Simply Out Scanning: A Review of SARA and ScannaR
By Burton, Darren; McComas, Heather; Access World, Vol. 6, No. 6Publication Date: November 2005
Article provides a review of the Scanning and Reading Appliance (SARA) from Freedom Scientific and the ScannaR from HumanWare, both of which are stand-alone hardware systems that scan and read printed material without the use of a computer and software. The applications are reviewed in terms of the following features and criteria: (1) speed and accuracy, (2) setup/control, (3) documentation, and (4) scanning. The authors found that both systems were easy to use in terms of scanning and reading, as neither requires a great deal of prior computer experience to learn how to use. Both provide helpful verbal prompts, and both are very accurate. The ScannaR might be easier for a beginner to use because it has fewer keys to learn, but it is easier to navigate through a document when using the SARA. The SARA proved to be easier to use when working with the more advanced processes because the keystroke commands were simple. Overall, the authors ultimately concede that they feel comfortable recommending both products.
Assistive Products Discussed: SCANNAR
SARA SCANNING AND READING APPLIANCE
Published by: AFB Press (Website:http://www.afb.org/Section.asp?SectionID=46)
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) (Web Site: http://www.afb.org )
Link to text: http://www.afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw060607
