course that can be an established part of a training Center curriculum. -- It is important to match the proper equipment with the needs of the user. A team consisting of training center personnel should be developed to help evaluate requests for equipment. Expertise Needed For Prescribing Computer Aids There are two types of expertise needed to prescribe effective computer aids. Right now, few people are experts in both areas. (1) Rehabilitation skills must be brought to bear on the problem. We must have someone well-versed in "human engineering"--the knowledge of what can be done with special computer aids. The mode of input, the media of output, the devices, and the software must be matched to the client's abilities and the tasks to be done. However, rehab personnel still lack both general computer literacy and knowledge of the function and operation of individual special aids. Complete knowledge of the access technology is currently possessed by only a handful of people. The computer field is constantly changing, and it is a challenge to maintain up-to-date evaluations of the aids available. The country needs several centers (super centers) which, in addition to training, are dedicated to evaluating aids and committed to sharing results with developers and local trainers. At present, many aids are being developed in partial vacuums. Local trainers, where they exist, cannot keep up with the technology. (2) Computer applications technology is currently the realm of applications engineers and systems analysts. They must begin to coomunicate with administrators, office personnel, programmers and technicians to implement their work. Knowledge of the spectrum of applications technology is even more diffused in the sighted world than in the blindness community. Most placements of visually impaired workers require teams of five to ten people to implement. Five different skills are needed in the interfacing process. To be successful, you must find people who know how to use the special devices, how to interface that special technology, how to use the regular office equipment, and how to interface it, too. Last but not least, there must be a person well versed in the real needs of the office environment. It may make more sense to create a parallel, accessible computer system, rather than trying to make the main office system itself acessible. Any blind person who is persistent enough and lucky enough to get a piece of appropriate technology, must be even luckier and more persistent to get it interfaced and working. The Quandary Summarized Selecting aids is not a trivial task. Few counselors know where to start. It has often required three days of work to confer and prescribe computer aids for a complex office environment. Sometimes, even then, applicability cannot be fully assured. Computers can be a mixed blessing for us. If the cost of prescribing, interfacing and training goes unrecognized, chaos and frustration can result. Blind people must approach computer use in a different way from sighted people. Voice output is not exactly comparable to screen output. Computer software is becoming more and more screen oriented. It's easy for a sighted person to quickly skim a "help menu" on the screen to locate commands. If standard software is merely made to speak, the user may have to listen to a long list of commands, trying to remember the right one. Braille reference cards can be helpful. But there is still a need for specialized software designed for efficient voice output. Of equal importance is the fact that sighted people using computers at work need to know much less about their machines. There's usually lots of reference material available in print. Some programs are so popular that there are literally scores of books aimed at beginning users. For the average sighted worker, "interfacing" is a verb they'll never encounter! Until the blind person learns the intimate details of a particular system, they are likely to need a lot of ongoing technical support. Remember that software changes even faster than hardware. We can't assume that systems support people will continue to help blind workers and their equipment adapt to changes in a computer-oriented work environment. Functional computer aids (both software and hardware) can range in cost from $500 to $15,000. A successful prescriber will keep in mind all the possibilities; the various roles a device can play; and the susceptibility of any device to obsolescence due to the rapidly changing technology. We estimate that for every success story in this field, there is one inefficient application, another inadequate one and two or three more unmet needs. This is an uphill road, a pioneering trail. Can we reverse the trend of lost jobs and educational opportunities? Cooperation among researchers, service providers, and users is essential. Each state needs a computer aids center. At the few existing centers, the few staff are struggling to learn and apply the basics. The computer aids centers or clinics should give literacy training to rehab staff, train and assess clients, and interface equipment for clients. The manufacturers and vendors cannot keep up with the application or interfacing of what they sell. As a result, it is often catch-as-catch-can for the blind user. Sometimes a helpful, persistent colleague takes the initiative in getting the user's equipment working. But this AGAIN places the blind user in a dependent role. Computers are billed as "friendly", but their power and swift evolution make them bucking broncos. If we harness their power and mold their multiple personalities to meet our needs, we can achieve competence and parity wherever our society chooses to use computers. ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 31 Jul 1986 17:47 PDT From: "Jeffrey Sicherman" Subject: Using Computers as TDDS, Sources of Software & Hardware The following is copied from an information sheet obtained from the Orange County (CA) Deaf Equal Access Foundation (D.E.A.F.) 7700 Orangethorpe Ave #6 Buena Park CA 90621 concerning TDD modems and bulletin boards USING COMPUTERS AS TDDS SOURCES OF SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE Apple II,II+,IIe Howard Cunningham Atari Secretary, AMRAD Commodore C64 11523 Chariton Drive TRS-80, Model I Silver Spring, MD 20902 The above source has public domain software for the various computer systems listed. Generally, copies of this software are available for the cost of the diskette plus shipping and handling ... about $5.00. All programs require the use of an external modem; either the old Phone-TTY 80 or a modified VADIC modem card which AMRAD sells for $25.00 (?) a copy. Write for information on a specific computer system. IBM PC Richard Barth IBM PC-XT AMRAD Handicapped Exchange IBM PC-JR 11523 Chariton Drive CoCo Silver Spring, MD 20902 The above source has public domain software for those computer systems. The IBM PC and PC JR software does not require external modems. I am not sure about the Coleco CoCo software. This is very simple software which allows these computers to operate as TDDs and nothing more. Send Mr. Barth a blank floppy disk and $2.00 to cover return postage... or $5.00 to cover the disk plus postage. [My comments: I have some reason to suspect some of the immediately above. I think the PC jr either does or can have an internal modem port but there is none standard in the PC/XT and you cant couple