[Nfbwv-talk] An update on the Laptop project

[Jack Yahnke]

Brad,

I called the number that I was given in a previous e-mail.  Nobody answered,
so I left a message on somebody's answering machine/service.  I did not
leave a credit card number, so I guess that I didn't actually order
anything.  As I told you, I am interested in the $170.00 dollar laptop
(unless wi-fi is available on the PC tower).  I already have a wireless
printer/scanner/fax, so I don't think that I am interested in the scanner.
I have a larger monitor now, but I might be interested in something bigger
if it's a good deal.  I am curious as to what other peripherals will be
available (especially pointing devices).

Best regards,

Jack


-----Original Message-----
From: Nfbwv-talk [mailto:nfbwv-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of NFB
Huntington Chapter via Nfbwv-talk
Sent: Friday, November 14, 2014 10:47 AM
To: NFB of West Virginia Discussion List
Subject: [Nfbwv-talk] An update on the Laptop project

     Friends:

We began our soft launch of the Accessible Laptop Project just a week ago.
Mission WV has taken several orders already. I also know there is interest
from some others on the list. Here is where things stand.

Ordering,
Mission WV is still working out the ordering process. It appears that my
first understanding, for the office staff to take the orders, may not be the
final method. Please be patient as we work this out. Also, please let me
know what your experiences are, good and bad.

Configuration Options,
We have learned that some people are JAWS users with their own user
credentials. Installing JAWS 16, for you is now an option. It will open in
demo mode. You can enter your user information to activate it.

We will now include the current version of Skype. It is important to note
that screen reader support for Skype changes with each release of the
software. Additionally, screen readers and magnifiers differ in their
support for it.

Winamp has been a popular and very accessible media player. It was sold to
Microsoft several years ago, and then allowed to falter. There is a stable
version, and we will install it on each machine, along with Windows Media
Player. It is anticipated that MS will allow an open source organization to
continue development of Winamp in the next several months.

Screen Magnification for NVDA,
A new screen magnification add-on for NVDA was released last week. It allows
control of the Windows 7 screen magnification options directly from the NVDA
control panel. It also provides for some new magnification options. If you
would like to configure it, along with speech on a machine, we would
appreciate your feedback.

External Monitors,
For those who would like to use an external monitor with a screen
magnification option, external monitors can be connected to your Laptop. 
They may be available from Mission WV, I will check the specifics and report
back. If they are an option, the ordering and configuration information will
be updated.

Shipping Time,
I have an appointment to work with Larry, the configuration guy, on Monday
morning. We will finalize the first orders then, or that is my objective. I
think it is reasonable to expect all of the first orders to be received by
the week-end of the Thanks giving holiday.

Peripherals,
While those on this list have internet service, some individuals who will
order machines will not. I am working on recommendations for routers which
are affordable. Renting a router from the internet service provider is also
an option, and includes support for the router. 
Configuring your own router for the first time can be a daunting experience.

USB speakers, keyboards, mice and other pointing devices are popular options
which a number of you have asked about. I am compiling a list of affordable,
high quality options. Mission WV also offered to purchase a few accessories
in bulk, passing the savings on.

Interest in a scanner/OCR package?
OCR technology for the blind is priced at about $900 - $1000 for the
software only. An accessible Windows option is available for $150. A canon
USB scanner can be purchased for about $90. We would like to know if you
would be interested in; a scanner/software package for $250 Yes - No
a scanner/software package for   $150 Yes - No

That is what I can report just now. Questions, comments are always welcome.
A number of you have communicated with me individually already. 
This information is critical to making this program a success, and I thank
you.

every day we're helping blind West Virginians live the lives we want

Brad Hodges


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