Pat Logsdon
07-02-2004, 07:00 AM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?ContentId=2973' target='_blank'>http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.a...?ContentId=2973</a><br /><br /></div>Geekzone has the scoop on two new, very different PDAs for the blind. One of them latches onto a HP 4150, while the other unit is a custom-built device that includes a braille "screen":<br /><br /> <img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/logsdon_20040701_brailleNote.jpg" /> <br /><br /><i>" Pulse Data International has announced the BrailleNote PK. The new PDA weighs less than a pound and has dimensions of 6.8 inches by 3.6 inches by 1.3 inches. It is the first Braille personal digital assistant (PDA) in the marketplace that can fit into a pocket. Adding Bluetooth technology to Pulse Data International's BrailleNote product line provides new options for the blind user. For example, the BrailleNote PK can connect with any other Bluetooth enabled device without extra software or programming. This includes a wide range of wireless devices such as mobile phones, personal computers, headsets, and keyboards. Pulse Data International expects to ship the BrailleNote PK early in the fourth quarter of 2004. Features include: </i><br /><br />• Microsoft Windows CE operating system<br />• 16MB of non-volatile user storage<br />• 16MB of RAM <br />• 32MB ROM for program and OS storage<br />• Optional PCMCIA and Compact Flast Card slots for additional storage <br />• Serial, parallel and infrared ports and internal modem <br />• Ethernet connectivity <br />• Synchronization with MS Outlook's Planner and Contacts using KeySync <br />• Supports the 1GB/5GB MicroDrive and ATA Memory cards<br /><br /> <img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/logsdon_20040701_hpmaestro.jpg" /> <br /><br /><i>"<a href="http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=2976">HP and VisuAide today showcased "Maestro",</a> a handheld PC for the blind and visually impaired. Built on the HP iPAQ Pocket PC h4150 platform, Maestro is the most affordable and compact personal digital assistant available to the visually impaired. Maestro features text-to-speech technology and a tactile keyboard membrane over its touch screen so the visually impaired can use essential information-access and communication applications without using a stylus. Scheduled to begin shipping in September, Maestro takes advantage of wireless communication networks, such as Bluetooth wireless technology, and can be operated with or without an external keyboard (Braille or standard)."</i>