it directly to the phone line. I don't know about the author of this information or its precise age.] IBM PC Edward Ingham & Associates IBM PC-XT 3708 Falcon Avenue IBM PC-AT Long Beach, CA 90807 TDD (213) 595-0092 The above source sells a modem and software which enables the IBM-PC and clones to communicate with both TDDs and other computer systems with Bell 103A ASCII compatible modems (110 and 300 baud). This system also auto-answers and automatically detects the incoming call signal and sets the modem in the proper handshaking protocol (TDD, 110 Baud ASCII originate or answer, and 300 Baud ASCII originate or answer). This software and modem combination also allows these computers to function as electronic bulletin boards accessible to both other computers and TDDs. Cost for the modem and software is $350.00. Any computer with RS 232c serial communications ports: Krown Research, Inc. 6300 Arizona Circle Los Angeles, CA 90045 Voice/TDD (213) 641-4306 The above source sells a modem which turns any computer or dumb ASCII terminal into a dual-mode terminal which is accessible to both TDDs and 300 Baud ASCII terminals, buth with limited computer functions unless the system used with telephone communications software for the specific computer, purchased separately for an extra 50 to 200 ($ ?). This modem costs 350.00 plus shipping. [ I have no connection or special communications with any of the above, so please direct any comments or questions directly to them. However I would appreciate any corrections to the above informationb, whether quoted material or my own comments] Jeffrey Sicherman JAJZ801@CALSTATE.BITNET ------------------------------ Date: Wed 3 Sep 86 12:07:37-EDT Sender: List Processor Reply-to: Distribution List From: Hans A. ]lien Via: Christine M Gianone Subject: Re: Lauer-Mowinski two-part Article (source request) and more RECOMMENDING COMPUTERS FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED A MOVING TARGET OR A LOSING WAR? By Harvey Lauer and Leonard Mowinski Blind Rehabilitation Technology Specialists September, 1985 As a new subscriber to the l-hcap mailing list I just received the above mentioned article. I found it quite interesting, and would very much like to receive the "resource lists" mentioned. If they have already been posted, please mail them to me. Anyway, could someone supply me with an address, preferabby both email and papermail, of the authors of the article. As for the contents of the article, I agree with most of it. The situatien in Norway is somewhat different. Because of our Norwegian language (and three additional letters of the alphabet) reasonably priced American speech synthesizers like those of Street Electronics are of little use. Only during the last year or so the Swedish Infovox SA201 speech synthesizers have been provided with a Norwegian language output. Maybe because of the above, computers have not been widely used by blind people in this country. For the time being, however, quite a number of pupils, students and employees are being provided with Braille, speech and/or large print computer aids. Among the special stand-alone hardware, Braillex-D and Braillex-PC from Papenmeier Germany, together with TSI VersaBraille I & II, are dominating. For large print the Norwegian CP/M-based Tiki-100 provides double-width and double-height letters at least for word processing. Apart from the Tiki, most standard micros used are IBM PCs and clones. Infovox speech output has already been mentioned, and for large print Telesensory's Vista card has become quite popular. Braille access to the IBMPC screen is not enjoyed by many people here, but the BD80T from Marburg Germany has been around for some time. This summer we have had the first two copies of the Braillex IB-80 8-dot Braille display with access to the PC screen (including display of all 256 ASCII characters and their attributes (inverse, highlight, blink, etc.)) -- this device looks promising, But unfortunateby, very expensive, like all other Braille displays available here. One final question on Braille devices: I have read about the Kentucky Porta-/Pocket-Braille devices. I would very much like to receive any user experiences or other details on these products, along with details on prices, options available, and ordering information. Many thanks in advance for any information! And Bob, please continue supplying old items from the list -- thank you!) All the best Hans ------- Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1986 11:55 CDT Sender: (NU025213@NDSUVM1) via List Processor From: Bob Puyear Subject: Book Review I would like to inform this Distribution List of a new book that appears to have some good information in it if you are blind or are attempting to set up a blind person with peripheral devices that are currently on the market. Title: The Ultimate Guide to Peripherals for the Blind Computer User Publisher: National Braille Press, Inc 88 St. Stephen Street Boston, Massachusetts 02115 Phone: (617)266-6160 Date: January, 1986 Price: $ 19.95 Available in braille and audio cassette for $16.95. Printed copies are $19.95. Overseas in any medium the price is $30.00. Postage is included in all prices. TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1: SCANNERS: GETTING THE INFORMATION IN A guide to optical character readers (OCR) Kerzweil Reading Machine DEST Workless Station OCR TOTEC TO-5000B OCR Oberon Omni-Reader Omni-Reader OCR The prices range from $30,000 to several hundred. CHAPTER 2: A BUYER'S GUIDE TO MODEMS CHAPTER 3: BRAILLE PRINTERS AND TRANSLATERS This chapter compares: 1)Cranmer modified Perkins brailler "PERKY" 2)TRIFORMATIONS PERSONAL BRAILLER, AND 3)MSBOSS-I. ($2,300-3,500) Dipner Dots ($10 + daisy-wheel printer) Braille Translaters Braille-Edit, BETTE (Apple II, $300-400) Duxbury Translation Software (IBM PC, $495) Braille-Talk (IBM PC or Apple II, $125-195) These probably work with IBM and Apple compatibles CHAPTER 4: A BUYERS GUIDE TO INKPRINT PRINTERS CHAPTER 5: SELECTING A SPEECH SYNTHESIZER This chapter discusses and compares: 1)Echo+, Cricket ($150-170) 2)Votrax Personal Speech Synthesizer ($400) 3)DECtalk ($4000) 4)Calltext 5000 ($3,225) There is also a table which lists compatability of: Commodore 64, Radio Shack Model 4, Apple IIe/c, IBM PC and compatibles with voice sythesizer, and screen review (talking) program. CHAPTER 6: PAPERLESS BRAILLE DEVICES This chapter describes good and bad points about three paperless braille devices and introduces the Kentucky portabraille and pocketbraille. 1) VersaBraille II ($6,995) 2) Microbrailler ($5,750) 3) BDP-21, BDP-20 ($3,495) One comment, the BDP-20 or BDP-21 require either an Apple, IBM PC or compatible to operate. This is not the case for versabraille II, or microbrailler. 