Freedom Scientific BLV Group LLC

11800 31st Court North
St Petersburg, Florida 33716-1805
United States
Telephone: 800-444-4443 or 727-803-8000.
Fax: 727-803-8001.
Web: http://www.freedomscientific.com.
Email: info@freedomscientific.com.

Products manufactured by Freedom Scientific BLV Group LLC (listed alphabetically)

1. BRAILLE CALC

   Braille Calc is a Braille spreadsheet program designed for use by individuals who are blind. Available for use with Freedom Scientific braille notetakers (Braille 'N Speak, Type 'N Speak, Braille Lite, or Type Lite; see entries), this program offers the same type of cell-referencing and automatic calculation capabilities provided by computer-based spreadsheets. This program manages a spreadsheet of up to 16 columns by 64 rows (1,024 cells) with full editing and formatting capabilities. It saves and loads data and offers multiple number display formats. Built-in functions include general math, trigonometric functions, date and time, financial and statistical functions, and conversion of weights and measures.

2. BRAILLE LITE MILLENNIUM (SERIES M20)

   The Braille Lite Millennium, Series M20, is a Braille notetaker designed for individuals who are blind or have low vision. Input is through a an eight-dot Perkins-style Braille keyboard, and output is through a 20-character refreshable Braille display and an adjustable speech synthesizer. The Braille Lite M20 features a 56K modem, e-mail capability, word processing, one-key commands, and 14 megabytes (MB) of internal memory. Use of removable SanDisk CompactFlash cards allows virtually unlimited file storage. WinDisk software (included) allows the user to easily transfer files to a personal computer. WhizWheels enable the user to scroll through documents rapidly and easily. The Braille Lite M20 comes with a leather carrying case and strap, documentation, and cables. The unit is available with one or two languages. Available languages include English, Latin American Spanish, French, French Canadian, German, Norwegian, and Italian. OPTIONS: Annual maintenance agreement. DIMENSIONS (HxLxW): 1.5 x 5 x 8.25 inches. WEIGHT: Two pounds.

3. BRAILLE LITE MILLENNIUM (SERIES M40)

   The Braille Lite Millennium, series M40, is a Braille notetaker designed for individuals who are blind or have low vision. Input is through a an eight-dot Perkins-style Braille keyboard, and output is through a 40-character refreshable Braille display and an adjustable speech synthesizer. The Braille Lite M40 features a 56K modem, e-mail capabilities, word processing, quick one-key commands, and 14 megabytes (MB) of internal memory. Use of removable SanDisk CompactFlash cards allows virtually unlimited file storage. WhizWheels allow the user to scroll through documents rapidly and easily. WinDisk software (included) allows the user to easily transfer files to a personal computer. The Braille Lite M40 comes with a leather carrying case and strap, documentation, and cables. DIMENSIONS (HxLxW): 1.5 x 5.125 x 11.75 inches. WEIGHT: Two pounds. WARRANTY: One year, with 30-day money-back guarantee of satisfaction.

4. BRAILLE 'N SPEAK

   Braille 'N Speak is an electronic braille notetaker designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. The unit features a six-key Perkins-style braille keyboard and the capability to provide output in print, synthesized speech, or braille. This portable stand-alone data manager offers a simple command structure; word processing capabilities and spell check; a fully-adjustable speech synthesizer which enables the user to control the rate of speech, tone, pitch, and more; a Grade 2 Braille back-translator for standard print output; and the capacity to operate in two languages. The unit is available with an English module only, with English and one of 14 other languages, or with any two of 14 non-English languages Other features include a one-handed operation mode; a double-speed mode; the capability to run external software; 786 kilobytes of RAM and two megabytes of flash ROM; and a talking clock, calendar, telephone directory, scientific calculator, and stopwatch. The complete package includes the Braille 'N Speak, a soft leather case, a serial cable, a computer interface kit, a manual in print and on audio cassette, and a braille quick-reference guide. POWER: A rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery (included) provides 25 to 30 hours of use between charges. An alternating current (AC) adapter/charger (included) enables operation using standard household current. OPTIONS: Braille manual, service contract, 9-volt battery adaptor for five hours of emergency power using a 9-volt battery, and parallel printer cable. DIMENSIONS: 8 x 5 x 1.25 inches. WEIGHT: One pound. WARRANTY: One-year warranty from date of receipt.

