Dave Andrews is absolutely right that the issue of consumer electronics is
an important one. As stereo systems become more integrated with video,
there is a strong trend to handle some functions through the TV's screen.
Even functions on televisions that are audio in nature are sometimes set
through on-screen menus. My mother has a small stereo television with
baas, trebble and ballance controls accessible only through an on-screen
menu. A couple of the new audio recording formats allow the storage of
text as part of the digital audio. Those of you who read STEREO REVIEW
are already aware that there is a new indexing system for VHS video
cassettes that permits the storage of program information at the beginning
of the cassette. One can move an on-screen cursor to the desired program,
press a button, and the cassette is positioned to the beginning of that
program. There are a couple of sources of TV program scheduling
information that are linked with TV signals. The Digital Music Express
system which is available through many cable companies, displays the title
and performer of the selection being heard. Enough already, right?
It's important to make some specific suggestions. I believe that we
should push for the use of an infrared link because it will more easily
fit into all sizes of devices, and because it avoids the entire
complexity of connecting cables. Also, we should push for manufacturers
to subsidize the production of the receivers. The entire link, the
infrared transmitter, the receiver, and the structure of the information
must be such that it can be used by all manufacturers. This
concept is no different than manufacturers agreeing on a video compact
disc format as they have just done.
I believe we need to encourage the development of a simple low-cost
receiver. Persons operating a microwave oven should not be required to
interface it with a laptop computer or Braille 'n' Speak. It may be
necessary to use more sophisticated and programmable devices in some
applications where the data presented is complex, but the goal should be
that a basic self-contained receiver could handle standard appliances and
audio/video equipment.
Given the above, we would still need to define the controls that would be
necessary on the receiver, and exactly what data needs to be
transmitted. We should also look at the current state of infrared
standards for the communication between computer devices. I believe that
this technology also offers the best answer to making ATM's truly
useable.
--Steve Jacobson National Federation of the Blind 3M Company Internet: SOJACOBSON@MMM.COM
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