Is your computer running slow, freezing, or taking forever to start up? Speed Up a Slow Computer with a few simple maintenance steps can make a huge difference. This is especially true for beginners and blind/low‑vision users who rely on consistent performance with JAWS or NVDA.
In this TechVision tutorial, I walk you through practical, real‑life steps to speed up your PC and keep it running smoothly:
✔ Update your .NET Framework Having the latest .NET installed in your Control Panel helps programs run correctly. It also reduces system errors.
✔ Manage your startup programs Too many apps launching at boot can slow everything down. Turning off unnecessary startup items gives you a faster, cleaner start.
Keep Windows and Office updated
Regular updates improve performance, stability, and security — and prevent many common slow‑computer issues.
✔ Declutter your system Uninstall programs you don’t use and delete temporary files to free up space. This also reduces background load.
✔ Run a full antivirus scan Malware can dramatically slow down your system. A full scan helps identify and remove hidden threats.
✔ Perform regular maintenance Disk Cleanup, defrag (for HDDs), or optimize for SSD and clearing temp files all help your computer run more efficiently.
These steps are simple, effective, and perfect for anyone building independence and confidence with their technology.
TechVision: Empowering real‑life tech skills with clarity, accessibility, and confidence.Video with steps here
For students who are blind or legally blind, accessing visual information on a computer screen can be one of the biggest barriers to learning unless you have an APP like Be My Eyes on Computer. Whether it’s a graph in science class, a diagram in math, a picture in a digital textbook, or an unlabeled image on a website, visual content often goes unexplained — unless someone is available to describe it.
Be My Eyes now solves this problem directly on your computer.
What Be My Eyes Can Do on a Computer
When installed on a PC or Mac, Be My Eyes can:
Describe graphs, charts, and diagrams
Explain pictures, illustrations, and maps
Identify objects or images in digital textbooks
Summarize visual layouts on websites
Clarify icons, buttons, or menus that are not labeled
Provide context for images that screen readers cannot interpret
This is especially powerful for students who are legally blind and need immediate access to visual information without waiting for a teacher, aide, or parent.
How It Works
Open the Be My Eyes app on your computer.
Take a screenshot or upload the image you want described.
Use the “Ask About This Image” feature.
Type your question — or simply ask:
“What is shown in this graph?”
“Describe the picture on the screen.”
“What does this diagram represent?”
“What is happening in this image?”
The AI will give a clear, detailed description that students can use immediately for classwork, homework, or studying.
Why This Matters for Blind and Low‑Vision Students
Visual content is everywhere in school — especially in math, science, social studies, and digital learning platforms. Without access, students fall behind academically and lose independence.
Be My Eyes gives students the ability to:
Access visual information instantly
Work independently without waiting for help
Understand graphs and diagrams in real time
Participate fully in class assignments
Build confidence and autonomy
For students who are legally blind, this tool is not optional — it is essential.
When to Use Be My Eyes vs. Other Tools
Be My Eyes: For describing images, graphs, diagrams, pictures, and anything visual.
Screen Readers (JAWS/NVDA): For reading text, navigating websites, writing, researching, and completing assignments.
CCTV: Only for viewing pictures or visual diagrams — not for reading.
Together, these tools create a complete access system.
Computer acting up, freezing up, slowing down, moving like a snail so you have to walk away (before you do something you will regret to it)? Browser freezing? Apps slowing down or refusing to open?
Network working like a snail?
These issues affect every Windows user — teachers, professionals, students, and anyone trying to get work done. The good news is that many of the most common problems can be fixed quickly with a few simple steps.
Here are essential Windows fixes every user should know:
1️. When your browser freezes
Press Ctrl + R or F5 to refresh the page.
If a site should be loading but isn’t, use a force refresh: Ctrl + Shift + R. This clears cached elements and forces the browser to reload everything.
2️. Speed up your computer by managing startup apps
Open Task Manager instantly with Ctrl + Windows + Escape.