5. BRAILLE TERM PROGRAM

   The Braille Term Program is a telecommunication program designed for use with Freedom Scientific's electronic notetakers (Braille 'N Speak, Braille Lite, Type 'N Speak, or Type Lite; see separate entries). This easy-to-learn program enables the user to use a modem to dial phone numbers. Standard features include context-sensitive help, a 50-entry dialing directory, auto-redial that will dial a number until the line is free, a session logging feature that saves e-mail to a separate file to enable off-line review, and user-adjustable parameters (baud rate, interval between redials, etc.). The program uses protocols built into the notetaker.

6. DISK DRIVE FOR NOTETAKER

   The Disk Drive for Notetaker is a disk accessory designed to enable users of Freedom Scientific braille and electronic notetakers (Braille 'N Speak, Type 'N Speak, Braille Lite, or Type Lite; see separate entries) to save any file from a notetaker to a standard diskette. The diskettes are formatted in standard PC-compatible format and are readable by any IBM or compatible computer. The diskettes can be used for data storage or sharing or to serve as a backup of file memory for the notetaker. This drive also enables data files to be imported to the notetaker, enabling any text file stored on a standard diskette to be heard in synthetic speech. The unit uses standard 3.5-inch diskettes and enables the notetaker to create a list of files on each disk. Any PC telecommunications program can be used to transfer files to the drive and the drive can be used with any serial device. POWER: Uses a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery (included) providing 15 hours of use between charges. An alternating current (AC) adapter/charger (included) enables operation using standard household current. OPTIONS: Carrying case, a variety of cables, and a service contract. DIMENSIONS: 8.25 x 4.25 x 1.25 inches. WARRANTY: One-year warranty from date of receipt.

7. FACETOFACE

   FaceToFace is a communication system designed for use by individuals who are deaf-blind. The system allows a user who is deaf-blind to communicate wirelessly with a sighted partner at a distance of up to 30 feet. The system includes software, a Hewlett Packard iPAQ Pocket PC with thumb keyboard, and a CompactFlash Bluetooth card. The software also can run on a PAC Mate notetaker (not included), available with either a 20-cell or 40-cell refreshable braille display. The deaf-blind party uses the PAC Mate's alphabetic or braille keyboard to write messages, and the sighted party types on the HP iPAQ Pocket PC. The entire conversation displays on both devices – visually on the iPAQ and in braille on the PAC Mate. Conversations can be saved to text files, and text can be pasted into a conversation. The system can also be used to communicate with other PAC Mate users, and the program can be run on a Bluetooth-enabled desktop or laptop computer. OPTIONS: A combination with a PAC Mate BX (braille keyboard) or QX (alphabetic keyboard) with a 20-cell braille display or a PAC Mate BX or QX with 40 cells of braille is available.

8. FOCUS 40 BRAILLE DISPLAY & FOCUS 80 BRAILLE DISPLAY

   Focus 40 Braille Display and the Focus 80 Braille Display are refreshable braille displays designed for use by individuals who are blind or who have low vision. The Focus 40 has 40 braille cells and the Focus 80 has 80 cells. These displays navigate the Windows environment and a new design eliminates seams between the braille cells, making the display feel like paper. The location of navigation keys, bars and buttons promotes comfort and economical hand movement. An additional Perkins-style keyboard is located behind the front panel. All buttons can be individually configured to set up hot keys for specific functions. Whiz Wheels enable the user to scroll by line, sentence, or paragraph, or pan through a document. Front panel select buttons used in combination with panning buttons, rocker bars, and cursor router keys enable the user to select a block of text, page up or down, or move to the beginning or end of a document. Ten dual-purpose hot keys give instant access to many braille and JAWS (see separate entry) commands: enable contracted braille, switch to display modes such as structured and line mode, or perform keyboard commands like TAB, SHIFT+TAB, HOME, and END. Rapid Reading Mode configures the display to use only 20 cells of braille for faster reading with minimal hand movement. VariBraille allows the user to select the firmness of the braille display. Both models connect to a desktop personal computer (PC) or laptop computer using a USB port. Both models include cables, manuals, a leather carrying case, and an adjustable laptop/keyboard stand/handle. DIMENSIONS: The Focus 40 is 13.7 x 5.3 x 1.7 inches. The Focus 80 is 23.8 x 5.3 x 1.7 inches. WEIGHT: The Focus 40 weighs 2 pounds, 10 ounces and the focus 80 weighs 4 pounds. WARRANTY: A 24-month warranty against manufacturing defects from date of receipt is standard. An optional one-year product maintenance agreement is available for both models.

