New Devices Open Communication for Deaf
By Sutel, Seth; Associated Press via Google,Publication Date: November 6, 2007
News article describes devices and services that facilitate communication between deaf and hearing people. The Interpretype, a small device with a keyboard and display, hooks up to another Interpretype or a PC, allowing a hearing person and a deaf person to type messages to each other. The device, being portable, is useful in a variety of public settings such as schools, libraries, government offices and businesses. A similar product is the UbiDuo, which uses two portable units connected by wireless technology and can be folded together for storage. The devices enable deaf people to have a conversation with a hearing person without a third party interpreting for them. Video relay services use an interpreter to communicate with the deaf person in sign language using a broadband video connection, while the interpreter speaks with the hearing person over a speakerphone. Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) works by having the deaf user read text being typed online by an operator who is listening in on a conference call, and speaking the user’s answers back. A Web link allows all parties to see the text of what is being said in real time.
Assistive Products Discussed: INTERPRETYPE
Published by: Associated Press (Website:http://www.ap.org)
Link to text: http://www.rit.edu/news/utilities/pdf/2007/2007_11_06_Associated_Press_New_devices_open_Hurwitz.pdf