Press Ctrl + Tab to move to Startup Apps.
Right‑click any program you don’t need at startup and choose Disable.
This doesn’t remove or break anything — it simply gives you control over what opens and when. Most computers are slowed down by unnecessary bloatware launching automatically. If you do not disable what you do not need it is slow to start up and remains slow because those programs are ALWAYS running in the background whether you know or not. Most do not hence the slow speed of your computer.
3️. Uninstall programs you don’t use
Press Windows and type in remove a which will take you to add remove programs
Arrow down through all programs and uninstall what you do not need or use. Picture yourself weighing 500 pounds and you are taking off 50 pounds at a time with each remove. You get lighter, you move faster.
With commands, Find programs you no longer need, press Tab once to reach the three dots, then select Uninstall.
Check each device (input and output) and adjust as needed.
Go through all options and adjust it to fit your needs.
This solves many audio problems without needing a full restart.
5️. Clear your Temp folder daily to improve speed
Press Windows + R to open the Run box.
Type %temp% and press Enter.
Press Ctrl + A to select everything.
Press Shift + Delete to permanently remove the files.
When prompted, enter on Yes, and another box opens, check the box that says do this for all (or ctrl A) , and press Alt + S to skip files currently in use.
Clearing this folder removes clutter and can even improve your internet speed by eliminating old cached data.
Clean Out System Garbage with Disk Cleanup
Next, press your Windows key and type disk. You’ll see Disk Cleanup populate — press Enter to open it.
Once it opens, press Enter again to scan your system. This reveals all the garbage that’s quietly collected on your computer.
Now Tab to or click on“Clean up system files.” Press Enter — and be patient. If you’ve never done this before, it may take a while to populate.
When the box opens, select everything you can see. You’ll notice gigabytes of waste clogging your system — old logs, temp files, update leftovers, and more.
Delete it all. One caveat: don’t delete your Downloads folder from here. Instead, go to Downloads manually and clean it out one item at a time. You may still need backups or haven’t saved things to proper folders yet.
These steps help all users, and they’re especially important for blind and visually impaired individuals who rely on consistent system behavior with JAWS or NVDA.
A few quick fixes can save time, reduce frustration, and keep your computer running the way it should.
Best Computer PC Specs buying Guide for 2025 and beyond: RAM, CPU, SSD, graphics card, gaming and more explained
If you’re planning to buy a computer now, pause before diving into the best PC specs. Keep in mind that dealers often clear out older models during holiday sales. To make sure you know exactly what you’re getting, skip down to the section on ‘Older and Newer Naming’ of laptops.
Specs You Need and PC Details Explained
Memory (RAM): 64 GB DDR5 (4800–5600 MHz, dual channel, expandable to 128 GB on some models). Continue for more detailed advice, for Best Computer Specs Guide.
Storage (SSD): 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD (blazing fast read/write speeds, optional dual SSDs up to 4–8 TB total)
Display: 14‑inch UHD (3840 × 2160) Mini‑LED, 120 Hz refresh rate, HDR support or 14- 16‑inch OLED, 240 Hz for gaming/creative workloads
Reduce Eye Strain with a High Resolution Curved Screen
Ultra HD / 4K: 3840 × 2160 pixels
8K UHD: 7680 × 4320 pixels
Highest Resolutions Available (2025)
8K UHD (7680 × 4320):
Currently the highest mainstream resolution for TVs and monitors.
It is Extremely sharp, but requires powerful GPUs and large screens to notice the difference.
