Freedom Scientific - JAWS Headquarters

JAWS 11.0.734 Update

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:35:00 GMT

Enhancements in JAWS 11.0.734 (October 2009)

The following was addressed between the final JAWS 11.0.729 release and the JAWS 11.0.734 posting. All enhancements since the initial public beta release are included in this release.

Security update for JAWS 11

Use Check for Updates to get the Latest JAWS Versions and DAISY Training Books

Use Check for Updates in the JAWS Help menu to get the latest versions of JAWS software as well as updated DAISY books when they are available. Go to the Help menu in JAWS and choose Check for Updates.

Freedom Scientific Releases JAWS® 11

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:30:00 GMT

Users Praise the Benefits of "Research It" Feature

(St. Petersburg, Florida, October 19, 2009) Freedom Scientific today announced the English release of JAWS version 11, the world's leading screen reader for visually impaired computer users. This new release includes features that will expand educational and employment opportunities for users at all levels. These new features include Research It, Word Index, a free software DAISY player, and enhancements specifically for Windows 7, including UI Automation support and improved ARIA support.

The new Research It feature lets users quickly access information for any application and immediately return to what they were doing. Use just a few keystrokes to look up information such as word definitions, Wikipedia results, weather conditions, news stories, or even sports scores. When you have finished reviewing the information, simply press ESCAPE to return to your current task. An Internet connection is all that is required to use Research It with JAWS 11. There is also a very comprehensive Research It Developer's Guide that shows how individuals or organizations can modify Research It to create their own lookups on the Web or even within their own network for improved on-the-job efficiency.

For more information, listen to the September FSCast, where this feature and others are demonstrated and discussed in detail.

Beginning with PAC Mate™ Omni earlier this year and now with JAWS 11, Freedom Scientific is pleased to include a free FSReader software DAISY player for all of our customers. ?There is no question that DAISY books are becoming more and more a part of our everyday lives," said Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management, "and having a free reader installed along with our screen reader and MAGic® screen magnification products is a real benefit. We have also updated all the free Basic Training DAISY books, and they are all now shipping right on the DVD.

Hear All the New JAWS 11 Features Demonstrated in FSCast

Listen to Eric Damery, Product Manager for JAWS, and Jonathan Mosen, Vice President of Blindness Hardware Product Management, discuss the latest JAWS 11 enhancements in both the August 2009 FSCast and the September 2009 FSCast. The August FSCast covers all the new features, and the September FSCast discusses more changes to Research It and includes an interview with Glen Gordon, the Chief Technology Officer. For more information about JAWS 11, see the What's New page.

What's New in JAWS 11 DAISY Book Posted

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:01:00 GMT

The brand new What's New in JAWS 11 DAISY book featuring Eric Damery is now available. Be sure to get the latest DAISY book and hear Eric describe the new features in JAWS 11. Topics covered include:

JAWS 11 ships on a DVD
FSReader and DAISY books
Windows 7, ARIA, and UI Automation
Filter duplicate links
Speaking number strings as single digits
Research It
Word Index
And additional features

Use Check for Updates to get the new DAISY Book

The What's New in JAWS 11 DAISY book can be found in the Check for Updates in the JAWS Help menu for both JAWS 10 and JAWS 11 users. Go to the Help menu in JAWS and choose Check for Updates.

Download the What's New in JAWS 11 DAISY Book

The What's New in JAWS 11 DAISY book can also be downloaded from the Training Downloads page at http://www.freedomscientific.com/downloads/training/training-downloads.asp.

Eric Damery Vice President of Software Management Unveils JAWS 11 on Tek Talk

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:00:00 GMT

On Monday, October 19th, Eric Damery will take the Tek Talk audience on a tour of JAWS 11. For the first time, this exciting software release will be distributed on a DVD providing the user with additional helpful materials, as well as a free DAISY player; FS Reader. You won't want to miss Eric's demonstration of the new robust features included in the release of JAWS 11, as well as his discussion of several important enhancements. Here are a few examples of these powerful new features.

Research it is a new feature that provides quick access to information while also making it easy to return to your primary task. Use just a few keystrokes to look up information and display salient data in the Virtual Viewer. When you have finished researching, just press escape to return to the task you were performing before the research started.

Eric will demonstrate the new Word Index feature. This generates a list of words that frequently appear on a document or web page. The words are sorted and appear in the list based on the number of occurrences, with the highest number placed first, and the remaining words alphabetized.

Be sure to mark your calendar and save the date.

Date: Monday, October 19th, 2009

Time: 5:00 PM PDT, 6:00 PM MDT, 7:00 PM CDT, and 8:00 PM EDT and elsewhere in the world Tuesday 0:00 GMT

Approximately 15 minutes prior to the event start time, go to The Pat Price Tek Talk Training Room at: http://conference321.com/masteradmin/room.asp?id=rsc9613dc89eb2

Or, alternatively, Select The Pat Price Tek Talk Training Room at:

http://www.accessibleworld.org

Enter your first and last names on the sign-in screen. If you are a first-time user of the Talking Communities online conferencing software, there is a small, safe software program that you need to download and then run. A link to the software is available on every entry screen to the Accessible World rooms.

All online interactive programs require no password, are free of charge, and open to anyone worldwide having an Internet connection, a computer, speakers, and a sound card. Those with microphones can interact audibly with the presenters and others in the virtual audience. To speak to us, hold down the control key and let up to listen. If a microphone is not available, you may text chat with the attendees.