4) The Kentucky braillers are meant for the do-it-yourselfer. The manual for either the portabrailler or pocketbrailler sell for $5.00 and includes construction plans, parts list and source of parts. The estimated cost for the portabrailler is between $800 and $900, the pocketbrailler $100 and $200. CHAPTER 7: ODDS and ENDS This chapter contains information about products that do not fit neatly into the above chapters. Some of the items listed are: 1) Small Talk 2) A closet full of cables 3) Braille-n-Print 4) MCI Mail 5) Morse Enhancement Program 6) Versabraille Case CHAPTER 8: A COMPREHENSIVE LISTING This chapter lists many resources such as names an addresses of societies, publishers, etc. There are two other books that may be of interest. They are both published by National Braille Press. Their titles are: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO PERSONAL COMPUTERS FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED, 1983 and THE SECOND BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO PERSONAL COMPUTERS FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED, 1984. The prices are about $15.00 each. I would like to state that I had nothing to do with the writing or publishing of these books and therefore have no vested interest in their success. There is one participant on this list who would be in a good position to comment on various items listed in this brief outline since he contributed to this publication. If any of you need more information about a specific topic let me know. Bob Puyear North Dakota State Univ. ------------------------------ Date: 5 Oct 86 05:19:00 GMT From: berger@clio.a.cs.uiuc.edu.arpa Subject: Voice Recognition Board for IBM PC/XT IBM has a voice recognition board that can replace the keyboard for well-behaved programs running on the PC/XT. Special switches and keyboards for the physically handicapped are available from: Prentke Romich Company 1022 Heyl Road Wooster, Ohio 44691 ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 19 Oct 1986 12:45 CDT Sender: (NU025213@NDSUVM1) via List Processor From: Bob Puyear Subject: Closing The Gap To: (Dist: L-HCAP) Dear readers of this list, Some of you may be, or are, wondering what "Closing The Gap" (CTG) is. I thought I had described what CTG is and does some time age. If I did please forgive the repeat for some of you. CTG is an organization located in Henderson, Minnesota and publishes a bimonthly paper, sponsors a yearly conference, publishes the proceedings of this conference, holds summer workshops and acts as consultants for individuals and organizations about the implimentation of adapted computer technology. THE ADDRESS FOR CTG IS: CLOSING THE GAP HENDERSON, MN 58044 (612)248-3294 COST IS $21.00/YEAR US, $30.00/YEAR CANADA & MEXICO AND OVERSEAS $40.00/YEAR. IN ALL CASES POSTAGE IS INCLUDED. I do not believe that any of their publications are available in braille or on audio casset. I will ask about this when I attend their annual conference this week. Bob Puyear Prof. Emeritus North Dakota State Univ ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 22 Oct 86 16:06:40 CDT Sender: (NU021172@NDSUVM1) via List Processor From: Marty Hoag Subject: IBM National Support Center To: (Dist: L-HCAP) I just received my copy of "The Directory: Personally Developed Software for IBM Personal Computers Direct from IBM" (Vol 2, No 3). The Directory contains about 100 inexpensive programs for the PC (most are like $19.95, $49.95, etc. - half are under $30). They are ordered from 800-IBM-PCSW (Alaska/Hawaii it is 203-237-4504). The book is a catalog for programs like "PC Palette", "File Facility", "Daily Organizer", "Trivia Games", "Aeromathics", etc. But on page 106 they have a section called "Products for the Disabled". It describes the IBM National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities: "For most people, technology makes things easier." "For the disabled, technology makes things possible." "IBM's National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities was created to help professionals and others learn how computers can enhance the work and lifestyles of people with disabilities." "Specifically, the introduction of the Personal Computer - bringing substantial computing power right to the individual - signals a new era of opportunity for disabled people." "Have you heard about an IBM PC program that makes it possible for a hearing or speech impaired individual to communicate over the phone to a hearing person?" "Did you know that you can write a letter on a PC using your voice instead of a keyboard?" "Are you aware that you can operate a computer by sipping and puffing on a straw?" "And finally, have you seen the technology that magnifies characters on the PC screen up to 16 times their original size?" "Please call one of the numbers listed below for additional information or for our resource guide, which is an extensive listing of adaptive devices and software for IBM products, and resources and services for the disabled." "IBM National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities 4111 Northside Parkway Atlanta, GA 30327 800-IBM-2133 (Continental USA) 404-238-2500 (Georgia) 404-238-3521 (TDD)" I know nothing more about this other than what I saw in The Directory. Perhaps others here might find this useful. Or, if you know more about this you might want to provide a better description of what is available. Does anyone know if the "resource guide" mentioned is something new or the same that has been distributed by IBM for a few years? ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 1 Dec 1986 16:31 CST Sender: (NU025213@NDSUVM1) via List Processor From: Bob Puyear Subject: resources for the blind/visually impaired computer user To: (Dist: L-HCAP) There are several new items that I would like to introduce to the L-HCAP users. This information will be most useful for the blind or visually impaired individuals. 1. Talking Optical Reader (TOR) 2. Macintosh Large Screen Programs 3. Screen review programs 4. Data base for the blind and visually impaired computer users 1. The Talking Optical Reader (TOR) is an inexpensive, according to it's developers, portable optical scanner that can be used by individuals to read LED, LCD, and fluorescent characters. This would enable these people hear what the reader "sees." The user would be able to read characters on household appliances, laboratory equipment, medical apparatus, and many other consumer products. The TOR consists of a hand-held camera connected through a cable to a voice box. The camera is about 10 cm long by 5 cm in diameter. The voice box can be attached to the belt and is about 10 cm square and 2.5 cm thick. The cable is about 1 cm in diameter. In application, the user manually displaces the camera across a display panel, the images are detected, identified, and then voiced to the user. A prototype is now under development and is expected to be available to the consumer in 1987. The cost of the unit will be under $500. The TOR is being developed, tested, and marketed by: American Foundation for the Blind, Inc. 15 West 16th Street New York, N. Y. 10011 212-620-2082 2. Macintosh Large Screen Programs a. inLARGE is software available for the MACINTOSH 512 or Plus. The screen display can be magnified 2 to 16 times. The magnified display fills the entire screen and follows your keystrokes and mouse movements. You can select either light or dark background. It has an auto scanning option which moves the magnified display along at any rate you select. The cost is $95.00 + $5.00 S&H and may be purchased from: Berkeley System Design 1708 Shattuck Avenue Berkeley, CA 94709-1720 b. LoVE is a low vision editor that enlarges character to 10 inches (25 cm) on a large TV or monitor (23 inches or 57.5 cm) or 2 inches (5 cm) on the Macintosh minitor. A powerful writing tool for the sight impaired. The text is read back to you letter for letter, word for word, even by sentence. The cost is $149.95. The adapter for the large minitor is $899.00. FINALLY Software 4000 MacArthur Blvd. Suite 3000 