Assistive Technology

At a recent Massachusetts Statewide Technology Committee meeting, the Disability Law Center highlighted several assistive technology products that they are using both internally and in working with clients. These products may be helpful for other legal services programs as well. The products include the following:

1. NexTalk.net TTY service www.nextalk.net: This free service allows you to communicate directly with a TTY from your own computer. It allows advocates to communicate directly with hearing impaired clients who have TTY machines, without going through a relay operator. Using NexTalk, you can call a TTY; you can also call or accept text calls from any other NexTalk.net user.
2. JAWS http://www.freedomscientific.com/:JAWS for Windows is a powerful accessibility solution that reads information on your computer screen using synthesized speech. JAWS provides many useful commands that make it easier to use programs, edit documents, and read Web pages. With a refreshable braille display, JAWS can also provide braille output in addition to, or instead of, speech. An array of versatile features and customizable options lets you tailor JAWS for your individual needs and preferences. A license is approximately $1000.
3. ZoomText Magnifier/Reader http://www.aisquared.com/:Zoom Text is a new generation of adaptive software for Windows that integrates multiple technologies to achieve a total low-vision solution. This magnification and screen reading software program allows you to see and hear your computer. A license is approximately $500.

For more information about these products, please contact Rich Contente, rcontente@dlc-ma.org