Best Curved Monitors (2025)
Brand
Best Model
Size / Resolution
Use Case
Key Strengths
Samsung
Odyssey OLED G9
49″ Dual QHD (5120×1440)
Gaming / Immersion
240 Hz refresh, deep 1000R curve, HDR OLED
Dell / Alienware
Alienware AW3425DW
34″ QD‑OLED (3440×1440)
Gaming / Esports
Fast response, vivid colors, G‑Sync Ultimate
Dell UltraSharp
U4025QW
40″ 5K2K (5120×2160)
Productivity / Multitasking
Huge workspace, USB‑C hub, color accuracy
LG
UltraGear 45GR75DC
45″ WQHD (3440×1440)
Gaming / Creative
OLED panel, 240 Hz, immersive ultrawide
HP
E45c G5
45″ Dual QHD (5120×1440)
Productivity / Office
Replaces dual monitors, ergonomic design
Gigabyte
G27FC
27″ Full HD (1920×1080)
Budget Gaming / Entry Level
Affordable, decent curve, FreeSync support
Quick Recommendations
For Gaming Immersion: Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 or Alienware AW3425DW.
For Productivity/Work: Dell UltraSharp U4025QW or HP E45c G5.
For Budget Buyers: Gigabyte G27FC.
For Hybrid Use (Gaming + Creative): LG UltraGear 45GR75DC.
Other items you need for laptop and more USBs for a desktop
Ports & Connectivity:
2 × Thunderbolt 4 / USB‑C
3 × USB‑A 3.2
HDMI 2.1
Ethernet RJ‑45
Wi‑Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.4
Keyboard: QWERTY keyboard, with Applications/Menu key
Around 4 pounds ≈ 1.81 kilograms.
How to Find Your Computer Specs (Windows 11, December 2025)
1: Using System Settings
Press Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
Press Shift + Tab to move focus to the Navigation Pane.
Arrow down to This PC (usually near the bottom).
Right‑click on This PC and choose Properties (or press Enter).
A window will open showing basic system information, including:
Device name
Processor (CPU)
Installed RAM
System type (32‑bit or 64‑bit)
Windows edition and version
2: Using Settings → About
Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
Navigate to System.
Scroll down and select About.
Under Device specifications, you’ll see:
Processor (CPU)
Installed RAM
Device ID
Product ID
System type
Under Windows specifications, you’ll see:
Edition (e.g., Windows 11 Pro)
Version and build number
3: Advanced Specs (Optional)
For deeper details like graphics card, storage, and drivers:
Press Windows key + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
This opens the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, showing CPU, RAM, GPU, and driver versions.
Summary
Basic specs (CPU, RAM, Windows version) → System → About or This PC → Properties.
Detailed specs (graphics card, drivers) → dxdiag.
These steps work with keyboard navigation and are accessible for screen reader users.
Find information in MSINFO32
MSINFO32 is the command that opens the System Information utility in Windows.
It provides a comprehensive overview of your computer’s hardware, software, and system components.
Unlike the simple “About” page, MSINFO32 gives deep technical details useful for troubleshooting, upgrades, or support.
How to Open MSINFO32
Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
The System Information window will appear.
What You’ll See in MSINFO32
System Summary (default view):
OS name and version
System manufacturer and model
Processor type and speed
Installed RAM
BIOS version/date
Boot mode (UEFI or Legacy)
Hardware Resources:
IRQs, DMA, I/O ports, memory addresses
Useful for diagnosing hardware conflicts
Components:
Display (graphics card details)
Storage (drives, controllers)
Network (adapters, protocols)
Input devices
Software Environment:
Loaded drivers
Running tasks
Services
Environment variables
Why It’s Useful
Troubleshooting: Quickly check BIOS version, drivers, and hardware conflicts.
Upgrades: Confirm RAM slots, CPU type, and expansion options.
Support: Export system info to share with IT or tech support.
Memory Details
These values describe how your computer uses RAM (physical memory) and virtual memory:
Installed Physical Memory (RAM): 64.0 GB The total amount of RAM physically installed in your system.
Total Physical Memory: 63.8 GB The usable portion of your installed RAM. A small amount is reserved for system hardware.
Available Physical Memory: 56.2 GB The amount of RAM currently free and available for use by applications and the system.
Total Virtual Memory: 67.8 GB This includes physical RAM plus page file space. Virtual memory allows your system to use disk space as extra memory when RAM is full.
Available Virtual Memory: 58.9 GB The portion of virtual memory that’s currently unused and available.
