Dr Denise M Robinson

Access Technology & Education Services for Blind and Low Vision

Search results for: “focus”

  • Focus Braille Display and SD to and from Scratchpad and PC

    To configure the Focus Braille Display SD card and Scratchpad, allowing you to copy files to and from the Micro SD card, make sure the unit is powered off and the supplied USB cable is connected to your PC. Next, press and hold the Left Panning button while simultaneously inserting the USB cable. The display powers on and the PC recognizes the Focus as a removable USB drive.

    Note: If you use a screen reader such as JAWS over USB, it is recommended that you turn on speech or use a Bluetooth connection as braille will currently not work over USB when the Focus is being used as a storage device. You will also not be able to use the Scratchpad while in this mode.

    Create .brf or .brl files in Braille Blaster or Duxbury or other braille translation APPs

    Create .txt files in WORD, WordPad or another Braille editor

    To transfer BRF and TXT files to the Micro SD card:

    • On the PC, open the folder containing the files you want to copy, select the files you want, and then press CTRL+C. This is key step when managing the Focus Braille Display SD card and Scratchpad option.
    • Windows E to file explorer and navigate to and open the USB drive to display the contents of the Micro SD card in navigation pane.
    • Open FSI, Focus5, Scratchpad, and then open the folder where you want to place the files and press CTRL+V. Files you want to edit should be placed into the Notes folder. Files placed into the Books folder cannot be modified.

    To transfer TXT files created in Scratchpad:

    • Navigate to and open the USB drive to display the contents of the Micro SD card. Under This PC and navigation pane typically
    • Open FSI, Focus5, Scratchpad, Notes, and then select the TXT files you want to copy and press CTRL+C.
    • Navigate to the folder on your PC where you want to place the files and press CTRL+V. You can now use Notepad or another text editor to access these files.

    Once you have finished transferring files, press the APPLICATIONS key on your computer while focused on the USB drive, and choose Eject. Power the Focus off and back on and you will once again be able to use the Scratchpad as well as receive braille output from your screen reader over USB.

    Press right shift + x to close current file if u make changes it will prompt you to save or discard so you can use cursor router button or dot 8 to navigate thru options

    If you want to temporarily leave the scratchpad in the background and resume connection to computer do menu +B (space + dot 1,2)     

    Get out of file by pressing menu and it pops to file menu and rocker down to file, open, etc. and enter on choice

    Rocker down to open or what you want

    Select folder-I save most books in books so I open that with enter

    Rocker down to file you want to open     

    To edit and type in the Scratchpad of a Focus Braille Display (like the Focus 40 Blue), you’ll be using its onboard notepad feature. This is a standalone function that lets you jot down notes directly on the device without needing a connected screen reader. Here’s how to navigate and use it:

    Accessing and Using the Scratchpad

    Enter Scratchpad Mode

    • Press Menu button (in center of dots 1 and 4) and rocker down until you reach Scratchpad or N+Menu for new file and enter for options-fastest but sometimes does not work so go Menu option rocker down
    • Press a cursor router button above the word “Scratchpad” to select it or enter to open.

    Brailling and Editing

    • Use Braille input keys to type your content.
    • Use cursor router buttons to move the cursor to specific characters.
    • Use DOTS 7 + character to delete backward.
    • Use DOTS 8 to insert a new line or confirm actions.

    Save Your Work

    • After brailling what you want just right shift + X and enter and it will prompt you to save.

    Exit Scratchpad

    • Right Shift + X

    Connect to computer will be B space to switch back and forth between your Notes folder with file to type in info and your computer. See video

    Tips for Efficient Use

    • You can transfer Scratchpad files to a PC via USB or SD card in reader on your PC.
    • Scratchpad supports BRF and TXT formats, ensuring that the Focus Braille Display and SD card work harmoniously.

