Cloud Object Storage | Store & Retrieve Data Anywhere ...€¦ · Web viewIdeal for some users with Retinitis Pigmentosa, (tunnel vision), the Vertical visualisation displays one

ReadEasy+ Software v3.1.2.0User Manual Revision A

English

Copyright (C) 2008-2011, VisionAid International Ltd, all rights reserved.

VisionAid International

Page 2

Table of Contents

Table of Contents..................................................................................................1

Introduction...........................................................................................................4

ReadEasy+ improvement program........................................................................4

Ownership and intellectual property....................................................................5

Box contents..........................................................................................................5

Unboxing ReadEasy+.............................................................................................6

Positioning ReadEasy+ for use...............................................................................6

ReadEasy+ contrast mat........................................................................................7

Plugging in.............................................................................................................8

ReadEasy+ power brick connection....................................................................8

ReadEasy+ Keypad Feature Pack connection......................................................9

Low Vision Feature Pack connection................................................................10

Low Vision Touch Feature Pack connection......................................................11

Unfolding ReadEasy+’s camera...........................................................................12

Turning on / off....................................................................................................12

Positioning your documents for capture.............................................................13

ReadEasy+ built in controls.................................................................................14

ReadEasy+ audio................................................................................................. 17

Volume adjustment..........................................................................................17

Headphones......................................................................................................17

ReadEasy+ Keypad Feature Pack controls...........................................................18

ReadEasy+ keypad and overlay.........................................................................18

Document navigation.......................................................................................20

Menu navigation...............................................................................................21

Help.................................................................................................................. 22

Document management...................................................................................23


Page 3

Edit Pages......................................................................................................... 24

Bookmarks........................................................................................................25

Settings.............................................................................................................26

ReadEasy+ Low Vision Feature Pack....................................................................31

Trackball controls.............................................................................................31

Additional Keypad Controls..............................................................................33

On Screen Toolbar............................................................................................38

ReadEasy+ Low Vision Touch Pack......................................................................40

Finger controls..................................................................................................40

Caring for your touch screen............................................................................41

Multi-Language....................................................................................................42

Reading documents with different languages..................................................42

How to obtain additional languages.................................................................42

How to activate additional languages...............................................................42

Supported languages with automatic switching...............................................43

Supported languages with manual switching...................................................44

Upgrading ReadEasy+’s software......................................................................45

FAQ and Troubleshooting....................................................................................46

Appendix A: Safety..............................................................................................47

Appendix B: Technical Information.....................................................................48


Page 4

Introduction

Congratulations on choosing the ReadEasy+ digital capture reading system.

The ReadEasy+ combines ease of use with the highest quality speech output and extremely fast text recognition. It can capture and read any printed material such as letters, bank statements, newspapers, food packaging etc and reads the text aloud using natural sounding voices.

ReadEasy+ improvement program

Users are the best people to help us improve and develop our products so if you have any ideas or suggestions, no matter how small, please do contact us.

Suggestions contact informationPlease use the following methods to contact us regarding your suggestions:

Email:[email protected]

Post:

ReadEasy+ SuggestionsVisionAid International Ltd.Bridge Lodge, Spalding, LincolnshirePE11 3AUUnited Kingdom

Phone:+44 (0) 1775 711 977

Thank you and we wish you many hours of enjoyment with your new personal reading assistant!

mailto:[email protected]?subject=Suggestions%20for%20Readit%20Scholar


Page 5

Ownership and intellectual property

The software installed on the ReadEasy+ makes use of third party software libraries that are redistributed under their own respective licenses.

LAME is distributed under the terms of the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL), a copy of which can be found at http://www.gnu.org/licenses/lgpl.html and is included in the software’s program directory.

OpenCV is distributed under the terms of the Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD) license, a copy of which is included in the software’s program directory.

Copyright (C) 2000-2008, Intel Corporation, all rights reserved.

Copyright (C) 2009, Willow Garage Inc., all rights reserved.

Third party copyrights are property of their respective owners.

Box contents

Your ReadEasy+ box should contain the following items:

1. ReadEasy+ digital capture reading system.2. ReadEasy+ keypad, (if Keypad, Low Vision, or Low Vision Touch Feature

Packs ordered).3. ReadEasy+ keypad overlay, (if Keypad, Low Vision, or Low Vision Touch

Feature Packs ordered).4. ReadEasy+ trackball, (if Low Vision or Low Vision Touch Feature Packs

ordered).5. Power supply.6. Power cord.7. White contrast mat.8. Laminated quick reference guide.9. This paper user manual.10. Audio CD user manual.11. Over ear headphones with in line volume control.

If any of these items are missing, please contact your local distributor.


Page 6

Unboxing ReadEasy+

To remove the main unit, open the top of the ReadEasy+ box and place your hand into ReadEasy+’s carry handle, in between the two foam packaging end caps. With your hand in place, simply slide ReadEasy+ upwards.

With it out of the box, remove the foam end caps, followed by the plastic bag, and place your ReadEasy+ where you want to use it.

