Accessibility Products
for Microsoft Windows, Windows NT, and Windows 95
This document lists some of the products which are available to make the Microsoft®
Windows®, Microsoft Windows® for Workgroups, Windows 95, and Microsoft Windows NT®
operating systems more accessible to people with disabilities. While Microsoft attempts to
include all known products in these categories, the list may not be exhaustive, and
Microsoft does not in any way endorse the products described nor take responsibility for
the accuracy of this information. For references on how to obtain more information on this
field, please see the last section of this document.
Products are listed according to the following categories:
- Screen enlarger utilities for individuals who have low vision
- Screen review utilities for individuals who are blind
- On-screen keyboard utilities for individuals who use a pointing device instead of a
keyboard
- Voice input utilities for individuals who talk to their computer instead of using a
keyboard or mouse
- Keyboard enhancement utilities for individuals who have difficulty with standard
keyboard behavior
- Miscellaneous utilities and operating system enhancements
NOTES: Unless otherwise noted, all products designed for Microsoft Windows 3.x
support Windows 3.0 and 3.1 and Windows for Workgroups 3.11. With two exceptions, all
products herein are produced in English. Specific information regarding other languages
available is listed in the "Language" section of each product listing. Unless
otherwise noted, all prices are in U.S. dollars.
Screen enlarger utilities
Screen enlargers (also called large print programs) allow the user to enlarge a portion
of their screen. This effectively turns the computer monitor into a viewport showing only
a portion of an enlarged virtual display. The user can then use the mouse or keyboard
commands to move this viewport in order to view different areas of the virtual display.
Most manufacturers have free demonstration copies available.
Product: |
LP-Windows |
From: |
Optelec U.S. Inc., P.O. Box 729, 6 Lyberty Way, Westford, MA
01886 |
Phone: |
800-828-1056 or 508-392-0707 |
Fax: |
508-692-6073 |
Internet: |
http://www.optelec.com |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.x |
Price: |
Windows 95/3.x: $395; Windows/MS-DOS: $595 |
Demo: |
Downloadable from their Web site or available free by mail. |
Notes: |
LP-Windows software is designed for people with low vision
and is easy to use. Simple disk installation converts your software applications to large
print. Magnifies text, spreadsheets and graphics 16x. SVGA compatible for Internet access
in large print. Compatible with any PC, PS/2, or laptop equipped with SVGA, VGA, EGA,
MCGA, or CGA display adapters. |
|
|
Product: |
MagniPORT |
From: |
Microsystems Software, Inc., 600 Worcester Rd., Framingham,
MA 01701 |
Phone: |
800-828-2600 or 508-879-9000 |
Fax: |
508-879-1069 |
BBS: |
508-875-8009 |
Email |
hware@microsys.com |
Internet: |
http://www.handiware.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows NT |
Price: |
$19 |
Demo: |
Via Internet (FTP), BBS or Mail |
Notes: |
Pop-up screen magnification window. Enlarges screen image up
to 10x in Windows and Windows NT. Tracks mouse movements. Supports all display
resolutions. |
|
|
Product: |
MAGNUM 95/Deluxe |
From: |
Artic Technologies, 55 Park St., Troy, MI 48083 |
Phone: |
248-588-7370 |
Fax: |
248-588-2650 |
Email: |
sales@artictech.com |
Internet: |
http://www.artictech.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, MS-DOS |
Price: |
$595 |
Demo: |
Free demo version downloadable from Web site or by mail. |
Notes: |
One package provides magnification in all three operating
systems. Up to 32x magnification, full color, and graphics support. Designed to work
interactively with Artics screen access software, WinVision 97. |
|
|
Product: |
9FX Series and Imagine 128 |
From: |
Number Nine Corporation, 18 Hartwell Ave., Lexington, MA
21730 |
Phone: |
617-674-0009 |
Fax: |
617-674-2919 |
Cost: |
$149 to $1499 |
Notes: |
Number Nine makes video adapters with a feature called
"Hawkeye," hardware pan and zoom enlargement. It has most of the standard
enlarger features, including the ability to track mouse and insertion bar. It also
relocates dialog boxes to the zoomed area, and allows you to adjust the size and color of
the mouse cursor. Unlike most software-only products, it works with screen resolutions
higher than 640x480. |
|
|
Product: |
The Magnifier |
From: |
IMG Inc., 21550 Oxnard St., Suite 300, Woodland Hills, CA
91367 |
Phone: |
800-889-0987 |
Fax: |
818-346-3973 |
Internet: |
http://www.IMGPresents.com |
Email: |
Info@imgpresents.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95; Windows NT |
Price: |
$29.95 |
Demo: |
Downloadable from Web site |
Notes: |
Provides adjustable 2x 10x area magnification in any
Windows environment. It requires no hardware or enlarging fonts and works with both text
and graphics applications. The Magnifier works with any pointing device. |
|
|
Product: |
Super Vista and Vista PCI |
From: |
Telesensory Corp., 520 Almanor Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94086-3533 |
Phone: |
800-804-8004 or 408-616-8700 |
Fax: |
408-616-8719 |
Internet: |
http://www.telesensory.com |
System: |
Super Vista: Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows NT;
Vista PCI: Windows 3.x, Windows 95 |
Price: |
$2495 for either |
Notes: |
Super Vista and Vista PCI are screen magnification systems
consisting of specialized video adapters that provide SVGA emulation with additional pan
and zoom capabilities. The software is entirely mouse controlled. The Vista mouse also
functions as the Windows mouse, switching back and forth between applications and enlarger
control. Work very well with network and terminal emulation systems. |
|
|
Product: |
ZoomText Xtra and ZoomText for DOS |
From: |
Ai Squared, P.O. Box 669, Manchester Center, VT 05255-0669 |
Phone: |
802-362-3612 |
Fax: |
802-362-1670 |
Email: |
zoomtext@aisquared.com |
Internet: |
http://www.aisquared.com |
System: |
ZoomText Xtra: Windows 95, Windows 3.1x
ZoomText for DOS: MS-DOS |
Price: |
ZoomText Xtra Level 1 (screen magnification only): $395
ZoomText Xtra Level 2 (screen magnification & screen reading): $595
ZoomText for DOS $395 ($200 with purchase of ZoomText Xtra) |
Demo: |
Available free from Web site or by mail. |
Notes: |
ZoomText Xtra is a family of low-vision software that
features a fully integrated screen magnifier and screen reader, along with a specialized
module for document reading. Magnifies from 1x to 16x in full- and partial-screen zoom
windows, with advanced edge-smoothing, color filtering and cursor enhancements. Speaks all
Windows components, echoes typing and reads multi-page documents. Intelligent tracking of
all screen activity including support for Microsoft Active Accessibility. Supports
16, 256 and high color display drivers and any resolution. Integrated text-to-speech works
with any Windows 95 sound card. Also supports all SSIL synthesizers. ZoomText for DOS
magnifies from 2x to 16x in full- and partial-screen zoom windows. Three smooth fonts, 16
selectable colors, advanced tracking, smooth panning and pop-up menus. Supports 80 column
text and standard VGA graphics display modes. |
|
|
Screen review utilities
People who cannot use visual information use the computer with the aid of a screen
review utility. Screen reader utilities take the information displayed visually on the
screen and make it available through alternative media, such as synthesized speech or a
refreshable Braille display. Screen review utilities often accept configuration files
(also called set files or profiles) which tell it how to work correctly with particular
applications. Most Windows screen review utilities provide access to MS-DOS.
