Scanners and Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

In our ever growing technologically global world, the use of scanners has made converting hard copies into digital copies so efficient. In order to make things even more accessible, "when combined with special software that can recognize letters, known as optical character recognition software, [scanners] become an assistive technology tool that can transform print into alternative formats that can be read by people who are visually impaired". [5] With the use of OCR software, an individual can scan any print document, in which the document can be converted into an electronic file, where the text can be read in a variety of ways. The advancement of OCR technology, allows for accessible methods such as screen-reading programs, screen magnification programs, and even refreshable braille displays, for the use of people with visual impairments. [5] For many visually impaired individuals, the use of the conventional OCR accommodates their needs, however others sometimes prefer a specialized scanning system, while others continue to prefer the reading machine which utilizes the scanner, OCR software, and a voice input all in one unit. [5] Regardless of the type of method, adaptive scanner and OCR software technology has been tailored to the needs of visually impaired users.