Site Map Search the Catalog Find a Library FAQ
Sign Up Contact Us Site Map Search the Catalog Find a Library FAQ
Sign Up Contact Us
Home > Reference > Circulars > Assistive Technology Products for Information Access
2014
The products listed in this reference circular are designed to assist people who have visual or physical disabilities in accessing printed information. They convert digital text or print into synthetic speech, braille, or enlarged text. Most are available from multiple vendors, which are listed below the entry along with the price points at the time this publication was compiled. Contact information for the vendors is listed alphabetically in the Addresses of Sources section.
Contact the companies to verify current prices, discuss product specifications, and learn about other products that may not be listed in this publication. In addition, many companies have special offers on their websites and free demonstration software.
Items listed in this reference circular are not part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress, free library program and their listing does not imply endorsement.
Fully Functional Screen Readers
Additional Screen Readers
Screen Readers and Assistive Technology Software for Mobile Devices
Screen Magnifiers with Screen Reading Capabilities
Voice Recognition Software
Optical Character Recognition Scanning Software
Reading Software for Educational Needs
Reading Machines and Scanners
Portable Video Magnifiers
Addresses of Sources
Selected Bibliography, 2008–2014
Selected Internet Resources
Screen readers are software programs that enable individuals who are blind or visually impaired to access text and graphics on the computer screen by magnification, speech output, and/or braille output to a refreshable braille display.
Cobra is a screen reader that works with Windows XP, Windows 7, or Vista operating systems. It allows for magnification up to 32x and provides braille output. There are three versions available: COBRA 10 Braille, COBRA 10 Zoom, and COBRA 10 Pro. COBRA Braille offers braille and speech output, COBRA Zoom offers screen magnification with speech output, and COBRA Pro offers braille output, screen magnification, and speech output. Both COBRA Zoom and COBRA Pro models provide full- or split-screen viewing, as well as optical aids such as cursor highlighting, focus border, and mouse pointer. Cobra Braille also handles multiple braille displays connected by USB or through Bluetooth. A free demonstration is available for download at www.baum.de/cms/en/cobra10 
Baum: $849 (Pro), $749 (Braille), $649 (Zoom)
Bay Area Digital: $849 (Pro), $749 (Braille), $749 (Zoom)
Maxi-Aids: $849 (Pro), $749 (Braille), $649 (Zoom)
JAWS (Job Access with Speech) is a screen reader that supports standard Windows applications, as well as Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox web browsers. There are two versions: standard and professional. Professional can be used on any Windows platform, and standard can be used on the Home Basic or Home Premium Windows platforms. JAWS can be used with any JAWS-compatible speech synthesizer or a braille display. A free demonstration is available for download at www.freedomscientific.com/jaws
Dancing Dots: $895 (standard), $1,095 (professional)
Freedom Scientific: $895 (standard), $1,095 (professional)
Perkins Products: $895 (standard), $1,095 (professional)
NVDA is an open-source screen reader for Microsoft Windows computers. NVDA provides support for web browsers, chat programs, and Microsoft Office programs, including Word and Excel. NVDA uses a synthetic voice (available in English and forty-three other languages) or braille output and has the ability to run from a USB drive or other portable media. NVDA is available for download at www.nvaccess.org/download
NV Access: Free (donation suggested)
System Access is a screen reader that works on Windows-based computers with Microsoft Office applications, as well as Internet browsers and social networking applications (such as Skype). Two versions are available: System Access Standalone and System Access Mobile. More information about System Access is available at www.serotek.com/systemaccess
Adaptive Ware: $399 (Standalone), $499 (Mobile)
Perkins Products: $399 (Standalone)
Serotek Corporation: $399 (Standalone), $499 (Mobile). Monthly plan available
Apple’s VoiceOver is a screen reader platform that comes standard with Mac OS X. It uses keyboard and track pad gestures to control the computer, and uses a built-in voice that adjusts the rate, pitch, and volume of the speech based on the context of the content being spoken. There is also plug-and-play support for refreshable braille displays. More information about VoiceOver is available at www.apple.com/accessibility/osx/voiceover
Apple: Free with all devices that run a Mac OS X or later
Window-Eyes is a screen reader that works with a variety of Windows-based computers to support braille displays, speech products, and Macromedia Flash content. It supports Internet Explorer and Firefox web browsers, Microsoft Office programs, and Adobe Reader. Window-Eyes includes two Vocalizer and Ten Eloquence voices. A free demonstration is available for download at www.gwmicro.com/WindowEyes/Demo/
People who own a licensed copy of Microsoft Office 2010 (or later) can download Window-Eyes for free. More information about this is available at www.windoweyesforoffice.com
Beyond Sight: $895
E.M. Vitu: $895
EVAS: Contact for pricing
GW Micro: $895, or $39/month
Perkins Products: $895
Synapse Adaptive: $895
TFE: $795
Triumph Technologies: Contact for pricing
ChromeVox (Chrome Vox)
ChromeVox is a screen reader for the Chrome browser. More information and a free download are available at www.chromevox.com
ChromeVox: Free
Dolphin Guide and Guide HandsFree (Dolphin)
Dolphin Guide works with Windows-based computers. It is a simple talking software for people who are blind or partially sighted and who are also new to computers. Guide HandsFree is made for people who are unable to press single buttons on a keyboard because of physical impairments. Guide HandsFree allows users to dictate directly to the computer as it responds by speech and on screen. It must be bought with a packaged computer bundle and requires the use of Dragon NaturallySpeaking dictation software. A free demonstration is available for download at www.yourdolphin.com/demos