Product: |
Blindows |
From: |
Frank Audiodata, P.O. Box 1161, Kriegsstr. 13-15, D-68790
Oberhausen-Rhsn. |
Phone: |
+49-7254-5050 |
Fax: |
+49-721-5579 |
Email: |
blindows@audiodata.de |
Internet: |
http://www.audiodata.de |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95 version due end of 1997; Windows NT
version due mid-1998 |
Languages: |
Many languages available |
Price: |
Blindows: 4900 DM; Blindows 95 or Blindows NT: 5500 DM |
Notes: |
Blindows Professional, is an extension to the Audiodata
Speech and Braille output systems for Microsoft Windows 3.11 applications. Blindows takes
the extreme complexity of graphical relationships in the Windows environment and makes
them clear even for blind users through clearly structured presentation using (optional
combinations of) speech, sound, and Braille. The user maintains a clear of idea of the
two-dimensional structure of the screen, by using the acoustic cues and intuitive feedback
provided by the TASO system. A tactile renditions of text information via the Braille
display can be augmented by listening to a synthetic-speech translation. An optional
simultaneous enlarged-character text and graphics display is also integrated. As a sighted
user can access programs through overlapping windows, Blindows provides blind users access
two ways: in work mode, Blindows provides access within the limits of the currently open
windows, eliminating confusing information from other applications; in heuristic mode, it
allows the user to roam across all open windows, providing a direct impression of all
activities. |
|
|
Product: |
DRACULAwin and DRACULAvox |
From: |
euroBRAILLE sa, 34 ru du General Brunet, Paris 75019 |
Phone: |
+33-01-53-72-85-00 |
Fax: |
+33-01-42-01-98-40 |
Email: |
eurobrai@easynet.fr |
System: |
Windows 95 |
Languages: |
DRACULAwin also comes in French |
Price: |
DRACULAwin : $1290; DRACULAvox: $790.00 |
Notes: |
DRACULAwin is 32-bit software that works with euroBRAILLE
Braille display equipment. It provides access to Windows 95 and Microsoft Office 97.
DRACULAwin represents a new philosophy in access. The navigation functions, attached to
the characters, are defined in correlation to the position of the characters in the word,
and the objects are presented in complete, abstracted, and coded form. A simulator of the
Braille equipment can be used to see how the blind user navigates, as well as to do a
demonstration with the mouse for a sighted user. DRACULAvox is 32-bit screen reading
software that works with euroBRAILLE Braille display equipment. Its an ergonomical
voice screen reader with dedicated keyboard (DRACULAkey). It provides access to Windows 95
and Microsoft Office 97. |
|
|
Product: |
outSPOKEN for Windows v. 1.2 |
From: |
ALVA Access Group, 5801 Christie Ave., Ste. 475, Emeryville,
CA 94608 |
Phone: |
510-923-6280 |
TTY: |
510-923-6286 |
Fax: |
510-923-6270 |
Email: |
osw@aagi.com |
Internet: |
http://www.aagi.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95 |
Price: |
$695 |
Demo: |
Available free by downloading from Web site, or request from
dealers or via email. |
Notes: |
outSPOKEN is designed to work with many of todays
popular programs including word processors, Web browsers, email programs, databases,
accounting packages, spreadsheets, installers and CD-ROMs. OutSPOKEN includes support for
refreshable Braille displays, announcement of icons and other graphics in distinctive
Graphic Voice, automatic cursor tracking, identification of all fonts, sizes, and styles,
announcement of new windows and dialog boxes, identification of buttons (notes default
button), check boxes and graphical controls, and a customizable dictionary for changing
the pronunciation of specific words. The programs documents include the manual in
print, audio, electronic, and upon request, Braille format. Additionally, a Windows
tutorial and complete set of tactile sheets are included. The manual on cassettes is
tone-indexed and includes a separate, easy reference cassette for perusing the table of
contents. Minimum system requirements: PC compatible with a 386/33 SX or better, speech
synthesizer, sound card and Windows 95 or 3.1x. For Windows 95, a Pentium processor with a
minimum of 16MB of RAM is recommended. An ALVA or Telesensory Braille display for use with
Braille portion of outSPOKEN. |
|
|
Product: |
Screen Reader/2 |
From: |
IBM (Special Needs Systems Department) |
Phone: |
800-426-7630 (Ordering); 800-426-4832 (Information) |
TTY: |
800-426-4833 |
Fax: |
512-838-9367 |
Internet: |
http://www.austin.ibm.com/pspinfo/snshome/html |
System: |
IBM® OS/2® WARP 3.0, 4.0 |
Price: |
$600 software only; $700 with external keypad |
Notes: |
Provides access to Windows-based and DOS applications when
run under IBMs OS/2 operating system. Screen Reader/2 supports most
commercially-available text-to-speech synthesizers. It can also be used to drive Braille
displays. A dedicated 18-key keypad controls Screen Reader/2 functions (navigation, mouse
controls, etc.). Pop-up menus and "Tips" and "Keys" files provide
quick access to functions and navigation for applications. Screen Reader/2 provides
Internet access. It was released November 1995. |
|
|
Product: |
ScreenPower® for Windows 95 |
From: |
Telesensory Corp., 520 Almanor Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94086-3533 |
Phone: |
800-286-8484 or 408-616-8700 |
Fax: |
408-616-8753 |
BBS: |
408-616-8723 |
Email: |
info@telesensory.com |
Internet: |
http://www.telesensory.com |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.x |
