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The Internet has become an important source of information about almost anything. Not only is the
available information extensive, it is often quicker and easier to find the information you need on the Internet than it is to search through your bookcase, file cabinet, desk, local
library, local mall, or a phone call for information. In addition, the Internet can make it easy to purchase a whole range of goods and be informed in making your purchasing
decisions.
Today with more than half the people in the U.S. using the Internet, many companies, government agencies and organizations refer you to their web site for
information, forms, procedures, etc. The expectation is that you will get the help you need online, rather than by directly talking with their staff at a "brick and
mortar" office or store.
The Internet is also becoming almost essential in education, not only at the college level where often course materials, homework and even tests
are communicated over the Internet, but also for lower grade levels as well.
Internet uses vary widely, but a few examples include: reading newspapers and magazines;
purchasing almost anything you need, including groceries; doing travel research and making reservations; accessing encyclopedias and dictionaries; getting information on gardening,
recipes or other reference databases; conducting genealogical research; obtaining medical information; getting stock quotes and accessing other investment and banking information;
communicating with e-mail; looking up weather information; finding maps and driving directions; even finding long-lost friends or relativesŠand much more.
However, low vision
can be a significant impediment to accessing the Internet efficiently, if at all, because web sites are typically more complex than printed pages, combining text and pictures sized
for people with perfect vision, together with multiple links, complex formats, multimedia, and animated features. The user needs to be able to use a mouse or keys to point to
and select objects on the screen. The most widely used Internet browser - software which accesses the Internet and operates web site features-- Microsoft's Internet Explorer, has some
built-in features for people who need a little extra magnification or different colors, but it is designed primarily for people with good vision.
PnC Net is powerful browser
software specifically designed to meet low vision needs. PnC Net, designed by JBliss Imaging Systems of California (the makers of VIP scanning/reading software for low vision PC
users) speaks and enlarges web pages to fit the user's needs. It is controlled by making selections from easy-to-use, spoken and enlarged Pick 'n Click" lists. It
also incorporates a few simple "hot keys" to refresh the screen, switch from enlarging text, or pictures and text, or back to "normal" size, or go back to the
simple list menu to download a link or print a page. The magnified letters are smooth, not "pixelized", and the general layout of the web page is preserved, including the
placement of pictures and graphics.
Within a few minutes a low vision user, even a first-time Internet user, can be exploring new web sites, listening and viewing information
at the optimal letter size: either by starting at the top of the web page, or by starting with a word selected with the mouse or with a simple "Find" command from the
menu list.
More information about PnC Net (and the VIP scanning/reading program), as well as a free 30 day demo CD can be obtained from JBliss Imaging Systems, 100 W. El
Camino Real, Suite 68, Mtn. View, CA 94040, 888-452-5477, http://www.jbliss.com
or e-mail at info@jbliss.com |
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