A common method for computer access for the blind and visually impaired is a screen reader. There are many screen reader programs available, the most common is the JAWS screen reader. A screen reader takes the output from Microsoft Windows and converts it to speech. The screen reader will tell you that you are currently in the Internet Explorer browser, and it will read to you the contents of the web pages. With time, and practice, a blind or visually impaired user can become very proficient at using a computer system. Screen Readers offer a great degree of flexibility, you have full control over your computer. However, the screen readers are often difficult and time consuming to learn. Each program generally has different button combinations to access different menus and systems. These button combinations must be memorized. There are, literally, hundreds of possible key combinations which provide a great deal of control, but can be very daunting to learn.
Another method for computer access is to use an assistive technology device that simplifies the Windows operating system down to a few common workflows. There are a few devices on the market which do this. The SpeakEasy Media System is one such device. It is a system that comes with hardware and a preconfigured e-mail address. The system provides simple, menu driven access to e-mail, typed documents, news articles, podcast audio shows, encyclopedia entries, dictionary entries, and more. The SpeakEasy does not provide as much control over the system as a screen reader, however it is an excellent option for easy access to the most common functions that the blind and visually impaired will use.
Lastly, there are also machines specifically designed for reading typed documents. These reading machines will take a typed document and convert it into speech. They do not provide any access to the internet, nor do they support any function beyond simply reading a document. However, they are very simple to operate. There are a number of standalone reading machines on the market, one such machine is the Simon reading machine.
The options discussed provide a good cross section of the available access methods to computers for the blind and visually impaired. Screen Readers provide the most functionality, but are also the most difficult to use. Reading machines are simple to use, but lack most functionality. The media system provides most functionality of a screen reader, and also provides an ease of use experience similar to a reading machine.
Remote Access To Computers
What RHUB's TurboMeeting remote access allows you to do is to fix problems on computers in other offices without having to drive there. Once the computer user logs in to the support meeting, you will be able to take over their computer allowing them to walk away. While you work on their computer you can download new software, make upgrades, fix any problems or install any necessary prompts that will help the computer function better. You can do this with up to 1000 computers at a time. And you do not have to travel farther than your own desk to do this.
With the remote support and remote access that RHUB's TurboMeeting gives you, you can allow up to two additional colleagues and their computers to join you if you need collaboration or help with remote access. Each of them may control several of the computers just as you do to get the job done faster. This function can also be used to train new staff in support systems.
You can switch to training mode while in the remote access support session. This means you can switch the presenter to be yourself so that the attendees can view your computer screen. There is also an option where you can pass your keyboard and mouse function to the other attendees in the remote access meeting. This function is used during customer training during a support session and helps to increase customer satisfaction.
With the remote support and remote access you can also log in to unattended computers if need be for upgrades or support issues. With the TurboMeeting from RHUB this means the computer does not need to be turned on in order for you to remotely access it and work on it.
When you have completed the upgrades or support system and this time to reboot the system you can do that remotely as well without losing any important data or upgrades.
With the RHUB's TurboMeeting remote support and remote access systems they save you time and money because you can remotely access thousands of computers without having to run all over town or across the country to install upgrades, fix problems within the computers, train your staff on different ways to use the computers in the applications within them and even train your customers that use some of your computer applications by remote access through web conferencing.
Web conferencing is another way to access your employee's computers once they have logged in to an interactive web meeting. You have the option of taking control of their computers and showing them various techniques or applications that you have remotely downloaded onto each of their computers and use the web conferencing time as a training period without having to rent out a big space with computers for everyone. Everyone is using their own computer in their own office and therefore is more comfortable and confident in what they are doing.
Both Robert D. Thomson & Karl Mathias are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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