Yes, I do have a talking thermostate which works great!
It is programable with built in clock functions.
Go to the web site:
www.talkingthermostats.com
If I remember right, I think it costs about $139.95.
It might be possible to use the wiring you have if you are making and 
braking 24 volts.
If you have more questions, let me know.
73
Lowell  W8QIY
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Colin McDonald" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2008 4:54 AM
Subject: OT: accessible thermostat


> this is pretty off topic, but much of the list traffic is so i don't mind
> posting it here.
>
> does anyone know of a talking home heating thermostat? or perhaps one that
> is programmable and usable without sighted assistance?
> Most of the automatic programmable ones ive seen  have LCD displays and
> buttons to set them.
> This isn't much of a problem, but i would like to find one that is less
> complex and that one can consistently set and program without depending on
> eyes.
> Also, since i know next to nothing about these things, can I simply hook a
> new unit up to my existing system, bypassing the existing single slider
> controlled old style thermostat?
> Can i simply take the old one off the wall, hook the wires up to the new 
> one
> and have a programmable thermostat?
>
> thanks for any thoughts on this
>
> 73
> Colin, V A6BKX