Price: |
$1195 |
Demo: |
Available free by mail. |
Notes: |
ScreenPower for Windows 95 provides complete Braille and
speech access to Windows for blind users. This new release provides enhancements such as
an Overview mode and the ability to configure SPWin 95 for any application. With a Braille
display and/or integrated speech output, each Windows element is identifiable and
accessible. Element appearance, location, purpose, selection status, and relationship to
other elements are accessible. SPWins Explore Mode provides a consistent,
easy-to-use interface. Controls on Telesensory Braille displays and the numeric pad enable
users to emulate mouse functions like click, cut, drag, and paste screen items. SPWin lets
users access hidden icons or windows without moving or closing applications. The system
facilitates Windows Help by underlining hyperlinks for clear identification. Supports all
synthesizers compatible with SSIL specification, and the SpeechPlus Prose board. Plus, all
Telesensory Braille displays, including Navigator and the PowerBraille line. System
requirements: at least a Pentium 100 with 32 MB of RAM. |
|
|
|
|
Product: |
VIRGO 2 |
From: |
BAUM Products GmbH, Schloss Langenzell, 69257 Wiesenbach,
Germany |
Phone: |
+49 6223 49090 |
Fax: |
+49 6223 490999 |
Internet: |
http://www.baum.de |
Email: |
100041@compuserve.com
or friehoff@baum.de |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.x |
Languages: |
German, French, Spanish, Italian, Swedish (easy localization
through LNG files) |
Price: |
DM 4,750.- |
Demo: |
Free, available in January 1997; request via email or fax |
Notes: |
The VIRGO screen review software provides a user-defined,
either hierarchical-logical or topological (screen oriented) access to Windows. Compatible
with PC-based Braille lines via the optional VIRGO-Link package, and supporting SSIL
speech output. User friendly package includes information lines, path function,
synchronization of speech output, support of Drag & Drop, sorting options, and
bookmarkers. Content of Braille display can be shown on the screen, for cooperation with
sighted users. Supports most graphic adapters/resolutions (VGA, SVGA, Hires). Under
Windows 95 it offers extended functionality such as an interactive user configuration and
improved user friendliness through optimal multimedia capabilities. It is 16- and 32-bit
compatible, supports MS-SAPI, and uses Visual Basic and VB for Applications as its macro
languages. Data interchange through DDE and OLE Automation; all applications supporting
macro and OLE Automation can be made VIRGO aware. |
|
|
Product: |
WINDOTS |
From: |
F.H. Papenmeier GmbH & Co. KG, Reha Div., P.O. Box 16 20,
D-58211 Schwerte, Germany |
Phone: |
+49-2304-946-0 |
Fax: |
+49-2304-946-246 |
Email: |
fhp@rehatec.un.eunet.de |
System: |
Windows 3.x; a Windows 95 version to be released mid 1996 |
Languages: |
German and other European |
Demo: |
Demo is available free of charge. |
Notes: |
WinDOTS is a software package that allows blind people to
access programs running under Windows. With its unique spatial access concept, WinDOTS
transfers all elements needed for working with the graphical user interface texts,
icons, command buttons, etc., or the different windows in their frames into a
format which may be presented on a Braille display. The structure and the layout of the
original Windows screen remain unchanged. WinDOTS works best with Papenmeiers
two-dimensional Braille displays ( BRAILLEX-2D Screen with 80-cell Braille display, or
BRAILLEX-2D Lite with 40-cell Braille display; both display units have a vertical display
representing the structure of the screen data). A portable solution is also available with
BRAILLEX Compact, a notebook computer with integrated 40-cell Braille display. A speech
synthesizer can be added. Full mouse emulation is supported through routing keys. |
|
|
Product: |
Window-Eyes |
From: |
GW Micro, Inc., 725 Airport North Office Park, Fort Wayne, IN
46825 |
Phone: |
(219) 489-3671 |
Fax: |
(219) 489-2608 |
Internet: |
http://www.gwmicro.com |
BBS: |
(219) 489-5281 |
ftp: |
ftp://ftp.gwmicro.com/ |
Email: |
support@gwmicro.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95 |
Price: |
$595 |
Demo: |
Available free by ftp, mail, BBS, or UUENCODED Email |
Notes: |
Window-Eyes is a flexible and configurable Windows-based
screen reader. The design philosophies of the Vocal-Eyes screen reader for MS-DOS have
been integrated as a base for Window-Eyes, and Vocal-Eyes users will appreciate the
consistent user interface. Window-Eyes supports many speech synthesizers and is compatible
with a variety of MS-DOS-based screen readers. It does not require any special screen or
keyboard device driver. Windows 95 version supports Microsoft Active Accessibility. |
|
|
Product: |
Windows Master |
From: |
Blazie Engineering, 105 E. Jarrettsville Rd., Forest Hill, MD
21050 |
Phone: |
410-893-9333 |
Fax: |
410-836-5040 |
Price: |
$495 |
Demo: |
Available free by mail. |
Notes: |
Allows you to control the PC using your personal digital
assistant products from Blazie Engineering. Works with Braille Lite for speech and Braille
access, or Braille n Speak
or Type n Speak for voice
access. |
|
|
Product: |
WinVision 97/Solo |
From: |
Artic Technologies, 55 Park St., Troy, MI 48083 |
Phone: |
248-588-7370 |
Fax: |
248-588-5260 |
Email: |
sales@artictech.com |
Internet: |
www.artictech.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95 |
Price: |
$595 |
Demo: |
Free demo version downloadable from Web site or by mail.