Positioning ReadEasy+ for use

When placing ReadEasy+ on a surface to use, try and ensure that it’s not directly underneath any bright lighting, as this can affect its accuracy when reading glossy documents.


Page 7

ReadEasy+ contrast mat

ReadEasy+ also includes a contrast mat. This can be used if the surface where the ReadEasy+ is located is very dark and the item wishing to be read is small (e.g. a postage receipt or small packet of food).

The contrast mat has four square cut outs which match the ReadEasy+’s four square feet on its base, allowing it to be easily and accurately positioned on the mat. The mat also then doubles as a positioning guide, as its size represents the capture area.

Plugging in

ReadEasy+ power brick connection1. Plug the power cable into the power brick.

Cut outs that match the ReadEasy+’s feet.

Capture Area


Page 8

2. Plug the power tip from the power brick into ReadEasy+’s power socket, located on the back side, in the very bottom left corner.

3. Finally, plug the mains plug into a wall socket and ensure it is switched on.


Page 9

IMPORTANT:

Before connecting any USB device to ReadEasy+ (the optional keypad, trackball or a USB memory stick), please be aware that the connectors will only fit into the rectangular USB socket one way round. Only a small amount of force is required to plug in the connectors and too much may damage the connector and socket. This is not covered by warranty so please take care.

ReadEasy+ Keypad Feature Pack connectionFor users with the Keypad Feature Pack, an additional 22 button keypad, together with a keypad overlay, is also supplied.

To connect the keypad, grasp the end of the keypad wire with the tactile bump-on facing downwards and slide it into the first USB port, located on the right edge of the case, along the bottom, approximately 1 inch, (2.5 cm) from the front.

Removing and fitting the keypad overlayReadEasy+ Keypad and Low Vision versions also include a keypad overlay. This reduces the number of accessible buttons on ReadEasy+’s keypad to just 10.

When unboxing the keypad, you will find that the keypad overlay is already fitted.

To remove it, hold the underside of the keypad with one hand and grasp the bottom of the overlay with your thumb and index finger. Lift it upwards and away from you and the overlay will come off.

To re-fit the keypad overlay, hold the keypad from underneath in one hand and the overlay, by its sides, in the other. Then tilt the overlay up at the front and

USB Port 1

USB Ports 2 & 3

DVI Port

VGA Port


Page 10

down at the back and then slide the top lip of it over the top edge of the keypad. Then bring the bottom of the overlay downwards and push it over the bottom of the keypad.

Low Vision Feature Pack connection

Trackball pointing device connectionFor users with the Low Vision Feature Pack, a trackball pointing device is also included. To connect the trackball, grasp the end of the wire with the tactile bump-on facing towards you, and then slide it into one of the two parallel USB sockets, located within a cut out, on the right side of the case.

They are positioned 2 inches, (5 cm), up from the bottom of the base, and 1 and a quarter inches, (3 cm), from the back.

Monitor / flat screen television connectionConnecting a monitor to ReadEasy+ Low Vision and Touch units enables your documents to be displayed in large print to you. Pictures can also be magnified.

There are two monitor connection types on ReadEasy+ Low Vision and Touch models. They are VGA and DVI. These cables will either be provided with your screen, or by your distributor.

The two sockets are located in a large rectangular cut-out on the right edge of the ReadEasy+, 4.5 inches, (12 cm), from the bottom, and 1.5 inches, (3.5 cm), from the back. The VGA connector is located directly above the DVI one.

VGA – blue connector, 1.25 inches, (3 cm) across

DVI – white connector, 1.5 inches, (3.5 cm) across


Page 11

Both the VGA and DVI connectors will only fit into their sockets one way round. As with the USB type connectors, they do not require much force, so please insert them with care, as damage to the sockets is not covered by warranty.

Once inserted, most VGA and DVI connectors have two thumb screws on either side that should be gently tightened to hold the connector in place.

TIP:

For best image quality, and if your screen supports it, we recommend using the DVI connector type.

Low Vision Touch Feature Pack connectionThere is one additional USB cable connection for Low Vision Touch Feature Pack units. This connects your Touch screen to the ReadEasy+. This must be connected to enable the touch screen functionality.

Please connect this into the remaining USB port, located parallel to the trackball USB port, described in the last section.


Page 12

Unfolding ReadEasy+’s camera

To save space and for protection in transport, ReadEasy+’s camera easily tucks away into its case. It must be unfolded in order to capture documents.

To unfold the camera:1) Grasp the top of the camera which protrudes out of the top of the case. It

is located 7cm, (2.5 inches) from the left side of the case. Lift it upwards firmly until it stops.

2) Grasp the bottom of the camera head with your thumb and index finger and gently swing it outwards and upwards until it stops.

1) 2)

Ready for use


Page 13

Turning on / off

To turn on ReadEasy+, ensure it is plugged in and mains power is switched on. Then, on the top of the unit, press the left most button, (to the left of the camera head, approximately 1 inch, (2.5 cm) from the left edge of the case).