All Tek Talk events are recorded and archived. If you are unable to participate live at the above time, then you may download the presentation or podcast from the Accessible World Recent Additions at:
http://www.accessibleworld.org

JAWS 11 Public Beta Update Released

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:00:00 GMT

An update to JAWS 11 Public Beta is now available. Read more about:

What's New in JAWS 11 Public Beta
JAWS 11 Features
Download Information

Please visit the JAWS Public Beta page for full details.

Listen to the August 2009 FSCast as Jonathan Mosen is joined by Eric Damery, our Vice President of Software Product Management, to unveil what's new in our JAWS® 11 screen reading software.

JAWS 11 Public Beta Released

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 19:45:00 GMT

The JAWS 11 Public Beta is now available. Read more about:

What's New in JAWS 11 Public Beta
JAWS 11 Features
Download Information

Please visit the JAWS Public Beta page for full details.

Listen to the August 2009 FSCast as Jonathan Mosen is joined by Eric Damery, our Vice President of Software Product Management, to unveil what's new in our JAWS® 11 screen reading software.

JAWS 10.0.1154 Update Released

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:58:11 GMT

Enhancements in JAWS 10.0.1154 (June 2009)

The following is a list of items addressed between the final JAWS 10.0.1151 release and the JAWS 10.0.1154 posting. All enhancements since the initial public beta release are included in this release. For a list of enhancements and improvements in previous JAWS 10 releases, see earlier JAWS enhancements.

Resolved an issue where JAWS would not properly read the playlist window in the latest iTunes® 8 automatic update.
Resolved a reported issue with how JAWS worked with the Track Changes feature in Word. Speech and braille were not working correctly for any markups once the view was set to Final.

Use Check for Updates

To use the check for updates feature of JAWS do the following:

Press INSERT+J to open the JAWS application window.
Press ALT+H to open the Help menu.
Press P to select Check for Updates. The update feature determines if you have the most current release. If you do not, select one or more items from the list and then select INSTALL to begin the update. All enhancements since the initial public beta release are included in the update.

JAWS 10.0.1151 Update Released

Tue, 19 May 2009 17:45:00 GMT

The following is a list of items addressed between the final JAWS 10.0.1142 release and the JAWS 10.0.1151 posting. All enhancements since the initial public beta release are included in this release. For a list of enhancements and improvements in previous JAWS 10 releases, see earlier JAWS enhancements.

Resolved an issue in Internet Explorer 8 where the JAWS Scripts that control reading and navigating the address bar with INSERT+A and INSERT+A twice quickly had stopped working. These commands are very useful when you want URL information without moving your Virtual Cursor from your reading position on the Web page. These scripts continue to work correctly in Internet Explorer 7 and Internet Explorer 6.
JAWS correctly reads and speaks the column and field titles in Access 2007 database tables. For example, when you press INSERT+TAB while focus is in an Access table cell (field), JAWS will now announce all field information such as the column name, the field contents, and any other associated tutor message. Previously, the column name information was not mentioned, or it was necessary to press ALT+TAB to leave and then return to the application in order to hear the complete field information.
When you use the UP ARROW or DOWN ARROW to navigate by line in the Virtual Viewer while in Access 2007, JAWS now speaks each line. Previously, JAWS would only speak the line of text when you pressed INSERT+UP ARROW to read the current line.
The 64-bit version of JAWS 10 now correctly tracks focus when running Microsoft Windows 7.
When you select text using SHIFT+LEFT ARROW or SHIFT+RIGHT ARROW, such as in the File name edit field of the Open dialog box, JAWS now announces each character as it is selected. Previously, JAWS would just say the word “Selected” without announcing the character.
When composing a new e-mail message using Outlook Express 6, JAWS will now announce the words “Edit, type in text” when you move into the message body using TAB or CTRL+GRAVE. Previously, JAWS would say “Edit, read only.”
When talking in a Freedom Scientific Webinar training session, you can use the ALT+L command to lock and unlock the Talk key. This command now functions correctly with the Webinar conference software plug-in that you must install the first time you attend a training session.
Resolved several HTML issues when using JAWS with Libera System 7 Framework™ solutions software.

Use Check for Updates

To use the check for updates feature of JAWS do the following:

Press INSERT+J to open the JAWS application window.
Press ALT+H to open the Help menu.
Press P to select Check for Updates. The update feature determines if you have the most current release. If you do not, select one or more items from the list and then select INSTALL to begin the update. All enhancements since the initial public beta release are included in the update.

JAWS 10.0.1142 Update Released

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 20:15:00 GMT

The following is a list of items addressed between the final JAWS 10.0.1139 release and the JAWS 10.0.1142 posting.

The Yahoo Instant Messenger.jss script file has been updated and included in JAWS 10 to provide support for the latest version of Yahoo! Messenger 9. Make sure to download the latest Yahoo! Messenger for full compatibility with JAWS 10.
The message history in AOL Instant Messenger and the e-mail messages in the Gmail Inbox are now visible to JAWS. Previously, the virtual buffer would appear to be blank if you tried to read message history or Inbox messages.
When navigating through the Gmail Inbox, you can once again select and open an e-mail message by pressing ENTER when focus is on the text in the Subject column. In a previous release, it was necessary to turn off the Virtual Cursor or use the JAWS cursor to open the e-mail message.
Resolved an issue related to certain Web pages with frames, which, when updated, created a situation where JAWS would not read the text present in the updated frame. This problem was reported for both Gmail and the Webinar software used by the Freedom Scientific Training department for the new Webinars, both free and paid, now being offered.
The default JAWS dictionary file (default.jdf) has been updated to include the correct pronunciation of two Russian symbols.
In the JAWS help file, the Using the JAWS Cursor topic now describes the Real Window and the Focus Window restriction options that are available for the JAWS Cursor. Previously, this topic only mentioned the Application Window, Current Window, Unrestricted, and Frame restrictions.

