Greetings, please forward to the correct department.

I have an idea of a device that I wonder who and where it might
be developed.


For years I have went with the philosophy that it is bettter to
try and use commercially available and standard software hardware
that is commonly being  used in the workplace, with the least
amount of modification as possible.  For example, it is better to
use a notebook/laptop computer running DOS/Windows apps with
voice/braille ouput or large print.  This way you had the
standard machine that others could use, that sighted coworkers
could help you with, that you could share apps and data.
This approach was diferent from the one I first encountered when
using technology.


I started back when the Apple II-e had dedicated talking word-
processors and talking database programs and the like.  I used
specifically designed units like the versaBraille.  It made sense
that I should try and use standard devices with some kind of
access technology so I could integrate into the mainstream
computing environment.  Now after years of trying to use popular
apps with adaptive technology I have come full circle to seeing
the value in having a dedicated device that works well for me as
a blind person but that has the capability to easily interface
with the popular computing environment.

I have tried to use different personal information management
systems with access technology but none seem to really fit the
need.

My idea for a device would be:
1.  Of course something portable, good battery life like 20
hours, under 3 pounds, about the size of the rabbit 40.  RBT40.
2.  access through output in braile, speech or a combination.
(probably not large print)
Dectalk quality speech, or equivalent.

3.  input, Qwerty / perkins keyboard. (limited voice recognition)
maybe naming files via voice and storing voice digitally.

4.  Interface to printer/desktops, scanners tape backups etc.
through wireless connection.

5.  Online capabilities.

6.  Apps: database, (flat style is fine), all apps connect to the
database records, for example, dial the phone from contact
record, track correspondence electronic or hard-copy, (meaning
links in the contact record take you to any documents, emails,
faxes, or calendar appointments web sites associated with that
contact. able to print paper labels,
(input via voice like the Parrot or Voice diary)
calendar appointment book
limited word-processing,
financial managing, check book etc. able to write checks, idenify
paper money,
clock/stop watch
e-mail web browser
cell phone / pager. Strider type capabilities, talking sign
receiver.
Read NLS CD's if they get them produced!!
Unit can work as speech synthesizer and/or braille display for
desktop, screen reader part of the package,

modular design so unit can be produced with choice of access
output (speech only, braile only, or both)

Not sure of storage method. if possible archetecture that would
allow for upgrades to popular interfaces like FireWire.
And of course if there ever is a standard for accessing
appliance, ATM and the like systems, this device would be the
output for it.
Is there any device close to having some of these features?  When
would a device like this be possible?  Am I the only one who
wants this kind of unit?

I have looked at some of the current crop of personal data
assistants, Keynote Companion, Braile 'n Speak, sub-notebook with
access technology.  None quite have a start on what I know I
commonly want in a device, and I thihnk most people sighted or
blind also typically desire these functions in their computer.

Is there any work being done to access Windows CE?

Any suggestions on how I could get my dream machine built would
be welcomed.

Thanks.
Doug Rose,
Independent Living Specialist
Humboldt Access Project
707-445-8404

HH