Page File Space: 4.00 GB The size of the page file (a reserved portion of your hard drive used as virtual memory).
Go to Programs and features and make sure you have all your security and power to run programs so do a find command for “run” and look for your .nets.
What .NET Does for a Computer—let’s just say it IS REALLY IMPORTANT
Runs Applications:it is software framework/platform .NET provides the Common Language Runtime (CLR), which acts like a virtual machine. It takes code written in languages like C#, F#, or VB.NET and makes sure it runs correctly on your computer.
Manages Resources: The CLR handles memory management, security, thread management, and error handling. This means programs don’t have to reinvent these functions — they rely on .NET to do it safely.
Provides Libraries: The Framework Class Library (FCL) is a huge collection of pre‑built code for everyday tasks:
Reading/writing files
Connecting to databases
Networking and internet communication
User interface controls
Math, cryptography, and more
Supports Multiple Languages: Developers can write programs in C#, F#, VB.NET, and others. .NET makes them interoperable, so code written in one language can work with another.
Cross‑Platform Evolution:
Go get those important computer items at: Ninite.com
Beat Graphics card for computers using screen readers or other access technologies: NVIDIA
GRAPHICs card RUN that screen reader–get a good one GAMING computers will get you the specs you need for a screen reader or just regular use
NVIDIA RTX cards dominate the high‑end market with unmatched ray tracing, AI features (DLSS, CUDA, Omniverse), and raw compute power.–the BEST for screen readers and older students–middle school up
AMD Radeon RX cards offer better value for money, strong rasterization performance, and more efficient power use, especially at 1440p and 4K gaming.
The applications key– is KEY of importance-the funny looking horseshoe on a gaming computer or square with lines in it on general computers–it is a right click of a mouse or 1 press of a key.
Basic specifications for a laptop: gaming computer will have the speed and video card needed for performance
Processor (CPU): some use the words i5, i7, i9 but the new words are Ultra 5,7 or 9 on machines–i9 is compared to ultra 9 and so on like this
Intel Naming Shift
Older naming convention (up to 13th Gen): so if you have this then know it is an older model and during holidays, this is what companies are selling cheaply to get rid of–so just be aware–
Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9
Example: Intel Core i7‑12700H
New naming convention (14th Gen and newer):
Intel Core Ultra 5, Ultra 7, Ultra 9
Example: Intel Core Ultra 9 185H
The “Ultra” branding emphasizes AI acceleration and new architecture (Meteor Lake, Lunar Lake).
How They Compare
Core i5 → Core Ultra 5
Core i7 → Core Ultra 7
Core i9 → Core Ultra 9
Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX (24 cores, up to 5.5 GHz turbo) or AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX (16 cores, up to 5.4 GHz turbo)
Memory (RAM): 64 GB DDR5 (4800–5600 MHz, dual channel, expandable to 128 GB on some models)
Storage (SSD): 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD (with option for dual SSDs up to 4 TB total)
Display: 17.3‑inch UHD (3840 × 2160) Mini‑LED, 120 Hz refresh rate, HDR support or 16‑inch OLED, 240 Hz for gaming/creative work
Favorite computers for running software such as JAWS, NVDA and other blind ware–You must have HIGH RAM and speed
Top Favorite: ASUS
ASUS Laptop Weights–based on student–
ZenBook Series (ultralight)
New ZenBook A14: as low as 2.18 lbs (0.99 kg)
VivoBook Series (mid‑range everyday use series)
ROG Gaming Series (heavy duty)
Zephyrus G14: ~3.53 lbs (1.6 kg)
Strix G15: ~5.07 lbs (2.3 kg)
Pic of ASUS-ROG-heavier with numpad
Surface Pro-top Favorite
Microsoft Surface Pro Weights–lightest and most powerful of laptops
Surface Pro 3–7: ~1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)
Surface Pro 8–10: ~1.94–1.96 lbs (0.88–0.89 kg)
Surface Pro 11 (latest): ~1.96 lbs (0.89 kg)
Surface Pro X (ARM model): ~1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)
comparing true laptop form factors, ASUS ultrabooks and Surface Laptop models are closer in weight, while Surface Pro remains the lightest option in the 2‑in‑1 category.
