Digital Accessibility Center Hardware & Software

The Digital Accessibility Center (DAC), formerly known as the Assistive Technology Center, includes a 6-seat computer lab that is located on the Lower Level of the DuBois library in the Learning Commons. It's open whenever the library is open. Library Hours

Drop-Ins are welcome anytime the DAC lab is open. The DAC lab is staffed during specific hours. Contact @email to make an appointment with DAC team member.

The DAC is dedicated to empowering all members of the university community by providing access to adaptive technology and assistive software solutions. Whether you're exploring assistive tools for the first time, seeking to enhance your current setup, or looking for specialized equipment, our center provides hands-on access to industry-leading technology.

All University faculty, staff and students are welcome to explore our resources to help you find the tools that work best for you.

Contact

Have questions or want help choosing? The DAC team offers consultations and training to help you succeed. Email @email.

DAC Home

The DAC lab has six fully configured workstations (four Windows, two Macs)

Computers & Equipment In The Digital Accessibility Center

The Digital Accessibility Center (DAC) is equipped with six computers, assistive technology hardware and equipment.


Computer/Equipment	Description
Windows Workstations	There are four window computers in the DAC. One is in the back room of the center and offers a quiet environment for recording and focused work.
Mac Workstations	There are two Mac computers. One is in the back room of the center and offers a quiet environment for recording and focused work.
FUJITSU Document Scanner ScanSnap iX500	Scans printed documents and converts them to searchable text. Also works with image PDFs to make them searchable and accessible.
Logitech Headsets	USB headsets that let you control your computer and type by speaking—also useful for video calls and recording.

Accessibility Software In The DAC

The DAC is equipped with the following assistive technology software.


Software	Description	Availability
ABBYY FineReader 15	OCR software that converts scanned documents and PDFs into editable, searchable text formats with PDF editing and file format conversion capabilities.	On the Windows computer. (Not Mac compatible.)
Dragon Professional	Speech to Text and Speech Command software: Dragon by Nuance offers various products. We recommend Dragon Professional.	On the Windows computer in the back room only. (Not Mac compatible.)
FS Reader by Freedom Scientific	Converts scanned textbooks and digital documents into accessible, readable text.	On the Windows computer. (Not Mac compatible.)
Inspiration (Desktop version)	Visual learning and brainstorming software that uses diagrams, outlines, and concept mapping to help organize and develop ideas.	On the Windows computer. (Not Mac compatible.)
Fusion	Enlarges text and reads it aloud so you can see and hear course content. (Fusion is a combination of JAWS and ZoomText.)	On the Windows computer. (Not Mac compatible.)
JAWS	Screen reader for Windows that uses text-to-speech to help visually impaired users navigate and interact with computers.	On the Windows computer. (Not Mac compatible.)
ZoomText	Screen magnification software that enlarges text and graphics for easier reading"	On the Windows computer. (Not Mac compatible.)

Text-To-Speech, Screen Reader and Dictation Tools

In addition to the accessibility software available in the DAC, the tools listed below can be accessed independently through built-in device features or through your University credentials as noted.

Name	Description	Available
Dictation	Built-in speech-to-text tool for Mac that lets users enter text by speaking instead of typing. It can be used in most applications and text fields on a Mac.	Built-in to macOS. Dictate messages and documents on Mac.
Immersive Reader	Built-in accessibility tool in Microsoft Edge browser and Office 365 applications (Word, OneNote, Outlook). Provides text-to-speech, line focus, syllable breaks, and customizable reading preferences.	Built-in to Edge and Office 365. Use Immersive Reader in Microsoft Edge
Kurzweil 3000	Reading and writing support software that includes text-to-speech, OCR, word prediction, and study tools. Can be accessed through a web browser or installed as a desktop application.	University-licensed; registration is required for the web-based or desktop version. Register with your UMass credentials. Follow the steps on: How to register for Kurzweil. After registering, Kurzweil 3000 will send you an email with your username and a link to set up your password.
Narrator	Built-in screen reader for Windows that reads text aloud and describes interface elements.	Built-in to Windows. Complete Guide To Narrator
Voice Access	Built-in voice control and speech-to-text tool for Windows that allows users to navigate applications, control their computer, and dictate text using voice commands	Built-in to Windows. A guide to using Microsoft Voice access for Windows 11: 7-part video training series.
VoiceOver	Built-in screen reader for macOS that provides text-to-speech and voice navigation for operating the computer.	Built-in to macOS. VoiceOver User Guide for Mac
Voice Typing	Built-in speech-to-text (dictation) tool for Windows that lets users enter text by speaking instead of typing. It works across most applications and text entry fields.	Built-in to Windows. Use voice typing to talk instead of type on your PC.