Learning Elements
The Centre provides Internet workstations installed with assistive software and hardware, Closed Circuit Magnifier and TV for our members.
Digital Talking Book Reader - Victor Reader
It supports music compact discs, MP3 compact discs and DAISY format compact discs. It has advanced functionality such as skipping instantly to a specific page and placing multiple bookmarks. User can operate Victor Reader anywhere, using its integrated rechargeable batteries and built-in handle.
Braillewriter
The Centre provides braillewriter for members to record information.
Braille Display
Refreshable braille display device - These are electrical devices normally connected to a computer. The text contents of web page or text document displayed on the screen can be converted to braille display on these devices. The braille patterns are translated real time, thus the contents of the web page or text document can be read online. Such braille devices normally work hand in hand with a screen reader software and the contents of the braille display will be formatted by the screen reader software.
Closed Circuit Magnifier (DaVinci Pro)
The centre is equipped with two types of desktop video magnifiers, each featuring a 24-inch high-definition LCD screen. These devices enable members with low vision to enlarge printed materials or the display of smart devices for easier reading of text and images. Both magnifiers include a voice-guided menu system that supports multiple languages and are equipped with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) functionality, allowing visually impaired members to have printed content read aloud. For the sake of privacy and clearer audio, users may connect personal earphones to the magnifier. The Merlin Elite Pro, with its more traditional design, effectively blocks ambient light to reduce glare from paper and screen surfaces. It also supports ultra-close viewing distances, catering to users with specific visual needs. In contrast, the DaVinci Pro features a compact and modern design, resembling a camera mounted on an LCD monitor. It offers up to 77x magnification and a vertically rotatable camera, making it suitable for a variety of tasks such as personal grooming, reading, and distance viewing.
Screen Reader
The computers in the centre are equipped with NVDA and JAWS. It can read the text displayed on the computer screen and convert it into audible information.
Printer and scanner
Standard printers are available for use by members to print documents.