Adaptive or assistive technology for people with disabilities ranges from computer equipment to voice-activated telephone systems. Pitney Bowes Universal Access Copier System, a brand new system, incorporates advanced speech recognition technology, Braille labeling and several design adjustments allowing use by people with visual impairment and mobility limitations, including those in wheelchairs. Finding assistive technology on the Web is becoming easier as more sites offer online purchasing and product catalogs. For example, at the Amazon Books site you can order assistive technology resource guides, including books on how to select equipment. Books ordered online are usually shipped within 24 hours.
Many Web sites exist that offer information on assistive technology.
Here are a few resources you can use to get more background. The Community Awards Competition recognizes and promotes outstanding efforts to increase participation of people with disabilities in community life. The FCC recently adopted rules and policies that require manufacturers of telecommunications equipment and providers of telecommunications services to guarantee that equipment and services are accessible and usable by people with disabilities, if readily achievable. Manufacturers will be required to design products with the needs of people with disabilities in mind. The rules ensure access to a broad range of products and services many cannot use today, including telephones, pagers, call waiting and operator services.