Optek Systems

The Aladdin Monochrome black and white document Magnifier provides an enlarged image of handwritten or printed material on a 36cm TV typescreen. The special video camera is mounted above a movable platform, enabling newsprint to be enlarged up to 25cm on screen. Contrast, focus, black on white or white on black (inverted) easily adjusted. Ideal for home use.

JAWS is a screen reading software package designed for people with a vision impairment who use Windows based PC systems. The built-in software speech synthesizer and the computer's sound card allows information from the computer to be read aloud. Comes with a range of features. Available in two versions. A free demo can be downloaded from www.freedomscientific.com

Kurzweil 1000 is a computer based reading system that converts printed material into speech. Books, magazines or any kind of printed material can be scanned. Kurzweil has a choice of clear, accurate reading voices which can be programmed to speak at different rates.

The complete Braille learning centre for Braille learners and their teachers. It consists of a lightweight portable Braille "typewriter / embosser". Input can be via an ergonomically designed keyboard or it can be connected to an IBM compatible keyboard and get grade II Braille printed as you type.

The Poet Compact is an electrically operated reading machine (scanner) for people who prefer the "talking book" format or who are totally blind. It scans printed materials then reads them out loud. The system is controlled by only five buttons and two knobs.

The following suppliers provide high technology products to assist people with blindness / visual impairment. Initial assessment and prescription / recommendation should be made by a relevant health professional.