What is a reading system?

A reading system is hardware and software designed to provide access to printed text for people with visual impairments, mobility impairments, or learning disabilities. Specialized software controls a scanner that takes an image of a printed page, converts it to computer text with character recognition software, and then reads the text in a synthesized voice.

For more information about disability-related terms, consult Glossary of Disability-Related Terms. For information about other technology for people with disabilities, consult Technology.

For information about adaptive technology, consult Working Together: People with Disabilities and Computer Technology or view the video by the same title.