Technology

Technology – FAQs

Summary: Frequently asked questions about technology for blind and partially sighted people.

• Using access technology
• Buying access technology
• New technologies
• Television and radio
• Internet
• Mobile phones
• Leisure

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If you have a question that is not on this page, you may find the answer in our technology information sheets, or you can contact the Technology Team on ict@rnib.org.uk or by telephone on 0845 900 0015 or 020 7391 2280.

I am a student doing a project on the technology that blind and partially sighted people use. Can you help?

Reading these FAQs is a good place to start. The access technology page describes some of the types of technology that are available. Our technology information sheets will give you more information about specific products. If you want to try some of the software for yourself, most suppliers have a free demo available to download on their website.

Using access technology

Is there a simple computer?

Most blind and partially sighted people who use computers access the same computer hardware and software as sighted people via screen enlargement or screen reading software. Whatever technology is chosen it is always worth thinking seriously about requirements for training and support from the start. While it is true that many adults and children with multiple disabilities and complex needs use computers, this requires ongoing support from a carer or teacher.

There are two software packages for blind and partially sighted people that have been designed to be easy to use. Portset have developed a Talking Typewriter, and a keyboard tutor and set of talking applications called Portset Speech Enablement. These are designed to allow blind and partially sighted people “to have direct access to a personal computer in the family home without the need for a screen reader or an understanding of the Windows user interface". A similar product is available from Software Express. The is a speech output and large character application that includes facilities for word processing, sending email, browsing the web, scanning, playing music and some personal organiser functions. This is designed to be easy to use. It costs £395 and is installed on a conventional PC. Keyboard skills are required to use this software.

It is always advisable to consider what training and support will be required before buying a computer.

I'm blind how do I use a computer?

Most people who have no useful vision access a computer using screen reader software, which reads the screen, the menu bars and the icons, allowing access to the entire computer through speech output. A standard keyboard is used to input text by touch typing and keystrokes are used instead of the mouse to access menus and dialogue boxes. It is always recommended that the user learn to touch type to provide the best access to the computer. For further information please have a look at our information sheet about using a computer without vision.

I'm partially sighted how do I see the screen?

You can first try magnifying the text by using the accessibility options in Windows (see next question). If this basic magnification is not helpful then you can purchase specialised software called screen magnification software that magnifies everything on the screen. This software is usually used in conjunction with a larger monitor. For further information about this have a look at our Using a computer with low vision information sheet.

Can I change how the screen looks?

It is possible to modify how the screen looks and make the text larger, change the colour, change how the mouse pointer looks, alter the resolution and reverse the contrast. There are various desktop settings and accessibility features in Windows, which enable some partially sighted people to access the computer adequately without purchasing expensive magnification software. For further information on how to do this, have a look at the 'My Computer My Way' website published by AbiltyNet.

How can I learn to type?

There are several methods of learning to touch type including computer-based and audio-based courses. For more information have a look at our developing keyboard skills information sheet for information about the products that are available, prices and suppliers.

Is there a computer I can talk to?

Most people with no useful vision tend not to use voice recognition, but use a computer with speech output (where the computer talks back to you, reading the text on the screen) and a standard computer keyboard. Most people find that it is easier to learn to touch-type than to learn to control a computer by voice. There is also the issue that a user with little or no useful vision needs to know what is happening on the PC and voice recognition systems don't provide enough speech feedback to allow them to navigate satisfactorily around the PC. It should also be borne in mind that while, say, 95 per cent accurate speech recognition is impressive, and possible when speech recognition software is used correctly, it still means that one word in twenty will be misinterpreted by the software and these errors will need to be corrected.

But what about voice recognition software or voice in and voice out?

This is technically possible but problems can begin to occur when the user has no useful vision as many of these voice recognition products are not compatible with speech output systems. There is one particular combination of software that works because of some special software that fits the two products together. This is Dragon Naturally Speaking, JAWS and J-Say. This is a very costly solution and requiring one to one training to use it satisfactorily. This is generally only used as a solution for someone who is blind and has an additional disability that prevents him or her from accessing a standard or alternative keyboard. For further information about voice in/out and voice recognition please have a look at factsheets that Abilitynet produce. For information about the software solution for voice in/voice out, please contact T and T Consultancy. Dragon and other voice recognition packages, may well “work” with magnification or speech output systems in that they will not crash the PC. But this set up will not necessarily be easy to use. You may even find that the computer is talking to itself!

