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Monday, July 16, 2012

INSUL-EZE


Name:
INSUL-EZE
                      
Description
The insul-eze allows people with low vision to see the volume on the syringe to avoid too much or too little insulin during injection. The device magnifies the numbers on the syringe to provide the user with accurate insulin readings. The frame is flat so it can be placed on a flat surface. A magnet or Velcro may be attached for safe handling.

Purpose
The purpose of this device is to eliminate complications due to improper insulin administration. Too much or too little insulin can be harmful to an individual suffering from blindness or low vision. The device caters to the needs of these individuals. Proper use of this device requires fine motor abilities, simple arithmetic, and basic knowledge of needle use.

Directions
Insert the bottle at the end of the device. Turn the device until it is facing up. Insert the syringe along the groove at the bottom of the insul-eze. Flip the insul-eze so that the curved surface is facing upwards. Rotate the needle as needed in order to see the numbers on the syringe. Pull the syringe and withdraw the amount that is needed. Then remove syringe from the device.

Pros And Cons
Pros: Dimensions accommodate most insulin bottles, flat design allows it to be placed on flat surfaces, magnifies numbers on syringes.

Cons: Availability of pricing, training is needed for proper use.

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: $44.99

AmbiMedInc
908 Sir Francis Avenue

Capitola, California 95010
Telephone:831-475-1765      .
Fax: 831-475-1765.
Web: http://www.ambimedinc.com.



Credit:
Images and device information thanks to Abledata.com
Device information courtesy of Ambimedinc
Device information courtesy of Candian Drugs Wholesale


Samsung Haven



Name:
SAMSUNG HAVEN
                      
Description
The Haven is a  phone that has tactile buttons with extra contrast on the numbers for people that are blind and have low vision. It also includes voice output and voice activation to make calls or utilize the functions of the phone. Alarms, reminders, and medical information can be stored on this phone.The user has the ability to make the font on the phone larger and  adjust the screen brightness. The screen is 2.2 inches diagonal and features a slim design for an active adult.
Purpose
The phone serves as a communication device for people that have difficulty with vision. The phone allows them to use a phone in spite of visual deficits to facilitate social interactions among friends and relatives. User must have functional use of hands to program the device and cognitive abilities should be present in order to utilize programming. The user must have proper verbal communications abilities in order for the phone to understand commands.


Directions
Operations for this device are standard. Verbal commands can be programmed on the phone and names can be spoken to make calls.There are built-in verbal responses from the phone when numbers and menu items are pressed by the user.  Standard procedures for phone use apply to the Haven.




Pros And Cons
Pros: Durable, lightweight, bright display, one button access to emergency services,large buttons, audible feedback from buttons, inexpensive.


Cons: You can receive picture messages but you cannot send them, very simple and basic technology, slow data transfer rate for internet usage.

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: 39.99


Samsung Electronics America, Inc.
105 Challenger Rd
Ridgefield Park, New Jersey 07660
United States
Telephone:
800-726-7864
Fax: 973-601-6001.
Web: http://www.samsung.com.
Email: info@samsungamerica.com.


Credit: 
Image and device information thanks to Abledata.com
Video courtesy of Youtube
Device information courtesy of Samsung



GRILL RIGHT WIRELESS TALKING BBQ / OVEN THERMOMETER (MODEL AW131)





Name:
 GRILL RIGHT WIRELESS TALKING BBQ / OVEN THERMOMETER (MODEL AW131)  

Description
This thermometer alerts individuals who are blind or have low vision when the meat is an optimal temperature via voice output. It comes standard with an LCD screen, four audio alerts, two verbal alerts, low battery indicator, and batteries are included. The range of the grill alarm is around 300 feet.

Purpose
This grill is to allows individuals with visual impairments to cook their meat at an appropriate temperature. Cooking at an appropriate temperature allows for safe eating by reducing the chances of food poisoning by killing bacteria at a high temperature. User must have functional use of hands to program the device and cognitive abilities should be present in order to differentiate alarms and utilize programming.

Directions
First,  program the type of meat being cooked. Then select how well you want the meat cooked (ranging from rare to well-done). Then start the process. An alarm will signal when the food is ready and it will also signal when the food is overcooked.

Pros And Cons
Pros: Speaks 5 different languages, price under $100,  batteries included, battery indicator, stainless steel probe is removable for cleaning, over 100 yd range for remote indicator.

Cons: No audio feedback when buttons are pressed for audio feedback, programming may be difficult and may require assistance.

