Pace - IT Adaptive Tech Reviews
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Podcast: Barrier-free IT - Tips and Tricks Podcast
The EASI.cc website for "Equal Access to Software and Information" has a few podcasts on AT issues that are worth checking out.
Here's the link to the EASI Podcast page. ¶ 1:01 PM 0 comments
Here's the link to the EASI Podcast page. ¶ 1:01 PM 0 comments
Friday, February 17, 2006
Try out the AT&T Natural Voices
ReadPlease software has a nice, easy demo of some of the AT&T Natural Voices. They are very impressive. Try this link for the AT&T Natural Voices.
¶ 10:33 AM 0 comments
Review: VKB Virtual Laser Keyboard
VKB Virtual Laser Keyboard - $199
Features:
Here's the VKB product website link.
CNet review 4.9 out of 10 - Mediocre.
User reviews 6.6 out of 10 - Mixed reaction.
The CNet reviewer only gave it mediocre ratings but many user reviewers gave it perfect marks. The biggest difficulty mentioned was company support and compatibility problems.
Here's the CNet review link.
Alternatives
There are several alternatives out there and some have even higher Wow factor. Some do not produce a virtual keyboard image at all and work like an air guitar and let you actually type in mid-air. That makes me wonder if they have an air guitar version after all.
Here's the link for alternative virtual keyboards. Other alternatives depend on what you're connected to. There are many fold-open keyboards for PDAs for about $60 but those probably won't work with your Tablet PC or laptop, though why would you need it to?
Adaptive Use
Some of the benefits to this keyboard are its portability, light weight, and that you get a full-size keyboard anywhere. There is also no problem with the key pressure being too firm since it will respond to movement not touch. It can also be used for multiple devices so once it is familiar it may become the preferred input method for some users.
Some of the downside is that multiple connection cables may be needed in addition to the bluetooth in order to make it work. It has been hard to find drivers and establish connections with some devices. You will also get lots of distractions from curious onlookers. It will only last two hours on a charge. It is geared to the touch typist and won't aid mobility impairments that much. ¶ 8:13 AM 0 comments
VKB Virtual Laser Keyboard - $199Features:
- Project a Virtual QWERTY Keyboard onto any flat surface
- Bluetooth v1.1 Internal Rechargeable Battery with mains power supply
- Can recognise up to 400 keystrokes per minute
- Over 120 minutes of continuous typing off of a single charge
- Simple set up. Just install the supplied driver, connect the keyboard, and it is ready to use.Compatible with: Windows 2000, XP, Windows Mobile (Pocket PC 2003, Smartphone 2003), Palm OS 5 and Symbian Series 60 / UIQ.
Here's the VKB product website link.
CNet review 4.9 out of 10 - Mediocre.
User reviews 6.6 out of 10 - Mixed reaction.
The CNet reviewer only gave it mediocre ratings but many user reviewers gave it perfect marks. The biggest difficulty mentioned was company support and compatibility problems.
Here's the CNet review link.
Alternatives
There are several alternatives out there and some have even higher Wow factor. Some do not produce a virtual keyboard image at all and work like an air guitar and let you actually type in mid-air. That makes me wonder if they have an air guitar version after all.
Here's the link for alternative virtual keyboards. Other alternatives depend on what you're connected to. There are many fold-open keyboards for PDAs for about $60 but those probably won't work with your Tablet PC or laptop, though why would you need it to?
Adaptive Use
Some of the benefits to this keyboard are its portability, light weight, and that you get a full-size keyboard anywhere. There is also no problem with the key pressure being too firm since it will respond to movement not touch. It can also be used for multiple devices so once it is familiar it may become the preferred input method for some users.
Some of the downside is that multiple connection cables may be needed in addition to the bluetooth in order to make it work. It has been hard to find drivers and establish connections with some devices. You will also get lots of distractions from curious onlookers. It will only last two hours on a charge. It is geared to the touch typist and won't aid mobility impairments that much. ¶ 8:13 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
iPods as Adaptive Technology?
Everyone seems to have an iPod. What can you use them for besides music? What about podcasts? What about other features? This blog will cover some of those issues...
¶ 8:50 AM 0 comments
Technology evaluations for PACE-IT
What are the best products on the market to help you maximize your education and work experience? This blog will identify some of the strengths and weaknesses of various hardware and software items and combinations. There is so much new, off-the-shelf hardware that can be altered to meet various needs at lower cost but they do need to be evaluated.
If you have experience with some products mentioned or what to comment on or have questions about other products, then please comment. ¶ 8:42 AM 0 comments
If you have experience with some products mentioned or what to comment on or have questions about other products, then please comment. ¶ 8:42 AM 0 comments
