maria said on 2013/02/21 at 8:50 am
Hi folks
I really need help with this one.
I cannot afford to buy the software for the screen reader out there but have been told that Windows 7 and 8 have screen readers installed. Before I consider purchasing either of them could anyone tell me their experience and thoughts about using them, ie. are they ok to use on the internet, emails etc.
I look forward to your replies.
Thanks
Maria
DJP1996 said on 21/02/2013 at 8:50 am
I'll be honest about this software. It does depend on how bad or good your sight is, if it's good and u only need a larger sized letters and other visual things, like images and links, then this would work for you.
But if u need audable feedback and rely on even some spoken information, then I would advise you to think of another screen reader, as the windows one isn't very useful in this context. I know that they are expensive because I had the same problem. But there's one screen reader that I would highly recommend as I use it for a long time right now, and it's really good despite the price. It's called Thunder and it's mostly free of charge, unless you want the english voice, in this case, you will have to firstly download the english version from the internet, then you will be given I don't know why, an American voice only. Then u need to contact the software makers, to buy the English voice, it'll only cost £25. If you go to www.screenreader.net you should find all the information there. It's really cheap screen reader, but it's really good for using the internet, and sending emails.
Hope this helps
Hubert.
Neil said on 20/02/2013 at 11:21 am
Hi Maria
Yes, I agree that accessibility software is not cheap and it can be difficult to decide which is the best to suit you.
It depends what you mean by screen reader software and your specific needs, but I'm assuming you can read something on the screen even if it's with a hand held magnifier to be able to write your post? Windows 7 has Ease of Access settings which builds on what was available in previous versions. The Magnificaton software is much better as it covers the whole of the screen, not just an area. The Narrator (or speech) is about the same as XP - it tells you more of what is starting up or switching to. I have not found a way to make it read documents or emails as you have asked about. The synthesized voice is female (believe its male in XP). On set-up or via Control Panel Windows 7 can go through a list of questions to configure it more to your needs.
Did you know you can do some magnification just by changing the settings in your browser? E.g Internet Explorer you can go to View on the menu and increase the Zoom to 200% or 400$. So if you can read large print you may be able to read it easier via these settings.
I think Windows 8 uses new features like touch screen and adapting for use with tablet computers.
You could contact the RNIB Technology Support Squad on the general phone no. and see what their opinion is
Also if you're a member of RNIB, you can pay by instalments of itemss of $150 and over.
Hope this is helps
Neil