In this issue Joe Lazzaro, of the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and a freelance author, provides an introduction to Windows XP. At press time, AccessWorld learned of a problem in Microsoft Office XP. Graphics Device Interface (GDIPlus) is used in Office XP applications such as Word or PowerPoint to draw embedded graphics directly to the screen, bypassing screen magnifiers and screen readers. As a result, a screen magnifier cannot magnify or smooth the images of embedded graphics. Microsoft is working on the problem and expects to have an update that corrects it available on its web site by the time you read this.
Deborah Kendrick profiles three people working successfully in the customer service field. Each one uses a screen reader and a braille display on the job.
Lynn Zelvin evaluates tax preparation software. Her tests of 2nd Story Software's TaxACT Deluxe and Intuit's Quicken TurboTax Deluxe show that it takes a lot of skill and screen reader knowledge to complete a tax return.
Debbie Cook, Project Director of the Washington State Assistive Technology Alliance, reviews the Sanyo 4700 cell phone and finds it somewhat accessible to blind users. In January, we promised a more in-depth article on what specific cell phone manufacturers and service providers have to offer. Some of the interviews necessary to complete that article were difficult to arrange, so it will appear in the May issue.
Mark Uslan and Ike Presley, National Program Associate in Literacy at the American Foundation for the Blind, evaluate Betacom's VisAble VideoTelescope, Enhanced Vision Systems' Jordy, and Clarity Solutions' MobileMate. Find out which one of these products will make it easiest for you to enjoy museums, sporting events, and other things you like to do.
How do you choose an assistive technology instructor? Cathy Anne Murtha, California-based online access technology specialist, outlines some suggestions in this issue's Trainer's Corner.
The April AccessWorld Extra will include our coverage of the Technology for Persons with Disabilities conference sponsored by the Center on Disabilities, California State University, Northridge (CSUN.) It will also feature reader comments and questions, assistive technology news, and more.
Jay Leventhal, Editor in Chief
