David Flament, the Guild’s manager of adaptive technology, recently participated in a panel called “What’s in Your Backpack.” Each panelist was to list the adaptive or assistive technology he or she carries in his or her backpack to make their lives easier. Below is David’s list:
Thumb drive
For transferring files from one computer to another. David also carries around an iZoom thumb drive, a screen reading and magnifying program that allows him to use adaptive technology on any computer. For more information, visit: http://www.issist1.com/
iPhone
Apple’s popular smart phone is now accessible for people with vision loss with either screen reading or screen magnifying capabilities. To learn more, visit: http://www.apple.com/iphone/iphone-3gs/accessibility.html
Victor Reader Stream
Humanware’s DAISY-MP3/NISO player lets you read and navigate through complex books, such as reference manuals and school books, as well as novels and magazines. You can also use its built in text to speech to read books in text format such as Bookshare. It also has an integrated microphone to record voice notes. Please follow this link for more information: http://www.humanware.com/en-usa/products/blindness/dtb_players/compact_models/_details/id_81/victorreader_stream.html. The Guild is currently offering the Victor Reader Stream for $349, which includes a 4GB SD card. We also offer free classes on using the Stream. Please contact the Guild’s Kathy Austin at kathya@guildfortheblind.org for more information on the Stream.
Pocket magnifier and monocular
David also carries a pocket magnifier for magnifying text as well a monocular for seeing distant objects. The Guild carries a wide variety of magnifiers and monoculars. Please contact Brian Hollandsworth for an appointment at Brian@guildfortheblind.org.
So that’s what’s in David’s backpack. What’s in yours? Please share the adaptive and assistive devices that you carry around with you on a daily basis that makes your life easier.