Adaptive Technology Resources: from $795 (Dolphin Guide)
EVAS: $795 (Dolphin Guide; contact for pricing of computer bundle for Guide HandsFree)
Florida Reading & Vision Technology: $795 (Dolphin Guide)
Infogrip: $795 (Dolphin Guide)
J-Say Pro (Astec Assistive Tech Solutions)
J-Say Pro allows Dragon NaturallySpeaking and JAWS to be used separately or in tandem. It allows users to create text on a PC using their voice through Dragon NaturallySpeaking, while reading notes from another source on a braille display or through text-to-speech. J-Say Pro also allows the use of JAWS commands as voice commands. More information about J-Say Pro is available at www.astec-at.co.uk/j-say.html
Next Generation Technologies: $827.50
Narrator (Windows)
Narrator provides screen reading capabilities for all Windows computers. Narrator is not designed to read content in other, non-Windows produced apps. Narrator can choose voice and control character speak back and word speak back. More information about Narrator, as well as other accessibility features on Microsoft Windows, can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/enable
Microsoft: free with all Windows operating systems
Thunder (Screenreader.net)
Thunder works on Windows-based computers (with the exception of Windows 8), and is Dragon compatible. It provides web access through the software WebbIE. Thunder is available to download at www.screenreader.net
Screenreader.net: Free
BrailleBack (Eyes-Free Project)
BrailleBack is an app that allows users to connect their refreshable braille displays via Bluetooth to Android devices. BrailleBack works together with TalkBack mobile screen reader app (see below) to provide braille output. BrailleBack supports most major refreshable braille displays.
Google Play Store: Free
Google TalkBack (Google)
Google TalkBack is an accessibility app that aids users with vision impairments in the use of their Android devices. It speaks information on the screen, and provides speech and vibration feedback to user actions.
Google Play Store: Free
MobileSpeak 5.9 (Code Factory)
MobileSpeak is accessibility software that can be installed on Windows or Symbian phones. It uses text-to-speech software to speak information on the screen, and can be used with a refreshable braille display. Speech and braille output can be used independently, or in tandem. It can be purchased through the Nokia store. Code Factory also produces an app for Android called Moble Accessibility. More information is available at http://www.codefactory.es/en/products.asp?id=433
Nokia Store: $24.99
Siri (Apple)
Siri allows you to use your voice to send messages, schedule meetings, place phone calls, search the Internet, and more on your iOS devices. Siri comes free on Apple mobile devices running iOS 5 or later (iPhone 4S or later and iPad third generation or later). More information is available at: www.apple.com/ios/siri
Apple: Free with all devices that run iOS5 or later and are compatible (contact Apple for more details)
VoiceOver (Apple)
VoiceOver allows users to access information on the screen of their iOS device through speech and braille output. With specific gestures, users can control VoiceOver to perform certain tasks, and it can also echo text input. Users who also use a braille display can connect that display via Bluetooth to read VoiceOver output through braille. More information is available at https://www.apple.com/accessibility/ios/voiceover/
Apple: comes free with most iOS devices
These screen-magnification software products can be purchased with or without the screen-reading function.
MAGic (Freedom Scientific)
MAGic allows for magnification of computer text and images up to 36x. It includes built-in color enhancements as well as dual-monitor and remote access support. MAGic with Speech features built-in voices that read the text on the screen or echo user actions. MAGic is available without the speech option for those who only require magnification. A free demonstration is available for download at www.freedomscientific.com/magic
Dancing Dots: $495 (with speech), $245 (no speech)
Freedom Scientific: $595 (with speech), $395 (no speech)
Perkins Products: $595 (with speech), $395 (no speech)
SuperNova Reader (Dolphin)
SuperNova is a screen reader that works with various Windows-based computers to provide braille or speech output, and magnification from 1.2x to 60x. It supports a range of braille displays and note takers. Four options of SuperNova are available: the Access Suite (braille support, screen reader, and magnification), the Screen Reader (does not have magnification), the Magnifier (does not have speech or braille output), and the Reader Magnifier (does not have braille output). A free demonstration to download is available at www.yourdolphin.com/supernova
A.T. Kratter & Company: Contact for pricing
Boundless AT: $1,195 (Access Suite), $795 (Screen Reader), $395 (Magnifier)
EnableMart: $1,195 (Access Suite), $795 (Screen Reader), $595 (Reader Magnifier), $395 (Magnifier)
The Low Vision Store: $1,195 (Access Suite), $595 (Reader Magnifier), $395 (Magnifier)
NanoPac: Contact for pricing
TFE: $1,165.12 (Access Suite), $775.12 (Screen Reader), $385.12 (Magnifier)
VisionCue: $1,195 (Access Suite), $1,290 (Access Suite Pen/USB)
ZoomText (Ai Squared)
ZoomText works with various Windows-based computers and comes with four speech synthesizers: Microsoft Speech, NeoSpeech, TruVoice, and ViaVoice. ZoomText supports magnification from 1x to 36x (60x in Windows 8), and provides viewing modes for full screen, split screen, window, or lens. ZoomText is available in two formats: Reader/Magnifier, for those requiring both magnification and speech, and Magnifier, for those who only require magnification. A free demonstration is available to download at www.aisquared.com/zoomtext
Ai Squared: $599 (Reader/ Magnifier), $399 (Magnifier)
E.M. Vitu: $599 (Reader/Magnifier), $399 (Magnifier)
LS&S: $595 (Reader/Magnifier), $395 (Magnifier)
Maxi-Aids: $599 (Reader/Magnifier), $399 (Magnifier)
Synapse Adaptive: $595 (Reader/Magnifier), $395 (Magnifier)
Triumph Technologies: $599 (Reader/Magnifier), $399 (Magnifier)
Voice recognition (also called speech recognition) software uses voice commands in place of a mouse and keyboard to enter data into a computer or to navigate a website.
