Windows Vista Assistive Technologies

Microsoft Windows Vista provides several applications which assist users who may not be physically able to control the computer in traditional methods. These technologies may be extremely useful for people who are physically, and especially hearing impaired. Examples of these applications include, but are not limited to; speech recognition, Text/visual alternatives for sounds, and/or using the computer without a mouse or keyboard.


Speech Recognition:

Windows Vista Speech recognition could potentially be used for a number of purposes. Specifically, it could be used for someone who is physically handicapped, and has trouble using a keyboard when using the computer. For example, someone with carpel tunnel could avoid wrist strain by dictating their text, rather than typing. The screen shot below captures the process of calibrating the computer for voice recognition.


Text/Visual Alternatives for Sound

This assistive technology feature for Windows Vista is especially accommodating for people who are hearing impaired. Rather than hearing system tones which the computer produces to alert the user of important information; this application alerts the user visually. The specific alerts can also be customized to appear in a variety of ways which is most comfortable for the user. The screen shot below is set-up screen for customizing textual alerts.



Using the Computer Without a Mouse or Keyboard

There may be a number of reasons why someone might need to use the computer without a mouse or keyboard. This feature is incredibly helpful for people with physical disabilities who are otherwise unable to operate a computer in traditional keyboard and mouse fashion. This assistive aspect of Windows Vista would be helpful for anyone who could dictate commands to the computer. This technology could also be used with touchscreen monitors to greatly enhance the relationship between the disabled user and the computer. The screen shot below illustrates the process by which to enable the computer to operate properly without a keyboard or mouse.