30-day demo for $19.95. |
Notes: |
Provides Windows 95 and Windows 3.x access via a wide variety
of speech synthesizers and/or refreshable Braille displays. Easy, intuitive, use right out
of the box no need for customization or macros. Extensive interaction built in for
Microsoft Office 97, full support for Microsoft Active Accessibility, Web-Pilot for
Internet Explorer 3.0 provides true Internet access. Comes with full documentation and
cassette tapes. |
On-screen keyboard utilities
Some individuals with motion impairments cannot use a standard keyboard, but they may
be able to use one or more switches or point using a mouse or headpointer. An on-screen
keyboard is a program which displays a list of choices to the user and allows them to
select those choices using a point-and-click, point-and-dwell or simple clicking
interface. A common use of this technique is to display a representation of a keyboard in
a window, and allow the user to choose keys which will be typed into the current
application, allowing even a user with a single switch to do anything that one could do
with a keyboard. Variations in this category include Morse-code input systems and single-
or double-switch systems.
Product: |
Eek! |
From: |
OMS Development, 610-B Forest Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091 |
Phone: |
800-831-0272 or 847-251-5787 |
Fax: |
847-251-5793 |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95 version due by end of 1996 |
Price: |
$120 |
Demo: |
Demo version available for $5, applicable toward purchase. |
Notes: |
Eek! can be used in click mode and can be customized for
specific applications. |
|
|
Product: |
HandiKEY and HandiKey Deluxe |
From: |
Microsystems Software, Inc., 600 Worcester Rd., Framingham,
MA 01701 |
Phone: |
800-828-2600 or 508-879-9000 |
Fax: |
508-879-1069 |
BBS: |
508-875-8009 |
Email: |
hware@microsys.com |
Internet: |
http://www.handiware.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, MS-DOS |
Price: |
HandiKEY $395.00; HandiKEY Deluxe $495.00 |
Demo: |
Via Internet (FTP), BBS or Mail |
Notes: |
On-screen keyboard which also includes word prediction,
sticky keys and text to speech output. HandiKEY can be used in direct select mode with a
mouse, joystick or trackball or in manual or automatic scanning mode. Also supports three
or five switch interface. The Deluxe version includes HandiCHAT augmentative communication
software. |
|
|
Product: |
Mouse Keys |
From: |
World Communications, 245 Tonopah Dr., Fremont, CA 94539 |
Phone: |
510-656-0911 |
Fax: |
510-656-3005 |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95 version is under development |
Languages: |
French, German, Spanish and Italian |
Price: |
$395 |
Notes: |
Onscreen keyboard includes word prediction. Can be used in
either click or dwell mode. |
|
|
Product: |
My-T-Soft AT |
From: |
IMG Inc., 21550 Oxnard St., Suite 300, Woodland Hills, CA
91367 |
Phone: |
800-889-0987 |
Fax: |
818-346-3973 |
Internet: |
http://www.IMGPresents.com |
Email: |
Info@imgpresents.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95, Windows NT |
Price: |
$99.95 |
Demo: |
Downloadable from Web site |
Notes: |
Onscreen virtual keyboards with word prediction, My-T-Soft AT
is an advanced version of My-T-Mouse, optimized for the Assistive Technology user. It
features 25 U.S. and International onscreen keyboards, programmable macro buttons and
panels (for keystroke and text macros), integral word prediction (both alphabetically and
by most often used) with editable dictionary, voice key feedback, show and hide keys,
keypress dwell timer, and pop-up calculator, all in 12 selectable sizes. My-T-Soft AT
works with any pointing device: mouse, pen, glidepad, touchscreen, trackball, headmouse,
or IR/wireless. |
|
|
Product: |
SAW (Switch Access to Windows 3) |
From: |
ACE Centre, Ormerod School, Waynefleet Rd., Headington,
Oxford OX3 8DD England |
Phone: |
+44-18865 63508 |
Fax: |
+44-1865 750188 |
Email: |
acecent@dircon.co.uk |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95 version will be available at the end
of 1996 |
Price: |
$150 (Runtime) $500 (Designer) |
Demo: |
Demo version available at no charge. |
Notes: |
Provides access to Windows using switch, mouse, trackerball
and optical pointers through on-screen "selection sets," grids of icons, letters
or words which, when selected, carry out a full range of internal or external commands.
