Advances in assistive or adaptive technology make it possible for
blind or partially sighted people to be fully independent at work, in
school, and at home. On the market today are devices and software that
work with standard personal computers to create large print, synthetic
voice or Braille output. Most individuals who are blind use standard
keyboards. Braille key labels can help, though Braille input devices
are also available. Speech output systems can be used to read screen
text to blind computer users. Special software programs called screen
readers "read" computer screens, and speech synthesizers "speak" the
text. Refreshable Braille displays allow line-by-line translation of
screen text into Braille. Braille displays can be read quickly by
those with advanced Braille skills. Braille printers provide "hard
copy" output for blind users.