Newport Beach, CA 93663 3. A 39 page review of several screen review programs was obtained at the recent Closing The Gap conference I attended. These programs are for the IBM PC and compatibles. I do not have time to give you more than the source of the review paper and a list of the programs reviewed. Reviewed by: Curtis Chong and Steve Jacobson Title: "A comphehensive review of speech and braille software/hardware systems designed to permit blind persons to access the video display of an IBM personal computer (PC) Address:National Federation of the Blind in Computer Science 3530 Dupont Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55412 Phone: 612-521-3202 a. Artic Vision $395 Artic Technologies Tim Gergagliano 1311 North Main St. Clawson, MI 48017 Phone: 313-435-4222 Works only with the SynPhonics 200 speech card marketed by Artic Tech or Votalker IB marketed by Votrax. b. Enhanced PC Talking Program $500-700 Computer Conversations Ron Hutchinson 6297 Worthington Road SW Alexandria, OH 43001 Phone: 614-924-2885 Works with DECTALK, Votrax PSS and IB, SynPhonics 200 speech card, and Echo speech synthesizers. c. PROVOX $295 Kansys, Inc. Dr. Charles Hallenbeck 1016 Ohio Lawrence, KA 66044 Phone: 913-842-4016 Works with DECTALK, Votrax PSS and IB, SynPhonics 200 speech card, and Echo speech synthesizers. d. Screen-Talk-Pro $395 Computer Aids Corporation Bill Grimm, President 124 West Washington Lower Arcade Ft. Wayne, IN 46802 Phone: 219-422-2424 e. Soft VERT Telesensory Sysrems, Inc. (TSI) $395 455 N. Bernardo Ave. Mountain View, CA 94039-7455 Phone: 415-960-0920 Supports DECTALK, Votrax PSS, and Echo speech synthesizers. f. Video Voice $500 Deborah Norling P.O. Box 460 Berkeley, CA 94701 Phone: 415-644-1855 Supports DECTALK, Votrax PSS, and Echo speech synthesizers. The authors state that the information presented in this report concerns programs that not only have captured the attention of the blind consumer but which also represents relatively recent changes or developments in the field. Six other screen review programs were discussed in the January 1986 BRAILLE MONITOR. 4. Data base for the blind and visually impaired This data base is called CompuHelp and can be reached 24 hrs/day via a modem at 916-786-3923. This db is a menu driven bulletin board system, where a caller can find information pertaining to computer hardware, software, self-help groups, publications, and more. There is no charge to use CompuHelp, however, a $5.00 donation is encouraged. For more information contact: The National Association of Blind and Visually Impaired Computer User P.O.Box 1353 Roseville, CA 95661-1352 Phone: 916-786-3923 ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 14 Sep 1987 14:38 CDT Sender: L-HCAP List From: Bob Puyear Subject: Handicap Digest No. 100 THE HANDICAP DIGEST Issue # 100 Friday, August 14, 1987 Today's Topics: ********************************************************************** Source list: computers & disabled ********************************************************************** To join this group or have your thoughts in the next issue, please send electronic mail to Bill McGarry at the following address: {decvax, philabs, yale, fortune}!bunker!wtm Bill McGarry (Moderator) Bunker Ramo, Shelton, CT (203) 337-1518 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Written-by: Carolyn Kotlas Subject: Source list: computers & disabled [My apologies to Carolyn for the very long delay in posting this article. Bill] SOURCES OF HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, & PERIPHERALS FOR USERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (3/6/87) [If there are any corrections, additions, deletions to this list, please notify Carolyn (kotlas@ecsvax) or myself (wtm@bunker).] Abledata * National Rehabilitation Information Center The Catholic University of America 4407 Eighth St. NE Washington, DC 20017 (800) 34 NARIC (voice or TDD) or (202) 635-5826 Computerized listing of products for disabled. American Council for the Blind * 1010 Vermont Ave. NW, Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005 (202) 393-3666 List of sources for computer technology for the blind. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) * 10801 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 897-5700 A professional scientific association of speech-language pathologists and audiologists focused on developing computer technology to assist the disabled. Apple Computer, Inc. 20525 Mariani Ave. Cupertino, CA 95014 (408) 996-1010 Apple Computer's APPLELINK network contains information for disabled users of Apple computers, with 1000+ fully annotated records on specialized software, adaptive peripherals, and support organizations and publications. Apple sales representatives can provide users with information on how to connect to APPLELINK. ARTS Computer Products, Inc. 145 Tremont St., Suite 407 Boston, MA 02111 (617) 482-8248 Products for vision-impaired computer users. PC LENS--enlarges & enhances IBM PC screen image. PC VOICE--verbalizes screen image. Association for the Development of Computer-Based Instructional Systems (ADCIS) * Miller Hall 409 Western Washington State College Bellingham, WA 98225 International organization for professionals in instructional technology. Educators of the Handicapped is one of its special interest groups. AudioBionics 9817 Valley View Rd. Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (612) 941-5464 (voice or TDD) Specializes in products for speech- or hearing-impaired people. Lifestyle Personal Communicator--portable device with voice synthesizer and 40-character LCD which can be connected to a telephone or used as a portable TDD. Includes word processor, clock and calendar, and calculator. Baruch College The City University of New York 17 Lexington Ave. New York, NY 10010 Baruch College Computer Center for the Visually Impaired publishes listing of computer equipment: COMPUTER EQUIPMENT & AIDS FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED ($22.50 + $2 postage & handling; PC/MS DOS-compatible disk version available in future.) Carroll Center for the Blind * Computer Access 770 Centre St. Newton, MA 02158 (617) 969-6200 Private, nonprofit rehabilitation center for the legally blind, includes a computer division offering training in technological skills. Center for Computer Assistance to the Disabled (C-CAD) * 2501 Avenue J, Suite 100 Arlington, TX 76006 (817) 640-6613 Nonprofit organization facilitates the development of new computer applications to help the disabled and trains the disabled in the use of computers. Clearinghouse on the Handicapped * Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services U.S. Dept. of Education Room 3132, Switzer Bldg. Washington, DC 20202 (202) 732-1245 This organization provides information on federal funding and legislation for programs serving disabled people. Distribute free copy of A POCKET GUIDE TO FEDERAL HELP FOR THE HANDICAPPED INDIVIDUAL. Closing the Gap * P. O. Box 68 Henderson, MN 56044 (612) 248-3294 Publishes CLOSING THE GAP newsletter, which provides information on technology for the disabled. Also provides training at its Training and Resource Center and hosts an annual national conference. Committee on Personal Computers and the Handicapped (COPH-2) * 2030 Irving Park Rd. Chicago, IL 60618 (312) 477-1813 Self-help group for physically handicapped, visually and hearing impaired and other severely disabled people. Provides information, technical consultations, and evaluations. Publishes LINK-AND-GO for network members. Computer Aids Corp. 124 W. Washington, Lower Arcade Fort Wayne, IN 46802 (219) 422-2424 Products for blind and vision-impaired computer users. SCREEN-TALK--speech synthesizer. BRAILLE-TALK--translates standard text into braille for embossing. WORD-TALK--talking word processing program. Computer Conversations 2350 N. Fourth St. Columbus, OH 43202 (614) 263-4324 Products for visually-impaired computer user. ENHANCED PC TALKING PROGRAM--software for speech synthesis that is compatible with over 50 microcomputers. Computer Users in Speech and Hearing (CUSH) * Dr. William Seaton School of Hearing and Speech Sciences Lindley Hall Ohio University Athens, OH 45701 An organization of speech-language and audiology professionals using computers in working with disabled individuals. Membership is open to special educators. Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) * 1920 Association Dr. Reston, VA 22091 (703) 620-3660 A professional organization of teachers which sponsors the ERIC Clearinghouse on Handicapped and Gifted Children and the Center for Special Education Technology Information Exchange. Offers Project RETOOL for teachers to learn to use microcomputers in special education. Technology and Media (TAM), a division of CEC, publishes THE JOURNAL OF SPECIAL EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY and conducts teacher conferences, workshops, and training programs. Education Turnkey Systems, Inc. * 256 N. Washington St. Falls Church, VA 22046 Publisher of COMMUNICATION AIDS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION (1983), one of four reports funded by Special Education Programs, U.S. Dept. of Education. The report assesses technologies providing communication aids for the handicapped and includes a listing of organizations that make communications devices. Handicap Digest/Handicap News Bill McGarry c/o Bunker Ramo/Olivetti 2 Enterprise Drive Shelton, CT 06484 (203) 337-1518 An electronic mailing list and newsgroup distributed worldwide through various computer networks. Handicapped Education Exchange (HEX) * 11523 Charlton Dr. Silver Spring, MD 20902 (301) 681-7372 A microcomputer-based electronic mail system providing information on technology for the handicapped and serving as an electronic mail system for the hearing impaired. International Council for Computers in Education (ICCE) * University of Oregon 1787 Agate St. Eugene, OR 97403 (503) 686-4414 A professional organization of educators using computers in the classroom. Hosts a special interest group for special educators (SIGSPED), which publishes the quarterly SIG BULLETIN. Kissick's Consultants, Inc. 1615 S. Fourth, Suite M-3210 Minneapolis, MN 55454 "The Disabled Challenger" Quarterly newsletter: $15/yr. Dealer for hardware products for disabled users. Available for speeches and one-to-one consulting. They are a dealer for the Prentke Romich Company. Kurzweil AI (Applied Intelligence) 411 Waverly Oaks Rd. Waltham, MA 02154-9990 Voice recognition products: KURZWEIL VOICESYSTEM and KURZWEIL VOICETERMINAL. LINC Resources, Inc. * 3857 High St. Columbus, OH 43214 (614) 263-2123 A professional marketing organization for special educators. Publishes SPECIALWARE DIRECTORY, a resource guide for special educators, which describes courseware and software for special education. Includes extensive index and indication of whether products are specifically designed for or adapted to special education. LINC houses the Special Education Software Center Database and participates in the Center for Special Education Technology Information Exchange. Maryland Computer Services, Inc. 2010 Rock Spring Road Forest Hill, MD 21050 (301) 879-3366 Specializes in products for blind and visually-impaired computer users. TOTAL TALK PC--talking computer based on Hewlett Packard's microcomputer. Other products include: Audiodata keyboard, Thiel Braille embosser, optical character readers. Microcomputer Software and Information for Teachers * Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 300 SW 6th Ave. Portland, OR 97204 (503) 248-6800 MicroSift, a federally funded clearinghouse for information on educational technology, publishes a quarterly report comprising product descriptions and reviews. National Braille Press, Inc. 88 St. Stephen St. Boston, MA 02115 (617) 266-6160 Information on sources for products for blind and visually-impaired computer users. Books available print, cassette, or braille versions. THE SECOND BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO PERSONAL COMPUTERS FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED. (Print copy--$12.95; Braille/cassette editions available.) ADD-ONS; THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PERIPHERALS FOR THE BLIND COMPUTER USER. (Print copy--$19.95; Braille/cassette copies--$16.96; $3 extra for UPS shipping; orders must be prepaid.) National Down Syndrome Congress * 1800 W. Dempster St. Park Ridge, IL 60068 (800) 232-6372 or (312) 823-7550 Professionals and parents of children with Down Syndrome provide information on computer technology to help persons with Down Syndrome. National Easter Seal Society (NESS) * 2023 W. Ogden Ave. Chicago, IL 60612 (312) 243-8400 Local Easter Seal facilities offer a variety of services to handicapped children such as therapeutic programs in speech-language-hearing and recreational programs. Publishes a newsletter, COMPUTER-DISABILITY NEWS: THE COMPUTER RESOURCE QUARTERLY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES. National Information Center for Handicapped Children and Youth * P.O. Box 1492 Washington, DC 20013 (703) 522-3332 A free information and referral center for the parents and educators of handicapped youth. National Institute for Rehabilitation Engineering * 97 Decker Rd. Butler, NJ 07405 (201) 838-2500 A nonprofit organization providing information and educational software to those who work with the physically handicapped or learning disabled. National Organization on Disability (NOD) * 2100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 234 Washington, DC 20037 (202) 293-5960 or (202) 293-5968 (TDD) Nonprofit organization operates information clearinghouse providing specific information on and referrals to computer technology for the disabled. Prentke Romich Company 1022 Heyl Road Wooster, OH 44691 (216) 262-1984 Source of communication systems, computer access equipment, environmental control systems, and mobility control systems. SpecialNet * National Association of State Directors of Special Education 2021 K St. NW, Suite 315 Washington, DC 20006 (202) 296-1800 Electronic network for special educators providing information and communication for persons concerned with services and programs for handicapped students. Special Education Software Center * SRI International 333 Ravenswood Ave. Menlo Park, CA 94025 Funded by the U.S. Dept. of Education, the Center is operated with assistance from LINC and CEC. SRI assists developers of special education programs. TASH (Technical Aids & Systems for the Handicapped, Inc.) 70 Gibson Drive, Unit 1 Markham, Ontario L3R 2Z3 (416) 475-2212 This organization is affiliated with the Canadian government and the Canadian Rehabilitation Council for the Disabled. Hardware available includes: ability switches, environmental controls, mobility and