Dictation (Apple)
Dictation is software available on all Apple computers. Dictation allows users to dictate in any OS X app. An Internet connection is needed for OS X Mountain Lion, but is not needed for OS X Mavericks. More information is available at http://support.apple.com/kb/ht5449
Apple: Free with Apple computer with OS X Mountain Lion and later
Dragon NaturallySpeaking Premium/Home (Nuance)
Dragon can be used with PC or Mac systems. Users can dictate to a computer and write documents using their voices in word-processing software programs. Dragon 12 offers speech output capabilities so that users can have text read aloud to them. The system works with most popular screen readers, such as JAWS. More information is available at www.nuance.com/dragon
Adaptive Technology Resources: $168.95 (Home), $499 (Premium)
Beyond Sight: $199.95 (Home)
EnableMart: $199 (Home), $599 (Premium)
Independent Living Aids: $199 (Home)
Infogrip: $199 (Home)
Maxi-Aids: $199 (Home), $599 (Premium)
Nuance: $199 (Home), $599 (Premium)
Say-MAGic (Astec Assistive Technology)
Say-MAGic combines Dragon NaturallySpeaking’s dictation software with Freedom Scientific’s MAGic magnifying software. It provides an easy-to-use interface that integrates the dictation and magnification technology. It also provides special support for Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Internet Explorer programs. For use on Windows computers only. More information is available at www.astec-at.co.uk
Next Generation Technologies: $469
Speech Recognition (Microsoft)
Microsoft’s Speech Recognition allows users to use their voice to work with Windows and its programs. It can be used to dictate speech and say commands that the computer will recognize and respond to. Speech recognition is available in English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese. More information and a demonstration video is available at http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/using-speech-recognition
Microsoft: Free with Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8 products
These software programs allow users to convert scanned documents into accessible text through optical character recognition (OCR). This text can then be read by screen readers or integrated text-to-speech software. The products listed here are specifically designed to meet the needs of persons with visual disabilities.
DocuScan Plus (Serotek Corporation)
DocuScan Plus is an accessible, Internet-based scanning and reading software that works on computers running either Windows or Apple operating systems (OS). With the use of a scanner, DocuScan Plus can convert printed materials and PDF files into text. All scanned material is accessible from any connected device, as scanned material is stored virtually in the Cloud. More information can be found at www.serotek.com/docuscanplus
Serotek Corporation: Contact for pricing
Kurzweil 1000 (Kurzweil)
Kurzweil 1000 works on a personal computer in conjunction with a scanner to convert print and electronic text (including PDFs) into speech. Kurzweil can send files to audio devices or braille note takers. It provides document creation and editing as well as capabilities for note taking, summarizing, and outlining text. More information is available at www.kurzweiledu.com
Beyond Sight: $995
HumanWare: Contact for pricing
Independent Living Aids: $995
Kurzweil Educational Systems: $995
Perkins Products: $995
OpenBook (Freedom Scientific)
OpenBook works with Windows 2000, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7. It converts printed documents or graphic-based text into an electronic text format using OCR and either of two text-to-speech synthesizers: RealSpeak or Eloquence. It provides access to the Internet and e-mail with Connect Outloud screen-reading software. Users can customize the appearance of the text on the screen, including font, size, character spacing, and background and character colors. Freedom Scientific offers a free demonstration for download at http://www.freedomscientific.com/downloads/openbook/openbook-whats-new.asp
EVAS: Contact for pricing
Freedom Scientific: $995
Perkins Products: $995
Scan and Listen (BrightEye)
Scan and Listen consists of two components: Scan-A-Page and Scan-A-Word. Scan-A-Page scans a whole page of text and reads the whole page or any part of the page out loud from a computer word processor. Scan-A-Word reads individual words or sentences with a handheld portable scanner that can be used for books or magazines. It plugs into a computer or laptop to scan words onto the screen of a word processor. More information can be found at www.brighteye.com/products.htm
BrightEye Technology: $695
Scan and Read Pro (Premier Assistive Technology)
This software scans and reads the printed text out loud. It has an adjustable reading speed and talking spell checker, magnifies up to 400 percent, and supports up to twelve different languages. It can also create MP3 and WAV audio files. Scan and Read Pro requires a Windows operating system with speakers, a sound card, and a CD-ROM drive. More information is available at www.readingmadeez.com
EnableMart: $154
Maxi-Aids: $149
Premier Assistive Technology: $149.95
These programs specifically target the reading and educational needs of people who have learning or reading disabilities. They incorporate special educational tools to assist in reading, writing, and studying.