Different versions and do not suggest this collapsible one for students, that flips up–just too easy to flip down
Get Surface Pro with a true laptop lid that opens easily
HP computers
Be careful as most do not come with applications key any more–yes you can use Insert F10 but … takes 2 keys to implement a keystroked of right click
HP EliteBook 645 G10 includes a dedicated Applications/Menu key on its keyboard layout.
Build your computer: EliteBook 645 G10 is a lightweight, secure, and efficient business laptop with AMD Ryzen 7000 series power
Processor Options:
AMD Ryzen 5 7530U: 6 cores / 12 threads, up to 4.5 GHz-elementary and middle school
AMD Ryzen 7 7730U: 8 cores / 16 threads, up to 4.5 GHz-high school
These are efficient 7nm chips with solid multitasking and productivity performance.
Graphics:
Integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega 6 GPU
Suitable for office work, media playback, and light graphics tasks
Not designed for gaming or heavy 3D rendering.–but that is fine as that is not why you buy it
Memory:
Configurable up to 64 GB DDR4 RAM
Dual SO-DIMM slots, user-upgradable.
Storage:
PCIe SSD options, typically up to 1 TB
HP HP EliteBook 870 G11 (17‑inch) -4.1 lbs–keep in mind you want a laptop carry case for laptops
High‑Performance PC Laptop Models
HP ZBook Fury 16 G11 – workstation powerhouse for engineering, CAD, and 3D rendering
MSI Raider 18 HX AI – top‑tier gaming laptop with desktop‑class GPU
ASUS ROG Strix G18 / Zephyrus G16 – high‑end gaming and creator laptops
Do NOT overdo bump dots on keyboard to find position for touch typing-then student start counting dots to get to keys–create muscle memory which means you want to have them repeat typing skills–explanation below dot placements.
Place bump dots on keys: 5 and 0 on num row above qwerty keys-backspace is already large
Place dots on F4, F12–if all the keys run together then either F8 or F9. My F keys are broken up in panels from F1 to F4 and F5 to F8 and F9 to F12 so I do not need any bump dots–a gaming keyboard is divided up for speed of access so no bump dots needed
Many computers share the arrow keys with home, end pg up and pg down–only put a bump dot on up arrow to quickly move hand to the right while left hand holds down the FN key and right hand to do the pg up and so forth
Remember, the keyboard already has built in bump dots on f and j so do not place any more bump dots on keys
Dell is not my top choice of a computer but is a fine machine with specs you can get with:
Processors: Intel Core Ultra 7/9 or AMD Ryzen 9 HX — powerful x86 chips for heavy workloads.
Serviceability: Easier to upgrade storage, RAM, and wireless adapters
Memory: Configurable up to 64–128 GB DDR5 RAM, far beyond Surface’s 16–32 GB.
Storage: Options up to 2–8 TB PCIe NVMe SSDs.
Graphics: Dedicated NVIDIA RTX GPUs (e.g., RTX 5090 or workstation Ada cards).
Displays: Larger 16–18″ screens, often 2.5K or 4K OLED, high refresh rates.
Weight: Heavier (≈4 lbs / 1.8 kg), but more versatile for gaming, AI, or workstation tasks.
What I Use on a Daily Basis-I work very long hours
So I do have a Ultra HD / 4K: 3840 × 2160 pixels and it has changed my life with no more headaches from long hours at my screen and always have night light on-if you do not know about this feature, press your windows key and type night and night light will generate–decrease the brightness to more muted colors and it takes out more blue light which reduces eye strain. But the 4k does that by itself, then the night light takes away brightness–I am very light sensitive so light in general causes my eyes pain which gives headaches (I no longer have that issue with the 4k.). I use my screen reader often–hence the needed power in general.