Pre-designed selection sets for some popular applications are available, along with sets
for CD-ROMs and text accelerators. A version for Windows 95 will be available in December
1996. |
|
|
Product: |
SofType |
From: |
Origin Instruments Corp., 854 Greenview Drive, Grand Prairie,
TX 75050 |
Phone: |
972-606-8740 |
Fax: |
972-606-8741 |
Email: |
sales@orin.com |
Internet: |
http://www.orin.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows NT 4.0 |
Price: |
$295.00 |
Demo: |
Downloadable from Web site or call to request a floppy |
Notes: |
SofType 4.1is a 32-bit Windows 95 onscreen keyboard that
works with all 16-bit and 32-bit applications. SofType 3.1 is a 16-bit onscreen keyboard
developed for Windows 3.x applications. Both programs include predicted word completion
with customizable word lists; stability compensation that can be adjusted to enhance a
users ability to control a mouse pointer; and integrated AutoClick that
provides dwell selection anywhere in the Windows environment as well as within
SofTypes onscreen keyboard. Softype is delivered with several keyboard layouts
including: alphabetical, QWERTY, chubon, and Kidkeys 1 and 2. Keyboard size, font size,
font type, and key spacing are all adjustable. |
|
|
Product: |
WiViK2® Windows Visual Keyboard |
From: |
Prentke Romich Company, 1022 Heyl Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 |
Phone: |
800-262-1984 or 330-262-1984 |
Fax: |
330-263-4829 |
Email: |
info@prentrom.com |
Internet: |
http://www.prentrom.com |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.x |
Languages: |
Shipping product includes 18 international keyboards |
Price: |
$290 base; $415 with word prediction and abbreviation
expansion; $520 with scanning |
Notes: |
Compatible with all Windows 3.1 and 16-bit Windows 95
applications, it works in either click or dwell mode. An on-screen keyboard with word
completion and word prediction, the latter can be extended from any text file. Totally
configurable, including buttons for macros, and works with non-Windows-based applications
when displayed in a window. Displays up to 400 keys per page, up to 50 pages of keys
(limited by memory), and any key can have up to 750 key-strokes. Macro language is very
similar to WordBasic. WiViK2 with Scanning is designed for people who can only access a
switch. Text entry and mouse operation can be achieved using up to five switches; a
variety of scanning methods are supported. WiViK2 features and Rate Enhancement Package
are included. |
Voice input utilities
Voice input utilities allow users to control their computer by recognizing spoken
commands. Some products are designed for command and control, meaning that they allow you
to perform commands, switch between windows and so forth. Some products also support
dictation, which allows you to enter large amounts of free-form text such as a letter.
Most products recognize discrete speech, meaning that you must pause briefly between
words, but some products support continuous speech which does not require such pauses.
Product: |
DragonDictate® for Windows |
From: |
Dragon Systems®, Inc., 320 Nevada St., Newton, MA 02160 |
Phone: |
800-825-5897 or 617-965-5200 |
Fax: |
617-527-0372 |
Email: |
info@dragonsys.com |
Internet: |
http://www.dragonsys.com |
BBS: |
GO DRAGON on CompuServe |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows NT, Windows 3.1x |
Languages: |
Available in seven languages |
Price: |
$99 and higher for different configurations |
Demo: |
Available free from their Web site |
Notes: |
DragonDictate for Windows is a large-vocabulary dictation
system that lets one use most Windows-based applications entirely by voice. Compatible
with many popular multimedia sound cards, end-users can control the mouse, dictate text
and enter data, and navigate quickly within Windows commands and controls without touching
the keyboard. DragonDictate for Windows quickly adapts to the users voice,
vocabulary, and environment to achieve an accuracy rate of over 95%. A high-quality,
noise-canceling microphone is included. |
|
|
Product: |
IBM VoiceType Application Factory |
From: |
IBM |
Phone: |
800-TALK2ME for information; 800-342-6672 to order |
Price: |
$399 |
Notes: |
A high-accuracy speech recognition toolkit. It is a
command-and-control utility supporting up to 1,000-word vocabulary. Comes with microphone
and uses a SoundBlaster-compatible adaptor. Can be used on a laptop.. |
|
|
Product: |
IBM VoiceType Dictation for Windows |
From: |
IBM |
Phone: |
800-TALK2ME for information; 800-342-6672 to order |
Languages: |
French, German, Italian, Spanish, UK and US English |
Price: |
$999; $1,099 if for laptop; 30-day money-back guarantee if
purchased directly from IBM |
Notes: |
IBM VoiceType Dictation is a large-vocabulary system
supporting up to 32,000 words at a rate of 70-100 words per minute with 95% accuracy.
Comes with adapter card with microphone and digital signal processor. Can be used on a
laptop. |
|
|
Product: |
Kurzweil VOICE for Windows |
From: |
Kurzweil Applied Intelligence, Inc., 411 Waverly Oaks Rd.,
Waltham, MA 02154 |
Phone: |
800-380-1234 or 617-893-5151 |
Fax: |
617-893-6525 |
Email: |
|
Internet: |
http://www.kurzweiledu.com/ |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.1x |
Price: |
$695 |
Notes: |
Kurzweil VOICE Release 2.0 is an easy to use,
speaker-independent product which provides full command and control capabilities
integrated with robust dictation capabilities for text creation. Release 2.0 includes
command lists for Windows 95, Windows 3.1x and the most recent versions of leading Windows
software applications, as well as 30K and 60K word vocabulary options. It works with
Windows-compatible,
16-bit sound boards, and includes a Telex Nomad microphone. |
|
|
Product: |
Listen for Windows |
From: |
Verbex Voice Systems, Inc., 275 Raritan Center Parkway,
Edison, NJ 08837 |
Phone: |
800-ASK-VRBX or 908-225-5225 |
Fax: |
908-225-7764 |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.x |
Price: |
$99; $139 with microphone or headset |
Notes: |
Verbex provides speaker-independent, continuous speech
recognition solutions for Windows users. Listen for Windows 2.0 isnt intended for
dictation applications, but allows users to navigate, command and control Windows
applications with normal conversational speech. No training is needed for most North
American voices. It comes with robust speech interfaces for over 30 of the most popular
Windows applications and automatically generates speech interfaces for virtually any other
Windows app. User-friendly Command Editor allows easy customization of voice commands. |
|
|
Product: |
VoiceServer for Windows |
From: |
Applied Voice Technology, Ltd., 26 Danbury St. Islington,
London N1 8JU. |
Phone: |
+44-171-454 1224 |
Fax: |
+44-171-454 1225 |
Email: |
100113.2672@compuserve.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x |
Price: |
£249 |
Notes: |
A speaker dependent hardware/software discrete word
recognition system for controlling Windows apps. Not only can menu options and buttons be
voice-activated, but listbox items can be selected, other apps executed and switched
between, apps interfaces externally customized etc. It also includes a comprehensive
voice- driven macro recorder, where mouse and keyboard operation can be interleaved with
spoken commands in a completely voice-driven environment. VoiceKit PRO for Windows
is a complete API allowing C programmers to incorporate AVTs voice recognition into
their own software seamlessly and flexibly. VoiceKit VB offers the same
functionality to developers using Microsoft Visual Basic® programming system. |
|
|
Product: |
VoiceUser |
From: |
Cylogic, 348 W. Olympic Place, Suite 9., Seattle, WA 98119 |
Phone: |
206-283-8800 |
Fax: |
206-282-2616 |
Email: |
skidata@luckydog.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x; a Windows 95 version is planned that wont
be dependent on Windows Sound System; Sound System is no longer available from Microsoft |
Price: |
$49 |
Demo: |
Available free by mail; assumes user has Windows Sound System |
Notes: |
A speaker-independent command and control interface. Version
2.1 features vocabularies for seven of the most popular Windows word processors, plus
vocabularies for the accessory applications included with Windows. Pre-configured
vocabularies and macros allow virtually anyone to start using the program with little or
no voice training. Windows Sound System and a SoundBlaster-compatible sound card are
required. |
|
|
Keyboard enhancement utilities
Keyboard enhancement utilities are products that modify the behavior of the Windows
keyboard to make it easier to use for individuals with disabilities.