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: $ 59.99

Manufacturer:

Oregon Scientific
19861 SW 95th Avenue
Tualatin, Oregon 97062

Telephone: 503-783-5100


Credit:
Image and Device information to Abledata.com
Device information to E- Best Price Review

Thursday, July 12, 2012

SPECIAL TEA TIME



Name: SPECIAL TEA TIME

Description
This device is a thermos that allows people who are blind or have low vision to make their own tea. With tactile indicators the water level and timing is regulated.  The thermos is covered in Braille and allows users to read measurements and also tell time. The thermos has a top that is removable. The timer attached to the device is also covered in Braille. This is a great tool for individuals who drink tea socially or for breakfast.

Purpose
The device allows users to prepare tea for themselves and enjoy an activity that they might otherwise not be able to do. The skills required for this item include: depth perception, sequencing, fine motor and gross motor control. The user must also be able to hear the tea timer bell. Tactile sensations must be present in the user in order to feel Braille.

Directions
First you put in the desired amount of water based on using the rising tactile indicators that rise with the water. The tea leaves are placed in an infuser and the lid is then screwed on and the timer is set. Once the timer goes off the tea is ready for consumption. The price for this item is unlisted and it is a prototype, but if you want more information on how to obtain this item please go to the URL:   http://www.yankodesign.com/2011/01/20/perfect-cup-of-tea                   

Pros and Cons
Pros: Numerous pieces, tiny parts, tactile sensors for blind

Cons:  No verbal alerts, no audible temperature gauge

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: N/A Prototype

The price for this item is unlisted and it is a prototype, but if you want more information on how to obtain this item please go to the URL:   http://www.yankodesign.com/2011/01/20/perfect-cup-of-tea
                   
Credit:
Images and device information thanks to Abledata.com
Device information courtesy of Yanko Design





Jumbo Talking Calculator




Name:
Jumbo Talking Calculator

Description
This calculator is designed for people with vision disabilities or fine motor disabilities. It has large buttons and after each button is pressed it gives the user vocal feedback to indicate which number is being pressed. The buttons are over-sized and the contrast of white symbols on a black background helps the eyes focus on the symbols.  

Purpose
Students with visual impairments may find this calculator useful in classes where equations are simple.  People having trouble seeing numbers on calculators may find the contrast helpful in speeding up the process of solving basic arithmetic.Users are required to understand basic arithmetic and have cognitive  executive functioning capabilities and fine motor skills readily available to operate this calculator.  

Directions
Standard operations of the calculator apply.

Pros and Cons
Pros: Large buttons, visual contrast on buttons, vocal feedback

Cons:  It is not a scientific calculator, limited calculation functions

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: The price is listed at $29.95.


FirstStreet (Formerly TechnoScout)

1998 Ruffin Mill Road
Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834
United States
Telephone: 800-704-1209 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            800-704-1209      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 804-524-9888 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            804-524-9888      end_of_the_skype_highlighting            .
Fax: 866-889-9960.


Credit:
Images and device information thanks to Abledata.com




KNFB READER MOBILE




Name:
KNFB READER
                      
Description
KNFBREADER MOBILE is a cellphone that converts text to speech. The user takes a picture of the text to be read and the phone converts it into speech output. It has a 5 megapixel camera:

Purpose
The phone is designed for people with low vision and blindness. This device can be helpful during shopping or in other public places where reading is required. The user must have cognitive, verbal, hearing, and fine motor abilities present in order to operate the machine.

Directions
The user activates the phone’s camera and the automatic viewfinder alerts the user if the entire text is in the picture.  Once the picture is taken the device can capture the words and highlight the text as it is spoken aloud.  The text scanned with the camera can be saved for later viewing.




Pros and Cons
Pros: User friendly, simple design, verbal feedback, 5MP camera

Cons:  50 MB of memory and limited programming capability

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: Between $500 - $600, price varies with online competitors


knfb Reading Technology Inc.
P.O. Box 620128
Newton Lower Falls, Massachusetts 02462-0128
United States
Telephone:  877-547-1500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            877-547-1500      end_of_the_skype_highlighting            .


Credit:
Images and device information thanks to Abledata.com
Video Courtesy of Youtube



The Echo Smartpen





Name:
THE ECHO SMARTPEN
                      
Description
The Echo Smart pen assists individuals with visual, cognitive, learning, or developmental disabilities by recording handwritten notes as well as recording lectures while the student is taking notes.  This device is extremely helpful for people with visual impairments in the classroom. The device has a quick response camera that literally records everything that you write. It can record up to 800 hours with an 8 GB pen. You may also choose to buy the cheaper 2 GB pen with the capability to record for 200 hours. Data from the pen can be transferred to the computer. It comes with a USB charger and a carrying case.  


Purpose
The purpose of this device is to assist students or individuals with disabilities in note taking. The user may have problems remembering or seeing his notes. The voice recorder and the audible note feedback give instant access to recorded lectures and notes. Users must be able to write properly in order to record the notes accurately. The user must have sequencing abilities as well other cognitive abilities present.