My PC Computer Specs Explained
CLX computers are made by CLX Gaming, which is a division of Cybertron International Inc., a long‑standing U.S. system integrator based in Wichita, Kansas and an incredible company to work with for any product they sell.
About CLX
Founded: January 29, 2016, as a brand under Cybertron International.
Focus: Custom gaming PCs, workstations, and desktops tailored for gamers, content creators, and professionals.
Specialty:
Fully customizable builds (CPU, GPU, RAM, cooling, case design).
Award‑winning custom paint and chassis designs.
Product families named after Egyptian mythology (Ra, Set, Scarab, Horus, Osiris, Anubis).
Support: Free lifetime technical support, up to 3 years parts warranty, and lifetime labor coverage.
Why CLX Stands Out and why I picked it–I could build exactly what I wanted and needed and their service support is exceptional in the industry as if or when you call, you get a person who knows anything you ask.
Customization: You can configure nearly every component, from Intel/AMD CPUs to NVIDIA/AMD GPUs.
Performance: Builds range from mid‑tier gaming rigs to extreme workstations with 64–128 GB RAM and multi‑GPU setups.
Design: Known for bold, artistic case designs and RGB lighting.
Reliability: As part of Cybertron International (established in 1997), CLX benefits from decades of PC integration experience.
Takeaway
CLX computers are custom‑built in the USA by CLX Gaming (Cybertron International), offering high‑performance, highly customizable systems for gamers and professionals who want both power and personalization.
The CLX is the Best machine I have every owned and then I go portable with my Surface Pro which is also exceptional for power and portability
Low-vision users enhance visibility and accessibility using tech tricks for screen scaling, mouse visibility, and reading tools. Immersive Reader in Microsoft Word, accessible from the View tab, adjusts text spacing, column width, and background color. UsersThese Low Vision Computer Tricks improve readability by customizing these settings to suit their visual needs efficiently. In Microsoft Edge, Immersive Reader activates on supported pages to simplify reading and navigation. These tools combine to provide low-vision users with a personalized, accessible digital experience.
Dr. Robinson teaches strategies to enhance accessibility using low-visionLow toolsVision Computer Tricks in Microsoft Word, Edge, and system settings. First, she demonstrates how to adjust display settings for optimized visibility using the Windows key. By typing “display,” users can access scaling options, which enlarge screen content for better readability. Additionally, increasing mouse pointer size and inverting its color improves navigation while reducing eye strain.
Next, in Microsoft Word, Dr. Robinson highlights Immersive Reader, available in the View tab, to enhance readability and adjust text settings. For instance, users can change font styles and sizes with Ctrl+A and Ctrl+Shift+> or Ctrl+Shift+< for better clarity. These Low Vision Computer Tricks include changing font styles and sizes with Ctrl+A and Ctrl+Shift+> or Ctrl+Shift+< for better clarity. Furthermore, the Line Focus feature reduces clutter by focusing on one or a few lines, aiding users with dyslexia. Moreover, Read Aloud, activated with Alt+Ctrl+Space, provides text-to-speech support with adjustable speed and voice options.
In Edge, pressing F9 activates Immersive Reader, which simplifies web pages by removing clutter for a cleaner reading experience. Users can also customize text preferences or enable Read Aloud for auditory assistance. These Low Vision Computer Tricks also include customizing text preferences or enabling Read Aloud for auditory assistance. Notably, Dr. Robinson recommends Edge for its built-in accessibility commands, though Chrome and Firefox offer similar tools.
Immersive reader for low vision
Finally, she emphasizes using Night Light mode to reduce blue light exposure and protect long-term eye health. These tools, combined with her strategies, empower low-vision users to navigate technology effectively.
Speed up your computer and fix slow-loading programs with a few adjustments and updates. Ensure all necessary .NET runtimes for programs are installed in the control panel. This allows programs to run smoothly.Regularly update your computer system to improve performance. Maintain a clean computer system, optimize performance, and disable unnecessary startup applications to keep your computer running efficiently.