A few seconds after pressing, an audible beep will be heard and the on / off switch will be illuminated with a blue ring.

ReadEasy+ will take approximately 50 seconds to start and will inform you when it is ready to use.

To turn ReadEasy+ off, simply press the on / off button again. You will be informed that ReadEasy+ is turning off.

On / Off button


Page 14

IMPORTANT:

It takes approximately 20 seconds for ReadEasy+ to power off after the shutdown message, so if you wish to unplug the unit, please do not do so until this time has passed.


Page 15

POSITIONING TIP:

ReadEasy+ has powerful document straightening and rotation abilities but for the highest accuracy and speed, try to position your document as squarely as possible and ensure pages are flat.

Positioning your documents for captureReadEasy+ captures an area slightly larger than an A4 or Letter page.

Documents must be in a landscape orientation with the long edge of the document going left to right.

To align your document, simply place it up against the front of the ReadEasy+ and slide it so that the right edge of your document is in line with the right edge of the ReadEasy+.

The orientation of the document will not influence the recognition of the text.

Capture Area


Page 16

ReadEasy+ built in controls

The main controls are all located on the top of the unit. There are a total of 6 tactile control buttons.

Capture (quick press)

With a document under the camera, simply press the green rectangular button. This is the farthest button to the right, on the top of the unit.

ReadEasy+ features an intelligent motion detection system that won’t allow your document to be captured if it is moving. This allows you time to press capture and position your document underneath ReadEasy+ with both hands (e.g. for a book). Your document will be captured two seconds after the last movement was detected.

An audible “beep” will be emitted as movement is detected.

To override this function and force ReadEasy+ to capture your document, simply press Capture again.

Your document will start being read aloud a few seconds later.

Play / Pause

Quick press:Next SentencePress and Hold:Next Paragraph

Quick press:Previous SentencePress and Hold:Previous ParagraphOn / Off

SlowerFaster Quick press:CapturePress and Hold:Capture - Single column (tables)

Faster & Slower simultaneously:Change Voice


Page 17

Capture – single column (press and hold)To capture documents with tabular information, (like bank statements), simply press and hold the capture button. This is the farthest button to the right, on the top of the unit. This forces ReadEasy+ to read across columns of information.

Play / pause To start and stop the reading of your document, press the play / pause button. This is the blue circular button, located between the two grey quarter-circles. It is the third button from the right.

Next sentence (quick press) To navigate forwards one sentence, press and release the right grey quarter circle button, which is the second button from the right.

Next paragraph (press and hold)To navigate forwards one paragraph, press and hold the right grey quarter circle button, which is the second button from the right.

Previous sentence (quick press) To navigate backwards one sentence, press and release the left grey quarter circle button, which is the fourth button from the right.

Previous paragraph (press and hold)To navigate backwards one paragraph, press and hold the left grey quarter circle button, which is the fourth button from the right.

Faster and slowerTo increase or decrease the speed of the reading voice, press the faster or slower buttons. These are the two vertically in-line blue circular buttons located just to the right of the camera upright on the top of the unit.

Change VoiceTo change the reading voice, press the faster and slower buttons simultaneously. These are the two vertically in-line blue circular buttons located just to the right of the camera upright on the top of the unit.


Page 18

Volume

Headphone socket

ReadEasy+ audio

Volume adjustmentTo increase or decrease the volume, simply raise or lower the volume slider. This is located on the right hand edge of the machine, in the middle.

Please note, it is not possible to completely shut off the volume using just the slider.

Headphones

ReadEasy+ includes a pair of over ear headphones with in-line volume control. They have a standard 3.5 mm audio jack connector.

To use the headphones, (or any other that you may already own), simply plug them into the headphone socket, located on the right side of the case, 4 cm (1.5 inches) from the front and 2.5 cm, (1 inch) up from the bottom.

Volume from the loud speakers will automatically be muted as soon as the headphones are plugged in.

To alter the headphone volume, we recommend using the in-line volume wheel, located on the headphone wire. It is also possible to adjust the volume of the headphones using the main volume slider.

In-line volume control


Page 19

ReadEasy+ Keypad Feature Pack controls

ReadEasy+’s Keypad Feature Pack enables many more features, as well as providing duplicate functionality for some keys. These are described in the sections that follow.

ReadEasy+ keypad and overlay

ReadEasy+’s tactile keypad features 22 buttons in total. These are arranged in a row of 4 buttons along the top of the keypad for advanced, menu based functions, and block of 18 keys underneath them, in 4 columns for the remaining features.

The play / pause button, in the centre of 8 surrounding navigation buttons, has a raised bump-on on it for ease of location.

The ReadEasy+ Keypad Feature Pack also comes with a clip on keypad overlay. This reduces the number of buttons that are accessible to just 10, removing many functions that are only of use if you have the Low Vision Feature Pack.


Page 20

Capturing Documents

Capture (quick press)This function works in exactly the same way as ReadEasy+’s built in capture button. With a document under ReadEasy+, simply press and release the capture button, located in the bottom right corner of the keypad. This creates a new, single page, document.