Product: |
Access Packs for Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Windows
NT |
From: |
Microsoft Corporation, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA
98052-6393 |
Phone: |
800-426-9400 (Microsoft Sales Information Center) |
BBS: |
425-936-6735 |
Internet: |
http://microsoft.com/enable/ |
TTY: |
800-892-5234 |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows NT (v. 3.5 and 3.51) |
Price: |
Available at no charge by mail; download from our Web site or
other download services. |
Notes: |
Access Pack for Microsoft Windows provides a variety of
features for people with limited dexterity or who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. These
features include:
- Allow single-finger typing of SHIFT, CTRL, and ALT key combinations.
- Ignore accidental keystrokes.
- Adjust the rate at which a character is repeated when you hold down a key, or turn off
character repeating entirely.
- Prevent extra characters if you unintentionally press a key more than once.
- Enable you to control the mouse cursor by using the keyboard.
- Enable you to control the computer keyboard and mouse by using an alternate input
device.
- Provide a visual cue when the computer beeps or makes other sounds.
- Access Pack for Microsoft Windows is available as file ACCP.EXE, and Access Pack for
Microsoft Windows NT is available as file WN0789.EXE.
|
|
|
Product: |
Dvorak Keyboard Layouts |
From: |
Microsoft Corporation, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA
98052-6393 |
Phone: |
800-426-9400 (Microsoft Sales Information Center) |
BBS: |
425-936-6735 |
TTY: |
800-892-5234 |
Internet: |
http://microsoft.com/enable/ |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows NT 3.5, Windows 3.x (Already included
with Windows NT 3.51 and later.) |
Price: |
Available at no charge by mail or via our Web site and
numerous download services. |
Notes: |
Microsoft distributes three Dvorak keyboard layouts that make
the most frequently typed characters on a keyboard more accessible to people who have
difficulty using the standard "QWERTY" layout. No special equipment is needed in
order to use these features. A layout for people who type with two hands is included with
each operating system; consult the online help about keyboard layouts for installation
instructions. Two additional layouts for people who type with only one hand are
distributed as Microsoft Application Note GA0650 and available as a file called GA0650.EXE
on many download services. |
|
|
Product: |
HandiWORD and HandiWORD International |
From: |
Microsystems Software, Inc., 600 Worcester Rd., Framingham,
MA 01701 |
Phone: |
800-828-2600 or 508-879-9000 |
Fax: |
508-879-1069 |
BBS: |
508-875-8009 |
Email: |
hware@microsys.com |
Internet: |
http://www.handiware.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, MS-DOS |
Languages: |
International version supplies foreign language dictionaries |
Price: |
HandiWORD $295.00; HandiWORD International $395.00 |
Demo: |
Via Internet (FTP), BBS, or Mail |
Notes: |
Word prediction/abbreviation expansion software aiding users
with limited keyboarding capability. Supplied with default dictionary file. Supports
speech output of prediction choices. Dictionary maintenance utility allows user to modify
existing or create new dictionaries. Software is statistically weighted with frequently
used words appearing first. Sticky-key utility built into software. |
|
|
Product: |
HandiSHIFT For Windows |
From: |
Microsystems Software, Inc., 600 Worcester Rd., Framingham,
MA 01701 |
Phone: |
800-828-2600 or 508-879-9000 |
Fax: |
508-879-1069 |
BBS: |
508-875-8009 |
Email: |
hware@microsys.com |
Internet: |
http://www.handiware.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, MS-DOS |
Price: |
$49 |
Notes |
Sticky key utility. Allows serial depression of Control,
Shift, and Alt keys. Adjusts key repeat rate. Includes SeeBEEP visual beep utility. |
|
|
Product: |
IntelliTalk for Windows |
From: |
IntelliTools, Inc., 55 Leveroni Court, Ste. 9, Novato, CA
94949 |
Phone: |
415-382-5959 |
Fax: |
415-382-5950 |
Email: |
info@intellitools.com |
Internet: |
http://www.intellitools.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95 |
Price: |
$49.95 single copy; $179 five-pack; multi-user pricing
available |
Demo: |
Available. 60-day money-back guarantee. |
Notes |
Talking word processing program that can speak or read back
sentences, letters, and/or words as you type. Choice of voices. Wide variety of font
types, sizes, and colors to maximize readability. System requirements: PC with 386 SX
processor or better (486 recommended). VGA monitor (SVGA recommended). Windows 3.1
requires 16 MB hard drive space to install and 4 MB RAM. Windows 95 requires 12 MB hard
drive space and 8 MB RAM. |
|
|
Product: |
KeyREP |
From: |
Prentke Romich Company, 1022 Heyl Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 |
Phone: |
800-262-1984 or 330-262-1984 |
Fax: |
330-263-4829 |
Email: |
info@prentrom.com |
Internet: |
http://www.prentrom.com |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.x |
Price: |
$290 |
Notes: |
KeyREP Rate Enhancement Package for keyboard users provides
word prediction and abbreviation expansion. KeyREP works with any keyboard and any
application running under Windows 3.1 except MS-DOS windows. |
|
|
Product: |
StickyKeys and MouseKeys |
From: |
Hitachi, Ltd., Accessibility Promotion Section, Information
Systems Group,
Hitachi Omori 2nd Bldg. 6-27-18 Minami Oi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 140 Japan |
Phone: |
+81-3-5471-8918 |
Fax: |
+81-3-5471-2565 |
Email: |
asesui@comp.hitachi.co.jp |
Internet |
http://www.hitachi.co.jp/ |
System: |
Windows 3.1 |