Kurzweil 3000/Firefly (Kurzweil)
Kurzweil 3000 is available for both Mac and Windows operating systems. It assists users with writing, comprehension, vocabulary, study skills, and other educational needs. Kurzweil 3000 incorporates text-to-speech in seven languages, can read any digital text aloud, and has a talking spell checker. It also provides access to Firefly, an online tool that allows users to access Kurzweil 3000 tools from any computer with access to the Internet. More information is available at www.kurzweiledu.com
HumanWare: contact for pricing
Kurzweil Education Systems: $1,395
Perkins Products: $1,395
Read & Write Gold (TextHelp)
Read & Write Gold uses a toolbar to assist users with reading, writing, studying, and research within common computer-application mobile devices (with the iReadWrite app). Provides support for Google, Chrome, and Firefox web browsers, as well as Google Docs, Microsoft Word, Internet Explorer, and Adobe Reader. More information is available at www.texthelp.com
Bright Eye: $610
EnableMart: $597
NGT Voice: Contact for pricing
TextHelp: $645
Synapse Adaptive: $545
WYNN Wizard (Freedom Scientific)
WYNN Wizard is scanning and reading software specifically developed for individuals with reading and writing difficulties. It includes OCR technology and speech synthesis so printed pages can be read aloud, and highlights text as the words are spoken. WYNN Wizard can also read word-processing documents, Adobe PDFs, text files, and web pages. More information is available at www.freedomscientific.com/lsg/products/wynn.asp
Freedom Scientific: $595
Next Generation Technologies: Contact for pricing
Synapse Adaptive: $940
BrowseAloud (TextHelp)
BrowseAloud is a web access tool available to web users as well as website creators. It enables users to highlight and listen to any text on the Internet. The free user version works in Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, and Safari web browsers, and is also available for use with mobile devices. More information is available at www.browsealoud.com
TextHelp: Free
ClickHear (gh LLC)
ClickHear is a toolbar that operates in a web browser. After installation, the ClickHear toolbar will appear at the top of the browser. Users can choose to begin reading at the top of the page or any given section and can navigate through the page with a click of the mouse. ClickHear reads general text on a web page, as well as text fields, buttons, and alt text for images. It is also available in mobile format (no software installation required). More information about ClickHear is available at www.gh-accessibility.com/software
Enablemart: $55.80
gh LLC: $49.99
Universal Reader Plus (Premier Assistive Technology)
Universal Reader Plus works with various Windows-based computers to read e-mail, Word documents, and web pages. It provides a Talking Pointer for placing the cursor over text, icons, or items to be read. Universal Reader Plus has the features of the Universal Reader with the addition of a USB port for a scanner and scanning software. More information on Universal Reader Plus is available at www.premierathome.com/products/UniversalReaderPlus.php
Adaptive Ware: $59
Perkins Products: $79.95
Premier Assistive Technology: $79.95
A reading machine is an electronic device that scans a printed page and, through an internal synthesized voice, reads the printed material aloud. It may also have the capability to save the scanned material for later use. Some reading machines can be connected to computers to allow for magnification of the scanned page. Others come with special features such as alarms or magnification.
ClearReader+ (Optelec)
ClearReader + is a portable scanning and reading device that will convert print documents to speech. Options include the ability to save and open documents, speed controls, and volume controls. ClearReader + comes with thirty supported languages and sixty-three reading voices. A demonstration is available at http://us.optelec.com
EVAS: contact for pricing
Irie-AT: $1,995
Optelec: $1,995; contact for additional retailers
Excalibur (Robotron Group)
Excalibur can scan two pages of a large book at the same time. Speech is available in English, French, German, and Spanish; multiple languages can be installed. It has file storage facilities to save documents to read at a later time and the ability to read external files. Can be connected to a PC. More information can be found at www.sensorytools.com/excalibur.htm
E.M. Vitu: $3,295
Independent Living Aids: $3,495
Robotron: $2,999.95
Eye-Pal (ABiSee)
Eye-Pal is a portable USB camera that can be used with a Windows or Mac computer. It converts printed material into speech, digital text files, or braille files, is compatible with the Kurzweil 1000, and weighs 1 lb. More information is available at www.abisee.com/products/eye-pal.html
ABiSee: $1,275; contact for additional retailers
Independent Living Aids: $1,275
New England Low Vision: $1,275
Eye-Pal Reader (ABiSee)
Eye-Pal Reader is a portable stand-alone scanning and reading device that can be used without pushing a button. Users can navigate through a book or document with arrow keys on a keypad or with hand gestures. This machine is lightweight and semi-portable (4.6 lbs.). A completely hands-free reader is also available from ABiSee (Eye-Pal Solo). More information is available at www.abisee.com/products/eyepal-reader.html
ABiSee: $1,995
Beyond Sight: $1,995
Independent Living Aids: $1,995
Infogrip: $1,995
Eye-Pal ROL (ABiSee)
Eye-Pal ROL is a portable reading and scanning device that is battery-powered. It also allows users to set reminders, alarms, and other scheduling aids. Eye-Pal ROL has no wires or cables and can be used with headphones. The Eye-Pal ROL can store scanned text as JPEG, MP3, or text files and weighs 3.5 lbs. More information is available at www.abisee.com/products/eye-pal-rol-general.html
ABiSee: $2,195; contact for additional retailers
Independent Living Aids: $2,195
New England Low Vision: $2,195
Eye-Scan (Guerilla Technologies)
Eye-Scan scans and reads printed documents and converts them to speech using AT&T natural voices. Currency identification is also available and the scanner can switch between column and tabular mode. Eye-Scan Plus model includes twenty extra pages of storage with page, line, or word reading options. Eye-Scan Unlimited model has unlimited page storage and the ability to export audio as an MP3 file. More information is available at www.guerillatechnologies.com/eyescan.html
