In considering how to make cameras and video recorders useful to
the blind, it is very important that we consider the plight of
the average sighted person who finds these devices difficult to
program and use. Given that I am somewhat technically inclined,
the idea of a universal device that will read all things has some
appeal, but from the point of view of the consumer who has no
such claim to technical prowis, the idea has less merit. Even I
have problems with the idea that I will need my Braille and Speak
in the kitchen for my microwave, in the family room for my VCR,
and in the living room to adjust my stereo.
The best solution is to approach the problem as the manufacturer
of ham radio equipment has done. When purchased the unit has a
visual display, but it can be made to talk by purchasing a $30
voice chip. The chip is easily installed, either by store
personnel or the user. The retailer does not carry as many chips
as radios, but the cost is low enough that he can carry several
without significant investment in inventory. Knowing my
frequency does not depend on knowing how to interface a device or
on having my Braille and Speak on site. I do not object to
paying $30 for the speech feature and do not expect it to be
built into each unit. Neither do I think it is everyone elses
responsibility to pay for what I need.
I know so little about cameras that I confine my remarks to the
VCR. It should speak what is displayed onscreen: date, time,
function selected, etc. I also suggest a help key that will
announce the name of any other key pressed. While this is not a
function provided for the sighted on most units, they are able to
clearly see the labels on the buttons they are about to press.
The function I am describing is referred to as the Nominator key
on the Kurzweil Reading Machine.
None of these thoughts are earthshaking but hope they help.
GW
Gary Wunder
WUNDER@MAIL.COIN.MISSOURI.EDU
home (314) 874-1774 Work (314) 882-2561
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