    Tips & Limitations

    • Only plain text (.TXT) files are editable in NOTES folder
    • Files transferred from PC must be in UTF-8 or ASCII format which is .txt as it takes all format out
    • Large files may not open or save properly

    More Scratchpad commands, go to freedom scientific

    Host of other FOCUS display Lessons

    Braille Display with Jaws-auto read

  • Spanish Braille Setup with JAWS and a Focus Braille Display: How to Configure Any Language

    Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to set up a Spanish language profile in JAWS for a perfect JAWS Spanish language setup. This focuses on accessibility for Spanish-speaking students or students learning a 2nd language. She begins by explaining the differences in braille capitalization across regions. In European countries, dot six is used for capitals, while the U.S. and other areas use dots four and six. The braille display must output the text correctly in Word to ensure accurate reading.

    Dr. Robinson guides users through the JAWS settings and starts with inserting a language profile. She uses specific keyboard commands, such as “Insert 6,” to access the JAWS settings center. She emphasizes the importance of setting the default language to Spanish (Spain International). This ensures that the braille output is in Spanish Grade 1. After adjusting the settings, she double-checks everything in Word to confirm that the changes have held.

    Jaws Spanish language setup for braille and information on how to type it out in WORD

    Quickly Switch Between Language for Jaws Spanish Braille Setup

    Next, Dr. Robinson explains how to switch between languages. She advises setting up multiple language profiles. This allows quick toggling between them using commands like “Ctrl+Shift+Windows+L” or specific braille display commands. She ensures that the students can easily switch between English and Spanish, making their work seamless and efficient. See all JAWS Spanish language Setups and other lessons here.

    Throughout the setup, Dr. Robinson highlights the importance of using commands to add necessary braille dots for accurate translation. Adding dot eight ensures the correct representation of certain letters and punctuation marks. She demonstrates how to practice symbols and contractions on the braille display, ensuring students are comfortable with the layout.

    Dr. Robinson mentions that a practice sheet with all the necessary symbols and contractions are available on website. The website, yourtechvision.com, offers this resource to help students reinforce their learning. This resource helps students reinforce their learning and practice braille accurately. With this setup, students can work efficiently in Word using JAWS. They will perform tasks just like their peers with the help of a Focus 40 braille display. Then progress to using this in Google Classroom

    Other Spanish Lessons

    Braille Setup for Spanish

    Spanish Braille input output

    Spanish Braille with Jaws

    Switch Display Modes

  • Focus 40 Braille Display for Subtraction in IXL Math

    Navigating IXL with a screen reader like JAWS allows blind students to access educational content easily. Using specific keyboard commands enables quick access to various elements on the page. For example, pressing H moves between headings, helping students locate sections in lessons or practice activities. When working on subtraction exercises in Focus 40 IXL, pressing B navigates to buttons like “Submit” or “Check Answer,” allowing students to interact with controls smoothly.

    Another helpful command is Insert + F7, which opens a list of links on the page. This makes moving between sections, such as practice questions and feedback, more efficient. Students can also use F to quickly jump to answer boxes or search fields. To read questions or instructions, pressing Insert + Up Arrow reads the current line, while Ctrl + Down Arrow skips ahead to the next section when working on Focus 40 IXL subtraction.

    JAWS Navigation Commands

    By using these commands, students navigate IXL independently, completing exercises and reviewing answers efficiently. The screen reader provides real-time feedback, guiding students as they interact with IXL’s educational content related to subtraction problems. This empowers students to fully engage in their learning experience.

    Essential IXL keyboard commands for navigating with JAWS:

    1. Navigate headings: Press H to jump between headings, allowing you to quickly move through sections of the page during subtraction practice.
    2. Navigate links: Use Insert + F7 to bring up a list of all links, and then use the arrow keys to select the desired one.
    3. Move to next button: Press B to navigate through buttons on the screen, such as “Submit” or “Check Answer” while working on subtraction in Focus 40 IXL.
    4. Move to form fields: Use F to jump between input fields, such as answer boxes or search fields.
    5. Navigate by list: Press L to move through lists of questions or answer choices, ensuring efficient navigation during subtraction lessons.
    6. Read the current line: Press Insert + Up Arrow to read the current line, useful for verifying questions or feedback.
    7. Repeat the last spoken phrase: Use Insert + 5 on the numpad to repeat the last spoken message.
    8. Skip to the next section: Press Ctrl + Down Arrow to quickly skip paragraphs and reach the next section of text, which can be especially useful in Focus 40 IXL subtraction lessons.

