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 |
|---|---|---|
| Kurzweil 3000 | Comprehensive assistive software combining text-to-speech, OCR, word prediction, and study tools. Supports multiple file formats including PDFs and emails. | University-licensed; register with UMass credentials. Login anywhere after you create your account. How to register for Kurzweil |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Natural Reader | Text-to-speech software that reads digital text aloud with natural-sounding voices across documents, emails, and web content. | Pre-installed on Mac workstations. AI NaturalReader AI Text To Speech |
| Narrator | Built-in screen reader for Windows that reads text aloud and describes interface elements. | Built-in to Windows. Complete Guide To Narrator |
| Dictation | A built-in macOS speech-to-text tool 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. |