Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specifications for the LCD monitor on the SpeakEasy Reading Machine?

The built-in LCD monitor offers an 18.5 inch widescreen display. The viewing quality is excellent and clear, for an optimal experience for a vision impaired user.

The aspect ratio is 16:9; native resolution 1366 × 768; response time 5ms ; brightness 250 nits (cd/m2); contrast ratio 1000:1 (ACM).

Can a completely blind person use the SpeakEasy Reading Machine?

Absolutely! Although it is built in, a user does not need to be able to see the monitor to operate the system. All of the SpeakEasy Reading Machine's functions are read aloud and managed through the arcade controller.

The original SpeakEasy Reading Machine was designed specifically for a person who was totally blind. Due to high demand, the SpeakEasy Reading Machine now offers features for the low vision and print disabled, as well. The processor, CD player, and monitor are all in one simple, streamlined machine.

Although we are unable to offer the system without a monitor, we believe that you will still find this reading machine an excellent value compared with other systems that do not include a monitor.

Why is the SpeakEasy Reading Machine more affordable than other reading machines?

At NDU, we use only off-the-shelf parts to build our systems. This enables us not only to provide you with excellent service, but also excellent prices. Custom hardware is very expensive to build and its parts are non-interchangeable. With other systems, malfunctions are more likely and can be difficult to diagnose, costly to fix, and time intensive. By using off-the-shelf parts originally designed for more mainstream uses and repurposing them for adaptive technology, our systems are more reliable, and more affordable.

Can a user with limited dexterity use the SpeakEasy Reading Machine?

The SpeakEasy Reading Machine interfaces with a large arcade-style controller that has large buttons and a joystick. It is extremely easy to use and does not require extensive fine motor skills to operate.

Can I read a book on the SpeakEasy Reading Machine?

Not only does the SpeakEasy Reading Machine offer you its extensive library of public domain audio books (over four thousand!), you can also scan in the pages of a book you would like to read. Small chapter books can be placed entirely on the scanner with the text facing down (two pages at a time) or larger books can be placed half on the scanner, half off the scanner (one page a time).

How big is the scanner of the SpeakEasy Reading Machine?

The scanner's surface area enables the Reading Machine to scan a document of maximum size 8.5" x 11.7." Larger documents may be folded to fit into the scanner. Larger books may be scanned one page at a time.

Can people with print disabilities use the SpeakEasy Reading Machine?

Not only is the SpeakEasy Reading Machine an excellent tool for users with vision impairments, it can also be extremely helpful for users with other print disabilities. The system highlights, magnifies, and boxes the words as it reads.

How difficult is set up of the SpeakEasy Reading Machine?

Setting up the SpeakEasy Reading Machine is quite simple. Your system comes with both printed and audio instructions on the set up and operation of your machine.

Just plug the Reading Machine into the wall, plug the scanner and controller into the Reading Machine, and you're ready to read!