Is there a talking typewriter?

There is a talking typewriter available from Portset that is similar to an electronic word processor. It has a printer attached and also has a “learn to type” feature. Further information is available from Portset.

Is there a large print typewriter?

There isn't a large print typewriter available on the market. Some people have commented that the Canon StarWriter is easier to see that others, these are available from Tasktron Limited although they are no longer manufactured. You can use a computer with screen magnification software to type letters. Screen magnification software will enlarge the characters, menus and icons on a computer and is used by partially sighted people who want to use a computer. For further information about making the display larger on a computer using special software, see our Using a computer with low vision information sheet.

My child needs to use a computer at school, what can I do?

It is important for any child in compulsory education requiring equipment to have an assessment, to ensure that they have the appropriate technology to access to learning materials and the curriculum. To find out about the process of obtaining an assessment and for further information contact your child’s school or your local education authority’s special needs department.

I have a partially sighted employee starting work, what do I need to buy?

It is important that a blind or partially sighted person starting work has an assessment to ensure that they have the appropriate access to equipment to be able to do their job. There is a government-funded scheme called "Access to Work" which will either pay for or make a substantial grant towards the costs of additional support needed as result of a disability. To begin the process you need to contact your Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) who is based at the local job centre. For more information contact RNIB on 0870 013 9556 or email employmentline@rnib.org.uk

Buying access technology

Where should I buy my PC?

There are two options that you can choose. You can either buy the PC at a mainstream store or a specialist supplier along with your access technology software. The first option will often mean a cheaper PC, but purchasing everything from one supplier means that you only have one point of contact if there are any problems.

Do I pay VAT?

If you purchase a standard computer then VAT is payable, however if you also purchase access technology such as specialised software then this can be VAT exempt, but only if you are registered disabled. Some specialist companies are registered at a lower rate of VAT so there isn't as much to pay. For further information about this you can get information from the RNIB Welfare Rights Service.

Where can I see the access technology that I want to buy?

It may be possible to see some products at your local blind or partially sighted society as there may be a resource centre near you. To find out have a look at the local agencies database. RNIB have resource centres across the UK where you can try various products. You may also be able to get a demonstration from the supplier of the products that you are interested in purchasing.

Where can I get funding for equipment?

There is statutory funding for equipment available for those blind and partially sighted people in compulsory education, higher education and employment. Read our information on funding for blind and partially sighted students for more formation for students. Specialist equipment used by disabled people at work is funded by a scheme called "Access to Work" run by JobCentrePlus. Funding for high tech equipment at home can be hard to find, but there our some grants available for people on low incomes from RNIB and other charities. Our Welfare Rights Service can advise further, telephone 0845 766 9999 or email brit@rnib.org.uk

Do I need training and if so, where do I get it?

Learning to use equipment and software is always important as it ensures that you get the most out of your equipment. It is best to consider this before buying any complicated equipment. A course at a local college will generally be the most effective and affordable way to learn. There are several other types of training available, from tutorials you can complete at home to residential college courses and individual training from a trainer. For the options available and further information have a look at our Computer training information sheet.

Which is the best screen reader, notetaker, screen magnification, braille translation product?

We cannot tell you which specific named product to purchase as there is always a value judgement to be made by the user. The specific product you choose may be dependent on what you want to use the product for, price and other considerations. If the person requiring the equipment is in education or employment we would always recommend that an assessment be undertaken. If you would like some advice on the most popular products, contact our Technology Team on 0845 900 0015 or email ict@rnib.org.uk

I can't see the keyboard, is there a keyboard with large keys?

There are key-top stickers that are self-adhesive stickers, which can be stuck onto individual keys on the computer keyboard. For more information have a look at our information sheet on Using a computer with low vision. BigKeys is a large key keyboard where the characters are 10 times larger and the keys are four times larger than on a standard keyboard because the keyboard uses up extra space made by removing the keys that aren't used very often. It is important to check that the keyboard shortcuts for using a particular screen magnification product can be accomplished on this keyboard. BigKeys is available from Keytools and is priced from £100. However, the most successful way to use a keyboard, is to learn to touch type. For more information have a look at our Developing keyboard skills information sheet.