9. GRAPH-IT & GRAPH-IT PC

   Graph-It is a braille graphics program designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. Available for use with Freedom Scientific braille notetakers (Braille 'N Speak, Type 'N Speak, Braille Lite, or Type Lite; see entries) or IBM and compatible computers, users can use this tactile scientific graphing calculator with an embosser to create braille graphs to enhance higher math comprehension. Standard features include the capability to plot graphs, save them to a file, and emboss them at a later time; an audiograph feature which outputs graphs to the tone generator of a notetaker, enabling the user to hear graphs; multigraphing, enabling the user to plot as many as ten graphs on one table, creating a graph on which to locate intercepts; and menu-driven set-up that enables quick set-up and customization.

10. JAWS FOR WINDOWS

    JAWS (Job Access with Speech) for Windows is a voice output screen reader program designed to read computer screens for persons who are blind or have low vision. JAWS for Windows installs its own speech synthesizer software, Eloquence for JAWS, which works with the Windows sound card and supports nine languages (U.S. and British English, Latin American and Castilian Spanish, French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, and Finnish). Interactive talking installation makes it easy to set up without sighted assistance. All standard Windows applications, including Microsoft Office XP, are supported without the need for special configuration. Microsoft Internet Explorer is supported, including special features such as links lists, frames lists, forms mode, HTML tables, and graphic labels. A unique scripting language allows customization of nonstandard Windows applications and proprietary software, while other tools allow customization without the need to write scripts. Output is provided to most popular refreshable Braille displays in computer or Grade 2 Braille. New features in JAWS for Windows version 4.01 include support for Windows XP help balloons, support in all Windows operating systems for display settings with more than 256 colors, and automatic disabling of non-optimal visual effects. JAWS for Windows 4.01 comes with a Windows Basic Training Tutorial with over seven hours of audiocassette instruction. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: A computer that will run Windows 95/98/Me/XP Home (Standard Edition) or Windows 95/98/Me/XP Home/NT/2000/XP Pro (Professional Edition); a Windows 95/98/Me or Windows NT/2000 Pro compatible sound card to run the Eloquence for JAWS synthesizer, or another JAWS-compatible synthesizer; 32 MB of available random access memory (RAM) for the Standard Edition and 64 MB for the Professional Edition using Windows 2000; 50 MB of available hard disk space; and a VGA or higher-resolution video adapter (Super VGA 256-color recommended). OPTIONS: Standard Edition or Professional Edition, Software Maintenance Agreement, and Multi-User Licensing.

11. MAGIC STANDARD EDITION & MAGIC PROFESSIONAL EDITION

    MAGic is a screen magnification program designed for use by individuals with low vision. This software enlarges text up to 12 times and graphics, including Windows, up to 8 times. Other features include complete type through access; follow-the-cursor, follow-the-mouse, and attribute tracking modes; a screen location display; support for 8-, 16-, 24-, and 32-bit color; color smoothing; ability to use keystrokes to access a list of running programs and system tray items, and to bring up column and row settings, lists of cells, cells, rows, cells with content, and lists of hyperlinks and comments in Word. Additional features include interoperability with JAWS for Windows (not included; see separate entry), and keystroke control of specific functions when using high levels of magnification. The program comes with a large print manual and 120 days of unlimited call-in support from date of purchase. OPTIONS: Available with or without speech output. COMPATIBILITY: For use on IBM and compatible computers. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: For Standard Edition, Windows 95/98/Me/XP; for Professional Edition, Windows 95/98/Me or NT 4.0/2000/XP Pro.

