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<http://www.rbr.com/radio/index.1.html>Radio News | Accessibility
standards for HD radios
Accessibility standards for HD radios
20 November, 2008 09:48:00
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The International Association of Audio Information Services (IAAIS)
announces standards for HD radios that will be accessible to people
who are visually and physically handicapped. The implementation of
these standards will allow an untapped group of potential listeners
to use HD radio broadcasts.
These universal design standards are the first of their kind for
radios and other electronic devices. "Our committee searched the
known consumer electronics industry databases and the world wide
web. We found nothing that has codified what manufacturers need to
incorporate to make the radios accessible for people who are visually
impaired or blind," said IAAIS HD Taskforce chairperson, David Noble.
In recent years, radios and other electronic devices have deployed
increasingly advanced features that prevented senior citizens and
people who are visually or physically from using them.
Because the HD radio systems are new, there are relatively few HD
radios in homes. IAAIS wishes to generate early adoption of the
standards by many manufacturers so that many different units will be
accessible and simple to use for all radio users.
Once units are accessible, the IAAIS will promote the purchase and
use of accessible HD radios to provide reading services for blind or
otherwise print-disabled persons. Manufacturers of radio or other
consumer electronic devices must utilize the standards to create
products people who are visually and physically handicapped can buy
and use independently. IAAIS will not recommend or endorse any
product that fails to meet the newly published standards.
The IAAIS breaks down radio functions and design into Required,
Desirable, and Unacceptable in the categories of Controls, Displays
and Feedback, Documentation, Other Considerations, Operation/
Functions, and Infrared Remotes.
The standards call for speech feedback, tactile controls, and larger
buttons and at least 18-point print fonts, among other
requirements. Specifically unacceptable functions include touch
screens, soft keys, and hard to find recessed buttons.
Founded in 1977, the IAAIS is a non-profit association of
independently operated broadcast entities that provide reading
services in more than 100 radio markets throughout the US, Canada and abroad.
David Andrews
Chief Technology Officer
Minnesota State Services for the Blind
2200 University Ave. W., #240
St. Paul, MN 55114-1840
(651) 642-0513 Office
(612) 730-7931 Cell
(651) 649-5927 Fax
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