Capture – single column (press and hold)To capture documents with tabular information, (like bank statements), simply press and hold the capture button, located in the bottom right corner of the keypad. This creates a new, single page, document.

AppendIf you wish to capture multiple pages of a document, (for example a book), then the first page can be captured using the capture button as previously described. For each additional page, use the append button instead of the capture button to join the pages on to the end of your document.

The append button is located on the bottom row of the keypad, one button in from the right, (next to the capture button).

Append - multi-capture (press and hold)To capture multiple pages automatically using ReadEasy+’s sophisticated motion detection, press and hold the append button, located on the bottom row of the keypad, one button in from the right, (next to the capture button).

This activates multi-capture. Once active, ReadEasy+ will capture your first page as normal and then ask you to turn the page, ready to capture the next page automatically. This will continue until you stop capturing using the cancel button in the bottom left.

Once capturing has been stopped, you can then access your multipage document by pressing the document mode / visualisation button, located one button in from the left, on the top row of the main block of buttons.


Page 21

Document navigationReadEasy+’s navigation controls are arranged in a square with the middle of the square being the play / pause button with a bump-on.

Play/pauseTo start and stop the reading of your document, press the play / pause button. This is the button on the third row up from the bottom, with a bump-on attached.

Forwards / backwards a word (with spelling)To navigate backwards and forwards a word, (and then have the word or number spelled out), press the buttons one down and one to the left and right of the play / pause button.

Forwards / backwards a sentenceTo navigate backwards and forwards a sentence, press the buttons immediately to the left and right of the play / pause button.

Forwards / backwards a paragraphTo navigate backwards and forwards a paragraph, press the buttons one up and one to the left and right of the play / pause button.

Previous / next pageTo navigate backwards and forwards a page, press the buttons one above and below the play pause button.


Page 22

Menu navigationFor ReadEasy+’s more advanced options, (the very top row of buttons on the keypad), a combination of dialogues and lists are used. This section describes how to navigate around them.

Move up / down listsUse the next and previous page buttons, (above and below the play / pause key), to move up and down the current list.

Entering or selecting a list item or optionOnce you have found the list item or option you wish to use, press the play / pause button to enter or select it.

Moving back up through listsIf you wish to back up one level in the list, press the previous sentence button, (to the left of the play / pause button).

Confirming a selection or performing actionIn dialogues where multiple items can be selected or to choose a folder in which to perform an action, press the capture button. This is located in the very bottom right corner of the keypad.

Yes / No / CancelSome dialogues give you the option of yes, no and to cancel. In these cases, the very top right, top left and bottom left keys are used.

Exit menuTo exit a menu or dialogue at any time, simply press the large cancel button in the bottom left corner of the keypad.


Page 23

Help

Reading area helpReadEasy+ features a key describer help mode. When you’re not in a menu, firstly press the help button, located in the top left corner of the main body of buttons to enable help mode.

When in help mode, the first press of any button on the keypad describes what it does. The second press then automatically exits help mode and performs that button’s function. To exit help mode directly, just press help again.

Menu / dialogue helpIf you’re in a menu or dialogue, pressing help, (in the top left corner of the main body of buttons) will give you context sensitive help to let you know exactly where you are and give you a brief description of the controls for your current location.


Page 24

Document managementReadEasy+ features an easy-to-use and powerful document management system for storing and retrieving documents, both on ReadEasy+’s in built memory and on external USB memory sticks and MP3 players.

ReadEasy+ has internal storage, capable of holding over 100,000 pages.

To access ReadEasy+’s document management section, press the very top left button on the keypad, (in the separate row of keys at the top).

This will then give access to the following 5 menu options.

OpenHere you can select a list of your saved documents to retrieve. ReadEasy+ remembers your last position and automatically opens your document at that point. Documents are ordered with the most recently saved one at the top of the list.

ReadEasy+’s user manual is stored on every ReadEasy+ as standard.

SaveOnce you have captured or imported a document, you will be able to save it in ReadEasy+’s internal memory. You can choose to either save with an automatic document title or with your own personal audio recording of up to 5 seconds.

ImportIf you have a supported document type stored on an USB memory stick and the USB memory stick is inserted into one of ReadEasy+’s spare USB ports, you can then retrieve the document to be read by ReadEasy+.

Supported document import formats include PDF and images.

ExportIf you have an USB memory stick inserted into one of ReadEasy+’s spare USB ports, you can choose to export your current document to it. Simply choose your desired document format, followed by the location you wish to save it to.


Page 25

When you are at the correct folder level, simply press the capture button on the keypad to begin exporting.

DeleteThis allows you to remove documents from your ReadEasy+’s internal memory as well as documents and folders from an external USB memory stick.

To navigate through folders of a memory stick, use the next sentence button, (to the right of the play / pause button). Once you have found the document or folder you wish to delete, press the play / pause key.

Edit PagesThis allows you to perform advanced functions on your currently open document. These are:

Go to pageThis allows you to navigate directly to a particular page number.