Fix a Slow computer To Do List:
Users to update their .NET runtime to version 8 (and version 9 by end of 2024) using ninite.com.
Users to clean out their temp folder by running %temp% in Windows Run and deleting the contents to help speed up the computer.
Users to disable unnecessary startup apps in Task Manager to improve computer startup speed.
Details:
Downloading and Installing Runtimes for better Performance
Download and install these runtimes using the .NET Microsoft download and the Ninite.com website. Make sure to download the correct versions, specifically 64-bit and 86-bit. Use a screen reader to navigate the download process if needed. Check if the runtimes are correctly installed in programs and features. Update to version 9 by the end of December 2024.
Ninite.com will help speed up and fix a slow computer
Improving Computer Speed and Fix slow Computer Network
Improving computer speedand network connection involves cleaning the computer by removing temporary files and emptying the recycle bin. Regularly check for updates to keep the system running efficiently. Navigate to the temp folder and delete unnecessary files, handling files in use appropriately. Use windows key and type in updates to go to check for updates and do them several times a week. Keep your software updated also and the speed of your computer increases with every fix and adjustment. Here are other Tech Tricks to improve you computer and new commands for Google
How to set up a Windows 11 computer for optimal screen reader performance is crucial for blind and low vision users. First, ensure that your computer meets the necessary system requirements. A powerful processor and sufficient RAM are essential for smooth operation. Additionally, installing the latest updates for Windows 11 is important. These updates include crucial security patches and performance improvements. If you find you need to remap a key to say, acquire an applications key on your keyboard, you can do that yourself.
Next, customize the display settings to enhance visibility. Adjusting the screen resolution and scaling ensures that text and icons are easier to read. Moreover, enabling high contrast mode can make the interface more accessible. This setting increases the contrast between background and text, making it easier to distinguish elements on the screen.
In addition, configuring keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve efficiency. Windows 11 offers a variety of shortcuts for navigating the system. Customizing these shortcuts allows for quicker access to frequently used features. Furthermore, consider enabling the on-screen keyboard for easier input.
How to setup Windows 11 for screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA, and Narrator are essential tools for blind users. Ensure that your chosen screen reader is installed and updated. It’s also important to adjust the screen reader settings to match your preferences. For instance, modifying the speech rate and verbosity can make navigation more comfortable. See second video on proper setup of windows11 settings.
Enhance Experience with AI
Moreover, installing and configuring additional assistive software can enhance your experience. Programs like MathKicker.AI and MathCat in WORD improve accessibility for mathematical content. These tools integrate seamlessly with screen readers, providing a more inclusive environment.
Lastly, securing your computer is vital. Enable strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect your data. Regularly updating your antivirus software will also safeguard your system from potential threats.
Thus, setting up a Windows 11 computer for screen reader users involves careful configuration. By following these steps, users can achieve the best performance and efficiency. This ensures a more accessible and productive computing experience.
In this video, Dr. Denise Robinson guides Tay in proper Braille Math Editor Mode on her FOCUS Display. The session begins with Dr. Robinson reminding Tay how to change the computer’s mode to “contracted out/computer in.” This change ensures proper Braille math output, which simplifies the process and reduces errors.
Dr. Robinson then encourages Tay to use the Braille Math Editor with confidence, using her 2 knuckles on her right hand and 1 pointer finger on her left hand. She goes onto explain that the chosen mode automatically handles many aspects of math input. This approach allows Tay to focus more effectively on solving problems.
Next, Tay is guided through various math problems, including division and multiplication. Dr. Robinson carefully ensures that Tay understands how to input problems correctly into the Braille Math Editor. For division tasks, she provides clear instructions on entering Braille codes and following the correct sequences.
Furthermore, Dr. Robinson emphasizes the importance of memorizing math facts. She highlights how strong basic math skills can significantly improve accuracy and speed. Through consistent practice and repetition, Tay begins to reinforce these essential concepts.
