PDA for Blind: Cost Out of Sight?
By Batista, Elisa; Wired,Publication Date: October 2002
Article discusses the cost feasibility of the PAC Mate, which is a personal digital assistant (PDA) that runs on Microsoft’s Pocket PC operating system. The PDA allows the user to access all Windows applications, including Word documents, Outlook e-mail, and Internet Explorer. The PAC Mate also comes with Freedom Scientific’s JAWS for Windows screen reader, while a CompactFlash card expansion slot is included with the device for added memory. At the time the article was written, the device was selling for 2,595 dollars. This price was comparable to other computers for people who are blind or have low vision, yet very expensive considering that this group claims higher unemployment than the general population, according to Andrew Imparato, president and Corporate Executive Officer of the American Association of People With Disabilities. Freedom Scientific countered that the device was worth the money, and that it could help to improve employment rates among people who are blind or have low vision.
Assistive Products Discussed: PAC MATE BNS
PAC MATE TNS
Published by: Conde Nast Publications (Website:http://www.condenet.com)
Link to text: http://wired-vig.wired.com/news/business/0,1367,55915,00.html