Guerilla Technologies: Contact for pricing and additional retailers
Maxi-Aids: $1,895 (Standard), $2,095 (Plus), $2,395 (Unlimited)
Eye-Snap (Guerilla Technologies)
The Eye-Snap is another text-to-speech reading device from Guerilla Technologies similar to the Eye-Scan, but uses a camera instead of a scanner to capture text and convert it to speech. More information is available at www.guerillatechnologies.com/eyesnap.html
Guerilla Technologies: Contact for pricing and additional retailers
Maxi-Aids: $2,295 (Standard), $2,495 (Plus), $2,795 (Unlimited)
PEARL (Freedom Scientific)
PEARL is a portable OCR camera that can be used in conjunction with a computer to scan and read the printed page. It requires Windows 2003 or newer operating system, as well as the OpenBook 9 software or later versions, which is also made by Freedom Scientific (see Scanning Software). More information is available at www.freedomscientific.com
EnableMart: $795
Freedom Scientific: $795 (PEARL camera alone); $1,790 (with OpenBook software included)
Perkins Products: $1,790 (with OpenBook software)
POET Compact 2 (Baum)
The POET Compact 2 is a scanning and reading machine with a simple interface. It has two buttons: one to scan and recognize text and one to stop and start the speech output. More information is available at www.baumusa.com/braille-solutions/poet-compact2.html
BAUM: $2,695
Maxi-Aids: $2,695
Prodigi (HumanWare)
Prodigi is a complete desktop and portable video-magnification and reading device. It comes with a portable tablet that can be docked onto the desktop magnifier, which allows users to save material onto the tablet. Users can also use the tablet as a portable magnifier and reader. More information is available at www.humanware.com/prodigi
HumanWare: $1,999
RAVE II (Guerilla Technologies)
RAVE II (Reading and Vision Enhancement) is a package that includes software and a portable camera that can scan, magnify, and read the printed page. Software includes OCR reading, enhanced reading, low vision functionality (magnification), and book mode. More information is available at www.guerillatechnologies.com/rave.html
Enablemart: $1,495
Guerilla Technologies: Contact for pricing and additional retailers
Maxi-Aids: $1,200
ReadEasy Move (GW Micro)
ReadEasy Move is a portable reading device that can scan, store, and read aloud print documents. There are three optional feature packs: keypad, low vision, and low vision touch. The keypad feature pack includes more refined navigation control for those wishing to have more granular features. The low vision feature pack comes with all the features of the keypad feature pack, and users can also connect a monitor to the ReadEasy Move to view enlarged text. The low vision touch feature pack includes all optional features plus the ability to use a touch screen monitor. More information is available at http://www.gwmicro.com/Reading_Systems/ReadEasy_Move/
Adaptive Ware: $2495, $2695 (keypad feature pack), $2845 (low vision pack), $2995 (low vision touch pack)
Boundless AT: $2495, $2695 (keypad feature pack), $2845 (low vision pack), $2995 (low vision touch pack)
GW Micro: $2495, $2695 (keypad feature pack), $2845 (low vision pack), $2995 (low vision touch pack)
Reading Pen (Wizcom)
The Reading Pen is a text-to-speech tool for students who have reading difficulties. Roll the pen over the line of text to be read, and the pen will speak it aloud. The Reading Pen provides translations, pronunciations, and other functions. More information is available at www.wizcomtech.com
Wizcom: $229.95
Enablemart: $194
ReadIt Air (GW Micro)
ReadIt Air is a portable camera that can be used with any computer running the ReadIt software. The ReadIt Air reads printed material out loud and also displays the scanned text, enlarged and in special colors or formatting, on the computer screen. More information is available at http://www.gwmicro.com/Reading_Systems/ReadIt_Air/
E.M. Vitu: $1,495
GW Micro: $1,495
SARA (Freedom Scientific)
SARA scans, recognizes, and reads text. Users can adjust the voice rate and volume as well as fast forward, pause, rewind, and spell out words. SARA can attach to a monitor and display on-screen text. It also supports braille output for refreshable braille displays. More information is available at www.freedomscientific.com
Freedom Scientific: $2,395
Perkins Products: $2,395
Simon (Robotron Group)
Simon is a stand-alone scanning and reading machine. It can scan two pages of a large book at the same time, has two main commands (start and stop), and three sound controls: volume, speed, and pitch. Available in English, French, German, and Spanish (only one language can be installed). More information is available at www.sensorytools.com/simon.htm
E.M Vitu: $2,295
EnableMart: $2,995
LS&S: $2,295
Robotron: $2,299.95
Ultima (Guerilla Technologies)
The Ultima is a scanning, reading, and magnifying machine. The system comes with a 16-inch self-contained monitor/CPU that can magnify up to 18x and has an OCR scanner and software. The package also includes touch-screen magnification and currency, and tabular and column reading modes. Multiple languages are available. More information is available at www.guerillatechnologies.com/ultima.html
Enablemart: $2,709.19
Guerilla Technologies: contact for pricing and additional retailers
Maxi-Aids: $2,695
Zoom-Ex (ABiSee)
Zoom-Ex allows users to convert any printed text into multiple accessible formats such as speech, large print, sound, or text files. The scanning camera is foldable and portable, and can be connected to a computer running either Mac (OSX 10.5 or later) or Windows (XP or later) operating systems. Zoom-Ex is now compatible with the Kurzweil 1000, but requires the installation of the software onto a computer or laptop. More information is available at www.abisee.com/products/zoom-ex.html
ABiSee: $1,775; contact for additional retailers
Infogrip: $1,775
These portable devices magnify text in a digital video format. Most run on battery power or can be recharged. Some allow you to save scanned text on the device.
