What to consider when choosing Braille Readers
What does a braille reader do?
A braille reader is a device that helps users read braille. It typically consists of a display panel with braille cells, which users can read by running their fingers over the braille bumps. Some braille readers also have a braille keyboard, which allows users to type in braille directly.
This can be helpful for people who need to write braille as well as read it.
Fewer than 10 percent of the 1.3 million people who are legally blind in the United States are Braille readers. Further, a mere 10 percent of blind children are learning it. (source National Federation for the Blind)
How do Braille readers work?
Braille readers work by translating the braille alphabet into a format that can be displayed on a screen or read aloud. The braille alphabet is a system of writing that uses braille cells.
A braille cell consists of six embossed dots each representing letters of the alphabet. In the braille alphabet, each letter of the alphabet is assigned a unique pattern of dots, which allows blind and visually impaired people to read by running their fingers over the braille bumps.
This translation process typically happens through a braille translator, a software program on personal computers, mobile devices, and other devices that converts braille into standard print or audio.
This makes it possible for braille readers to access various materials, regardless of whether they’re available in braille.
What are the benefits of braille reading?
Braille reading can offer several benefits, including:
Improved reading speed:
Braille readers can typically read braille faster than they can read print. This can be helpful for those who need to read a lot of braille text.
Increased independence:
Braille devices can help users become more independent, as they no longer have to rely on someone else to read braille for them.
Enhanced learning opportunities:
Braille reading can provide enhanced learning opportunities for those who are blind or visually impaired.
Improved employment prospects:
Being able to read braille can improve employment prospects for those who are blind or visually impaired.
What are the challenges of braille reading?
Despite the many benefits of braille reading, there are also some challenges that users may face. These challenges include:
Limited selection:
There is a limited selection of braille books and materials available, which can make it difficult to find something to read.
High costs:
Braille books and materials can be expensive, making it difficult for some users to afford them.
Lack of braille literacy:
There is a lack of braille literacy among the general population, making it difficult for braille readers to find someone to read braille with them.
Limited accessibility:
Braille readers may have difficulty accessing some materials, as not all books and documents are available in braille.
Despite these challenges, braille reading can offer many benefits for those who are blind or visually impaired. With the right device, braille readers can enjoy increased independence, enhanced learning opportunities, and improved employment prospects.
How do I choose Braille readers?
As with most big-ticket purchases, it is best to test various models and see whether it feels good or works best for you. Several models exist because every user possesses his own individual requirements. However, a person who lives in a imperfect world may not be able to test a variety of various models.
The second most useful way would be to speak to your Assistant Technology expert.
There are a few things to consider when choosing a braille reader, including:
How much reading do you expect to do?
Some braille readers are designed for light use, while others can handle heavier workloads. If you plan on using your braille reader for a lot of reading, make sure to choose one that can handle it.
How much space do you have?
Braille readers come in a variety of sizes. Some are small and portable, while others are larger and more stationary. Think about how much space you have and where you’ll be using your braille reader most often before making your decision.
What’s your budget?
Braille readers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It’s important to find one that fits your needs and budget.
Do you need any special features?
Some braille readers come with built-in features like braille translation or the ability to connect to a computer. If you think you might need these features, make sure to choose a braille reader that offers them. Some braille readers have special features like touch screens or Wi-Fi connectivity.
What level of braille do you need?
Some braille readers can only display simple braille, while others can handle more complex text. If you plan on reading a lot of braille, make sure to choose a reader that can handle it.
Take your time to research the different options and find the braille reader that’s right for you. With so many choices on the market, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for your needs.
What are the different braille readers?
There are a variety of braille devices on the market, each with its own features and benefits. Some of the most popular braille readers include:
– The Mantis Q40 QWERTY Keyboard and Braille Display: A first-of-its-kind Bluetooth® keyboard and 40-cell refreshable braille display. With the Mantis, students and professionals no longer need to choose between a keyboard or a braille device
– The Brailliant BI 20X Braille Display: This portable 20-cell refreshable braille reader is the perfect companion to any mobile device that makes reading enjoyable while keeping you connected on the go.
– The Freedom Scientific Focus 14: This braille reader is perfect for those who need a larger braille display. It features 14 braille cells and a variety of built-in features.
– The Focus Brailliant BI 40X: This braille reader is designed for those who need connectivity and productivity. The Brailliant BI 40X is the first to market braille display to take advantage of the robust and reliable connection, allowing for a pairing that is 2x faster and capable of 4x the distance over previous Bluetooth technology.
No matter what your needs, there’s a braille reader out there that’s perfect for you.
