Spelled-speech Terminals.
A Hewlett-Packard desktop computer has been pro grammed to output speech with a 64 word vocabulary. The vocabulary consists of the numerals, the alphabet and special symbols for punctuation and upper and lower case letters. This speech output system has been incorporated into three devices: (i) a word processing system which permits inputting, editing, printing and formatting. The speech, normally operating only during proofing and correcting, is acti vated whenever the cursor is positioned over a character. The system prices start at $14,000. (ii) an automatic data entry system which vocally prompts the blind operator to enter data on a typewriter keyboard. Data entered can be proofed and corrected by speech output which is activated by cursor keys on the keyboard. The system can be programmed to prompt the operator for data to fill out almost any form. The system starts at $14,000. (iii) a talking computer terminal can communicate with virtually any c...