Albert,

I don't know anything about IRLP.

If Linux is required, then you should take a look at Vinux.  Vinux is a 
distribution of Linux that is optimized for visually impaired users.  It can 
be installed without sighted assistance as the instillation is fully 
accessible and talks you through the install.  All the tweaks are already 
done so it is set-up for the visually impaired.

Under Vinux, you can run Firefox, Thunderbird, a Microsoft  Word and Excel 
look-alike that can read and create files that can be used by the Genuine 
Microsoft products.  There is even a rich featured Braille translation 
program available for Vinux.  You can add other voices to the built-in 
screen reader, however, these would have to be purchased if you want better 
speech.  Linux is also good at supporting older hardware if you have older 
computers.  I forgot to mention that it supports some of the older hardware 
speech synthesizers as well as your newer USB Braille displays.

This Vinux might be a good option for those of us who are still using XP and 
don't Want to support Microsoft and especially Windows 8 which may not work 
on older computers.

The best part, it is all free except optional voices.

I have not tried it, however, I am considering taking a look at it.

I believe you can run Windows in a virtual machine while in Linux. in case 
you still need Windows.

Howard #3


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Albert Sanchez" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Sunday, February 02, 2014 10:14 AM
Subject: IRLP question


> Hi List!
> I'm certain that this topic has been discussed in the past here but I =
> can't remember the thread. I'm interested in finding any totally blind =
> list members who run and maintain an IRlP system.  We don't have IRLP =
> here in this part of Carolina and I would like to remedy this.
> Best 73's
> Albert, WA7FXB
> PS. I understand that I would need a Linux computer, something I am not =
> familiar with. Is there screenreading software for Linux? A.S.