I'm looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display. I
need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable. I've
been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I thought
I'd ask if there were any others in that size range that might be worth
looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does the list
think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come out before I
purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on this subject.
I haven't seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from
Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if I'm
wrong), this has the features you've mentioned that you're looking for.
In Christ, Miranda
From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf
Of Amy Harris
Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
To: viphone@googlegroups.com
Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
Hi all,
I'm looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display. I
need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable. I've
been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I thought
I'd ask if there were any others in that size range that might be worth
looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does the list
think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come out before I
purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on this subject.
Amy
-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google
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Amy,
I have the Braillepen12 and it works great with my iPhone 4s.
It also works nicely with my husbands iPod touch.
It's very very portable and doesn't way much.
> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display. I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable. I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on this subject.
> Amy
> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
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Thanks for the info! :-) I've been looking at the BraillePen 12 and I hadn't heard about the HumanWare 14-cell display! I'm going to add that to my list. *GRIN* Below are the ones that I've been considering. I'd appreciate any thoughts that anyone has on them.
RefreshABraille 18 (8-dot Braille display.)
BraillePen 12
VarioConnect 12-cell (Baum)
EasyLink 12 (Optelec)
HumanWare Focus 14 (Thanks to the list! *GRIN*)
Also, I grew up on 6-dot Braille. For anyone that knows/has learned 8-dot Braille, is it a hard adaptation to make?
Another braille display which is small and you might like to consider is the Essys 12 or 24. I have the 40 and apart from a couple of repairs, this braille display works well with the I phone.
Best regards,
Kawal.
On 16 Sep 2012, at 19:42, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Thanks for the info! :-) I've been looking at the BraillePen 12 and I hadn't heard about the HumanWare 14-cell display! I'm going to add that to my list. *GRIN* Below are the ones that I've been considering. I'd appreciate any thoughts that anyone has on them.
> Also, I grew up on 6-dot Braille. For anyone that knows/has learned 8-dot Braille, is it a hard adaptation to make?
> Thanks again!
> Amy
> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
> To post to this group, send email to viphone@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to viphone+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
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> Thanks for the info! :-) I've been looking at the BraillePen 12 and I
> hadn't heard about the HumanWare 14-cell display! I'm going to add that to
> my list. *GRIN* Below are the ones that I've been considering. I'd
> appreciate any thoughts that anyone has on them.
> RefreshABraille 18 (8-dot Braille display.)
> BraillePen 12
> VarioConnect 12-cell (Baum)
> EasyLink 12 (Optelec)
> HumanWare Focus 14 (Thanks to the list! *GRIN*)
> Also, I grew up on 6-dot Braille. For anyone that knows/has learned 8-dot
> Braille, is it a hard adaptation to make?
> Thanks again!
> Amy
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google
> Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit
> http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
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-- Sharonda Greenlaw
President (Phoenix Chapter)
National Federation of the Blind
-------------
Come, read and take a journey with me at
www.WorldOfShariG.blogspot.com or find me here:
http:\\shari_greenlaw.livejournal.com
Skype: sharonda2004
Twitter: shari_rocks
Facebook: facebook.com/TheSharondaWhiteGreenlaw
Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal. I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help. *GRIN*
I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves. That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages, Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille display's software?
You can use the Essys as a separate note taker if you want. However when you use the I phone with the braille display, most functions ar done by manipulating the braille display I don't know why you can't use your list of applications through the display of your choice through your I phone. As long as the display is connected via bluetooth to your I phone, all things will work on your I phone. Does that help?
Kawal.
On 16 Sep 2012, at 20:05, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal. I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help. *GRIN*
> I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves. That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages, Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille display's software?
> Amy
> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
> To post to this group, send email to viphone@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to viphone+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
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> Hi,
> I haven’t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if I’m wrong), this has the features you’ve mentioned that you’re looking for.
> In Christ, Miranda
> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Amy Harris
> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
> Hi all,
> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display. I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable. I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on this subject.
> Amy
> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
> To post to this group, send email to viphone@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to viphone+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/viphone?hl=en.
> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
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> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to viphone+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
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All braille displays work similarly with the iPhone. It is the iOS software which controls everything. The braille display is for viewing and the keyboard is for typing. Controls are more basic than with a braille note taker.
I would be cautious about getting the HumanWare or vario displays. Connections can be more problematic do to the nature of the bluetooth driver stacks and controls in the HumanWare products.
