March 27, 2002 - Westford, MA - Optelec U.S., Inc., a member of the Tieman Group and the leading provider of solutions for the visually impaired in the US, introduces the Braille Voyager from Tieman. The Braille Voyager is the next generation of Braille displays that meets the highest needs of the modern technological era. This product gives Braille users the freedom to use a PC or laptop wherever and whenever they desire.
The Braille Voyager puts an essential tool in the hands of Braille users to maintain their independence, allowing them to take full advantage of all the possibilities offered by information and communication technologies. The Braille Voyager includes a series of Braille displays that are easy to connect and use with a PC. From e-mail to word-processing, at home or when traveling, the Braille Voyager does it all. As a result of customer feedback, Tieman has implemented improved cursor routing and easier and faster installation. Two models have been developed: the Braille Voyager 44 and the Braille Voyager 70. Both models use Tieman's own Braille cells.
Compact and lightweight
The Braille Voyager 44 is compact and lightweight making it easier and more comfortable to use when traveling. Moreover, the ergonomic design ensures optimal operating comfort when used with a laptop. When connected, the information from the laptop screen is shown on the Braille display. The Braille Voyager is also equipped to translate text to speech and provides handy thumb keys to assist in perfect screen navigation.
"The launch of the Braille Voyager in the US market advances our strategy to offer a full line of products for the visually impaired", noted David Israel, Optelec's President of North American Operations. "This will allow us to take advantage of the synergies that exist throughout our channels of distribution, in addition to strengthening our position within our Dealer network.
When an office desktop configuration is preferred, the Braille Voyager 70 connects effortlessly to a desktop PC. This Braille Voyager 70 display has the same options as the Braille Voyager 44, but is perfectly fitted to a standard keyboard. The Braille Voyager connects to a PC or laptop through a USB port, for a smooth and trouble-free installation. No batteries or adapters are necessary.
Customers have been quick to compliment the Braille Voyager displays on their user-friendliness, portability and independent working capability. The Braille user can adjust the display functions of the Braille Voyager to fit individual preferences. Adding two extra Braille keys and a navigation key makes it possible to operate Windows directly from the Braille display. The Braille Voyager also works with all major screen readers. Its design also eliminates the need to repeatedly switch your hands from the keyboard to the Braille display, improving overall ergonomics.
Optelec U.S., Inc.
Optelec, a member of the Tieman Group, is the U.S. market leader for products that allow individuals with impaired vision, including macular degeneration, to perform many of their normal activities and to remain independent. The company's premier product lines, the ClearView video magnifier and the Voyager Braille display, combine outstanding optical technology with ease of use and have received broad endorsement from users and eye care professionals. Optelec, headquartered in Westford, Massachusetts, continually develops new products for individuals with impaired vision. The company's products are available exclusively through authorized dealers and licensed eye care professionals. For more information, call 1-800-826-4200 or visit the Optelec web site at www.optelec.com.
The Tieman Group
The Tieman Group is specialized in developing, producing and marketing devices for blind and visually impaired people. Internationally, the Tieman Group strives to be an innovative, solid and reliable trade partner. The Tieman Group intends to achieve this by research and development, training and guidance, and a continued dialog with the (professional) customer. The mission of the Tieman Group is to manage their products and services with an eye for ethics. This has made the Tieman Group a highly respected, honest market leader. For more information, call 1-800-826-4200 or visit the Tieman web site at www.optelec.com.