12. ONYX DESKSET XL 17, 19 AND 22

    The Onyx Deskset XL 17, 19, and 22 is a CCTV and video magnifier designed for individuals with low vision. The system's camera is mounted on a telescoping, rotating arm. The camera rotates 350 degrees on a telescopic arm that swings 350 degrees, allowing the user to point it in any direction. Three distinct views are offered: distance view, document view, and self-view. A 17-inch, 19-inch, or widescreen 22-inch flat panel monitor is mounted adjacent to the arm. The monitor can be tilted forward and backward and raised and lowered. The Onyx Deskset XL allows the user to view images in full color or select one of four modes of reading text: black on white, white on black, yellow on blue, or yellow on black. Other features include brightness adjustments to eliminate glare, masking and reading lines, and a focus lock. The 17-inch monitor offers magnification from 1x to 64x; the 19-inch from 1.1 to 71x; and the 22-inch from 1.3x to 96x. The system comes with a rolling case with a telescoping handle. POWER: Standard wall plug. WEIGHT: 16.2 pounds (XL 17); 16.3 pounds (XL 19); or 17.4 pounds (XL 22).

13. ONYX FLEXIBLE-ARM PC EDITION

    The Onyx Flexible-arm PC Edition is a computer-linked video magnifier designed for use by individuals with low vision. The system's camera is mounted on an omni-directional articulating arm for magnfication up close or at a distance. Magnified images can be viewed on any computer screen through the included USB connector. The system comes with MAGic screen magnfication software (see separate entry) with speech, enabling the user to view magnified camera images and a magnified PC screen at the same time on a split sreen, or alternately in full screen mode. The camera arm can move horizontally, vertically, and laterally with a total reach of up to 32 inches. The camera magnifies up to 75 times on a 15-inch screen (not included). Other features include focus lock, freeze frame, the ability to change text and background colors and contrast levels, masking and reading lines, and an RF remote control. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Requires support for Microsoft DirectX 9. POWER: Camera uses power from PC via two USB ports. WEIGHT: 4 pounds, 7 ounces.

14. ONYX SWING -ARM PC EDITION

    The ONYX Swing-arm PC Edition is a computer-linked video magnifier designed for use by individuals with low vision. Its detachable camera is mounted on a swing arm that is secured to a sturdy base. The camera connects to any computer via the included USB connection, and comes with MAGic screen magnification software (see separate entry) with speech and image-management features, allowing the user to view a magnified PC screen and magnified camera images at the same time using a split screen, or switch between them on a full screen. The camera provides magnification up to 75 times original size on a 15-inch screen (not included). The swing arm allows the user to switch between viewing documents or distant objects and mirror-image self-views. Viewing features include focus lock, freeze frame, and the ability to capture images (snapshots). The ONYX Swing-arm PC Edition can change text and background colors, adjust contrast levels, flip between multiple snapshots, add masks to reduce glare, and add reading lines. An RF remote control is included. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Requires support for Microsoft DirectX 9. POWER: Uses 110 or 240 volts. Camera can be powered from a PC via two USB ports. WEIGHT: 6 pounds.