Use Check for Updates

To use the check for updates feature of JAWS do the following:

Press INSERT+J to open the JAWS application window.
Press ALT+H to open the Help menu.
Press P to select Check for Updates. The update feature determines if you have the most current release. If you do not, select one or more items from the list and then select INSTALL to begin the update. All enhancements since the initial public beta release are included in the update.

JAWS 10.0.1139 Update Released

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Freedom Scientific announces the release of both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of JAWS 10.0.1139, a free update to all JAWS 10.0 users. The thumb drive version of each is also now available. Free updates for MAGic 11 for both 32- and 64-bit are coming within the next few days as well. Visit this link to read more about the update and enhancements for JAWS 10.

Use Check for Updates

To use the check for updates feature of JAWS do the following:

Press INSERT+J to open the JAWS application window.
Press ALT+H to open the Help menu.
Press P to select Check for Updates. The update feature determines if you have the most current release. If you do not, select one or more items from the list and then select INSTALL to begin the update. All enhancements since the initial public beta release are included in the update.

64-bit Public Beta of JAWS 10 Available

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:45:00 GMT

It is becoming more and more common for new computers to come equipped with 64-bit Windows Vista operating system. A 64-bit public beta version of JAWS 10 is available for download and testing. This beta version will run on 64-bit versions of Windows Vista. To try out the 64-bit version, choose JAWS 10 Public Beta for 64-bit Windows Vista for more information.

What's New in JAWS 10 DAISY and MP3 Files Posted

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 14:15:00 GMT

Listen to Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management, as he discusses What's New in JAWS 10. This just-released DAISY book is also available as an MP3 audio download.

Use Check for Updates to Find the What's New in JAWS 10 DAISY Book

JAWS 9 and 10 users can use the JAWS Check for Updates feature to find and download the What's New in JAWS 10 DAISY book. Here's how to use the Check for Updates feature:

Go to the JAWS Help menu and press P to choose Check for Updates.
A dialog box appears that contains a list of check boxes for all updates that are available for your version of JAWS, including any DAISY training materials.
Press UP or DOWN ARROW to move through the list.
Press SPACEBAR to check any items you want to download and install.
Then press ENTER to activate the Install button. The download begins and when finished, a new dialog box appears that asks if you want to install the files, with a Yes and No button.
Choose Yes. After the installation is complete, the final dialog box appears that tells you that the updates were successfully installed.
Choose the OK button, and the dialog box closes. Now you can use FSReader to read the newly installed book. In FSReader, just choose CTRL+O to reopen the File Open dialog box and choose the new book.

MP3 Version of the What's New in JAWS 10.

If you would rather download the MP3 file, choose this link to go to the Training Downloads page and get the MP3 version of the What's New in JAWS 10.

JAWS Tandem Announced in September FSCast Podcast

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 20:30:00 GMT

This month, FSCast unveils JAWS Tandem™, as Jonathan Mosen speaks with Eric Damery, Freedom Scientific's Vice President of Software Product Management, in advance of the second public beta of JAWS 10. During the August FSCast, Eric hinted at a coming new feature that would be disclosed in the September FSCast.

JAWS Tandem is included in the JAWS 10 Public Beta two, to be released in the next few days.

JAWS Tandem is a great new feature introduced in JAWS 10 that allows two computers running JAWS to connect to each other. Tandem allows one of the computer users to take control of the other computer. The user at the controlling computer controls the target computer using a combination of speech, keyboard, video, and braille. The target user can hear and participate in the session as desired. The target user has the ultimate control over the session, and can terminate the session at any time. This is a great new tool for technical support, remote script writing, trouble shooting, remote training, or just helping out a friend with their PC. JAWS Tandem is a significant new feature that will change the way many JAWS users receive support and assistance.

Tandem sessions can take place using the Internet with Tandem Center or over a local network with Tandem Direct. You can find JAWS Tandem controls under the Utilities menu of the JAWS application window. For information and procedures describing how to use this feature, refer to the Quick Start Guide in the JAWS Tandem submenu.

Find the audio for this podcast at http://podcast.freedomscientific.com/FSCast/episodes/fscast022-september2008.mp3

JAWS Navigation Quick Keys in Microsoft Word

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 18:45:00 GMT

JAWS® screen reading software has Navigation Quick Keys for Microsoft® Word that provide you with an easy and efficient way to move through a document. Quickly move the insertion point to a number of different page elements, including headings, footnotes, endnotes, comments, tables, form fields, pages, sections, and more, with simple keystrokes. This feature is similar to the Navigation Quick Keys JAWS uses in Internet Explorer, but is especially designed to help you navigate Word documents.

Navigation Quick Keys are automatically enabled while you are reading with the SayAll command. If you want to use this feature when not performing the SayAll command, press INSERT+Z. Then, use the keystrokes to move the insertion point to the next or previous page element of the given type. To turn off Navigation Quick Keys, press INSERT+Z again. JAWS also turns off Navigation Quick Keys if you switch from one Word document to another document, or to another program.

