Hi Jess, I like you am not realy that technical concerning
computers. What I've learned concerning Tiger is mostly either by
this list, or just happening to find it. I however, don't have any
experience with Jaws, used Outspoken for Windows when I was working
with a Windows machine. Yes a fair amount of what I learned with
Windows I had to learn from sighted assistance, but a big part of
what I learned also was straight from the Outspoken manual as well.
But generally back then it was probably even more limited with what I
could do with the computer compared to now with the Apple.
Even when we bought this Mac and I started with OS 9 and Outspoken,
it was better than what I had before. In general things are even
getting better with Tiger. I was one of those who had a demo copy of
Spoken Interphase with Panther, and again, Tiger with VO is a big
improvement. Just in stability alone. Yes there's of course room
for improvements, there probably always be, and we do have to keep
fighting to try to get several everyday usage programs fully
accessible, but this is a good start.
As for music in your computer, while you are in the list arkives,
there are some series of mails concerning Itunes, as well as some
other programs. Some of these have some work arounds, as well as
general rules of thumb for working with as well. Many of these
problems have multipal solutions and they will depend on what you
find easiest sometimes, as well as with what you are wanting to do
with the music in your computer.
Maybe some in the list will give you a quick way to work around as
well as the arkives. I'm not usually that good at accurately and
concisely writing the work arounds.
On Jan 11, 2006, at 3:41 AM, David and Jessica wrote:
I have been reading some of the archives. Admitedly it's a lot to
sort through, but I just wanted to say a few things concerning
voice over out of the box from the point of view of a person who
has never used a mac.
I do know windows and jaws quite well, but wouldn't consider myself
a power user. I know blind people who can reinstall their own
windows by installing some sort of utility, people who can fix
their own sound drivers and things. You have to be really really
good to never need sighted assistance with a windows machine so I
cant understand anyone saying they weren't happy with what they
saw in the apple store. Who here learned jaws and windows with no
sighted help at all.
That's what I'm doing with voice over. I have had no sighted help
at all and am not particularly clever or technical. I admit if it
weren't for this list, I may not have had the get up and go to
stick with it, but how long did it take jaws to get this far. I
feel freedom scientific is only as far as they are today because
another company made them a screen reader, started selling loads of
coppies and gave them a kickstart. comparing voice over with
narator is far more fare and accurate.
I know I'm just a newbie, but I wanted to say how impressed I am
with apple's first attempt (all be it a little slow. It's ok, we
forgive you.) I went into pc world, a store here in the UK, and
recieved excellent assistance. I had never even heard of voice
over, was intending to buy a windows machine, and walked out with a
mac. YEA!
As a totally blind person, there are very few things I can do for
enjoyment with no assistance from sighted people. I am finding
learning a whole new opporating system a total blast. I just would
really really like to know how I can play the things in my music
folder. I have heard it is complecated, but I'm sure someone is
doing it. If you have an answer for me, it would be really
appreciated.
Cheers,
Jess