Eye-Pal Ace Plus (ABiSee)
The Eye-Pal Ace is a portable magnifying device (3.5 lbs.) that can connect to Wi-Fi and can communicate through e-mail. It allows users to scan and save documents on the device and attach those documents to an e-mail. More information is available at www.abisee.com/products/eye-pal-ace-plus-general.html
ABiSee: $2,999; contact for additional retailers
New England Low Vision: $2,999
Optelec Compact Mini (Optelec)
The Optelec Compact Mini is a 3.5-inch full-color screen magnifier that can zoom up to 11x.It has high-contrast viewing options allows the user to take snapshots. More information is available at http://us.optelec.com/products/mini-optelec-compact-mini.html
Irie-AT: $295
Optelec: $295; contact for additional retailers
Prodigi (see Reading Machines and Scanners)
Ruby (Freedom Scientific)
Ruby is a lightweight portable magnifier that has a 4.3-inch LCD screen. It uses AAA batteries and has a two-hour battery life (while in use). The Ruby can magnify up to 14x, and has five high-contrast video color modes. Freedom Scientific also has HD and XL HD models. More information is available at www.freedomscientific.com
Freedom Scientific: $545, $645 (HD), $895 (XL HD); contact for additional retailers
SmartView Versa (HumanWare)
The SmartView Versa is a handheld electronic magnifier that can magnify up to 15x. It has large buttons, a handle, and comes with an autofocus feature. More information is available at www.humanware.com
Boundless AT: $495
HumanWare: $595
ABiSee, Inc.
30 Sudbury Rd.
Acton, MA01720
(978) 637-2900
855-354-4080 toll-free
(253) 595-3623 fax
[email protected]
www.abisee.com
Adaptive Technology Resources
1350 14th Ave., Suite 3
Grafton, WI 53024
(262) 375-2020
800-770-8474 toll-free
(262) 375-6777 fax
www.adaptivetr.com
Adaptive Ware
4024 Port Victoria Ct.
Hermitage, TN 37076
(615) 884-8904
800-470-7482
(615) 469-4891 fax
[email protected]
www.adaptiveware.net
Ai Squared
130 Taconic Business Park Rd.
Manchester Center, VT 05255
(802) 362-3612
800-859-0270 toll-free
(802) 362-1670 fax
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.aisquared.com
Apple
1 Infinite Loop
Cupertino, CA 95014
(408) 996-1010
800-MY-APPLE toll-free
www.apple.com/accessibility
A.T. Kratter & Company
12062 Valley View St., Suite 109
Garden Grove, CA 92845-1739
(714) 799-3000
(714) 799-3100 fax
www.atkratter.com
BAUM Rectec, Inc.
13 Branch St., Suite 205
Methuen, MA 01844
855-620-7985 toll-free
(978)420-4401 fax
[email protected]
www.baumusa.com
Bay Area Digital, LLC
870 Market St., #653
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 217-6667
(415) 217-6667 fax
www.bayareadigital.us
Beyond Sight, Inc.
5650 South Windermere St.
Littleton, CO 80120
(303) 795-6455
(303) 795-6425 fax
[email protected]
www.beyondsight.com
Boundless AT
6455 SW Lakeview Blvd., Suite A
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
866-606-8551
(503) 821-6355 fax
[email protected]
www.boundlessat.com
BrightEye Technology
PO Box 16754
Asheville, NC 28816
(917) 628-9432
877-233-7323 toll-free
(206) 203-0989 fax
[email protected]
www.brighteye.com
ChromeVox
www.chromevox.com
Code Factory
C/ Major, 19, 2-3
08221 - Terrassa (Barcelona)
Spain
[email protected]
www.codefactory.es
Dancing Dots
1754 Quarry Ln.
PO Box 927
Valley Forge, PA 19482-0927
(610) 783-6692
(610) 500-5072 fax
[email protected]
www.dancingdots.com
EnableMart
865 Muirfield Dr.
Hanover Park, IL 60133
888-640-1999 toll-free
800-235-1305 fax
[email protected]
www.enablemart.com
EVAS (Electronic Vision Access Solutions)
39 Canal St.
PO Box 371
Westerly, RI 02891
(401) 596-3155
800-872-3827 (800-USA-EVAS) toll-free
(401) 596-3979 fax
(401) 596-3500 TTY
[email protected]
www.evas.com
E.M. Vitu, Inc.
299-B Peterson Rd.