Visit the JAWS Navigation Quick Keys in Microsoft Word training page for:

Word 2003 and Word 2007 documents for practice using Navigation Quick Keys
Keystrokes listing the Navigation Quick Keys available with Microsoft Word
Information on the new JAWS 10 Navigation Quick Key manager

JAWS 10 Public Beta Posted

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 19:17:00 GMT

The JAWS 10 English public beta is now available for download. Find the download and the details you will need to participate, including the new JAWS 10 features, on the What's New in JAWS 10 Public Beta page.

August 2008 FSCast Previews the Upcoming JAWS 10 Release

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 19:16:00 GMT

Eric Damery demonstrates the wide range of new features in JAWS 10, in advance of the public beta. Visit the FSCast Episode 21 page.

New Surf's Up Training Posted To Coincide with JAWS 10 Public Beta

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 19:15:00 GMT

Surf's Up! - Surfing the Internet with JAWS and MAGic, the Freedom Scientific Web pages that explain how to surf the Web with JAWS and MAGic, have been updated to help instructors and students take advantage of the new JAWS 10 features. Surf's Up now also includes help with using MAGic screen magnification software on the Web. Pay particular attention to the Forms page. It gives great details for using the new Auto Forms Mode function for JAWS! In addition, you'll find many new and updated exercises for practice throughout.

Visit Surf's Up online or get the Surf's Up downloadable version for use on computers with no Internet connection.

Freedom Scientific at QAC Sight Village 2008, United Kingdom

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:57:52 GMT

Visit with Freedom Scientific representatives Eric Damery, Tobias Winnes, Dusty Voorhees, Jonathan Mosen, Jan Bloem, and our colleagues from Sight and Sound Technology at QAC Sight Village 2008, held at the Clarendon Suites, Hagley Road, Birmingham, United Kingdom. We will be attending with Sight and Sound Technology for the 14th straight year. Admission is free, and Sight Village is open from 10:00AM - 4:30PM Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, July 15 - 17.

Seminars and Events, Repeated Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday

11:30AM - 12:15PM, Room F3, MAGic® & ONYX™: Bringing Your Digital & Physical Environments Together

Presented by Dusty Voorhees, Senior Product Manager

Use your magnification software and video magnification camera seamlessly together. Capture information images, and use them as study notes later. Sound intriguing? Come see how it works!

MAGic Seminar Registration - F3

11:30AM - 12:15PM, Room G5, PAC Mate™ 6.1 for PAC Mate Omni™

Presented by Jonathan Mosen, Vice President of Blindness Hardware Product Management

Learn about the increased power and ease of use in this latest release of the software for Freedom Scientific's accessible Pocket PC.

PAC Mate Omni Seminar Registration - G5

12:30PM - 13:15 (12:30PM - 1:15PM), Room G5, What's New with Freedom Scientific Low Vision Solutions

Get a close look at the newest releases of Freedom Scientific’s low vision line, including the SARA™ Scanning And Reading Appliance - the world’s only stand alone reading machine with low vision features; the TOPAZ™ desktop video magnifier; the OPAL™ ultra-portable video magnifier; and the ONYX™ line of multiple-view video magnifiers, including the self-contained ONYX Deskset™.

SARA Seminar Registration - G5

13:30 - 14:15 (1:30PM - 2:15PM), Room F3, Come and Experience All the Best Features of JAWS® & MAGic® 11 in Both Vista® & XP

Presented by Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management

Eric Damery will be on hand to demonstrate many of the exciting new features in JAWS 9 and MAGic 11, running at the same time. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the latest technology advances in screen reading/magnification introduced exclusively by Freedom Scientific.

JAWS and MAGic Seminar Registration - F3

13:30 - 14:30 (1:30PM - 2:30PM), Room G5, Meet the Experts

Why not take this opportunity to chat with the experts? On hand will be Eric Damery, Jonathan Mosen, and Dusty Voorhees from Freedom Scientific along with a team from Sight and Sound Technology. Refreshments available to those attending.

Meet the Experts Registration - G5

14:30 - 15:15 (2:30PM - 3:15PM), Room F4, PAC Mate™ 6.1 for PAC Mate Omni™

PAC Mate Omni Seminar Registration - F4

15:30 - 16:45 (3:30PM - 4:45PM), Room G5, JAWS for Windows

Presented by Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management

Eric Damery will be on hand to demonstrate many of the exciting new features in JAWS 9. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the latest technology advances in screen reading by Freedom Scientific.

JAWS Seminar Registration - G5

Freedom Scientific at the 2008 NFB and ACB Summer Conventions

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:15:00 GMT

Freedom Scientific at the National Federation of the Blind Convention

The NFB Annual Convention will be held at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, 2201 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207. The telephone number is 214-748-1200.

Sunday, June 29

What’s New in JAWS 9 & MAGic 11, 8:30AM - 11:30AM , Senators Lecture Hall. Join Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management, for an exciting and informative session covering all the new details surrounding JAWS® screen reading software and MAGic® screen magnification software development. Feature demonstrations and explanation, lots of tips and tricks, and even a special sneak preview of JAWS 10.0. Bring your questions!

PAC Mate Omni 6.1, 1:00PM - 3:00PM, Senators Lecture Hall. Learn about the impressive feature set and performance of the PAC Mate Omni™ accessible Pocket PC, complete with a look at what's in store for PAC Mate Omni in its next release. PAC Mate Omni 6.1 allows you to interact with information in formats and in ways that enhance your productivity at work or at school.

Monday, June 30

Exhibit Hall Open, 9:30AM - 5:30PM

JAWS/MAGic session, 3:45PM - 5:30PM, PAC Mate training suite (Suite location will be made available onsite - inquire at FS booth). Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management, will be available to discuss and demonstrate some of the great new features in JAWS 9.0 and MAGic 11.0, answer product questions, and even provide a sneak preview into the JAWS 10.0 release which is scheduled for public beta later in the summer.