I have an Alva BC640 and a RefreshaBraille. Both work well with my iPhone.
That said, I prefer the Refreshabraille because I can turn it on and off whilst my iPhone is unlocked and it connects and disconnects without difficulties. My Alva, on the other hand, requires that I lock my iPhone before I turn the Alva on. After the display is on, I unlock my iPhone and the Alva automatically connects. However, when I write in 8 dot computer braille, the Alva is easier because all 8 dots are in a row (40 cells gives more room for the keyboard). On the Refreshabraille, dots 7 and 8 are next to the spacebar, so harder to press dot 7 for capitalisation.
National Braille Press, NBP, in the US has a braille brochure with the computer braille code. They also use to sell a book training on computer braille. In computer braille, the letters are the same, numbers are dropped to the lower part of the 6 dot cell (1 is dot 2, 2 is dots 2 3, 3 is dots 2 5, Etc.), and there are unique symbols for each punctuation mark. Upper-case letters are the same as lower-case letters with dot 7 added. I write computer braille at the same speed that I write contracted braille.
For large files, I find my iPhone 4 does better in 8 dot mode rather than contracted braille mode. Also, in contracted braille mode, iOS has a half second buffer. If you stop writing for half a second, whatever is in the buffer is translated and written to the field. Braille entry works whenever the keyboard is activated. Also, almost everything VO speaks is simultaneously displayed in braille. I regularly take notes in braille during meetings with speech muted.
David Chittenden, MSc, MRCAA
Email: dchitten...@gmail.com
Mobile: +64 21 2288 288
Sent from my iPhone
On 17/09/2012, at 7:05, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal. I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help. *GRIN*
> I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves. That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages, Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille display's software?
> Amy
> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
> To post to this group, send email to viphone@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to viphone+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/viphone?hl=en.
I recently had a chance to use a Braille Pen 12 and compare it to several
others.
If you narrow your list down to the RefreshaBraille or the Braille Pen, go
with the Refreshabraille. The key responsiveness is much better with the
Refreshabraille, and even though it offers 18 cells, it is actually slightly
smaller than the Braille Pen 12.
I have not seen the Focus 14 from Freedom Scientific yet. I'm hoping to get
some time with one as soon as the dealer nearby gets one in, which should be
within two weeks.
I wasn't clear if you knew this, but all braille displays have 8 dots.
David gave a good explanation and a good resource for learning computer
braille in his message so I won't repeat all that.
HTH,
Richard
_____
From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf
Of Amy Harris
Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 11:43 AM
To: viphone@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
Thanks for the info! :-) I've been looking at the BraillePen 12 and I
hadn't heard about the HumanWare 14-cell display! I'm going to add that to
my list. *GRIN* Below are the ones that I've been considering. I'd
appreciate any thoughts that anyone has on them.
RefreshABraille 18 (8-dot Braille display.)
BraillePen 12
VarioConnect 12-cell (Baum)
EasyLink 12 (Optelec)
HumanWare Focus 14 (Thanks to the list! *GRIN*)
Also, I grew up on 6-dot Braille. For anyone that knows/has learned 8-dot
Braille, is it a hard adaptation to make?
Thanks again!
Amy
-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google
Group.
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Do you tend to use contracted more than uncontracted Braille? Also I think I'm going to get one of those booklets that will help me remember how to make an "at" @ symbol etc. I never used computer Braille. In fact until a year ago or so I had not used Braille since I was in school which was a good while ago. :)
I'm really looking to use my RefreshaBraille for more than just reading. :)
On Sep 16, 2012, at 3:42 PM, David Chittenden <dchitten...@gmail.com> wrote:
> All braille displays work similarly with the iPhone. It is the iOS software which controls everything. The braille display is for viewing and the keyboard is for typing. Controls are more basic than with a braille note taker.
> I would be cautious about getting the HumanWare or vario displays. Connections can be more problematic do to the nature of the bluetooth driver stacks and controls in the HumanWare products.
> I have an Alva BC640 and a RefreshaBraille. Both work well with my iPhone.