Move pagesThis allows you to re-order pages within your document. Select the pages you wish to re-order using play / pause, confirm the action using the capture button and then choose if you wish to move the pages up or down in the document.

Collate pagesThis is extremely useful if capturing a large number of pages in a document where the left and right pages together are larger than A4, (or letter paper size). You can capture all the pages on one side of your document, followed by all the pages on the other side, before collating them back together in the correct order.

The purpose of this is to save time by not having to slide your document around underneath the camera to change it from the left to the right hand page each time.

Delete pagesThis allows you to remove pages from your document.


Page 26

Rotate pagesFor users of the Low Vision Pack, this allows you to manually rotate your captured documents in 90 degree increments. This is useful if the document you wish to photograph has no text and therefore cannot be rotated automatically (photographs for example).

Split book pagesThis allows you to tell ReadEasy+ to attempt to split the pages you select in to both a left and a right page. This helps to match page numbers of books and magazines to their originals. This option can also be set at capture time, under Settings, Recognition, Split book pages.

Recognise pagesThis allows the selected pages to be recognised. Recognising a page for a second time, (especially after rotation or split book pages has been applied), can yield different text results.

Save page imagesThis allows you to save the images of the selected pages to an external USB memory stick for viewing on a computer.

BookmarksBookmarks enable you to set markers in your document to quickly navigate between, (chapters for example).

To access bookmarks, press the second key in from the right on the very top row.

To add a bookmark at your current sentence, simply press the play / pause button.

Once you have added one or more bookmarks to your document, you then have the option to “Go to” or “Delete” a particular bookmark.


Page 27

Settings This allows you to alter settings for your ReadEasy+. There are 6 groups:

Recognition

OCR (enabled by default)Turns on and off ReadEasy+’s ability to recognise words. This should only be turned off if you know the document you are capturing contains no text.

Page straightening (enabled by default)This allows ReadEasy+ to automatically straighten and correct curvature and rotation of your documents. For example, spines of books, cans of food etc. This should only be turned off if you know the document you are capturing contains no text.

Split book pages (disabled by default)This allows you to tell ReadEasy+ to attempt to split the pages that you capture in to both a left and a right page. This helps to match page numbers of books and magazines to their originals.

Layout analysis (accurate by default)This determines how ReadEasy+ recognises your document. For most cases, “Accurate” is best. However, in certain situations, setting this to “Balanced” may yield better results.

Recognition languagesThis allows you to select which languages you want ReadEasy+ to look for in your captured and imported documents. Every ReadEasy+ includes one language as standard. Additional languages can be purchased at any time. Please see the language section on page 43 for more information.

It is recommended that no more than 5 recognition languages be selected at one time as this can affect recognition speed and accuracy.


Page 28

Visualisations (for Low Vision Feature Pack only)

Centre on word (disabled by default)By default, ReadEasy+ tracks words on screen in a natural way, only moving the screen when required. However, some users prefer to have the word being read in the middle of the screen at all times. Enabling this option does just that.

Draw paragraph boundaries (enabled by default)These are horizontal or vertical lines shown at the end of paragraphs in certain visualisations. They give the user a visual indication that they have crossed a paragraph boundary.

Line spacing (1 by default)Allows you to adjust the spacing between lines in Column and Vertical Visualisations.

Retain typefaces (enabled by default)This determines whether the typeface is preserved within your document (Serif, Sans-serif or Monospace). Disabling this setting means all of the text within your documents will be displayed in your chosen “Custom typeface” setting, described next.

Custom typefaceAllows you to manually select the typeface of your displayed text from Serif, Sans-serif or Monospace typeface, providing the “Retain typefaces” option is disabled.

Retain font styles (enabled by default)Allows the style of the font in your document to be retained (bold, italic, underlined etc).

Cyclable visualisationsThis allows you to disable the Visualisations that you don’t wish to use, when cycling through them using the Document mode / cycle visualisations button.


Page 29

Appearance (Low Vision Pack only)

Colour combination (Black on White by default)Allows you to set your preferred text and background colour from a list of 10 popular combinations. This affects menus and document text.

Custom colour combination (disabled by default)Allows you to enable a custom colour combination which is then selectable in the next two options.

Custom foreground colourWith custom colour combination selected, this allows you to choose a custom foreground colour from 8 popular colours.

Custom background colourWith custom colour combination selected, this allows you to choose a custom background colour from 8 popular colours.

Highlight colour (Automatic by default)This allows you to choose a custom highlight colour.

Highlight shape (Rectangle by default)This lets you set the way in which text being read aloud is highlighted. You can choose between None, Line (which is an underline), Rectangle or Inverse.


Page 30

Interface

Text size (Large by default) - Low Vision Pack onlyAllows you to choose the size of the text in the menus and dialogues.

Icon size (Medium by default) - Low Vision Pack onlyAllows you to choose the size of the toolbar icons.

Cursor size (Large by default) - Low Vision Pack onlyAllows you to choose the size of the cursor.