Tuesday, July 1

Exhibit Hall Open, 9:00AM - 5:30PM

Wednesday, July 2

Exhibit Hall Open, 12:00PM - 1:45PM

Exhibit Hall Open, 7:00PM - 10:00PM

Thursday, July 3

Exhibit Hall Open, 12:00PM - 6:00PM

Friday, July 4

Exhibit Hall Open, 12:00PM - 1:45PM

Saturday, July 5

Exhibit Hall Open, 12:00PM - 1:45PM

PAC Mate Training

Open during exhibit hours on Monday, June 30, Tuesday, July 1, Wednesday, July 2, and Thursday, July 3 except 3:45PM to 5:30PM Monday and Tuesday. Suite location will be made available onsite - inquire at FS booth.

Product Servicing

Available during exhibit hours on Monday, June 30, Tuesday, July 1, and Wednesday, July 2. Inquire at FS service desk at booth. Service technicians will be on hand during exhibit hours to provide repairs for the following Freedom Scientific products: PAC Mate BX units, PAC Mate QX units, Millennium 20, Millennium 40, Braille Lite 18, Braille Lite 2000, Braille Lite 40, BNS 640, Braille 'n Speak, Type 'n Speak, and Type Lite. Braille cell repairs (individual or complete displays) will not be done at the show. NOTE: Not all product repairs will be completed on site. Some repairs may require the product to be taken in for service and shipped back to the owner.

Prizes

FSReader™ DAISY player, one per hour during exhibits
PAC Mate BX400 or QX400, one awarded at banquet
OpenBook™ scanning and reading software, one awarded at banquet
MAGic trial demo CDs available at booth

Freedom Scientific at the American Council of the Blind Convention

The ACB convention will be held at the Galt House, Fourth Street at the River, Louisville, KY 40202. The telephone number is 502-589-5200.

Saturday, July 5

Exhibit Hall Open, 1:00PM - 5:00PM

Exhibit Hall Open - Reception, 6:00PM - 7:00PM

Sunday, July 6

Exhibit Hall Open, 9:00AM - 5:00PM

OpenBook 8.0 Overview and Discussion, 9:00AM - 11:00AM, Location: PAC Mate training suite (Suite location will be made available onsite - inquire at FS booth). In this presentation, participants will learn about the exciting new features available in Freedom Scientific’s latest OpenBook release. Learn about the newest features such as the new keyboard layout, updated OCR options, new voices, low vision enhancements, and new reference features. Get a great overview of the newest features included in OpenBook 8.0 and bring your suggestions for enhancements you would like to see in a future release of OpenBook.

Monday, July 7

Exhibit Hall Open, 11:00AM - 5:00PM

JAWS/MAGic session, 3:30PM - 5:00PM, Location: PAC Mate training suite. Eric Damery, Vice President of Software Product Management, will be available to discuss and demonstrate some of the great new features in JAWS 9.0 and MAGic 11.0, answer product questions, and even provide a sneak preview into the JAWS 10.0 release which is scheduled for public beta later in the summer.

Tuesday, July 8

Exhibit Hall Open, 11:00AM - 5:00PM

Wednesday, July 9

Exhibit Hall Open, 11:00AM - 5:00PM

Thursday, July 10

Exhibit Hall Open, 9:00AM - 1:00PM

PAC Mate Training

Open during exhibit hours on Saturday, July 5, Sunday, July 6, Monday, July 7, and Tuesday, July 8 except 9:00AM -11:00AM on Sunday, and 3:30PM – 5:00PM on Monday and Tuesday. Meeting room location will be made available onsite - Inquire at FS booth.

Product Servicing

Available during exhibit hours on Saturday, July 5, Sunday, July 6, and Monday, July 7. Inquire at FS service desk at booth. Service technicians will be on hand during exhibit hours to provide repairs for the following Freedom Scientific products: PAC Mate BX units, PAC Mate QX units, Millennium 20, Millennium 40, Braille Lite 18, Braille Lite 2000, Braille Lite 40, BNS 640, Braille 'n Speak, Type 'n Speak and Type Lite. Braille cell repairs (individual or complete displays) will not be done at the show. NOTE: Not all product repairs will be completed on site. Some repairs may require the product to be taken in for service and shipped back to the owner.

Prizes

FSReader, one per hour during exhibits
PAC Mate BX400 or QX400, one awarded during convention
OpenBook, one awarded during convention
MAGic trial demo CDs available at booth

JAWS 9.0.2169 Update Posted!

Thu, 22 May 2008 14:15:00 GMT

A new update is available for JAWS 9! This is a free download for JAWS 9 users. To get the latest version, go to the Help menu in the JAWS user interface and choose "Check for Updates."

Read more about the latest update on the What's New in JAWS 9 Web page.

MAGic 11.0.1117 Update, May 2008!

Fri, 02 May 2008 14:15:00 GMT

A new update is available for MAGic 11! This is a free download for MAGic 11 users. To get the latest version, go to the Help menu in the MAGic user interface and choose "Check for Updates."

Read more about the latest update on the What's New in MAGic 11 Screen Magnification Software Web page.

MAGic 11 Promotion Trial Release Extended Through September 2008!

Fri, 02 May 2008 14:10:00 GMT

The MAGic® 11.0 promotional release is a trial offer that lets you try the newest MAGic screen magnification release, which can run with or without the latest release of JAWS® 9.0. This promotional version has been updated and operates without interruption until September 2008, so that you can try out the most recent product enhancements or take the opportunity to try MAGic in combination with JAWS.