New technologies

I am developing or commissioning software, how can I ensure that it is accessible?

There is comprehensive advice for software development and procurement professionals at our Software Access Centre including information about legislation and standards in the UK and internationally.

What GPS navigation systems are available for blind people?

Global Positioning Systems (GPS) use satellite signals to give the location of a portable receiver. This is then linked to map information to give the location of the unit in relation to roads and points of interest such as railway stations and roads or positions previously marked by the user. Car drivers and others have used this technology for several years. GPS systems are generally accurate to within twenty feet or even more so are useful to pedestrians. It is important to remember though that they are navigation not mobility aids. They will not provide any warning about obstacles. These unit also need line of sight to several GPS satellites, so can be blocked by buildings etc.

You can read about what products are available in our article on GPS technology.

Television and radio

Is there a magnifier available for my television?

There is a magnifier available for televisions, called a MagnaScreen. This fits in front of the screen and can fit televisions from 14 inch - 33 inch. Some people find that this magnifies very well, others are not so pleased with it so it is worth checking that you can return it, if you are not entirely satisfied. For more information please email swretail@amserve.net or telephone 0114 221 1664. See making television easier to see for more information about magnifying the screen and big button remote controls.

How will digital television affect me?

The switchover to digital television should be a positive development for blind and partially sighted people. It means that programmes can include audio description, an additional narration that describes all significant visual information such as body language, facial expression, scenery, etc. Audio description is available on the satellite television service *Sky” and on cable television in some areas. Contact Sky or your local cable service for details.

There is currently no set-top box or integrated television available that can play audio description on digital terrestrial television, or Freeview. There is a computer adapter that can receive audio description on terrestrial television. This is the DigiTV card from Nebula Electronics. It costs less that £100 and PCI and USB2.0 versions are available. This is for watching on a personal computer.

Portset have a product called the Digital Media Centre, which can play audio description, access the electronic programme guide by speech and record sound. This is also a solution for those who want to continue using a dedicated talking teletext receiver or a sound only television set.

There are now firm dates set for the switch off of analogue TV broadcasting for each region of the UK. The switchover is being managed by Digital UK a not for profit organisation set up by government and industry.

What is digital radio?

Digital radio is a new way of broadcasting radio programmes. It is also called “Digital Audio Broadcasting” and is sometimes referred to by the acronym DAB. Sets that can receive it are either dedicated digital radios or have DAB as a wave band. Digital radios are available in the same styles as traditional radios: personal radios, hi-fi separates and so on. There are advantages to digital radio, for example it can carry more stations in less bandwidth and is less subject to interference. You can read more in our information sheet on choosing a digital radio. It is envisages that digital radio will replace analogue services in the same way the television services are being switched to digital platforms. No date has been set for this and analogue radio services can be expected to continue for many years.

Internet

Where can I find out more about the internet?

Our Using the internet information sheet covers most aspects of the internet and how to use it with access technology software.

Which Internet Service Provider (ISP) should I use to connect to the internet?

Dolphin Computer Access have an ISP which has an accessible installation CD that works with Hal and Supernova. This means that you won't need any sighted help to set your PC up for Internet Access. Portset systems also offer an ISP that has been set up especially for blind and partially sighted internet users.

If you choose any other mainstream ISP such as BT or Wanadoo, you may need some sighted help to install the software on your PC. The RNIB Computer Volunteers (Tel: 0845 604 2341) may have a volunteer in your area to help with this installation. For more information have a look at the 'Using the internet' information sheet.

How do I design an accessible website?

See the Web Access Centre for information and resources on designing accessible websites. They also offer a website consultancy, which can audit your website for accessibility and produce a report and recommendations. For more information contact the RNIB Accessible Website Consultancy on 020 7391 2178 or email webaccess@rnib.org.uk

Mobile phones

Is there an accessible mobile phone available?

We publish a mobile phone factsheet on available specialist phones and access software. Vodafone will supply Talks speech software free of charge to blind and partially sighted customers who request it on suitable handsets, although they are not currently supplying the latest version of the software.

