Hi Terri and All, Code Factory have actually done a nice job of putting a screen reader on the PDA/Windows Mobile devices. And, although I don't use one as my regular note taker, my Windows Mobile device does come in handy from time to time. And, were I to really want to do so, I could have my BN be a Braille display for the device.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that these devices do have their places for the blind folks. And, this can be even more so, should one choose to use a PDA that has both PDA and phone functionality built in. So, for me, anyway, although I am able to happily use my device for more than just a phone from time to time, right now, I can't see using the mainstream device for most things, not when I have a much easier to use PDA available with me, and one with a Braille display ready right when I turn the unit on as well. Vicky Collins [EMAIL PROTECTED] ----- Original Message ----- From: "Terri Pannett" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Rhonda Clark" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; "Vicky Collins" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Cc: <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 2:57 PM Subject: Re: [Braillenote] My general comments I have used stand-alone braille displays with a PC and my BN with a PC and I confess that I prefer using the BN with my PC. There are more hot keys on the BN than on the stand alone braille displays I've used. Also, I never liked having to put a keyboard on top of a braille display. It makes typing tiring. If you want to read and write wherever you go, the BN is more efficient and portable than a stand-alone braille display. Although I think it's a good idea for people to own both a BN and a PC, I don't think it's a good idea to own a PDA made for the sighted. Making them user-friendly for the blind is harder to do than making a screen reader for the PC. Many sighted PDAs use a stylus instead of a keyboard. They use scaled-down versions of software. The standards are not as stable as the standards for Windows XP or Windows Vista. The only drawback of the BN which bothers me is there isn't an external battery pack. It's silly to need to send the unit in simply for a new battery. HumanWare should offer an external battery which could be plugged into the unit so those who need a new battery can have one without sending the unit in. Many people, especially the deaf blind, can't afford to be without their BN. Terri Amateur Radio call sign KF6CA. ___ Replies to this message will go directly to the sender. If your reply would be useful to the list, please send a copy to the list as well. To leave the BrailleNote list, send a blank message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] To view the list archives or change your preferences, visit http://list.humanware.com/mailman/listinfo/braillenote