Languages: |
Japanese only |
Price: |
Free; download it from NiftyServe |
Notes: |
StickyKeys can start and close Japanese FEPs by pressing two
keys and can convert from the KANA input mode to the Alphabet input mode, and vice versa,
by pressing three keys. MouseKeys enables the user to control the mouse cursor by using
the keyboard. |
Miscellaneous utilities
The following products are also designed for use by individuals with disabilities:
Product: |
Dragger |
From: |
Origin Instruments Corp., 854 Greenview Drive, Grand Prairie,
TX 75050 |
Phone: |
972-606-8740 |
Fax: |
972-606-8741 |
Email: |
sales@orin.com |
Internet: |
http://www.orin.com |
System: |
Windows 95 and Windows 3.x |
Price: |
$95.00 |
Demo: |
Downloadable from Web site or call to request a floppy |
Notes: |
Utility for generating mouse click functions throughout the
Windows environment using "dwell" (AutoClick) selection techniques. Right
single clicks, double clicks, and drag operations are all possible. Pausing and restarting
the AutoClick feature is accomplished by dwelling on an on/off button. |
|
|
Product: |
HandiPHONE |
From: |
Microsystems Software, Inc., 600 Worcester Rd., Framingham,
MA 01701 |
Phone: |
800-828-2600 or 508-879-9000 |
Fax: |
508-879-1069 |
BBS: |
508-875-8009 |
Email: |
hware@microsys.com |
Internet |
http://www.handiware.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, MS-DOS |
Price: |
Windows 3.x/Windows 95: $295; MS-DOS: $595 |
Demo: |
Via Internet (FTP), BBS or Mail |
Notes: |
Hands-free access to the telephone. PopDIAL software stores
up to 10,000 names / 30,000 phone numbers allowing the user to dial out, receive calls,
and access voice mail systems, paging, call transfer, call waiting, and other popular
services. Complete system includes a specially-modified modem, a hands-free speakerphone
or headset, and cables. |
|
|
Product: |
Joystick-To-Mouse |
From: |
IMG Inc., 21550 Oxnard St., Suite 300, Woodland Hills, CA
91367 |
Phone: |
800-889-0987 |
Fax: |
818-346-3973 |
Internet: |
www.IMGPresents.com |
Email: |
info@imgpresents.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x; Windows 95 |
Price: |
$29.95 |
Demo: |
Downloadable from Web site |
Notes: |
This software utility lets any joystick, IR/wireless device,
or VR headset that attaches to the PC or soundcards game port run Windows and
Windows applications, games, online services, the Internet, even accessibility products.
It shares the cursor and button controls of the mouse or other pointing device. It can run
concurrently with a mouse or other pointing device, allowing parents, teachers, or
therapists to assist users. Any of 60 mouse button functions or up to 128 keystrokes can
be stored in each of four joystick buttons, for each different application. Its
ideal for people who cant and/or prefer to operate a joystick instead of a mouse or
trackball. |
|
|
Product: |
Open Book Unbound, Version 3 |
From: |
Arkenstone, Inc., 555 Oakmead Parkway, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 |
Phone: |
800-444-4443 or 408-245-5900 |
Fax: |
408-328-8484 |
TTY: |
800-833-2753 |
Email: |
info@arkenstone.org |
Internet: |
http://www.arkenstone.org |
System: |
Windows 3.1x, Windows 95 |
Price: |
$995 |
Demo: |
Call 800 number for the dealer nearest you |
Notes: |
Reading software for people with vision impairments or
reading difficulties. Combined with a scanner, it turns a talking PC into a complete
reading machine. Open Book makes reading print material as easy as pressing a single
button. By automatically adjusting for skew, contrast, and page orientation, Open Book
reads the page as accurately as possible. The latest update of Open Book, version 3.5, has
dozens of new features, including simultaneous reading and scanning, screen customization
which allows low vision users to modify text size, screen color, and other visual
features, and a text search feature which allows the user to find a word or phrase
anywhere within the document. |
|
|
Product: |
SeeBEEP For Windows |
From: |
Microsystems Software, Inc., 600 Worcester Rd., Framingham,
MA 01701 |
Phone: |
800-828-2600 or 508-879-9000 |
Fax: |
508-879-1069 |
BBS: |
508-875-8009 |
Email: |
hware@microsys.com |
Internet |
http://www.handiware.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, MS-DOS |
Price: |
$20 |
Demo: |
Via Internet (FTP), BBS or Mail |
Notes: |
Visual beep utility for persons with hearing impairments.
Will flash screen in reverse video or present visual beep bitmap on-screen each time the
computer makes a sound. |
|
|
Product: |
Step On It! |
From: |
Bilbo Innovations, Inc., 1290 Oakmead Parkway #118,
Sunnyvale, CA 94086 |
Phone: |
408-736-6086 |
Fax: |
408-736-6083 |
Email: |
bilbo@bilbo.com |
Internet: |
http://www.bilbo.com |
System: |
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows NT 4.0, MS-DOS |
Price: |
$99.00 |
Demo: |
30-day money back guarantee |
Notes: |
Three programmable foot switches that emulate keystrokes and
mouse clicks. The initial setup provides for taking over the Alt, Shift, and Control keys,
but the pedals can be custom-programmed for any other keys, macros, or mouse button
clicks. For persons with limited hand capabilities, RSI, one-handed and blind
touch-typists. |
|
|
Product: |
VisAbility |
From: |
Ai Squared, P.O. Box 669, Manchester Center, VT 05255-0669 |
Phone: |
802-362-3612 |
Fax: |
802-362-1670 |
Email: |
zoomtext@aisquared.com |
Internet: |
http://www.aisquared.com |
System: |
MS-DOS (PIF included to run from Windows) |
Price: |
$495 ($395 for registered ZoomText users) |
Demo: |
Available free by mail or download from their Web site. |
Notes: |
VisAbility is a low-vision reading and form-filling program.