living aids. Computer aids include: keylocks, keyguards, keyboards, disk guides. Technical Education Research Centers, Inc. (TERC) * 1696 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge, MA 02138 (617) 547-3890 Provides information about and offers workshops on computer use in special education. Telecommunications Exchange for the Deaf (TEDI) * P. O. Box 508 Great Falls, VA 22066 (703) 759-2993 or (703) 759-2112 (TDD) A telephone relay service for the deaf, using computers to link hearing and nonhearing individuals in telephone communications. The Association for Persons With Severe Handicaps (TASH) * 7010 Roosevelt Way NE Seattle, WA 98115 (206) 523-8446 Provides information on computer technology to help the severely handicapped. Trace Research and Development Center on Communication Control and Computer Access * University of Wisconsin-Madison S151 Waisman Center 1500 Highland Ave. Madison, WI 53705 (608) 262-6966 Provides information on development of nonvocal communication and computer access for handicapped individuals. Western Center for Microcomputers in Special Education * 1259 El Camino Real, Suite 275 Menlo Park, CA 94025 (415) 326-6997 Publisher of the quarterly THE CATALYST, which addresses special education applications of technology. Young Adult Institute (YAI) * 460 W. 34th St. New York, NY 10001 (212) 563-7474 A nonprofit organization providing counseling, training, educational and residential support services to mentally retarded or developmentally disabled children. * Entries marked with * are from "Need Some Support?" in ELECTRONIC EDUCATION, February 1987 issue. Reprinted with permission. When reprinting this list, please give credit to ELECTRONIC EDUCATION for these entries. List compiled by: Carolyn M. Kotlas, Microcomputer Consultant UNC-Educational Computing Service 2 Davis Drive, POB 12035 Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 (919) 549-0671 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To join this group or have your thoughts in the next issue, please send electronic mail to Bill McGarry at the following address: {decvax, philabs, yale, fortune}!bunker!wtm Note: To send mail to someone on FidoNet, include the name and the net/node number (e.g., 115/777) of the person and send the mail to Dr. David Dodell at: ddodell@gryphon.CTS.COM -or- ..!philabs!cadovax!gryphon!ddodell ********************************************************************** End of Issue # 100 of the Handicap Digest ********************************************************************** ------------------------------ Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1987 12:24 CDT Sender: L-HCAP List From: Bob Subject: Handicap Digest No. 102 THE HANDICAP DIGEST Issue # 102 Sunday, August 16, 1987 Today's Topics: ********************************************************************** Special education resource list ********************************************************************** To join this group or have your thoughts in the next issue, please send electronic mail to Bill McGarry at the following address: {decvax, philabs, yale, fortune}!bunker!wtm Bill McGarry (Moderator) Bunker Ramo, Shelton, CT (203) 337-1518 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Subject: Special education resource list Written-by: dasys1!patth@phri (Patt Haring) Ellen Gerson, Senior Librarian, at the New York Public Library For The Blind and Physically Handicapped (212-925-9699) announces the following: Highlights for people with disabilities: At the fully accessible New Dorp Regional Library, 309 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island, NY 10306 (718) 351-2977. -- Kurzweil Reading Machine, by appointment -- Apollo Magnifier -- TDD Communications System (718) 987-1599 -- Materials relating to special library and community services. At the fully accessible Mid-Manhattan Library PROJECT ACCESS, 455 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10016 (212) 340-9843 -- Training and assistance in the use of a talking IBM computer with braille print-out. -- A copier which makes enlarged print copies to help researchers with limited vision. -- A bibliography of books for young people which include characters with visual impairments. -- Kurzweil Reading Machine, by appointment. At the Fordham Library Center, 2556 Bainbridge Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.10458 (212) 220-6573 -- TDD Communications System (212) 733-4315 -- Game time offering specially designed chess, checkers and monopoly. -- Training and assistance in the use of an Apple ][E computer with an echo-speech synthesizer. -- A limited number of volunteers to read andd type for visually impaired library patrons. -- Kurzweil Reading Machine, by appointment.. PROJECT "RECIPE" FOR LEARNING DISABLED/K-6: IEPS ON MICROS PROJECT "RECIPE" ASSISTS SPECIAL EDUCATORS WORKING WITH LEARNING DISABLED CHILDREN (K-6). AN EXEMPLARY PROJECT IN THE FEDERAL NATIONAL DIFFUSION NETWORK (NDN), RECIPE USES MICROS TO STORE STUDENT DEMOGRAPHIC DATA AND TO CREATE INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PLANS (IEPS), IMPLEMENTATION PLANS, AND PROGRESS REPORTS. THE SYSTEM PROVIDES "BANKS" OF OBJECTIVES IN BASIC SKILLS AND IN AREAS OF ARTICULATION, SOCIALIZATION, AND MOTOR SKILLS. THE BANKS ARE ORGANIZED INTO "LEARNING MAPS" OR ORGANIZATIONAL PATTERNS FOR PLANNING INSTRUCTION. ACCOMPANYING THE OBJECTIVES ARE A CRITERION-REFERENCED ASSESMENT SYSTEM AND OVER 2,400 INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES CORRELATED TO THE OBJECTIVES. ADOPTING SCHOOLS MAY IMPLEMENT THE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PROJECT BY PURCHASING A USER GUIDE ($300) AND SOFTWARE FOR EITHER APPLE OR TRS-80 MICROS ($400). FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: H. SANDERS BELL, DIRECTOR PROJECT RECIPE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA 2418 HATTON STREET SARASOTA, FL 33577 (813) 593-5000 TALKING BOOKS are available from the main office of the PUBLIC LIBRARY in a major City near you! Call your librarian for FREE information on obtaining talking books, a tape recorder on which you can play them; flexible disk recordings of national magazines such as TIME, NEWSWEEK, RANGER RICK, WORLD (National Geographic), CHILDREN'S DIGEST, JOURNAL OF COUNSELLING AND DEVELOPMENT among others. For further information call Ellen Gerson, Senior Librarian, New York Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped at 212-925-9699 and leave a message on this 24 hour answering machine with your name, address and phone number - someone will return your call. Educational Testing Service of Princeton, New Jersey announces special administration of college and graduate admissions tests for individuals with visual, physical, hearing or learning disabilities. Tests included are the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) and the GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test). These tests are offered in four versions: braille, large type, cassette and regular type. Additional accommodations may include a reader, amanuensis, interpreter, additional time, and frequent rest periods. Contact: Dr. Catherine Nelson, (609) 734-5068. The American Foundation for the Blind has begun development of a National Technology Center (NTC) at the New York headquarters. The NTC will have three primary divisions: research and development, evaluations, and a national database. This will fulfill AFB's