Cursor colour (Automatic by default) - Low Vision Pack onlyAllows you to choose the colour of the cursor.

Verbosity (High by default) – Low Vision Pack onlyThis affects whether ReadEasy+ reads menus, dialogues and alerts out loud to you or not. It does not affect document reading in any way. There are three options:

High

Maximum level of speech alerts with all menus, dialogues and navigation boundaries being announced audibly.

MediumTurns off audio alerts for main menus – this can be useful if you wish to read them yourself.

Low Disables all speech alerts except for navigation boundaries. This is for users who wish to read all information on the screen rather than relying on ReadEasy+ reading alerts and menus to you.

LanguageThis allows you to choose the interface language.

Interface voiceThis allows you to choose the interface voice.


Page 31

Speech

Speed (0 by default)Allows you to set the speed of ReadEasy+’s voice. There are 21 possible values, from -10, (slowest), to 10, (fastest).

Default reading languageLets you select the default reading language for your ReadEasy+.

Automatic reading language (Enabled by default)When reading multi-language documents, the reading voice will automatically change, on a per sentence basis, to match the language of the document, providing the required language packs are activated.

Reading voiceAllows you to select the default reading voice for a particular language.

Read when recognition complete (Enabled by default)When enabled, ReadEasy+ automatically begins reading your document out loud as soon as recognition is complete.

System

Hardware IDAllows you to obtain your ReadEasy+’s unique hardware ID. This is required if you wish to purchase additional language packs.

VersionThis announces the current version of the ReadEasy+ software installed on your system.

Free spaceThis announces how many gigabytes of free space are available on your ReadEasy+.

Reset to defaultsThis allows you to reset all of your settings to factory defaults.


Page 32

ReadEasy+ Low Vision Feature Pack

If you have purchased the Low Vision Feature Pack version of ReadEasy+, there are several features that are only applicable to you! These are detailed in this section.

Trackball controls

TrackballThe large red ball at the top of the trackball is used to move the pointer, (or cursor), around on screen. The cursor size and colour are customisable. Please see “Interface” on page 30 for customising the cursor.

To move around your document, simply move the cursor around the screen. When you get to the edge of the screen, your document will scroll in that direction.

Left button Right button

Trackball

Backwards a screen

Forwards a screen


Page 33

Left buttonThe left button on the trackball can be used to select items from the toolbar and menus as well as starting and stopping reading of your document.

Start / stop readingTo start reading from a particular word in your captured document, firstly make sure the tip of the cursor is over the word in your document you wish to start reading from.

Then, press the left button twice in quick succession. This is called “double left click”.

This will start the reading.

To stop reading, simply press the left button once, (it does not matter where the cursor is, as long as it is not on a button on the toolbar).

Menu selectionDouble left clicking on a menu item will activate it.

Toolbar controlSingle left clicking and left click and hold on certain toolbar icons will activate them.

Right buttonThe right button on the trackball is currently reserved for future operations.

Backwards / forwards a screen of text buttonsSet on the inside of the main left and right buttons are smaller buttons. In Document Mode, discussed later, clicking these moves forwards and backwards a screen of text with every press.


Page 34

Additional Keypad Controls

Zoom In / OutTo increase and decrease the size of your document on screen, use the top right button and the one immediately beneath it, on the main block of keys. Pushing and holding these buttons continuously alters the magnification.

Virtual X/Y ModeThis allows you to view and magnify something under ReadEasy+’s camera in real time. You can then move around by simply using the trackball. This is far easier than sliding a document around under the camera, as you would have to do on a normal CCTV.

It is ideal for magnifying and viewing small pieces of information such as phone numbers or medicine bottles.

To change to virtual X/Y mode, press the button on the top row of the main block of buttons, one in from the right.


Page 35

Document Mode / Cycle VisualisationsThis allows you to change to Document Mode, (if not already in it) and then cycle through up to 6 different visualisations, (ways of seeing your document).

The document mode / cycle visualisation button is located just to the right of the help key which is on the top row of the main block of buttons, one in from the left.

ReadEasy+’s 6 different visualisations are:

1. ImageThis displays the unenhanced original image of your document. It is perfect for looking at handwritten documents or photographs.

2. Overlay

This

visualisation preserves the formatting, layout and pictures of your document but replaces the recognised words with fonts of your chosen two colour combination. This makes it ideal for looking at documents with pictures, tables and diagrams.


Page 36

3. Column This view repaginates the text across your screen. No matter what size you magnify your document to, the text will automatically flow from one line to the next. Text can be scrolled vertically and screen-by-screen, (see page 38).

4.

Horizontal


Page 37

This visualisation repositions all of the text in the document onto a single line.

5. VerticalIdeal for some users with Retinitis Pigmentosa, (tunnel vision), the Vertical visualisation displays one word per line.


Page 38

6. WordDisplays one word on screen at a time.

Next ScreenTo advance forwards one screen of text within your document, in any visualisation, press the next screen button.