15. OPENBOOK

    OpenBook is an optical character recognition (OCR) program designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. This scanning and reading software enables users to convert print documents or graphic-based text into an electronic text format using optical character recognition and quality speech. When a page is placd a page in a connected scanner, OpenBook will convert it to speech and read it while displaying large print on a computer monitor. Users can customize how the document appears on the screen, including font, size, character spacing, and background/character colors. A Masking feature and highlighting help the user focus on the text being read and follow along with the speech. Bookmarks can be used to indicate and move to important locations in documents. A Find and Replace feature assists in searching and editing complex or lengthy documents. Features that help the user understand how a scanned page was originally organized and formatted are also included. Other features provide portability, including the ability to create MP3 or WAV formats with desired voice rate and pitch, save to or open files from a notetaker, emboss in Computer and Grade II Braille without the need for additional software. Print document as they appear on screen or use the defined default printer font. OpenBook files can be converted to .brf and .brl Grade II Braille formats. The software also enables users to create and save many different configurations to suit specific needs, allowing users to switch between configurations depending on the current task, preferences, or requirements. A multi-user feature enables users to share use of the software on a single personal computer. Each login name has its own personalized settings and library. OpenBook offers a choice of RealSpeak and ViaVoice text-to-speech synthesizers. RealSpeak features a natural, human-sounding voice that can help enhance the reading experience. ViaVoice provides practical and efficient speech for editing or skimming documents. OpenBook also supports most hardware speech synthesizers. Other features include a fax utility, copy function and online book search. COMPATIBILITY: For use on IBM and compatible computers running Windows, including XP.

16. PAC MATE 20 PORTABLE BRAILLE DISPLAY

    The Pac Mate 20 Portable Braille Display is a refreshable braille display designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. The device has 20 refreshable display cells with 10 dual-purpose hot keys in the center for shortcuts to applications, and Freedom Scientific's exclusive Whiz Wheels for navigation by line, sentence, or paragraph through files, dialogs, lists, and menus. Dual cursor router buttons on the back row and buttons on the left and right enable panning forward and backward. The unit features seamless braille cells for a feel like reading braille on paper. The intensity of the braille display dots can be adjusted with the VariBraille feature. COMPATIBILITY: This device supports the Windows 98 SE/Me/2000/XP and Windows CE 3.0 operating systems. POWER: Uses power from USB A-Mini B cable. DIMENSIONS (HxLxW): 1.53 x 11 x 4.8 inches. WEIGHT: 1 pound, 12 ounces.

17. PAC MATE 40 PORTABLE BRAILLE DISPLAY

    The Pac Mate 40 Portable Braille Display is a refreshable braille display designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. The device has 40 refreshable display cells with 10 dual-purpose hot keys in the center for shortcuts to applications, and Freedom Scientific's Exclusive Whiz Wheels for navigation by line, sentence, or paragraph through files, dialogs, lists, and menus. Dual cursor router buttons on the back row and buttons on the left and right enable panning forward and backward. The design of the braille keyboard eliminates seams between braille cells to give the display the feel of reading braille on paper. The intensity of the braille display dots can be adjusted with the VariBraille feature. COMPATIBILITY: This device supports the Windows 98 SE/Me/2000/XP and Windows CE 3.0 operating systems. POWER: Uses power from USB A-Mini B cable. DIMENSIONS (HxLxW): 1.53 x 12.5 x 4.8 inches. WEIGHT: 2 pounds, 3 ounces.

18. PAC MATE BNS

    The PAC Mate BNS is a personal digital assistant (PDA) designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. This Pocket PC device has an eight-dot braille keyboard and utilizes JAWS for Windows (see separate entry) for braille and speech output. It provides access to Windows-based desktop data and software applications, and can run Pocket PC versions of popular software programs to manage information internally or to sync up and share data with other devices. With the addition of a modem, it can be used to surf the Internet and send and receive e-mail. This device includes an Eloquence speech synthesizer, which supports many languages, with a dual channel sound card so the speech function can be used while listening to Internet broadcasts. Other features include a calculator, a linear formatting editor, a clock, and a stopwatch. A Personal Points of Interest area allows the user to save selected settings. The device has a USB port for connection with desktop and laptop computers, printers, and other devices in either host or client mode; a PC Card connection for choice of peripherals including modem, micro-drive, diskette drive, CD-ROM, and others; an IrDA port that allows the user to transfer files between this device and other PC products; and a compact Flash port for unlimited document storage. An adjustable strap holds the unit for use while standing. POWER: Uses a user-replaceable battery. OPTIONS: A renewable, annual Product Maintenance Agreement and/or Annual Software Agreement are available. DIMENSIONS (HxW): 5.25 x 9.75 inches. WEIGHT: 1 pound, 13 ounces with the battery installed.

