The University of Vermont

Universal Design Technology Lab (UDTL)

equipmentsoftware

Equipment Software and Services

The following is a list of most of the Equipment, Software and Services used in the UDTL

 

 

Braille Embossing

Index Basic-D

The Basic-D is a classic double-sided embosser. The free WinBraille editor, makes it one of the most versatile embossers in the market. Speech Guided Basic is controlled by an ink and braille labeled front panel. Combined with the speech feedback, it is easy to install and operate by blind and sighted users alike.Reliable, Basic is one of the most reliable traditional tractor fed braille embossers on the market.

 

Screen Enlargement

ZoomText

(http://www.aisquared.com)

Zoomtext is an integrated magnification and screen reading software program for computer users who are vision impaired. ZoomText Magnifier/Reader allows you to see and hear your computer with perfect clarity. Application Settings include unique settings such as magnification level, color, contrast and brightness for each user. As you switch applications, ZoomText automatically loads the desired settings. You can also view a zoomtext product tour at http://www.aisquared.com/Products/zoomtexttour/index.cfm

 

Screen Readers

JAWS for Windows

(www.freedomscientific.com)

Jaws is the most popular software in use in the world today by people who are blind or vision impaired. Jaws works with your PC to provide access to today’s software applications and the Internet. Information from the screen is read aloud, providing technology to access a wide variety of information, education and job related applications. By streamlining keyboard functions, automating commands, and eliminating repetition, JAWS allows the operator to learn faster and easier than ever before. See more information about this product at

 

Text Enlargement

Closed Circuit Television

(http://www.optelec.com/en_US/product/clearview+-series/17-crt-color-system)

Magnifies any printed material, including computer documentation, onto a screen for easy reading by an individual with a visual impairment.

 

Text to Speech

 TextAloud (PC)

(http://www.nextup.com/TextAloud/index.html)

TextAloud uses voice synthesis to convert text into spoken audio. Listen on your PC or create MP3 or WAV files for use on portable MP3 players like iPods, PocketPCs and CD players. Directly open Word, PDF, and HTML files. Toolbar plug-ins for Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Outlook. Optional premium voices for a wide variety of accents and languages.

 

GhostReader (Mac)

(http://www.nextup.com/ghostreader.html)

This is the Mac version of TextAloud. It is a general purpose speech program for the Mac, comes with Acapella voices available in a variety of languages. Makes it simple to proofread you writing, listen to Text, Word, HTML, PDF and RTF files. Create MP3 for portable MP3 players

 

Voice/Speech to Text

Dragon Naturally Speaking

(http://www.nuance.com/naturallyspeaking/products/default.asp)

allows input of text to applications on a PC using a continuous dictation (type as you speak) model.
With Dragon NaturallySpeaking 10 Standard, you can talk to your computer and watch your spoken words instantly appear in documents, email and instant messages. You can even surf the Web just by speaking! Dragon NaturallySpeaking 10 turns your voice into text three times faster than most people type — with up to 99% accuracy. It learns to recognize your voice instantly, and continually improves the more you use it! Just use your voice to dictate and edit in virtually any Windows application, including Microsoft Word, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and AOL.

 

Writing & Reading Tools

Kurzweil 3000

(http://www.kurzweiledu.com/kurz3000.aspx)

Kurzweil 3000 is a reading, writing and learning software for students, including individuals with dyslexia, learning difficulties, or those who are English Language Learners. With the aid of visual and auditory feedback, the software helps students keep up with assigned reading, learn critical study skills and successfully complete writing projects and tests. The software can access virtually any information, whether it is printed, electronic, or on the Web. It then reads the words aloud to the student in clear, humanlike, synthetic speech, while a patented dual highlighting feature adds visual reinforcement. Visit their website for more information and to request a free demo disk at http://www.kurzweiledu.com. You can also view an online flash demonstration of Kurzweil 3000 at http://www.kurzweiledu.com/k3000demo/k3000demo20.html

 

 

Last modified July 14 2009 09:41 AM

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