This is located just above the capture button, (second button up on the right hand column).

For many users who wish to read their documents themselves, screen-by-screen reading greatly reduces eye strain and allows you to read faster. This is because the text being read is always static. It also avoids the frustration of losing your place in your document when moving from one line to the next with an X/Y table.


Page 39

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

On Screen ToolbarFor quick and easy access to many of ReadEasy+’s Low Vision Feature Pack functions, a high contrast, large icon toolbar is displayed along the top edge of the screen.

The size of the toolbar can be adjusted in Settings under “Icon size”. Please see page 30 for more information. We recommend setting your icon size as large as possible so that all 13 icons still fit across the screen.

To activate the icons, simply move your cursor over them using the trackball and single left click.

1 CaptureTakes a picture to a new document to read back to you.

2 AppendTakes a picture and joins it to your existing document.

3 Document mode / Virtual X/YToggles between Document mode, (for viewing your documents), and Virtual X/Y mode, used for viewing small pieces of information in real-time, without capturing them.

4,5 Zoom out / inIncrease and decreases the magnification of your document. Pressing and holding the left mouse button continually alters the magnification.

6 Change colour modeAllows you to change between colour, greyscale and binary viewing modes. Colour mode is for looking at documents in their original, full colour format.


Page 40

Greyscale displays your document into your chosen two colour combination. Binary puts your document into your chosen two colour combination using an enhanced text / background detection system which works very well on coloured text and backgrounds.

7 Invert colourWhen in greyscale or binary modes, invert colour swaps the colours of the image. Please note that this does not invert the colour of recognised text, only the colour of the image.

8, 9 Saturation / brightness down / upAdjusts the saturation of the image when in full colour and the brightness when in greyscale or binary mode.

10 VisualisationsAllows you to choose between the 6 different visualisations.

11 Previous Screen Navigates backwards one screen of text.

12 Play / PauseStarts and stops reading of your document.

13 Next Screen:Navigates forwards one screen of text.


Page 41

ReadEasy+ Low Vision Touch Pack

If you have purchased the Low Vision Touch Pack version of ReadEasy+ and a compatible multi-touch monitor, there are several features that are only applicable to you! These are detailed in this section.

Finger controlsRather than tracking a cursor around the screen, Low Vision Touch users can simply use their fingers on the screen to directly manipulate their documents and ReadEasy+’s controls. The specific touch screen controls are detailed below.

Start reading / menu activationPressing twice on a word, (double tapping), will start your document reading from that word.

Double tapping on menu items will also activate them.

Stop reading / toolbar useSingle tapping on the screen will stop ReadEasy+ from reading.

Single tapping on an icon on the toolbar will also make it perform its function.

Navigate around your documentTo move around your document, simply place one finger on the screen and maintain contact as you move your finger around.


Page 42

Zoom in / outTo increase the magnification of ReadEasy+, use your index finger and thumb to make a pinching movement on the screen.

To decrease the magnification, move your closed finger and thumb apart.

You can also do the pinching and stretching motion with two fingers on separate hands. Some people can find this easier.

Caring for your touch screenYour touch screen will attract finger marks over time. Please follow your particular touch screen’s guidelines for cleaning.


Page 43

Multi-Language

Reading documents with different languagesReadEasy+ is the first reading machine to offer automatic language detection. This means that whatever the language of the document is that you place under ReadEasy+, it will automatically change its reading voice to the voice of the document. This is subject to the languages that are available and installed.

This happens on a per-sentence basis so even single pages with multiple languages will read in the correct voice.

How to obtain additional languagesIf you wish to purchase an additional voice pack, please contact your local distributor.

How to activate additional languagesOnce you have contacted your distributor and purchased an additional language, they will provide you with a coded piece of paper. Capturing this document will automatically unlock and enable the new language.


Page 44

Supported languages with automatic switching

The following languages are currently supported by ReadEasy+ with automatic language switching capability:

Language VoicesCatalan Nurian (Female)Czech Zuzana (Female)Danish Ida (Female)Dutch Claire (Female - Netherlands) Xander (Male - Netherlands)

Ellen (Female – Belgian)English Daniel (Male - British) Serena (Female - British)

Sangeeta (Female – British Indian)Jill (Female - American) Samantha (Female - American) Tom (Male - American)Karen (Female - Australian) Lee (Male - Australian)Tessa (Female – South African)

Finnish Mikko (Male)French Felix (Male - Canadian) Julie (Female - Canadian)

Thomas (Male - French) Virginie (Female - French)German Anna (Female) Steffi (Female) Yannick (Male)Greek Alexandros (Male)Hungarian Eszter (Female)Italian Paolo (Male) Silvia (Female)Norwegian Stine (Female)Polish Agata (Female)Portuguese Joana (Female - Portuguese)

Raquel (Female - Brazilian)Russian Milena (Female)Spanish Diego (Male - Spanish) Monica (Female - Spanish)

Javier (Male - Mexican) Paulina (Female - Mexican)Swedish Alva (Female) Oskar (Male)Turkish Aylin (Female)


Page 45

Supported languages with manual switchingThe following additional languages are currently supported by ReadEasy+ but require manual language switching. This feature is only available with the advanced keypad feature pack.

