5. Braille keyboard and printer

Braille is a writing system for blind and visually impaired people. It is made up of raised dots that can be 'read' by touch.

Braille keyboard

A Braille keyboard is a specialist input device that allows the user to type and enter text or instructions for the computer in Braille.

(c) courtesy of Sight and Sound technology	(c) courtesy of Sight and Sound technology

The image on the left shows a Bluetooth powered Braille keyboard that can connect to a computer, smartphone or tablet (if they are Bluetooth enabled). The device on the right is also Bluetooth enabled and can link to access packages such MobileSpeak, Talks and modern operating systems.

Braille display

A braille display is a piece of equipment that connects to the computer. It reads the screen text and presents it to the user via a refreshable Braille display.

Braille printer (Braille embosser)

A Braille printer operates by embossing raised braille dots onto braille paper. Pins are pressed into one side of the paper in order to create raised dots on the other side of the paper.