Requires 486 computer and 32 megabytes of memory. A speech access system converts text to the spoken word. Some synthesizers and speech access programs are linked and sold as a package, and some are not. Before choosing a synthesizer, it is best to consider what is required by the user in terms of the screen access program. This software allows the user to access commercial software applications and to convert the text or graphics display into verbal output.
Users can hear their keystrokes spoken aloud and can read the display on command.
Once the program is loaded into the computer's memory, commands are sent by the user to the synthesizer by pressing different keys on the keyboard, the numeric keypad or a separate keypad. The commands tell the synthesizer what to read and how to read it. An important feature to consider in products of this type is whether the software has review mode as well as interactive mode. Interactive mode allows the user to use the application at the same time as the text is read. A user who needs to switch quickly between the screen access software and the application may prefer the interactive capability.