Re: Turn on the power of the laptop

john wrote:
Hi,
The laptop will be used by a blind person. So, I need a way to somehow
that she does not have to turn on the switch or open up the screen. i
installed the software on the laptop that converts images into sound
and she will hear the sound and walk around.

John


Hello John,

I've not setup a laptop for a visually impaired person but have done several desktops. First rule is to never underestimate the capability of the visually impaired--they are great in adapting and rising to the occasion! They will have more frustration when you attempt to adapt to them than when they adapt to the sighted world.

Keeping in mind the 'first rule,' I'd find the multi-function keyboard of a laptop a bit daunting were I impaired -- might be worthwhile to position several standard but inexpensive keyboards around the environment and plug those into the laptop when it is moved from one place to anohter.

From your post, I don't understand what "walk around" means and don't have a grasp on what's required. Is the software just a screenreader like Jaws or Window-Eyes; or, are you also trying to use something like Dragon or Via Voice.

Does "walk around" mean that the laptop will move about?

If so, consider what the battery duty cycle is. Are multiple power brick's available? Many visually impaired have to watch their budget so cost may be an issue.

Right off, I'd plan on closing (maybe without latching) the lid to place the unit in standby or sleep. I don't like the idea of moving an open laptop around a house or office --increased risk of personal injury or equipment damage.

If finger dexterity is an issue (arthritis etc.) then how about taping over the latches so that when the lid is closed it places the machine in standby but isn't difficult to open? Or, gluing a couple of pencil erasers near the keyboard so that the lid doesn't latch but closes far enough to activate the standby or sleep mode.

Is there a diabetes issue? (i.e. does the person also have impaired sensory ability in her fingertips?) Will small nailpolish specks on keys do the job or do the 'blobs' have to be high enough that they might contact the display panel?

Take a look at the BIOS and OS options for standby mode so that we can figure out components shut down when the lid is closed.

Take a look at how often a reboot is advisable when the machine is placed in sleep or standby on a frequent basis.

Once you settle on how to signal the laptop into standby or sleep, then consider what APM options are available in the BIOS and in the OS.

What 'hot keys' bring this machine out of standby or sleep?

Please get back with this. Throw all the issues out here and we can chew on it.

Two other resources:
< alt.comp.blind.user >
< alt.comp.blind.users >

--
PJ



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