longstanding commitment to technology and the visually impaired population. The NTC will focus on applied research and development of aids and devices, feature "Consumer Reports" type evaluations of technology devices, and collect and disseminate information about all types of adaptive products from canes and braille watches to sophisticated computer systems. Operation of the NTC began in late fall of 1985. A computer operator answers queries by telephone and provides hard copy information on request. In subsequent years the database will be networked to selected centers and AFB's six regional offices, and a Bulletin Board Service will be established; system design will allow accessibility by visually impaired users. Apple Computer Inc. (408) 996-1010 (voice) Cupertino, CA Alan J. Brightman, Ph.D., Director Office of Special Education Programs give them the ideas you perceive as the greatest needs in special education and rehabilitation; they "may undertake activities designed to increase awareness and understanding of computer applications across special ed; support ongoing initiatives to provide quality training and support to special education personnel; work together with 3rd party software and hardware developers to ensure that the computer-using needs of disabled children and adults are more appropriately addressed than they are at present." FREE special education software search! The Special Education Software Center is now accessible online for those who wish to dial up the Center with their own modem and telecommunications software. A toll-free number (800) 435-7639 provides free access to the Center (except Alaska and Hawaii). To reach the Center, users dial the 800 number and type "help" at the logon prompt. HelpNet then prompts the user to request information about Center services. The Center provides technical assistance to software developers, disseminates information about existing software and courseware for special education, and conducts an annual conference that explores state-of-the-art ideas for the improvement of special education software resources. Future plans include a HELPNET BBS with software subroutines developed by the Center under its technical assistance activities will be made available. HelpNet will also allow users to send messages to Center staff and receive answers via the service. For additional information call 1-800-223-2711. The Special Education Software Center is funded by the U.S. Department of Education under contract to SRI International of Menlo Park, California. Computers in Special Education: NEW PRODUCT FACT SHEET TALKING TEXT WRITER Talking Text Writer is a software program that combines word processing with a speech synthesizer. By repeating aloud whatever a student types into it, Talking Text Writer makes the classroom computer a learning tool that aids beginning readers and writers. It is intended for use with grade level students: pre-K - 6th grade; gifted students: pre-K - 4th grade; bi-lingual; Chapter 1; communication disorders; remedial reading; learning disabled; trainable retarded. Published by Scholastic Software Price $373.75 list (includes Street Electronics' Echo board speech synthesizer). $248.75 list without Echo board. Educator discounts available. Availability September 1986 System Apple IIe and IIc--128K with disk drive, Echo board required. Requirements Printer (optional). Koala Pad (optional). Contents Read/Write program disk with backup Read-only program disk with backup Data disk with backup User's Handbook Echo Board Features Word processing interface developed for younger children. On-line help screen. Print by letter, word, paragraph, etc. Total control of speech output. Size of text option: 20, 40, or 80 column. Dictionary Box for screen display of words and definitions. Discussion Box for a screen display of teacher comments. Description Talking Text Writer is a software program that combines the use of word processing with a speech synthesizer, enabling students to explore and use written language with a natural curiosity and interest. With the Talking Text Writer, students can write letters, words, sentences, stories, and other text and hear what they write. As a word processing program, Talking Text Writer can be used to store files on a data disk for future retrieval. Text can be inserted, moved, copied, altered, and deleted through a wide range of program commands. Talking Text Writer is a learning tool for a wide range of beginners; provides support, feedback and repetition. Talking Text Writer gives students the control to individually orchestrate their own learning needs by allowing them to: See the text and control how they want it to look by changing screen colors, margins, and size of text. Hear and control the speech output - using either the voice box or a headset. Use the keyboard for those students who have difficulty using pen and pencil. Various kinds of text and related practice exercises can be easily tailored to each student's individual needs and preferences, making the educational experience richer and more effective for both teacher and student. Pre-schoolers can explore letter sounds and words in the context of their personal experience. Primar=school children learning English can write their own stories, experimenting with sounds, words, and ideas. Being able to experiment with language and express ideas helps students build their self-confidence. Students with learning disabilities and communicative disorders have the same needs for self-confidence, experimentation, and reinforcement as other students do. By using Talking Text Writer, they benefit from an infinitely patient tool repeating material to be learned, and allowing them to try new things at their own pace. Contact: Scholastic Software Department JS 730 Broadway New York, NY 10003 (212) 505-3000 Special thanks to Richard Barth, SYSOP of Handicapped Education Exchange BBS for these additional listings: CHATTERBOX Voice Learning Systems 29 Elk Ridge Lane, Dept. B Boulder, CO 80302 (800) 292-5619 or (800) 531-5314 Producers of software and computer peripherals featuring speech recognition; includes speech synthesizer for student to hear the computer "talk;" specializing in products for the blind and those physically unable to use a keyboard and certain learning disabilities; Apple ][+, ][e and ][c; IBM PC. Educational Technology Publications 720 Palisades Avenue Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 (201) 871-4007 This "Educational Technology" magazine is for managers of change in Education; published since 1961, subscription is $69/year; reviews new hardware and instructional software based on actual classroom use. Also reviews Foundation reports, conference papers and other professional literature. Peal Software 2210 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 806 Santa Monica, CA 90403-5784 (213) 451-0997 Programs for early language acquisition; developed by Dr. Laura F. Meyers, a USC researcher in linguistics and child language disorders; also the author of numerous papers in those fields. Software is specifically designed to teach language skills to children with a developmental age of 18 months to 8 years old; programs run on Apple ][e or ][+ with disk drive and monitor; requires the Echo Speech Synthesizer; the Apple ][c requires the Cricket Speech Synthesizer. ABLENET Cerebral Palsy Center, Inc. 360 Hoover Street, Northeast