> That said, I prefer the Refreshabraille because I can turn it on and off whilst my iPhone is unlocked and it connects and disconnects without difficulties. My Alva, on the other hand, requires that I lock my iPhone before I turn the Alva on. After the display is on, I unlock my iPhone and the Alva automatically connects. However, when I write in 8 dot computer braille, the Alva is easier because all 8 dots are in a row (40 cells gives more room for the keyboard). On the Refreshabraille, dots 7 and 8 are next to the spacebar, so harder to press dot 7 for capitalisation.
> National Braille Press, NBP, in the US has a braille brochure with the computer braille code. They also use to sell a book training on computer braille. In computer braille, the letters are the same, numbers are dropped to the lower part of the 6 dot cell (1 is dot 2, 2 is dots 2 3, 3 is dots 2 5, Etc.), and there are unique symbols for each punctuation mark. Upper-case letters are the same as lower-case letters with dot 7 added. I write computer braille at the same speed that I write contracted braille.
> For large files, I find my iPhone 4 does better in 8 dot mode rather than contracted braille mode. Also, in contracted braille mode, iOS has a half second buffer. If you stop writing for half a second, whatever is in the buffer is translated and written to the field. Braille entry works whenever the keyboard is activated. Also, almost everything VO speaks is simultaneously displayed in braille. I regularly take notes in braille during meetings with speech muted.
> David Chittenden, MSc, MRCAA
> Email: dchitten...@gmail.com
> Mobile: +64 21 2288 288
> Sent from my iPhone
> On 17/09/2012, at 7:05, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal. I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help. *GRIN*
>> I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves. That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages, Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille display's software?
>> Amy
>> -- >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
>> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
>> To post to this group, send email to viphone@googlegroups.com.
>> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to viphone+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
>> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/viphone?hl=en.
> -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google Group.
> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
> To post to this group, send email to viphone@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to viphone+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/viphone?hl=en.
Hi Scott, Amy and others,
If you want a quick, easy way to look up braille codes you can't remember,
there is an app, made by someone I know, called Braille Reference, and is
$0.99 in the app store.
Under the computer braille section, if you select to search by name, it will
show you an alphabetical list of contractions. The At sign is the fourth
one in the list. He says "dots 7 and 4," which is correct. However, you
can get this if you are using contracted braille by doing space bar plus u
for upper case and then just a dot 4.
He plans an update with visual images for the braille cells in the near
future and there are a couple of search things he needs to clean up, but it
is a handy tool for a lot of my braille students.
HTH,
Richard
_____
From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf
Of Scott Howell
Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:47 PM
To: viphone@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
David,
Do you tend to use contracted more than uncontracted Braille? Also I think
I'm going to get one of those booklets that will help me remember how to
make an "at" @ symbol etc. I never used computer Braille. In fact until a
year ago or so I had not used Braille since I was in school which was a good
while ago. :)
I'm really looking to use my RefreshaBraille for more than just reading. :)
On Sep 16, 2012, at 3:42 PM, David Chittenden <dchitten...@gmail.com> wrote:
All braille displays work similarly with the iPhone. It is the iOS software
which controls everything. The braille display is for viewing and the
keyboard is for typing. Controls are more basic than with a braille note
taker.
I would be cautious about getting the HumanWare or vario displays.
Connections can be more problematic do to the nature of the bluetooth driver
stacks and controls in the HumanWare products.
I have an Alva BC640 and a RefreshaBraille. Both work well with my iPhone.
That said, I prefer the Refreshabraille because I can turn it on and off
whilst my iPhone is unlocked and it connects and disconnects without
difficulties. My Alva, on the other hand, requires that I lock my iPhone
before I turn the Alva on. After the display is on, I unlock my iPhone and
the Alva automatically connects. However, when I write in 8 dot computer
braille, the Alva is easier because all 8 dots are in a row (40 cells gives
more room for the keyboard). On the Refreshabraille, dots 7 and 8 are next
to the spacebar, so harder to press dot 7 for capitalisation.
National Braille Press, NBP, in the US has a braille brochure with the
computer braille code. They also use to sell a book training on computer
braille. In computer braille, the letters are the same, numbers are dropped
to the lower part of the 6 dot cell (1 is dot 2, 2 is dots 2 3, 3 is dots 2
5, Etc.), and there are unique symbols for each punctuation mark. Upper-case
letters are the same as lower-case letters with dot 7 added. I write
computer braille at the same speed that I write contracted braille.