19. PAC MATE OMNI (MODELS BX400, BX420, BX440, QX400, QX420, AND QX440)

    PAC Mate Omni is a personal digital assistant (PDA) designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. This Pocket PC device is available Perkins-stle braille keys (model BX400), 20 braille cells (models BX420 and QX420), 40 braille cells (models BX440 and QX440) or a voice only unit with a standard QWERTY keyboard (model QX400) that utilizes JAWS for Windows (see separate entry) for speech output. All models use the Windows Mobile operating system. The QWERTY keyboard uses standard JAWS commands. The device provides access to everyday Windows-based desktop data and software applications, and can run Pocket PC versions of popular software programs to manage information internally or sync up and share data with other devices. Pre-installed Mobile versions of numerous Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, Calendar, Outlook, Inbox, Contacts, Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player, and more are included. Other features include access to the Mobile version of Windows PowerPoint; smart filtering for rapid location of e-mail messages; information searches via Windows Live Search; support for the Windows Live Messenger voice clip feature, providing users with "push-to-talk" functionality in Instant Messaging; and plug-and-play support for popular WiFi, CompactFlash, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and modem cards. Because all data is stored in flash memory, all files and applications are retained, even if the unit is reset or the battery is fully discharged. POWER: Uses a lithium ion rechargeable battery. A 12-volt alternating current (AC) adapter/charger is included. OPTIONS: 20- and 40-cell braille displays for voice output models.DIMENSIONS: Model BX400 is 11 x 4.87 x 1.93 inches, model BX420 is 11 x 6.81 x 1.93 inches, model BX440 is 12.5 x 6.81 x 1.93 inches, model QX400 is 12.3 x 6.27 x 1.62 inches, model QX420 is 12.3 x 8.21 x 1.62 inches, and model QX440 is 12.5 x 8.21 x 1.62 inches. WEIGHT: 1 pounds, 13 ounces to 4 pounds, 3 ounces.

20. PAC MATE TNS

    PAC Mate TNS is a personal digital assistant (PDA) designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. This Pocket PC device has an alphabetic keyboard and utilizes JAWS for Windows (see separate entry) for speech output. The alphabetic keyboard uses standard JAWS commands. The device provides access to everyday Windows-based desktop data and software applications, and can run Pocket PC versions of popular software programs to manage information internally or sync up and share data with other devices. With the addition of a modem, it can be used to surf the Internet and send and receive e-mail. This device includes an Eloquence speech synthesizer, which supports many languages, with a dual channel sound card so the speech function can be used while listening to Internet broadcasts. Other applications include a calculator, a linear formatting editor, a clock, and a stopwatch. A Personal Points of Interest area allows the user to save selected settings. The device has a USB port for connection with desktop and laptop computers, printers, and other devices in either host or client mode; a PC Card connection for choice of peripherals including modem, micro-drive, diskette drive, CD-ROM, and others; an IrDA port that will allow the user to transfer files between this device and other PC products; and a compact Flash port for unlimited document storage. An adjustable strap holds the unit for use while standing. POWER: Uses a user-replaceable battery. DIMENSIONS (HxW): 6 x 12 inches. WEIGHT: 2 pounds, 9 ounces.

21. RUBY HANDHELD VIDEO MAGNIFIER

    The RUBY Handheld Video Magnifier is a portable magnifier designed for use by individuals with low vision. This portable magnifier can be used for reading bills and writing letters or checks. It is so small that it slips into a pocket or purse which for visiting grocery stores, the pharmacy, banks, libraries, bookstores, and restaurants. When flat on the reading material, the offers 5x to 10x magnification and 2x to 14x magnification with the handle extended. Features includes a high-brightness video screen; a flip-out handle; a freeze-frame button to capture an image and bring it close for reading; a full- color mode and four enhanced contrast modes (black text on a white background, white text on a black background, and yellow text on a blue or black background). The user turns it on with one button, places it over an object, and adjusts enlargement to his/her preference with the zoom button. The unit stays flat on the table or can be held over reading material with the fold-away handle. The magnified image or text appears in the unit's display window. A carrying case is included. POWER: Uses 4 triple-A rechargeable batteries for two hours of continuous use (also works with disposable batteries). Charging time is two hours. A charger with universal adapters is included. DIMENSIONS: The video screen is 4.3 inches. OPTIONS: Maintenance agreement. WEIGHT: 7.7 ounces.

