PenFriend and Touch Memo: A Comparison of Labeling Tools
By Kendrick, Deborah; Access World, Volume 12, Number 9Publication Date: September 2011
Article evaluates two labeling tools for people with visual impairments, PenFriend and Touch Memo. The two products are both about the size and heft of a flashlight and used to record voice-output labels. They include a built-in speaker, a supply of labels, a lanyard for hanging the device around the neck, a USB connector for backup on a computer, and user instructions. Both operate by placing the tip of the device on one of the labels and making a recording, which can be as long as 600 words. The resulting recording will be associated with the label, which can then be affixed to the item it identifies. The recording is played back by touching the tip of the labeling tool to the label. Buttons on the devices were found to be easily differentiated by touch. A delete button allows labels to be reused. While the Touch Memo includes a basic audio CD with user instructions, the PenFriend provides these instructions on a series of pre-recorded labels inside the packaging. The Mode button on PenFriend is designed for switching to an MP3 mode, allowing users to load music or podcast files for listening via the speaker or headphones. Overall, the reviewer found both products to be excellent in terms of ease of use, efficiency, and versatility.
Assistive Products Discussed: PENFRIEND AUDIO LABELLER (MODEL DL76)
TOUCH MEMO
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://afb.org/afbpress/pub.asp?DocID=aw120902