Language VoicesChinese Sin-Ji (Female – Hong-Kong Cantonese)

Ting-Ting (Female – Chinese Mandarin)Ya-Ling (Female – Taiwanese Mandarin)

Korean Narae (Female)Romanian Simona (Female)Slovak Laura (Female)Thai Narisa (Female)


Page 46

Upgrading ReadEasy+’s softwareReadEasy+’s software can be upgraded as new versions become available. To find out if an updated version is available, please contact your local distributor or check on the VisionAid International Ltd website.

Determining your current versionFor ReadEasy+ systems without a feature pack, you can find out your current version, (at time of shipping) from the front cover of the user manual or audio user manual CD.

For users with a feature pack, the currently installed version can be found by navigating to:

“Settings” -> “System” -> “Version”.

Determining the latest version availablePlease either contact your local distributor or for users with internet access, the news section on the VisionAid International Ltd website can be checked, to find out what the latest version is.

How to upgradeUpdated software can either be downloaded from the VisionAid International Ltd website or obtained on a USB memory stick from your distributor.

If downloading, the software must be transferred to the root folder of a USB memory stick.

Then insert the memory stick into one of the USB ports once ReadEasy+ has started and announced it is ready. The upgrade process will begin automatically and you will be prompted when required.


Page 47

FAQ and Troubleshooting

Here is a list of common questions and problems with their solutions:

PROBLEM: ReadEasy+ doesn’t do anything when I press any of the buttons.

Answer 1: Make sure ReadEasy+ is correctly plugged in and turned on. The on / off switch will have an illuminated blue ring surrounding it when the unit is powered. Please refer to “Plugging in” on page 7 and “Turning on / off” on page 13 for more information.

Answer 2: If you are not using headphones, ensure that none are connected as ReadEasy+ will automatically mute the volume when they are connected. Please see page 18 for more information on headphones.

PROBLEM: When I try to capture a document, after I press capture, ReadEasy+ just keeps beeping.

Answer: Something is continually activating the automatic motion detection. If you are capturing a book, ensure the pages are not moving. Also ensure there is nothing else moving in the capture area.

Another option is to override the motion detection by simply pressing capture again.

PROBLEM: ReadEasy+ doesn’t seem to be reading all of my document.

Answer 1: Is your document larger than A4 or US Letter size? If so, it will not be possible to capture all of it. If possible, try re-positioning the document so that the part of the page you wish to read is within ReadEasy+’s capture area.

Answer 2: Ensure the camera has been correctly unfolded and extended all the way up. Please refer to page 12 , “Unfolding ReadEasy+’s camera” for more information.

Answer 3: Ensure your document is correctly positioned. If it is an A4 or Letter page, ensure it is in landscape orientation. One of the long edges of the document should be touching ReadEasy+’s case edge and the shorter right side of the document should be in line with the right side of the ReadEasy+.


Page 48

If this doesn’t help, firstly try sliding the document left slightly before capturing. If this doesn’t help, try sliding it right slightly before capturing.

PROBLEM: I’m trying to read a bank statement or tabular information but ReadEasy+ is reading down the columns rather than across them.

Answer: When capturing tabular information or bank statements, press and hold the capture button to force ReadEasy+ to read across columns.

PROBLEM: ReadEasy+ is inserting strange characters before and after my document.

Answer: Is ReadEasy+ sitting on a patterned surface? If so, this can sometimes cause it to recognise odd characters before and after your document. Try using the supplied contrast mat.

Appendix A: Safety

Handle the ReadEasy+ with care. Rough handling may damage internal components and will void your warranty.

Contact your VisionAid International distributor to service this equipment if necessary.

Do not open or remove any parts of the ReadEasy+ as it will void the warranty.

Do not expose the ReadEasy+ to excessive heat or direct sunlight. Do not use the ReadEasy+ near inadequately shielded medical devices. To avoid risk of electrical damage, keep your ReadEasy+ away from fluids

and chemicals. Always unplug ReadEasy+ before cleaning. Use a soft damp cloth to clean

the exterior. Do not use cleaning agents or abrasive materials as they will damage your unit.

Use of the ReadEasy+ other than described in this manual will exclude it from warranty.


Page 49

Appendix B: Technical Information

General informationDimensions camera down (WxDxH) 22 x 12 x 26 cm

8.6 x 4.7 x 10 inchesDimensions camera up (WxDxH)(footprint remains unchanged)

22 x 26.5 x 43 cm8.6 x 10.5 x 17 inches

Weight: 2.45 kg (5.4 lbs)Camera: High resolution 5 MPHeadphone connection: 3.5 mm stereo jack

Operating conditionsRelative Humidity: <70%, no condensationTemperature: 0 to 35 °C

Storage and transport conditionsRelative humidity: <95%, no condensationTemperature: -20 °C to 60 °C