For large files, I find my iPhone 4 does better in 8 dot mode rather than
contracted braille mode. Also, in contracted braille mode, iOS has a half
second buffer. If you stop writing for half a second, whatever is in the
buffer is translated and written to the field. Braille entry works whenever
the keyboard is activated. Also, almost everything VO speaks is
simultaneously displayed in braille. I regularly take notes in braille
during meetings with speech muted.
David Chittenden, MSc, MRCAA Email: dchitten...@gmail.com
Mobile: +64 21 2288 288
Sent from my iPhone
On 17/09/2012, at 7:05, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com> wrote:
Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal.
I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help.
*GRIN*
I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves.
That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of
being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through
braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd
also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages,
Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing
even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille
display's software?
Amy
-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone" Google
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I pretty much haven't used braille since school either, and I don't want to think about how long ago that was, *GRIN* but I can see where it would really come in handy for me in meetings so I really want/need to re-learn computer braille. Sheesh, can you say run-on?!!! I thought I learned English in school too, but apparently NOT! LOL
I really appreciate the info on computer braille, and the info on the app, which I intend to BUY, especially since it came along after I graduated. I think that, especially when I'm supposed to be taking notes in meetings, this will really be helpful! I can't appreciate this enough since I wouldn't have a clue without everyone's help!
Thanks for the heads up about that app, looks good.
Frank Ventura
Email: frank.vent...@littlebreezes.com<mailto:frank.vent...@littlebreezes.com>
Voicemail: 781 492-4262
Imessage: frankmvent...@mac.com<mailto:frankmvent...@mac.com>
*Sent from my Mac Book Air*
On Sep 16, 2012, at 5:06 PM, Richard Turner <richard.turne...@gmail.com<mailto:richard.turne...@gmail.com>> wrote:
Hi Scott, Amy and others,
If you want a quick, easy way to look up braille codes you can't remember, there is an app, made by someone I know, called Braille Reference, and is $0.99 in the app store.
Under the computer braille section, if you select to search by name, it will show you an alphabetical list of contractions. The At sign is the fourth one in the list. He says "dots 7 and 4," which is correct. However, you can get this if you are using contracted braille by doing space bar plus u for upper case and then just a dot 4.
He plans an update with visual images for the braille cells in the near future and there are a couple of search things he needs to clean up, but it is a handy tool for a lot of my braille students.
HTH,
Richard
________________________________
From: viphone@googlegroups.com<mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com> [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com<http://googlegroups.com>] On Behalf Of Scott Howell
Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:47 PM
To: viphone@googlegroups.com<mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com>
Subject: Re: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
David,
Do you tend to use contracted more than uncontracted Braille? Also I think I'm going to get one of those booklets that will help me remember how to make an "at" @ symbol etc. I never used computer Braille. In fact until a year ago or so I had not used Braille since I was in school which was a good while ago. :)
I'm really looking to use my RefreshaBraille for more than just reading. :)
On Sep 16, 2012, at 3:42 PM, David Chittenden <dchitten...@gmail.com<mailto:dchitten...@gmail.com>> wrote:
All braille displays work similarly with the iPhone. It is the iOS software which controls everything. The braille display is for viewing and the keyboard is for typing. Controls are more basic than with a braille note taker.
I would be cautious about getting the HumanWare or vario displays. Connections can be more problematic do to the nature of the bluetooth driver stacks and controls in the HumanWare products.
I have an Alva BC640 and a RefreshaBraille. Both work well with my iPhone.
That said, I prefer the Refreshabraille because I can turn it on and off whilst my iPhone is unlocked and it connects and disconnects without difficulties. My Alva, on the other hand, requires that I lock my iPhone before I turn the Alva on. After the display is on, I unlock my iPhone and the Alva automatically connects. However, when I write in 8 dot computer braille, the Alva is easier because all 8 dots are in a row (40 cells gives more room for the keyboard). On the Refreshabraille, dots 7 and 8 are next to the spacebar, so harder to press dot 7 for capitalisation.
National Braille Press, NBP, in the US has a braille brochure with the computer braille code. They also use to sell a book training on computer braille. In computer braille, the letters are the same, numbers are dropped to the lower part of the 6 dot cell (1 is dot 2, 2 is dots 2 3, 3 is dots 2 5, Etc.), and there are unique symbols for each punctuation mark. Upper-case letters are the same as lower-case letters with dot 7 added. I write computer braille at the same speed that I write contracted braille.