22. SAPPHIRE PORTABLE MAGNIFIER

    The Sapphire Portable Magnifier is a video magnifier designed for use by individuals with low vision. It magnifies text and objects from 3.4 to 16 times on a bright, high-contrast display screen. The video image can be displayed in 23 combinations of type and background color, including full color, white type on a black background, and yellow type on a blue background. The top can be opened to magnify three-dimensional objects, or rotated back for reading flat documents or books. For its highest magnification, the magnifier connects with a video cable to a television. A built-in writing stand elevates the magnifier to provide space to work under the camera with a small tool or the writing end of a pen or pencil. A carrying case is included. POWER: Uses rechargeable batteries. DIMENSIONS: 7 inch liquid crystal display (LCD) screen. WARRANTY: 30-day money-back guarantee.

23. SARA SCANNING AND READING APPLIANCE

    Sara (Scanning and Reading Appliance) is a voice output reading machine designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision. Printed material placed on the scanning area is scanned and then read aloud in a variety of user-selectable voices. Users can pause, fast forward, rewind, or have words spelled out, and the device can be connected to a computer monitor to display the text in large print. The device also plays the audio elements of DAISY formatted digital talking books, and comes with a library of 40 popular public domain books in DAISY format.

24. STREETTALK VIP

    StreetTalk VIP is a voice output electronic mobility aid designed for use by individuals with blindness and low vision. Designed to be installed on the PAC Mate Omni (not included; see entry), provides route guidance to users in vehicles or on foot. The system includes millions of poionts of interest with addresses and phone numbers, including transit stations, dining establishments, parks, museums, banks, ATMs, and more. Users can save turn-by-turn directions, receive output in voice or braille, and print, emboss, beam, or e-mail routes to other users. In Virtual Mode users can explore the map as though they are pedestrians, with cross streets, distances, direction and Points of Interest announced as they virtually move around the map. While traveling, the system announces each maneuver in speech or braille and enables users to check bearing, speed, distance traveled, and distance to the destination. When traveling off road or to mark favorite shortcuts, users can create their own routes by dropping "breadcrumbs" as they travel, recall the route at any time, and travel it in either direction. The system includes intuitive menus as well as shortcut keystrokes to specific information. To use the system, the user installs StreetTalk VIP in the PAC Mate Omni, and pops in a CompactFlash (CF) card containing maps (one country map set is included). StreetTalk VIP can be used with a choice of many popular Bluetooth GPS receivers (not included). With Bluetooth, the receiver can be placed up to 30 feet from the user, on a window sill, the rear deck of a car, or on a guide dog harness. OPTIONS: Bluetooth GPS receiver, socket bluetooth card for PAC Mate Omni, and additional maps.

25. TOPAZ DESKTOP VIDEO MAGNIFIER

    The Topaz Desktop Video Magnifier is designed for use by individuals with low vision. The device magnifies objects and printed matter from 2 to 70 times the actual size on a 19-inch monitor. The camera is forward-mounted and a laser pointer helps position the item on the table. The system is available with a 17-inch or 19-inch LCD screen; a 15-inch or 17-inch CRT monitor; or in a camera-only model. All models have user-selectable screen color modes: full color; black on white; enhanced black on white; inverted white on black; yellow text on blue; or blue text on yellow. Foreground and background colors can be customized for a total of 28 color combinations. DIMENSIONS: The forward-mounted camera is a 8.9 inches above the viewing table.

Products distributed by Freedom Scientific BLV Group LLC (listed alphabetically)

1. BRAILLE PAPER

   The Braille Paper is desiggned for use in one-sided or interpoint Braille applications. This paper can be used with most Braille embossers. A box contains approximately 1,000 sheets of sprocket-holed, fan-folded paper. DIMENSIONS: Each sheet is 8.5 x 11 inches.

See Freedom Scientific BLV Group LLC products that are no longer available.