If you are partially sighted and want to use the phone with vision, the best advice is to try a number of phones and decide which of them suits you best. Although there is not “big button” style mobile phone on the market there are some products that may be of interest. The Vodafone Simply is not marketed as a low vision product but is designed to be simple to use and has a bigger button and screen than most mobile phones. Other handsets partially sighted users have commented positively on are the Samsung D500 and some Nokia units, such as the 6600.

Why doesn’t RNIB make a big button mobile phone?

Mass market consumer electronics products, such as mobile phone handsets, are manufactured in huge quantities, running into hundreds of thousands. This is far bigger than the market for a mobile phone with large buttons, useful as one would be to many people. RNIB could not easily absorb the costs involved. Mass market electronics also generally have a minimum of after-sales support and manuals not written from a low vision or blind prospective, nor available in alternative formats. Experience also suggests that there would be some controversy over how large the screen and buttons should be on such a unit. There would be a tension between portability and having large controls.

Leisure

How can I read a book?

If you have no useful vision there are two ways in which you can read a book. You can use a standalone reading machine, that scans the book and reads it out in synthesised speech, or you can use a computer with a standard scanner and some Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software. For further information about this and the products that are available, please have a look at our What is an electronic reading aid information sheet.

If you are partially sighted you can use a Video Magnifier to read a book. Printed material and objects can be placed under the camera and the magnified image is displayed on a television screen or computer monitor. For further information about this and the products that are available, see our What is a video magnifier information sheet.

Are there any computer games available for blind and partially sighted people?

There are some accessible games available, including the Azabat collection or Yahtzee, Blackjack, Klondike and Connect 4 available from our online shop. There is a number of websites which include accessible games to be played both on and off line. The British Computer Association of the Blind maintains a comprehensive list blind gaming sites.

I am interested in music technology, is there any accessible software?

The most popular music composing software used with JAWS is Cakewalk as with the additional program Caketalk, it is accessible. Sound Forge, the sound editing tool is also accessible with JAWS. It is important to check that the versions of Sound Forge and Cakewalk that you are using are the ones supported by your version of JAWS. You can do this by checking with your JAWS supplier. There are some training tapes for screen reader users available on sound editing. These are available from Computer Room Services. Freedom Scientific, the makers of JAWS, have a training tape for using Sound Forge that is available from Sight and Sound Technology.

If you would like more information about music and music technology contact Emma Beamont, RNIB Music Information Officer on Tel: 020 7388 1266. Musicians in focus are also a great source of help and support. If you are interested in taking a course in Music Technology, the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford run the BTEC National in Music Technology.

Is there an accessible MP3 player available?

There are some portable audio players designed for blind and partially sighed people. The Milestone 311 is a speech enabled voice recorder and MP3 player that also supports Daisy materials. It has an internal memory and also takes SD memory cards. The Milestone is available in the online shop. BookCourier is a portable audio player designed for blind users that will play MP3 files, it is available from Techno-vision or Hagger Electronics. For mass-market players there is some speech-enabled software available from Rockbox to install on some Archos and iRiver MP3 players. The other element in using an MP3 player is connecting it to a PC in order to put audio files on it. The most accessible ones are generally those that connect to a PC as a standard Windows drive and so do not require proprietary software. Examples are the Creative MuVo 1GB player and the iRiver H320 or H340. One difficulty with MP3 player is the fact that the product life of mass market units is generally only a few months, so adaptations can sometimes be only available for player that have been superseded in electronics retailers. Another is that most of the portable media players with large storage capacities coming on to the market now are MP4 players, designed for video playback. You can find out more about MP3 players and iPods by reading Brian Hartgen’s comprehensive website about them.

What about iPods?

The iPod Shuffle music player does not have a screen, so is an inherently non-visual device. Some blind users have found Anapod software accessible with speech software. Rockbox also have software for some iPod Nano players.

What advice is there for a partially sighted person who want to get a digital camera?

There is very little advice to give about cameras, other than to using the auto-focus is likely to be the more effective than trying to focus a camera manually. There is no big button or talking camera available, so the best thing to do is to go to a camera shop and try out some units. Some people have successfully adopted a do it yourself approach to attaching additional lenses to cameras to enlarge to viewable image or the menus on the screen. The Disabled Photographers’ Society has members who have done this and can help individual with these queries.

Content author: webeditor@rnib.org.uk

Last updated: 06/03/2008 15:41