For large files, I find my iPhone 4 does better in 8 dot mode rather than contracted braille mode. Also, in contracted braille mode, iOS has a half second buffer. If you stop writing for half a second, whatever is in the buffer is translated and written to the field. Braille entry works whenever the keyboard is activated. Also, almost everything VO speaks is simultaneously displayed in braille. I regularly take notes in braille during meetings with speech muted.
David Chittenden, MSc, MRCAA
Email: dchitten...@gmail.com<mailto:dchitten...@gmail.com>
Mobile: +64 21 2288 288
Sent from my iPhone
On 17/09/2012, at 7:05, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com<mailto:aharr...@gmail.com>> wrote:
Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal. I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help. *GRIN*
I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves. That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages, Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille display's software?
Amy
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It does. I've ordered one but its on back order or they just haven't started shipping yet but it will do all that you've asked and more.
On Sep 16, 2012, at 12:37 PM, Miranda B. <knownofl...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Hi,
> I haven’t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if I’m wrong), this has the features you’ve mentioned that you’re looking for.
> In Christ, Miranda
> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Amy Harris
> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
> Hi all,
> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display. I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable. I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on this subject.
> Amy
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> Hi Scott, Amy and others,
> If you want a quick, easy way to look up braille codes you can't remember, there is an app, made by someone I know, called Braille Reference, and is $0.99 in the app store.
> Under the computer braille section, if you select to search by name, it will show you an alphabetical list of contractions. The At sign is the fourth one in the list. He says "dots 7 and 4," which is correct. However, you can get this if you are using contracted braille by doing space bar plus u for upper case and then just a dot 4.
> He plans an update with visual images for the braille cells in the near future and there are a couple of search things he needs to clean up, but it is a handy tool for a lot of my braille students.
> HTH,
> Richard
> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Scott Howell
> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:47 PM
> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
> David,
> Do you tend to use contracted more than uncontracted Braille? Also I think I'm going to get one of those booklets that will help me remember how to make an "at" @ symbol etc. I never used computer Braille. In fact until a year ago or so I had not used Braille since I was in school which was a good while ago. :)
> I'm really looking to use my RefreshaBraille for more than just reading. :)
> On Sep 16, 2012, at 3:42 PM, David Chittenden <dchitten...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> All braille displays work similarly with the iPhone. It is the iOS software which controls everything. The braille display is for viewing and the keyboard is for typing. Controls are more basic than with a braille note taker.
>> I would be cautious about getting the HumanWare or vario displays. Connections can be more problematic do to the nature of the bluetooth driver stacks and controls in the HumanWare products.
>> I have an Alva BC640 and a RefreshaBraille. Both work well with my iPhone.
>> That said, I prefer the Refreshabraille because I can turn it on and off whilst my iPhone is unlocked and it connects and disconnects without difficulties. My Alva, on the other hand, requires that I lock my iPhone before I turn the Alva on. After the display is on, I unlock my iPhone and the Alva automatically connects. However, when I write in 8 dot computer braille, the Alva is easier because all 8 dots are in a row (40 cells gives more room for the keyboard). On the Refreshabraille, dots 7 and 8 are next to the spacebar, so harder to press dot 7 for capitalisation.
>> National Braille Press, NBP, in the US has a braille brochure with the computer braille code. They also use to sell a book training on computer braille. In computer braille, the letters are the same, numbers are dropped to the lower part of the 6 dot cell (1 is dot 2, 2 is dots 2 3, 3 is dots 2 5, Etc.), and there are unique symbols for each punctuation mark. Upper-case letters are the same as lower-case letters with dot 7 added. I write computer braille at the same speed that I write contracted braille.
>> For large files, I find my iPhone 4 does better in 8 dot mode rather than contracted braille mode. Also, in contracted braille mode, iOS has a half second buffer. If you stop writing for half a second, whatever is in the buffer is translated and written to the field. Braille entry works whenever the keyboard is activated. Also, almost everything VO speaks is simultaneously displayed in braille. I regularly take notes in braille during meetings with speech muted.
>> David Chittenden, MSc, MRCAA
>> Email: dchitten...@gmail.com
>> Mobile: +64 21 2288 288
>> Sent from my iPhone
>> On 17/09/2012, at 7:05, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>> Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal. I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help. *GRIN*
>>> I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves. That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages, Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille display's software?