For example:

The MAGic highlighting option is in sync with JAWS as it reads Web pages. By providing this visual cue, you always know where you are on the computer screen as JAWS is reading.
When using the same Navigation Quick Keys that are available in JAWS, you will be happy to see that the MAGic focus jumps to items such as headings (H), list items (L), paragraphs (P), and so on, and will also provide visual cues.
When viewing a Web page with both programs running, you can use Windows keyboard commands to select and copy text and items. As you do this, MAGic and JAWS visually show you the items that are selected. The text that is copied can be pasted into an HTML e-mail or any rich text word processor and maintains the links and original formatting.

Download your free promotional trial version of MAGic 11 and try it today!

JAWS 9.0.2152 Update, April 2008!

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 20:30:00 GMT

A new update is available for JAWS 9! This is a free download for JAWS 9 users. To get the latest version, go to the Help menu in the JAWS user interface and choose "Check for Updates."

Read more about the latest update on the What's New in JAWS 9 Web page.

MAGic 11.0 Promotional Release

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:45:00 GMT

The MAGic® 11.0 promotional release is a trial offer that lets you try the newest MAGic screen magnification release, which can run with or without the latest release of JAWS® 9.0. This promotional version operates without interruption until August 2008 so that you can try out the most recent product enhancements or take the opportunity to try MAGic in combination with JAWS. For example:

The MAGic highlighting option is in sync with JAWS as it reads Web pages. By providing this visual cue, you always know where you are on the computer screen as JAWS is reading.
When using the same Navigation Quick Keys that are available in JAWS, you will be happy to see that the MAGic focus jumps to items such as headings (H), list items (L), paragraphs (P), and so on, and also provides visual cues.
When viewing a Web page with both programs running, you can use Windows keyboard commands to select and copy text and items. As you do this, MAGic and JAWS visually show you the items that are selected. The text that is copied can be pasted into an HTML e-mail or any rich text word processor and maintains the links and original formatting.
Choose What's New in MAGic 11.0 for more about the latest MAGic features.
For a list of benefits and additional information, choose the Top Reasons to Use MAGic.

Download the MAGic 11.0 Promotional Release

The following briefly describes how to download and install the MAGic promotional release.

Select the MAGic download link that appears at the end of this procedure.
When the dialog box opens, choose Save and select a location where you can easily find the downloaded executable file.
Run the executable file and follow the talking installer.

MAGic 11.0 promotional release (104 MB - FTP download)

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the difference between the MAGic promotional release and the full MAGic release?

Answer: For the promotional version:

No authorization is required
It is fully functional until August 2008
It only supports magnification – please use the latest JAWS 9.0 release for speech
Remote Access is enabled – you do not need to purchase the feature separately

Question: What is the difference between the MAGic promotional release and the MAGic demo release?

Answer: For the promotional version:

It is fully functional until August 2008 – no reboots are necessary as required every 40-minutes with the demo release
It only supports magnification – please use the latest JAWS 9.0 release for speech
It is fully functional until August 2008

For a list of benefits and additional information, choose the Top Reasons to Use MAGic.

JAWS 9.0 Release Now Available

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 20:00:00 GMT

JAWS 9.0.515 is now available for download from Freedom Scientific! Be sure to visit the What's New in JAWS 9.0 Web page for details about new features, enhancements, FAQs, and download links.

What's New in JAWS 9 MP3 Audio File

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 21:00:00 GMT

Download the forty-five minute long audio recording of Eric Damery as he discusses What's New in JAWS 9.0, the new features available in the upcoming version of JAWS 9.0! This is a ZIP file containing one MP3 audio segment.

JAWS 9.0 Public Beta Announced!

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:30:00 GMT

Read What's New in the JAWS 9.0 Public Beta and find links to download and participate in the public beta for JAWS 9.0.

JAWS 8.0.2173 Update is Now Available

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:34:00 GMT

JAWS® screen reading software update version 8.0.2173 is now available for download from the Web. This is an official release for Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Vista™. If you are an existing JAWS 8.0 user, go to the JAWS Help menu and choose Check for Updates to get the latest version downloaded and installed. You may also visit the JAWS downloads page and get the full version download from there. Enhancements in JAWS Version 8.0.2173 (21 June 2007) include:

JAWS

Freedom Scientific is proud to announce that JAWS 8.0 has officially completed its public beta test cycle with Windows Vista. The feedback the public provided was extremely helpful, and, as a result of the reports provided, we addressed many issues ensuring that JAWS 8 is working smoothly and seamlessly with Vista. While not every comment and suggestion could be addressed at this time, we have incorporated many changes already for JAWS 9, coming out in September 2007.
Resolved an issue reported by the public where two versions of JAWS for Windows were active when a UAC dialog box opened in Windows Vista.
In Windows Vista, the WINDOWS Key+SPACEBAR keystroke brings the Sidebar and all gadgets to the foreground. If the Sidebar is not running when you issue this keystroke, JAWS explains how to launch it. For example, JAWS says that you have to type the word "sidebar" in the Run dialog box.
When focus is on the Clock gadget of the Windows Vista Sidebar, JAWS correctly updates the time automatically. This allows JAWS to provide the proper time without having to move away from the gadget and back again.
Through a collaboration between Freedom Scientific and IBM, JAWS now successfully works with Host on Demand (HOD), a JAVA-based terminal emulation application that many companies are now deploying in place of PCOMM. JAWS is the only screen reader that works with HOD.
JAWS does not crash when the text string "c a e s u r e" is spoken.
JAWS now speaks messages associated with the JAWS clipboard, the CTRL+C command, and the WINDOWS Key+C command when a User Access Control (UAC) dialog appears.
The updated Papenmeier braille driver is included in this release.
The latest Handy Tech driver, version 3.0.1.13, is included in this release.
Fixed reported issues where JAWS, running in Windows Vista, would not automatically read certain static text when using the INSERT+B keystroke.
The GetRegistryEntryDWord script works correctly when JAWS is run as a service.
The MAGic 6.2 keyboard layout option has been removed from JAWS.