Minneapolis, MN 55413 (612) 331-5958 ABLENET is a program of the CP Center based on simple technology used as assistive learning devices (ALDS). Will help a child/adult with a severe disability to control the environment; currently available is a round plastic switch connected to a 2 to 90 second timer, when the user touches the large (5 inch diameter) switch any electrical device plugged into the timer is turned on; on time can be permanent or according to the timer setting. Network Services 1915 Huguenot Road Richmond, VA 23235 (804) 379-2253 CAPTAIN is a software system for cognitive training and rehabilitation for use with LD, MR, special vocational, stroke and head injury populations; includes 21 programs run with a trackball, Apple mouse or Sip 'N Puff headset. Developed with staff at Cumberland Hospital for children and adolescents in New Kent, Virgina. Software runs on Apple ][e and IBM PC and comes with 30-day money-back guarantee; designed to improve various types of attention, visual/motor and conceptual skills using colors in a game-like atmosphere. Apple ][ and IBM PC DEMO disks are available for $10 each. Questions on using the software should be directed to: Department of Admissions and Marketing Cumberland Hospital (800) 368-3472 (outside Virginia) (800) 552-1828 (in Virginia) -- Patt Haring ..!cmc12!phri!dasys1!patth Big Electric Cat Public Access Unix New York, NY, USA "It's man's mission to learn to understand." -- Vannevar Bush ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To join this group or have your thoughts in the next issue, please send electronic mail to Bill McGarry at the following address: {decvax, philabs, yale, fortune}!bunker!wtm Note: To send mail to someone on FidoNet, include the name and the net/node number (e.g., 115/777) of the person and send the mail to Dr. David Dodell at: ddodell@gryphon.CTS.COM -or- ..!philabs!cadovax!gryphon!ddodell ------------------------------ Subject: Re: Voice Synthesizers Written-by: decvax!decwrl!vox.dec.com!forman (Joan Forman) In response to the message regarding voice synthesizers, I'd like the readers to know that Digital offers the DECtalk Grant Program Through the Grant Program, non-profit organizations or individuals through the sponsorship of a non-profit can receive a $2500 grant against the $4200 list price, resulting in a price of $1700 per system. If anyone is interested in receiving more information about the DECtalk Grant Program, they can call 1-800-832-6277. Joan Forman ------------------------------ 7-Oct-87 04:15:50-EDT,4560;000000000001 Return-Path: Received: from CUVMA.COLUMBIA.EDU by CU20B.COLUMBIA.EDU with TCP; Wed 7 Oct 87 04:15:46-EDT Received: from NDSUVM1.BITNET by CUVMA.COLUMBIA.EDU (Mailer X1.25) with BSMTP id 3365; Wed, 07 Oct 87 04:14:49 EDT Received: by NDSUVM1 (Mailer X1.24) id 1509; Wed, 07 Oct 87 00:04:05 CDT Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1987 23:56 CDT Reply-To: L-HCAP List Sender: L-HCAP List From: Bob Puyear Subject: Handicap Digest No. 140 To: Distribution List THE HANDICAP DIGEST Issue # 140 Friday, September 11, 1987 Today's Topics: ********* public library A follow-up on smart modems -- Byte Magazine: Computers and the Disabled ******** To join this group or have your thoughts in the next issue, please send electronic mail to Bill McGarry at the following address: {decvax, philabs, yale, fortune}!bunker!wtm Bill McGarry (Moderator) Bunker Ramo, Shelton, CT (203) 337-1518 --------- Subject: public library Written-by: dasys1!patth@phri (Patt Haring) Call Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped at the New York Public Library, 166 Avenue of the Americas, NY, NY 10013 and ask for Ellen Gerson, Senior Librarian - I don't have the phone number handy or I'd give it to you. There are "talking books" available to the disabled and she'll tell you all about what she's got that you might want. You might also try Special Education Software Center at 800-327-5892 or 2711 for FREE information about software available for the handicapped. Their dataline number is 800-772-7372 if you want to dial in and search for your self. Good luck. --------- Subject: A follow-up on smart modems -- Written-by: decvax!ihnp4!homxc!gtk A follow-up on smart modems -- Phone-TTY Inc. in Hackensack, N. J. advertises a smart modem (CM-4) that features 300 baud ASCII answer/originate plus 45.45 and 50 baud Baudot for PC communication with TDDs as well as PCs. Includes software that runs on IBM compatibles (AT&T-6300, Tandy 1000, Compaq, etc.). Phone-TTY specializes in TDDs, signalers, light flashers and other special devices for the handicapped (incl. braille TTY, I believe). My experience with them has been limited but good. They are at 202 Lexington Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. Phone (201)489-7889 (voice or TDD). G. Kresan AT&T-Bell Labs (201)949-9109 --------- Subject: Byte Magazine: Computers and the Disabled Written-by: Ed Frankenberry In-reply-to: Your message of Sunday, August 23, 1987 To: Mike Dacus (FidoNet 15/4) Mike, The article that you referred to appeared in the September 1982 issue of Byte. This was a "theme" issue devoted to the topic of Computers and the Disabled. It includes an article entitled "Braille Writing in Pascal" by Alfred Fant that contains a Pascal program to print Braille output on a line printer with a soft platen. Since most printers strike the paper from the front, the program actually translates input to Braille that's reversed (left to right). After printing, the paper is turned over and the impressions become raised dots in the normal direction (right to left). The program is fairly simple and could be readily translated into computer languages other than Pascal. While looking for this article, I came across another issue that may be of interest. The March 1986 Byte contains articles on the theme of "Homebound Computing" including an article by Aries Arditi and Arthur Gillman on "Computing for the Blind User." hope this helps, Ed Frankenberry (ezf@bbn.com) -------- To join this group or have your thoughts in the next issue, please send electronic mail to Bill McGarry at the following address: {decvax, philabs, yale, fortune}!bunker!wtm Note: To send mail to someone on FidoNet, include the name and the net/node number (e.g., 115/777) of the person and send the mail to Dr. David Dodell at: ddodell@gryphon.CTS.COM -or- ..!philabs!cadovax!gryphon!ddodell ******** End of Issue # 140 of the Handicap Digest ******** Subject: AT&T ENABLES Written by: Dick_Summerford@stjhmc.UUCP (Dick Summerford) Hi Everyone, You've all probably seen the AT&T commercial in which a teenage girl, who is hearing impaired, & her mother learn what TDDs (Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf) could mean to the young girl. The commercial ends with two Toll Free numbers. Though I'm not hearing impaired, I have difficulty utilizing the telephone as a result of limited dexterity. I called the Toll Free number & reached: AT&T National Special Needs Center 2001 Route 46, Suite 310 Parsippany, New Jersey 07054-1315 1 (800) 233-1222 1 (800) 833-3232 TDD Users I was very impressed while visiting with the AT&T employee & was sent a product catalog which covered a full range of items for use by users with Special Needs. * Origin: Dial Success - El Paso TX - (915) 532-0824 - Fido (1:381/28) EN-BY-- FidoNet <=> Usenet Gateway {decvax, hao, ihnp4} !noao!asuvax!stjhmc!ddodell