Tech Connect
Do you know what I/O AT with DV means?
I= Input, O= Output, AT = Assistive Technology, DV= David Vosnacos
A person’s input (I) and their output (O) can be increased with assistive technology (AT) and this is where David Vosnacos (DV) has helped those who are blind or have low vison navigate their way around their communities, homes, schools and work.
David Vosnacos, is VisAbility’s Program Manager Assistive Technology and Specialist Services and self-confessed ‘tech geek’. He specialises in all areas of access; from access consultancy, print and web access, access to premises, accessible media and assistive technology.
Involved in a range of projects for VisAbility, David provides valuable feedback of the access needs for people living with blindness or a vision impairment.
His most recent project was the refurbishment of the new Western Australian museum. David was part of the Access and Inclusion Community Panel, which provided valuable feedback about the museum’s accessibility.
We asked David to share his thoughts, tips and tricks on various pieces of assistive technology; what works, what doesn’t etc.
This month David shares his take on NuEyes (link opens in new window). Smart glasses for those with low vision, with an in-built video camera that magnifies what you are looking at.
NuEyes. New experience.
‘The two units provide a very different experience to accessing printed material via magnification and text to speech’, explains David.
NuEyes E2
The NuEyes E2 looks and feels like a virtual reality headset with all the operating buttons within easy reach. It’s well weighted as well as compared to it’s competitors. What’s more its all integrated so no worries of an essential part becoming detached. It fits snugly on your face but like all VR (virtual reality) headsets can be a little uncomfortable when used for extended periods.
NuEyes Pro
The NuEyes Pro is more like wearing a (heavy) pair of sunglasses but offers the same functionality in a smaller headset than the E2. But being smaller means, it does get a little warmer when in use: just right for a Tassie winter? The way it projects the magnified image means you could potentially be looking at something and getting a magnified image over the top. What’s more, its voice controlled, however didn’t seem to like this consultant’s accent initially.
The verdict
Both units come with Bluetooth enabled controllers that can be operated in one hand. This is very useful if you have any issue with your shoulders or upper limbs in general.
These units aren’t for everyone but if you are looking for a handsfree, magnification and OCR option they could well worth be thinking about.
How to get support
If you have a diagnosis of vision impairment, please contact our friendly team to find out what low vision services and support we can provide to you both now and into the future.
There are also a number of low vision support groups within Perth and across the state, which can connect you with like-minded people to build friendships and offer support.
If you are a provider and wish to refer a client, please use our low vision medical certificate (online referral form) to make your referral.