As the session continues, Tay receives positive reinforcement, which helps her gain confidence. With each task, Tay requires fewer prompts, showing her growing independence in handling math problems.
Finally, Dr. Robinson concludes by praising Tay’s progress. She expresses confidence in Tay’s continued improvement and emphasizes that ongoing practice will help Tay master essential math skills. Dr. Robinson also reassures Tay that she will become more comfortable using the Braille Math Editor with time.
Overall, this session reflects Dr. Robinson’s commitment to fostering independence and competence in her students using proper Braille Math Editor Mode. She ensures they have the necessary tools and confidence to succeed academically. This methodical approach helps students like Tay build a strong foundation for future learning and problem-solving. To further learning, Embossing math using Braille Blaster or graphics using Tiger will always increase understanding of math in general.
Kim began as a young student with TechVision. Her mother sought help and discovered that we provide real-time instruction using everyday technology essential for future job success. TechVision worked with Kim several days a week, ensuring continuous learning and growth. She used a PC with access technology to access her school platform and all else, including a Computer Enabled access with screen readers and a braille display, to access her world and education. Over time, she transformed from a struggling blind student, reliant on constant para and teacher support, to an independent learner working on her own. This is her story, please listen.
For Kim, moving from depending on others for her education to becoming independent changed everything. With TechVision’s hands-on, real-time learning, she learned to use screen readers and a braille display, which let her access schoolwork by herself. Instead of always needing help from a para or teacher, Kim could now complete her assignments on her own, just like her classmates. This gave her confidence and made her feel more in control of her education. Being able to work independently helped her stay on track with her peers and prepared her for future success. A Computer Enabled access to change her life.
Years ago, Aubrey was just learning how to learn remotely. Dr Robinson lived close by so was able to come over in person to help her with skills and hand under hand and hand over hand as needed to learn position of fingers. A major part of her lessons is to learn to do work on braille display and computer with keyboard shortcuts. This video is her just learning how to do math in WORD.
To answer a Zoom call using keyboard shortcuts when on a braille display and computer, you can use the following:
These shortcuts help you manage calls efficiently without needing to use a mouse. A braille display and computer can make these tasks smoother.
Here are some additional keyboard shortcuts that Aubrey learned to enhance her navigation and accessibility experience:
General Web Navigation on braille display and computer
Ctrl + L or Alt + D: Focus on the address bar.
Ctrl + T: Open a new tab when using a braille display and/or computer.
Ctrl + W: Close the current tab.
Ctrl + Shift + T: Reopen the last closed tab.
Ctrl + Tab: Switch to the next tab.
Ctrl + Shift + Tab: Switch to the previous tab.
Ctrl + R or F5: Refresh the current page.
Ctrl + F: Open the find bar to search within the page on your braille display and computer setup.
Screen Reader Specific
Insert + F7: Open the links list in JAWS.
Insert + F6: Open the headings list in JAWS.
Insert + Down Arrow: Start reading continuously from the current position in JAWS.
Ctrl + Alt + Arrow Keys: Navigate by character, word, or line in NVDA for better synchronization with your braille display and computer.
Aubrey using braille display and computer, to learn how to complete math in WORD
Windows Accessibility commands for display and computer
Windows Key + U: Open the Ease of Access Center.
Windows Key + Plus (+): Turn on Magnifier and zoom in.
Windows Key + Minus (-): Zoom out with Magnifier.
Windows Key + Ctrl + N: Open Narrator settings.
Windows Key + Ctrl + O: Turn on the On-Screen Keyboard.
Text Editing
Ctrl + C: Copy selected text.
Ctrl + X: Cut selected text.
Ctrl + V: Paste copied or cut text.
Ctrl + Z: Undo the last action.
Ctrl + Y: Redo the last undone action.
These shortcuts can help you navigate more efficiently and make your web browsing and computer use more accessible. If you need more specific shortcuts or have other questions, feel free to ask!