Directions
The smart pen comes with a smart notebook. The note book has different sections with different features on it such as rewind and record. With the touch of a pen the pen starts recording and it stops when you press in the “pause” area of the notebook. The pen continuously records written notes. The page that correlates with information on the pen can be accessed at anytime.




Pros and Cons
Pros: Compatible with Mac OS X and Windows, 800 hours of recording, smart notebook

Cons: No audio feedback when buttons are pressed.

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: The price ranges from $99.95 to $ 229.95.

Livescribe
Oakland, California United States
Telephone: 877-7274239 and 510–567–4150                 .


Credit:
Images and device information thanks to  Abledata.com 
Video courtesy of Youtube

Sunday, July 8, 2012

AFFINITY SUPREME & AFFINITY SUPREME VGA




Name:
AFFINITY SUPREME & AFFINITY SUPREME VGA

Description
The affinity supreme line up allows people with low vision to read and see items on a magnified computer screen. The documents placed under the magnifying glass can be viewed in color or pure black and white. The objects can be magnified up to 57 times their original size. There is also auto focus to limit the hassle of finding the right magnification. The device itself is slightly bulky and not easily portable.  For further information please contact the manufacturer at:

Purpose
 People with vision impairments need to be able to read their mail or important paper documents. This allows the users to read without the pain of using a magnifying glass and the ability to read things they would otherwise be unable to see.

Directions
Place document on the platform of the affinity VGA and connect the device to a monitor. Turn on the power and enjoy.

Pros and Cons
Pros: 57x magnification, color or non-color viewing, autofocus, photo mode

Cons:  Bulky and limited portability

Manufacturer Information:
Cost: $ 1945.00

Rehan Electronics Limited
Brunswick Row
Aughrim Road
Carnew, County Wicklow Ireland
Telephone: 011-353-53-9426742.
Fax: 011-353-53-9426051.

Credit:
Images and device information thanks to Abledata.com 
Device information courtesy of Ocusource

MAESTRO





Name:
MAESTRO
                      
Description
The Maestro is a PDA device that allows individuals who are blind or have low vision to access functions like calendar, notes, and access to text files through voice output on the PDA device. Files from computers can also be transferred to this device. One key feature of this PDA is that you can type straight from a Braille keyboard into audible text.   It also has a stereo headset jack. There are expansion slots for memory cards as well.The cost of this device is unlisted and users are instructed to contact the manufacturer for pricing. The manufacturer information is as follows:

Purpose
In today's hectic schedule people need to be organized. People with disabilities are no exception. They need the ability to communicate with others. Individuals with fine motor deficits may have a problem operating this PDA but it is an incredible device nonetheless.  Users are usually more proficient with Maestro if they have had previous PDA experience.

Directions
Standard operations of PDA apply to the use of the Maestro. The only difference is that the device utilizes verbal commands of the user and it activates the appropriate file or section of the phone based on the verbal command.

Pros and Cons
Pros: Calendar, Windows Media player, large screen

Cons: Battery life, slow processor, price
Manufacturer Information:
Cost: $300-$400

Humanware Group (formerly Pulse Data Humanware and Visuaide)
175 Mason Circle
Concord, California 94520
United States
Telephone: 800-722-3393 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            800-722-3393      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or 925-680-7100 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            925-680-7100      end_of_the_skype_highlighting            .
Fax: 925-681-4630.

Credit:
Images and device information thanks to Abledata.com 
Device information courtesy of Street Tech


THE KELVIN TALKING THERMOSTAT



Name:
THE KELVIN TALKING THERMOSTAT

Description
The Kelvin Thermostat is fully programmable and any button that is pressed is accompanied by an audible indicator telling the user what the button is doing. The thermostat obviously controls the temperature of the environment and can be quite beneficial for the user, especially if you live in a harsh climate. The thermostat also has voice activation features that make it a premier item.

Purpose
The Kelvin talking thermostat is for people who are blind or suffer from low vision. The temperature is regulated by the user’s voice. It saves valuable time for the user and could provide much needed comfort in the presence of disability. The user must be able to hear and understand the Kelvin. The user must also have verbal skills present.

Typical Use
The Kelvin can be adjusted with the large tactile buttons on the sides of the Kelvin or by voice activation. The Kelvin can be programmed for the entire week and at different times throughout the day. The Kelvin responds to the user with an answer for every command.









Pros and Cons
Pros: Voice activation, large buttons, sleek design, voice output
Cons:  N/A
Manufacturer Information:
Cost: $130

Action Talking Products, LLC

200 Robbins Lane
Jericho, New York 11753
United States
Telephone:             800-537-2118 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            800-537-2118      end_of_the_skype_highlighting                  .


Credit:
Images and device information thanks to Abledata.com
Video courtesy of Youtube