It works in conjunction with a scanner to enlarge printed or handwritten material, from 4x
to 32x, on your computer screen. Hands-free reading modes pan smoothly through the entire
image or within columns. Printed forms can be scanned and filled-in, while being enlarged
on the screen. The completed form can be printed at normal size or a magnified size, up to
8x. |
|
|
Product: |
WiVox |
From: |
Prentke Romich Company, 1022 Heyl Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 |
Phone: |
800-262-1984 or 330-262-1984 |
Fax: |
330-263-4829 |
Email: |
info@prentrom.com |
Internet: |
http://www.prentrom.com |
System: |
Windows 95, Windows 3.1 |
Price: |
$160 |
Notes: |
Enhances writing and reading by providing auditory feedback
of text entered into any Windows or Windows 95 application. Works with standard keyboard,
and with the WiVik2 series of on-screen keyboards, including KeyREP. Set it to speak
characters, partial words, full words, or sentences. Requires an external speech
synthesizer. |
|
|
Operating system enhancements
Microsoft Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0 include a variety of features for people with
low vision, limited dexterity, color-blindness, or who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. All
the Access Pack features are now integrated into the operating system, and are found in
the Control Panel under Accessibility Options. (See Access Pack entry under "Keyboard
enhancement utilities" for a description of those features.)
Accessibility Options:
- Display The user interface is customizable. Sizes and colors of window
titles, scroll bars, borders, menu text, icons, and other elements are adjustable by the
user.
- Mouse The mouse pointer can now be resized to normal, large, or extra-large.
Customizing pointer color or adding animation also increase the pointers visibility.
- Keyboard Having to repeat keys by holding them down can be a problem for users
with impaired dexterity. With RepeatKeys settings, users adjust or disable the repeat
feature.
- Password, User Profiles Users of the same machine can now use their log-ins and
passwords to set preferences and desktop settings, including accessibility features.
- Chat Up to eight people can hold a "conversation" by typing on
their networked computers, a handy alternative to telephones in work environments that
include people who are deaf or hard of hearing. (The Chat feature is only available on
CD-ROM, and is found in the Accessories folder.)
- System improvements to Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0 that are useful for people with
disabilities include:
- High-contrast schemes and mode make it easier to see screen objects. (High-contrast mode
available in Windows 95 only.)
- SerialKeys allows the user to control the personal computer using adaptive equipment
such as alternative keyboards or augmentative communication devices that connect to the
personal computers serial port. (Found under Accessibility Options.)
- Windows 95s Plug and Play architecture inherently supports multiple cooperating
pointing devices, allowing the addition of such devices without the need to replace or
disable the mouse.
- Automatic Reset returns a system to its default configuration after a specified idle
time.
- In Windows 95, the status of major accessibility features can be displayed on the
taskbar or in a floating window. The indicator provides a clear visual signal of which
features are active and provides feedback on the keys and mouse buttons currently being
"held down" by StickyKeys and MouseKeys features.
For More Information
The above is not meant to be a comprehensive listing of all accessibility products.
There are literally thousands of products on the market, and the user ultimately needs to
determine the best fit for his or her needs. More and more Microsoft products, for
instance, are adding accessibility features such as keyboard navigation, Microsoft Active
Accessibility, and closed captioning.
Two sources for more comprehensive listings of available products are listed below:
Product: |
CO-NET CD |
From: |
Trace R&D Center, S-151 Waisman Center, 1500 Highland
Ave.,
Madison, WI 53705-2280 |
Phone: |
608-263-2309 |
Fax: |
608-262-8848 |
TTY: |
608-263-5408 |
Email: |
info@trace.wisc.edu |
Internet |
http://trace.wisc.edu |
System: |
Any system with a CD-ROM |
Price: |
$45 |
Notes: |
Check out the Trace R&D Centers new
"Cooperative Electronic Library" on their Web site for a vast amount on
assistive technology. The CO-NET CD (officially the Cooperative Electronic Library on
Disability) provides a database of more than 22,000 products and other information for
people with disabilities. It is issued twice a year. Also included is a second CD called A
Taste of the Web, which is a collection of disability-related Web sites housed on a
CD-ROM. Trace R&D also produces a resource guide that describes products that help
people with disabilities use computers. The book, titled Trace ResourceBook,
provides descriptions and photographs of about 2,000 products. |
|
|
Contact: |
National Information System (NIS) |
At: |
University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208 |
Phone: |
803-777-1782 |
Fax: |
803-777-9557 |
Notes: |
Computers and other assistive devices can help persons with
disabilities to overcome a variety of barriers. For general information and
recommendations on how computers can help specific people, you should consult a trained
evaluator. For information about locating programs or services in your area that may be
able to help you, please contact the NIS. |
ã 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 Microsoft Corporation. All rights
reserved.
Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows, Windows NT, and Visual Basic are registered trademarks. IN
CUBE is a trademark of Command Corp., Inc. Kurzweil VOICE is a trademark of Kurzweil
Applied Intelligence, Inc. Dragon Systems and DragonDictate are registered trademarks of
Dragon Systems, Inc. IBM and OS/2 are registered trademarks and Windsurfer is a trademark
of International Business Machines Corporation. WiViK2 is a registered trademark and
KeyREP is a trademark of The Bloorview MacMillan Rehabilitation Center. Joystick-To-Mouse,
My-T-Mouse, and My-T-Mouse for Kids are registered trademarks of Innovation Management
Group, Inc. (IMG). ScreenPower is a registered trademark of Telesensory Corp.
This document is for informational purposes only. BRET A. BENNETT MAKES NO
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IN THIS DOCUMENT.
|