Libertyville, IL 60048
888-367-4004 toll-free
(847) 367-4003 fax
[email protected]
www.emvitu.com
Florida Reading & Vision Technology, Inc.
Lighthouse of Broward County
650 N. Andrews Ave.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
800-981-5119 toll-free
(954) 462-4647 fax
[email protected]
www.floridareading.com
Freedom Scientific
Blind/Low Vision Group and Corporate Offices
11800 31st Ct. North
St. Petersburg, FL 33716-1805
(727) 803-8000
800-444-4443 toll-free
(727) 803-8001 fax
www.freedomscientific.com
gh, LLC
700 Farabee Ct.
Lafayette, IN 47905
(765) 775-3776
866-693-3687 toll-free
(765) 775-2501 fax
[email protected]
www.gh-accessibility.com
Google Play Store
https://play.google.com
Guerilla Technologies, Inc.
5029 SE Horseshoe Point Rd.
Stuart, FL 34997
(772) 283-0500
(727) 287-0980 fax
[email protected]
www.guerillatechnologies.com
GW Micro
725 Airport North Office Park
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
(260) 489-3671
(260) 489-2608 fax
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.gwmicro.com
HumanWare
1 UPS Way
PO Box 800
Champlain, NY 12919
800-722-3393 toll-free
888-871-4828 fax
[email protected]
www.humanware.com
Independent Living Aids, Inc.
PO Box 9022
Hicksville, NY 11802-9022
800-537-2118 toll-free
(516) 937-3906 fax
www.independentliving.com
Infogrip, Inc.
1899 E. Main St.
Ventura, CA 93001
(805) 652-0770
800-397-0921 toll-free
(805) 652-0880 fax
[email protected]
www.infogrip.com
Irie-AT
1750 SW Third St., Suite C
Corvallis, OR 97333
888-308-0059 toll-free
(541) 205-4400 fax
[email protected]
www.irie-at.com
Kurzweil Educational Systems, Inc.
24 Prince Pkwy.
Natick, MA 01760
(781) 276-0600
800-894-5374 toll-free
(781) 276-0650 fax
[email protected]
www.kurzweiledu.com
The Low Vision Store
300 NE 117th Ave.
Vancouver, WA 98684
888-216-1912 toll-free
(360) 254-3892 fax
www.thelowvisionstore.net
LS&S, LLC
145 River Rock Dr.
Buffalo, NY 14207
(716) 348-3500
800-468-4789 toll-free
877-498-1482 fax
866-317-8533 TTY
[email protected]
www.lssproducts.com
Maxi-Aids
42 Executive Blvd.
Farmingdale, NY 11735
(631) 752-0521 information
800-522-6294 orders
(631) 752-0689 fax
(631) 752-0738 TTY
www.maxiaids.com
Microsoft Corporation
One Microsoft Way
Redmond, WA 98052-6399
800-642-7676 (800-MICROSOFT)
www.microsoft.com/enable
NaturalSoft
6091 Forsyth Crescent
Richmond, BC V7C 2C4
Canada
(604) 609-9708 fax
[email protected]
www.naturalreaders.com
NanoPac
4823 South Sheridan Rd., Suite 302
Tulsa, OK 74145-5717
(918) 665-0329
800-582-6086 toll-free
(918) 665-0361 fax
[email protected]
www.nanopac.com
New England Low Vision
888-211-6933 toll-free
www.nelowvision.com
Next Generation Technologies, Inc.
20006 Cedar Valley Rd., Suite 101
Lynnwood, WA 98036-6334
(425) 744-1100
(425) 778-5547 fax
[email protected]
www.ngtvoice.com
Nuance Communications, Inc.
1 Wayside Rd.
Burlington, MA 01803
(781) 565-5000
800-443-7077 toll-free
(781) 565-5001 fax
www.nuance.com
Nokia Store
www.store.ovi.com
NV Access
10 Bunowen St.
Ferny Grove
Qld 4055
Australia
(+61) 7 5667 8372
[email protected]
www.nvaccess.org
Optelec US, Inc.
3030 Enterprise Ct., Suite C
Vista, CA 92081
800-826-4200 toll-free
800-368-4111 fax
www.optelec.com
Perkins Products
37 Fifield St.
Watertown, MA 02472
(617) 972-7308
(617) 926-2027 Fax
[email protected]
www.perkinsproducts.org
Premier Assistive Technology
Executive Offices
1309 North William St.
Joliet, IL 60435
(815) 927-7390
(815) 722-8802 fax
[email protected]
www.readingmadeez.com
Robotron Group
Sensory Tools Division
15 Stamford Rd.
Oakleigh 3166, Australia
(+61) 3 9568 2568
(+61) 3 9568 1377 fax
www.robogroup.com
Screenreader.net
7 The Rookery
Orton Wistow
Peterborough, PE2 6YT
England
(+44) 01733 234441
(+44) 01733 370391 fax
[email protected]
www.screenreader.co.uk
Serotek Corporation
43 Main St. SE, Suite 508
Minneapolis, MN 55414
866-202-0520
(612) 659-0760 fax
www.serotek.com
Synapse Adaptive
14 Lynn Ct.
San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 455-9700
800-317-9611 toll-free
(415) 455-9801 fax
[email protected]
www.synapseadaptive.com
Text Help
600 Unicorn Park Dr.
Woburn, MA 01801
888-248-0652 toll-free
866-248-0652 fax
[email protected]
www.texthelp.com
TFE (Cadan Assistive Technologies)
4131 Old Sibley Memorial Hwy., Suite 200
Eagan, MN 55122
800-370-0047 toll-free
[email protected]
www.tfeinc.com
Triumph Technologies
4110 Central Ave. NE, Suite 104
Columbia Heights, MN 55421
(651) 636-5184
866-347-8249 fax
[email protected]
www.attriumph.com
VisionCue, LLC
4858-A SW Scholls Ferry Rd.