>>> Amy
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> It does. I've ordered one but its on back order or they just haven't started
> shipping yet but it will do all that you've asked and more.
> On Sep 16, 2012, at 12:37 PM, Miranda B. <knownofl...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> Hi,
>> I haven’t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from
>> Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if
>> I’m wrong), this has the features you’ve mentioned that you’re looking
>> for.
>> In Christ, Miranda
>> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf
>> Of Amy Harris
>> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
>> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
>> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
>> Hi all,
>> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display.
>> I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
>> bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable.
>> I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I
>> thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be
>> worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does
>> the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come
>> out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on
>> this subject.
>> Amy
>> --
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----- Original Message ----- From: Amy Harris
To: viphone@googlegroups.com
Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 2:42 PM
Subject: Re: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
Thanks for the info! :-) I've been looking at the BraillePen 12 and I hadn't heard about the HumanWare 14-cell display! I'm going to add that to my list. *GRIN* Below are the ones that I've been considering. I'd appreciate any thoughts that anyone has on them.
RefreshABraille 18 (8-dot Braille display.)
BraillePen 12
VarioConnect 12-cell (Baum)
EasyLink 12 (Optelec)
HumanWare Focus 14 (Thanks to the list! *GRIN*)
Also, I grew up on 6-dot Braille. For anyone that knows/has learned 8-dot Braille, is it a hard adaptation to make?
Thanks again!
Amy
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> I had heard that the focus displays don't work with the current ios.
> Can anyone verify this?
> Kimber
> On 9/16/12, VaShaun Jones <vashaun.jo...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> It does. I've ordered one but its on back order or they just haven't started
>> shipping yet but it will do all that you've asked and more.
>> On Sep 16, 2012, at 12:37 PM, Miranda B. <knownofl...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>> Hi,
>>> I haven’t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from
>>> Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if
>>> I’m wrong), this has the features you’ve mentioned that you’re looking
>>> for.
>>> In Christ, Miranda
>>> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf
>>> Of Amy Harris
>>> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
>>> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
>>> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
>>> Hi all,
>>> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display.
>>> I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
>>> bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable.
>>> I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I
>>> thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be
>>> worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does
>>> the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come
>>> out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on
>>> this subject.
>>> Amy
>>> --
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>>> Google Group.
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> -- > Kimberly
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As told to me by a freedom scientific employee in Louisville at the ACB convention, the 14 cell will not work with iOS until six is released. Yes, the 40 cell did work with five.
Telephone: (614)522-9725 Skype: sseric57
On Sep 17, 2012, at 12:13 PM, Richard Turner <richard.turne...@gmail.com> wrote:
That is totally not true.
In fact, they connect very nicely with iOS 5.1.1.
I tried out the focus 40 a month ago.
Richard
(Sent from Richard's iPhone)
On Sep 17, 2012, at 7:39 AM, Kimber Gardner <kimbersinbox1...@gmail.com> wrote:
> I had heard that the focus displays don't work with the current ios.
> Can anyone verify this?
> Kimber
> On 9/16/12, VaShaun Jones <vashaun.jo...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> It does. I've ordered one but its on back order or they just haven't started
>> shipping yet but it will do all that you've asked and more.
>> On Sep 16, 2012, at 12:37 PM, Miranda B. <knownofl...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>> Hi,
>>> I haven’t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from
>>> Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if
>>> I’m wrong), this has the features you’ve mentioned that you’re looking
>>> for.
>>> In Christ, Miranda
>>> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf
>>> Of Amy Harris
>>> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
>>> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
>>> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
>>> Hi all,
>>> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display.
>>> I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
>>> bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable.
>>> I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I
>>> thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be
>>> worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does
>>> the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come
>>> out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on
>>> this subject.
>>> Amy
>>> --
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>>> Google Group.
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> -- > Kimberly
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> As told to me by a freedom scientific employee in Louisville at the ACB
> convention, the 14 cell will not work with iOS until six is released. Yes,
> the 40 cell did work with five.
> Telephone: (614)522-9725
> Skype: sseric57
> On Sep 17, 2012, at 12:13 PM, Richard Turner <richard.turne...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
> That is totally not true.
> In fact, they connect very nicely with iOS 5.1.1.
> I tried out the focus 40 a month ago.