Internet Explorer

Resolved an issue for the Social Security Administration where JAWS was not speaking hidden text that appeared on some of their HTML pages.

Lotus Notes

JAWS, when running as a service, can successfully read Lotus Notes e-mail messages.

Microsoft Excel 2007

When ESC is pressed to exit a comment, JAWS confirms that focus is back on the worksheet by announcing and displaying the active cell in braille.
JAWS correctly speaks and shows in braille split buttons that appear in the Microsoft Excel ribbon.
JAWS correctly announces cell comment information when moving from the beginning or end of the comment.
When using the LEFT ARROW and RIGHT ARROW keys to navigate by character, JAWS now reads text as expected in the Parameters dialog of Microsoft Excel 2007.
Fixed an Excel 2007 issue reported by Microsoft where JAWS would read extra information when navigating Context menus.

Microsoft Office 2007

When screen-sensitive help (INSERT+F1) is issued for split buttons, JAWS now announces the correct help message for the selected control type.
JAWS speaks as expected when it encounters a spelling error related to capitalization in Word 2007 and Outlook 2007. Previously, JAWS would say "blank" twice.
JAWS correctly reads the Context menu when the Applications key is pressed in an Office 2007 application.

Microsoft Outlook 2007

When in the header of an e-mail message, pressing ALT+GRAVE moves the cursor to the message body field.
JAWS speaks the e-mail message that is highlighted in the Inbox as you move up and down the message list using the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys.
JAWS correctly reads text when you run the Spelling and Grammar function after pasting text from a Word 2007 document into a new e-mail message.
JAWS functions correctly when using the Previous Message command (CTRL+COMMA) or the Next Message command (CTRL+PERIOD) in Outlook 2007.
When using TAB or SHIFT+TAB to navigate through the Spelling and Grammar dialog box, JAWS correctly speaks and shows in braille the buttons, check boxes, and list boxes that appear in this dialog box.
As you use the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys to navigate through the Folder list in Outlook 2007, JAWS correctly says the name of the folders.
JAWS correctly reads RSS feeds messages that are opened using Outlook 2007.

Microsoft Outlook 2003

JAWS correctly speaks e-mail rules that appear in the Rules Wizard for Microsoft Outlook 2003.
When using the Say Line command (INSERT+UP ARROW), JAWS now reads the correct information when the auto-complete function inserts an e-mail address in the To edit field.
First letter navigation works for Folder List view in Outlook 2003.

Microsoft Word 2007

By default, when you open the Ribbon toolbar, the cursor is placed on the Home tab. The letter H in the word Home now appears in braille.
JAWS correctly handles repeated words that appear as misspelled words when running spell check in a Microsoft Word 2007 document.
When a document is protected from unintentional editing, the context-sensitive help (INSERT+F1) associated with the read-only status is now correctly reported.
When the Verbosity Spelling and Grammar function is turned on, JAWS correctly reports misspelled words as you navigate forward and backward using the INSERT+LEFT ARROW and INSERT+RIGHT ARROW keystrokes.
JAWS speaks the title bar when the Spell Checker function is launched in Microsoft Word.
When Hot key Help (INSERT+H) is turned on for the Spelling and Grammar dialog box, the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys now allow you to navigate up and down in the Virtual Viewer.

Windows Mail

JAWS recognizes graphics associated with attachments when using Windows Mail, which is available in Windows Vista.

Windows Update

JAWS can now use the JAWS cursor to read text in areas of Windows Vista where previously it could not.

JAWS Keystrokes Web Page Updated

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:33:00 GMT

The JAWS Keystrokes Web page has been updated to include some typical keyboard commands for Internet Explorer 7 and table reading keystrokes for laptop JAWS users. Visit the JAWS Keystrokes Web page to get the latest. Look for the additions in the following sections:

General Commands for HTML
Other Commands for HTML
Table Reading Keystrokes for Laptop Layout

Surf's Up, Surfing the Web with JAWS, Revised and Updated

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:32:00 GMT

Surf's Up! - Surfing the Internet with JAWS teaches you to use JAWS to read and work with all types of HTML pages, such as Web sites, Help systems, Web-based applications, and more. You'll learn how to use the powerful features of JAWS to get the most out of surfing the Web. Over a dozen pages have been updated to include the latest features of JAWS. Visit the Surf's Up Web site to review the latest and most up-to-date version! For times when Internet access is not available, visit the Surf's Up download link for a self-extracting ZIP file to install on the local hard drive of your computer. This is great for training when no Internet access is available!

Visit Freedom Scientific at the Summer Shows

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:31:00 GMT

Anyone attending the NFB or ACB conventions in the United States, or Sight Village convention in the United Kingdom, should be sure to stop by and pick up a new program CD with the latest release version of JAWS included. If you don't already own JAWS, a free demo CD with this latest version will also be available.