Portland, OR 97225
(503) 297-1510
888-318-2582 toll-free
(503) 459-4003 fax
[email protected]
www.visioncue.com
Wizcom
[email protected]
www.wizcomtech.com
Dresner, Anna. Outlook 2010 with Jaws, Window-Eyes, and System Access. Boston: National Braille Press, 2011. (Available in digital braille and digital text)
Freitas, Diamantino, and Georgios Kouroupetroglou. “Speech Technologies for Blind and Low Vision Persons.” Technology & Disability 20, no. 2 (May 2008): 135–156. Academic Search Complete, EBSCOhost (accessed March 12, 2014).
Holton, Bill. “Evaluating the Accessibility of the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 Using Narrator.” Access World 15, no. 2 (February 2014). www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw150203 (accessed March 14, 2014).
“Looking at the New Microsoft Accessibility Answer Desk.” AccessWorld 14, no. 12 (December 2013). www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID= aw141207 (accessed March 14, 2014).
“Using VoiceOver with the Accessible Amazon iOS Kindle App.” AccessWorld 14, no. 6 (June 2013). www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw140602 (accessed March 14, 2014).
“Working with Text and VoiceOver on a Mac.” AccessWorld 14, no. 7 (July 2013). www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw140705 (accessed March 14, 2014).
Ingber, Janet. Learn to Use the Mac with VoiceOver. Boston: National Braille Press, 2014. (Available in audio, braille, digital and large print)
Kendrick, Deborah. “GW Micro and Microsoft Launch Window-Eyes for Office Website.” AccessWorld 15, no. 3 (March 2014). www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw150307 (accessed March 13, 2014).
Lewis, Larry. iOS Success: Making the iPad Accessible. Boston: National Braille Press, 2013. (Available in audio, braille, digital and large print)
Mates, Barbara, and William R. Reed. Assistive Technologies in the Library. Chicago: American Library Association, 2011.
Meddaugh, J.J. “A First Look at the Accessibility of the Google Chrome Operating System.” AccessWorld 14, no. 5 (May 2013). www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw140502 (accessed March 14, 2014).
Preece, Aaron. “An Evaluation of TypeAbility 4, a JAWS-Based Typing Tutorial from Yes Accessible.” AccessWorld 14, no. 8 (August 2013). www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw140803 (accessed March 14, 2014).
Walker, Elizabeth. “Beyond Communication: Using Eye Gaze Technology to Access the Computer.” Closing the Gap 32, no. 2 (June–July 2013): 27–29.
Wilkins, Sarah Morley and Steve Griffiths. Windows 7 and Vista Explained: A Guide for Blind and Partially Sighted Users. Peterborough, UK: Royal National Institute of Blind People, 2009. (Available in audio, braille, and large print)
www.afb.org/accessworld.asp
An online monthly magazine published by the American Foundation for the Blind. Includes reviews of assistive technology products and other articles of general technological interest for people who are blind or visually impaired.
www.makoa.org/computers.htm
Has links to computer-access software, input devices (keyboards, pointing devices, eye-control, switches), augmentative communication devices, speech recognition/voice controlled systems, products for people who are blind and visually impaired, possible funding sources, and low-cost, assistive-technology programs.
www.afb.org/info/living-with-vision-loss/using-technology/assistive-technology/123
Includes information about optical character-recognition systems, speech systems, AFB product evaluations, and more.
www.applevis.com
AppleVis is a website that provides imformation, tips, and support for Apple product users who are blind or low-vision. Includes a blog, forum, user guides and tutorials, as well as product reviews.
http://assistivetech.net/
Has a searchable database to find vendors of assistive technology products created by the Georgia Institute of Technology Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access.
www.cannect.org
A website dedicated to providing technology instruction for people who are visually impaired. Offers tech tidbits and education resources, as well as links to online courses offered through various schools for students who are blind or visually impaired.
www.fctd.info
Offers information on assistive technologies to families of children and youth with disabilities and the professionals who work with them. Has links to organizations, factsheets, newsletters, and online discussions.
www.fredshead.info
A blog from the American Printing House for the Blind that contains product reviews, tutorials, and in-depth articles, as well as general interest information for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
https://nfb.org/technology-resource-list
Includes links to braille devices, print-reading hardware and software, and screen access and low-vision programs for Windows, speech synthesizers, and tutorials.
www.w3.org/WAI/
Describes tools and approaches that people with different kinds of disabilities use to browse the Internet. Discusses certain barriers that individuals with disabilities face, as well as the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) guidelines for accessible web design.
Compiled by Katie Rodda
June 2014
Library of Congress Home NLS Home Comments about NLS to [email protected] About this site Legal Comments about this site to the NLS Reference Section
Posted on 2015-02-04