Here are some photos of the specialist technology that I use, that enables me to communicate and transcribe documents into Braille.
Braille Display
This specialist machine allows blind and visual impaired users to proof-read documents which are then transcribed. A Braille display outputs exactly what is shown on screen via a screen reader, then small pins form the raised dots. In addition, some Braille displays have Braille keyboards so that a visual impaired person can control their PC via the display.
Embosser
Equivalent to a standard computer printer, a Braille embosser produces hard copies of documents once they’ve been through the Braille translation software. This can then be read by those with little or no sight.
Read Easy
This scanning device has been specifically designed for those with no vision. It takes photographs of printed material, performs optical character recognition and then reads the printed text. The text can then be exported to a variety of formats such as Microsoft Word..
BrailleNote Touch
The Braille Note Touch designed by Humanware is very much like a standard Android tablet, but instead of operating the device via a touch screen, there is a Braille style keyboard plus a refreshable Braille display and speech output. As it is based on the Android operating system, it enables the use of third party apps such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams. This equipment can also be used for numerous other tasks, such as word processing, e mail and web-based activities.
Perkins Brailler
This machine is very much like an old-fashioned type writer. It allows visually impaired people to have instant access to their written work, which means it is a valuable tool for those just beginning their braille journey.
AS shown in the image this machine has 8 keys in total. These are:
• Far left new line/enter key
• Backspace key far right
• The keys on the front of the Perkins represent the dot numbers which are used to form a braille cell, dots one two three are to the left and dots four five and six are to the right.
• In the middle of these keys there is a large square key which is the space bar.
• A plastic lever is on the front of the machine which controls the position of the braille embossing head.
If you are interested in learning to use this device please check out my Remote braille page
click here for details on remote braille service http://seeitthroughmyfingers.co.uk/remote-braille-service/
Braille Sense 6
Braille Sense 6 is another specialist device manufactured by Hims. Like the Braille Note touch it has a refreshable display with a braille keyboard allowing the user to execute all functions via its Perkins-style keyboard and feel the refreshable braille display.
However as shown in the image above, the Braille Sense doesn’t have an actual screen underneath the braille keyboard so it cannot be controlled via a sighted person unless an external keyboard/mouse was plugged in (plus a computer monitor to obtain visual output.)
Furthermore, due to the fact that the Braille Sense, although it has many built in apps specifically designed for visually impaired users, it again operates on Android version 12 allowing access to Google Play store where many third-party apps can be downloaded/purchased, thus enabling users of these devices to keep up with their sighted counterparts.