> Richard
> (Sent from Richard's iPhone)
> On Sep 17, 2012, at 7:39 AM, Kimber Gardner <kimbersinbox1...@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>> I had heard that the focus displays don't work with the current ios.
>> Can anyone verify this?
>> Kimber
>> On 9/16/12, VaShaun Jones <vashaun.jo...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>> It does. I've ordered one but its on back order or they just haven't
>>> started
>>> shipping yet but it will do all that you've asked and more.
>>> On Sep 16, 2012, at 12:37 PM, Miranda B. <knownofl...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>>> Hi,
>>>> I haven’t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14
>>>> from
>>>> Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me
>>>> if
>>>> I’m wrong), this has the features you’ve mentioned that you’re looking
>>>> for.
>>>> In Christ, Miranda
>>>> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On
>>>> Behalf
>>>> Of Amy Harris
>>>> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
>>>> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
>>>> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
>>>> Hi all,
>>>> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille
>>>> keyboard/display.
>>>> I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
>>>> bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable.
>>>> I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I
>>>> thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might
>>>> be
>>>> worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does
>>>> the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come
>>>> out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts
>>>> on
>>>> this subject.
>>>> Amy
>>>> --
>>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone"
>>>> Google Group.
>>>> To search the VIPhone public archive, visit
>>>> http://www.mail-archive.com/viphone@googlegroups.com/.
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>>>> athttp://groups.google.com/group/viphone?hl=en.
>>>> --
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>> Kimberly
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The one that I saw worked with 5.1. I don't know about IOS 6. I do know that the HIMS products don't work with 5.1, but again, that may be resolved with Ios 6.
----- Original Message ----- From: "Kimber Gardner" <kimbersinbox1...@gmail.com>
To: <viphone@googlegroups.com>
Sent: Monday, September 17, 2012 10:39 AM
Subject: Re: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
I had heard that the focus displays don't work with the current ios.
Can anyone verify this?
Kimber
On 9/16/12, VaShaun Jones <vashaun.jo...@gmail.com> wrote:
> It does. I've ordered one but its on back order or they just haven't > started
> shipping yet but it will do all that you've asked and more.
> On Sep 16, 2012, at 12:37 PM, Miranda B. <knownofl...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> Hi,
>> I haven t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from
>> Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if
>> I m wrong), this has the features you ve mentioned that you re looking
>> for.
>> In Christ, Miranda
>> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On >> Behalf
>> Of Amy Harris
>> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
>> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
>> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
>> Hi all,
>> I m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display.
>> I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
>> bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable.
>> I ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I
>> thought I d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be
>> worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does
>> the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come
>> out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts >> on
>> this subject.
>> Amy
>> --
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-- Kimberly
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I listen much more than I read. I am dyslexic, so mainly use reading braille for editing purposes and phone numbers and such. My typing is rather slow because I regularly get my fingers reversed (q-p, o-w, s-l, Etc.) When writing braille, this is not a problem since both hands are used for most alphanumeric symbols. After many years of practice, my typing speed is between 30 and 35 words per minute. My brailling speed is about double my typing speed.
I taught myself computer braille in the early 90's when I used a Braille 'n Speak to access BBSes. At this point, my computer braille writing is faster than my contracted braille writing since I do not always remember the contracted symbol whilst writing. For this reason, I prefer Apple's contracted braille input method. Often, when writing in contracted braille, I use a mix of contracted and uncontracted braille. I just must remember not to use computer braille punctuation symbols when writing this way as iOS gets confused when I do so. I have been using contracted braille more to improve that skill and write more comfortably on my Refreshabraille. However, when my computer is turned off and I am not out and about, I connect my Alva because I prefer writing computer braille. Finally, I have my VO set to Australian English. Now that I live in NZ, the official braille here is UEB, and setting VO to Australian sets UEB as contracted braille. So, when I read and write contracted braille, I force myself to learn UEB (which I have now done).
David Chittenden, MSc, MRCAA
Email: dchitten...@gmail.com
Mobile: +64 21 2288 288
Sent from my iPhone
On 17/09/2012, at 8:46, Scott Howell <scottn3...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Do you tend to use contracted more than uncontracted Braille? Also I think I'm going to get one of those booklets that will help me remember how to make an "at" @ symbol etc. I never used computer Braille. In fact until a year ago or so I had not used Braille since I was in school which was a good while ago. :)
> I'm really looking to use my RefreshaBraille for more than just reading. :)
> On Sep 16, 2012, at 3:42 PM, David Chittenden <dchitten...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> All braille displays work similarly with the iPhone. It is the iOS software which controls everything. The braille display is for viewing and the keyboard is for typing. Controls are more basic than with a braille note taker.
