BEAM XVI Linux Software, X-Windows access for the visually impaired and blind

[Terry Barnaby <terry beam demon co uk>]

BEAM has developed a software package to assist visually impaired and
blind
people in the use of Unix X-Windows systems. It is called the XVI system
and
has been in use for a number of years.
The current system is implemented as a hardware/software solution in the
form
of an X-Windows network terminal.

As a progression we intend to release the software alone for use on the
Linux
operating system. We have the basic system running and are now
considering
distribution methods. Our current thoughts are to offer the package free
for
individual private use and to make a charge for companies or commercial
use.

There are sections of the software we are considering making available
under
the GPL or similar license, especially the speech/braille device server
and
screen reader application interface system.

Some aspects of the system could do with further work. These include
drivers for different devices and interfaces to different GUI toolkits.
Maybe some form of collaboration would be useful here.
We have produced a web site giving a technical description of the
product
and its current development activity.

We would welcome anyone to have a look and provide feedback on this.
Please contact xvil beam demon co uk 

Mail:  mailto:xvil beam demon co uk
WebSite: http://www.beam.ltd.uk/xvil/

Terry

--
  Dr Terry Barnaby                     BEAM Ltd
  Phone: +44 1454 324512               Northavon Business Center, Dean Rd
  Fax:   +44 1454 313172               Yate, Bristol, BS37 5NH, UK
  Email: terry beam demon co uk        Web: www.beam.demon.co.uk
  BEAM for: Visually Impaired X-Terminals, Parallel Processing, Software Dev
                         "Tandems are twice the fun !"