| October, 2002 |
|
Products
Dasher
The eyes have it
Writing fast without a keyboard
A new text entry system developed at Cambridge University could transform computing for people unable to use a normal keyboard. The text entry system, called Dasher, designed by David MacKay and David Ward in the University's Department of Physics, can be controlled by an eyetracker - a camera that tracks where on the screen the user is looking.
'The software works like a video game in which the user steers ever deeper into an enormous library,' explained Dr MacKay. 'A language model is used to shape this library in such a way that it's quick and easy to select probable sequences of characters and hard to make spelling mistakes.'
The system, which is described in today's Nature (22 August 2002), is much faster than any alternative writing systems driven by an eyetracker. Experiments show that with practice, Dasher can produce up to 25 words per minute. Users writing with other eyetracker-based techniques, using on-screen keyboards, can produce only 15 words per minute. 'Not only is this faster than any alternative writing system driven by an eyetracker, the frequency of spelling mistakes is about five times smaller - and the new system is also less stressful to use,' added Dr MacKay.
Dasher is distinctive because it is controlled by continuous pointing gestures, so it uses humans' natural ability to make high-precision analogue movements. A keyboard, where the hands use all-or-nothing movements to produce text, wastes this ability.
Dasher also makes no distinction between word completion and ordinary writing. Other writing systems will suggest completed words in a separate part of the display and the user has to point or stare at them to choose them. Dasher's suggestions are integrated seamlessly into the writing process. The language model adapts to an individual user's writing style, so that sometimes several words can be written with a single glance.
Dasher will be particularly useful for computer users who are unable to type using a conventional keyboard. Because it can be driven using any pointing device - mouse, rollerball, touchpad, or eyetracker - it is also useful for handheld computers or mobile phones where there is no space for a keyboard. It also has potential as an input system for other languages, such as Japanese.
David MacKay and David Ward plan to develop Dasher as an 'Open Source' software project, like Linux.
For further information please contact:
David MacKay,
Department of Physics, University of Cambridge.
Tel: 01223 339852;
e-mail: mackay@mrao.cam.ac.uk
Web Trek Connect
Web Trek Connect is an email program designed specifically for people who have significant difficulties with reading, writing, or the complex interfaces of mainstream email programs. Web Trek Connect provides simplified multimedia interfaces for both receiving and sending emails. The user needs only to click on the senders picture to initiate the built-in screen reader, or top automatically play an attached audio recording. Web Trek Connect works in conjunction with any MAPI compliant email program (such as Microsoft Outlook).
Visit www.ablelinktech.com for more information on this product.
REDTIN Real Voice Email
I would like to introduce you to REDTIN, the state of the art REAL VOICE E-MAIL program. This program will allow you to now send your e-mails in YOUR VOICE and eliminate the need for tedious typing.
REDTIN will download in less than one minute. You can save all of your VOICE e-mails to the REDTIN database and record meetings and conversations for future reference. There is no special software required for your recipients to listen to your e-mails, and you don't have to change your e-mail address or e-mail name. Speak your e-mail in any language and send them anywhere in the world without having to pay any long distance charges.
With REDTIN, you can attach spreadsheets and files to your VOICE e-mails and move and copy files to your hard drive or any external media. Our files COMPRESS so they do not consume your memory.
Make e-mails truly personal, be able to convey laughter, and other emotions, and use it for business as well.
TALK the TALK with REDTIN... the newest and most real way to communicate!
Our package includes the software disk, a lapel microphone (a $ 12.95 value) and user's manual. The purchase price for REDTIN is $29.95 plus $5.95 shipping and handling.
For more information, call
Jackie Yinger
REDTIN DIRECT
954-978-9589
jackieyinger1@aol.com