The 2007 National Federation of the Blind Conference, June 30-July 6, Atlanta, Georgia

Marriott Marquis Hotel
265 Peachtree Center Avenue
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

For more information, visit the NFB Web site.

American Council of the Blind (ACB) National Convention, June 30-July 7, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Hyatt Regency/Millennium Hotels 1300 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403 Representatives: Blind/Low Vision Group For more information, visit the American Council of the Blind Web site.

Visit Freedom Scientific at Sight Village in the United Kingdom

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:30:00 GMT

A leading exposition of the latest access technology products for people who are blind or partially-sighted in the United Kingdom, visit the Freedom Scientific authorized distributor in the UK, Sight & Sound Technology, along with representatives from Freedom Scientific Eric Damery, Tobias Winnes, Jonathan Mosen, and Dusty Voorhees.

Location:

QAC (Queen Alexandra College) Sight Village 2007
The Clarendon Suites, Hagley Road, Birmingham
Tuesday 17 - Thursday 19 July 2007

Schedule of Events for Sight Village:

Tuesday, 17th July, 2007, 12:30-13:15, Room F4.
PAC Mate™ Accessible Pocket PC: Participants will learn about the extensibility afforded by the use of a mainstream operating system and usability made possible through JAWS for Pocket PC. Presenter: Jonathan Mosen.

Tuesday, 17th July, 2007, 13:30-14:15, Room F4.
JAWS® for Windows© and Microsoft Vista™: A demonstration of JAWS 8.0, including the newly-added RealSpeak™ Solo Synthesizer. Presenter: Eric Damery.

Tuesday, 17th July, 2007, 15:30-16:15, Room F4.
MAGic® screen magnification software and ONYX™ vision camera – Bring your physical and digital world together: This session will unveil the handshaking between Freedoms Scientific’s MAGic screen magnification product and their newest line of products, ONYX. The collaboration between these products provides easy access to more information and a portable solution for customers with low vision. Presenter: Dusty Voorhees.

Wednesday, 18th July, 2007, 11:30-12:15, Room F4.
JAWS® for Windows© and Microsoft Vista™: A demonstration of JAWS 8.0, including the newly-added RealSpeak™ Solo Synthesizer. Presenter: Eric Damery.

Wednesday, 18th July, 2007, 13:30-14:15, Room F3.
MAGic and ONYX – Bring your physical and digital world together: This session will unveil the handshaking between Freedoms Scientific’s MAGic screen magnification product and their newest line of products, ONYX. The collaboration between these products provides easy access to more information and a portable solution for customers with low vision. Presenter: Dusty Voorhees.

Wednesday, 18th July, 2007, 14:30-15:15, Room F4.
PAC Mate™ Accessible Pocket PC: Participants will learn about the extensibility afforded by the use of a mainstream operating system and usability made possible through JAWS for Pocket PC. Presenter: Jonathan Mosen.

Thursday, 19th July, 2007, 10:30-11:15, Room F3.
PAC Mate™ Accessible Pocket PC: Participants will learn about the extensibility afforded by the use of a mainstream operating system and usability made possible through JAWS for Pocket PC. Presenter: Jonathan Mosen.

Thursday, 19th July, 2007, 12:30-13:15, Room F2.
MAGic and ONYX – Bring your physical and digital world together: This session will unveil the handshaking between Freedoms Scientific’s MAGic screen magnification product and their newest line of products, ONYX. The collaboration between these products provides easy access to more information and a portable solution for customers with low vision. Presenter: Dusty Voorhees.

Thursday, 19th July, 2007, 13:30-14:15, Room F4.
JAWS® for Windows© and Microsoft Vista™: A demonstration of JAWS 8.0, including the newly-added RealSpeak™ Solo Synthesizer. Presenter: Eric Damery.

Freedom Scientific Workshop Schedule in Room G5, Tuesday, 17th July, 2007.

11:30 – 12:15, MAGic 11, Presenter: Dusty Voorhees
12:30 – 13:15, SARA & TOPAZ, Presenter: Dusty Voorhees
13:30 – 14:15, PAC Mate™ Accessible Pocket PC, Presenter: Jonathan Mosen

Freedom Scientific Workshop Schedule in Room G5, Wednesday, 18th July, 2007.

11:30 – 12:15, MAGic 11, Presenter: Dusty Voorhees
12:30 – 13:15, PAC Mate™ Accessible Pocket PC, Presenter: Jonathan Mosen
14:30 – 15:15, SARA & TOPAZ, Presenter: Dusty Voorhees

Freedom Scientific Workshop Schedule in Room G5, Thursday, 19th July, 2007.

11:30 – 12:15, MAGic 11, Presenter: Dusty Voorhees
13:30 – 14:15, PAC Mate™ Accessible Pocket PC, Presenter: Jonathan Mosen
14:30 – 15:15, SARA & TOPAZ, Presenter: Dusty Voorhees

JAWS 8.0.2107 Update Posted

Mon, 14 May 2007 16:44:06 GMT

Enhancements were made to improve JAWS performance with programs such as Windows Vista, Windows XP, Adobe Acrobat Reader, FSReader, Internet Explorer, MAGic, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office 2007, Microsoft Office 2003, Microsoft Outlook 2007, Microsoft Outlook 2003, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Mozilla Firefox, and more!

JAWS Keystrokes Guide

Mon, 14 May 2007 16:43:08 GMT

Now available: a list of all the JAWS keystrokes in one HTML page. Use the JAWS list of headings to move to the keystroke section you want or use the Find command to search through the entire document to search for different items. A version of the JAWS keystrokes in PDF format is also available.