>> I would be cautious about getting the HumanWare or vario displays. Connections can be more problematic do to the nature of the bluetooth driver stacks and controls in the HumanWare products.
>> I have an Alva BC640 and a RefreshaBraille. Both work well with my iPhone.
>> That said, I prefer the Refreshabraille because I can turn it on and off whilst my iPhone is unlocked and it connects and disconnects without difficulties. My Alva, on the other hand, requires that I lock my iPhone before I turn the Alva on. After the display is on, I unlock my iPhone and the Alva automatically connects. However, when I write in 8 dot computer braille, the Alva is easier because all 8 dots are in a row (40 cells gives more room for the keyboard). On the Refreshabraille, dots 7 and 8 are next to the spacebar, so harder to press dot 7 for capitalisation.
>> National Braille Press, NBP, in the US has a braille brochure with the computer braille code. They also use to sell a book training on computer braille. In computer braille, the letters are the same, numbers are dropped to the lower part of the 6 dot cell (1 is dot 2, 2 is dots 2 3, 3 is dots 2 5, Etc.), and there are unique symbols for each punctuation mark. Upper-case letters are the same as lower-case letters with dot 7 added. I write computer braille at the same speed that I write contracted braille.
>> For large files, I find my iPhone 4 does better in 8 dot mode rather than contracted braille mode. Also, in contracted braille mode, iOS has a half second buffer. If you stop writing for half a second, whatever is in the buffer is translated and written to the field. Braille entry works whenever the keyboard is activated. Also, almost everything VO speaks is simultaneously displayed in braille. I regularly take notes in braille during meetings with speech muted.
>> David Chittenden, MSc, MRCAA
>> Email: dchitten...@gmail.com
>> Mobile: +64 21 2288 288
>> Sent from my iPhone
>> On 17/09/2012, at 7:05, Amy Harris <aharr...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>> Sharonda, thanks for the clarification, and thanks for the Essys 14 Kawal. I knew that if I asked here I could get REAL help. You know, useful help. *GRIN*
>>> I know that some braille displays are notetakers in and of themselves. That's not really what I need. I need something more along the lines of being able to turn off VoiceOver on my iDevice yet still use it through braille while in a meeting. Does that eliminate any of these devices? I'd also love a display that worked with iPhone apps like Pages, Messages, Notes, Mail, Reminders, my grocery list app, and so on. Does such a thing even exist, or does it all have to be done through the particular braille display's software?
>>> Amy
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> I had heard that the focus displays don't work with the current ios.
> Can anyone verify this?
> Kimber
> On 9/16/12, VaShaun Jones <vashaun.jo...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> It does. I've ordered one but its on back order or they just haven't started
>> shipping yet but it will do all that you've asked and more.
>> On Sep 16, 2012, at 12:37 PM, Miranda B. <knownofl...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>> Hi,
>>> I haven’t seen this myself, but I am very interested in the Focus 14 from
>>> Freedom Scientific. From what I understand (someone please correct me if
>>> I’m wrong), this has the features you’ve mentioned that you’re looking
>>> for.
>>> In Christ, Miranda
>>> From: viphone@googlegroups.com [mailto:viphone@googlegroups.com] On Behalf
>>> Of Amy Harris
>>> Sent: Sunday, September 16, 2012 1:31 PM
>>> To: viphone@googlegroups.com
>>> Subject: Small braille keyboard/displays for iPhone
>>> Hi all,
>>> I’m looking at buying an iphone 5 as well as a braille keyboard/display.
>>> I need the keyboard/display to be in one single unit, to connect using
>>> bluetooth, to also work with my iPad 2, and to be very small/portable.
>>> I’ve been looking at the BraillePen 12 or the RefreshABraille 18, but I
>>> thought I’d ask if there were any others in that size range that might be
>>> worth looking at, and if there were any pros/cons to any of them. Does
>>> the list think that I should wait until IOS6 and/or the new iTunes come
>>> out before I purchase a braille display? Thanks for any quick thoughts on
>>> this subject.
>>> Amy
>>> --
>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the "VIPhone"
>>> Google Group.
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