    Focus Display Commands

    Navigating IXL subtraction math using the Focus 40 Braille Display and JAWS enhances accessibility for blind students. By combining keyboard commands and tactile feedback, students can efficiently work through subtraction problems. Solving subtraction on a display is also easier than just audio feedback. Pressing H on the keyboard or using the Router Keys on the Focus 40 allows them to jump between headings, locating sections like instructions or problem sets quickly.

    Taylin using Focus 40 Display with 1 finger on left hand and 2 knuckles on right hand
    Taylin using Focus 40 Display with 1 finger on left hand and 2 knuckles on right hand

    For Focus 40 IXL subtraction problems, students can use E for edit or the Cursor Routing Buttons to jump directly to the answer input fields. As they enter their responses, the Braille display provides real-time feedback, ensuring accuracy. Pressing Insert + Up Arrow or using the Braille Display’s Line Reading feature reads the current subtraction problem, helping students verify their work. To check answers or move to the next problem, they can press B to navigate to buttons like “Submit,” or use the Panning Buttons to scroll through the page.

    Focus 40 Braille Display with JAWS

    The Focus 40 Braille Display, paired with JAWS, offers students the tactile and auditory support they need to complete all math problems independently in IXL. This combination enhances their confidence and accuracy in solving subtraction problems.

    These JAWS commands allow smooth and efficient navigation on IXL, enhancing the learning experience for blind and visually impaired students.

    Other videos for special hands:

    Typing 77 words per minute

    Other typing speed

    Math with 3 Fingers using Braille Display

    Fixing Typing Echo on Display

  • Blind Student Doing Algebra in Word Using a Focus Braille Display and JAWS

    Using a Focus 40 Braille Display and JAWS, students can efficiently complete algebra assignments in Word, ensuring both speed and accuracy. They can navigate through documents, input mathematical symbols for their Algebra work, and graph equations using Desmos. The Braille Display provides tactile feedback while JAWS offers audio guidance, allowing students to efficiently edit, correct mistakes, and organize data into tables. With these tools, they can seamlessly complete algebraic tasks and submit their work via email, ensuring full participation in math activities.

    To complete algebra problems in Word using a Focus 40 Braille Display and JAWS, students should follow these steps for effective Algebra with Focus Display:

    FOCUS and JAWS Display Commands

    Using the Focus 40 Braille Display, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to efficiently braille out algebra problems in Word.
    Using the Focus 40 Braille Display, Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to efficiently braille out algebra problems in Word.
    1. Set the Braille Display to Input Mode: Begin by pressing G.7 + Space to switch through the display modes. Set it to Input Mode for algebra.
    2. Navigate the Document: Use 1 + Space to move to the top of the document. To navigate the document, students press the left-side buttons for backward movement. They then use the right-pan buttons to move forward, ensuring smooth progress while working on Algebra with the Focus Display.
    3. Enter Algebraic Symbols: Students can easily type algebraic symbols, like Delta (Δ), by using the keyboard. After typing, copy the symbol using Shift + C to avoid repeating it manually later.
    4. Work with Mathematical Formulas: To type formulas like “Rise over Run” (Δy/Δx), use the keyboard to input characters. Make sure to add spaces around operations for clarity, especially when sharing with sighted peers. For example, input the formula as “Δy = 2” and “Δx = 3” with a the Focus Display and JAWS.
    5. Navigate Through Graphing: To access graph, students can use the rocker bars or 1 + Space for upward navigation and 4 + Space for downward movement.
    6. Input Values into Desmos: After entering algebraic equations, students can switch to Desmos by pressing Shift + 4 + 5 (Alt + Tab equivalent). They can then input values and trace graphs using the Alt + T command for audio tracing.
    7. Copy and Paste Graphs: Once the graph is complete in Desmos, use Alt + Print Screen to capture the graph. Paste it into Word with Shift + V for documentation.
    8. Submit the Assignment: When the algebra problem is finished, the student can email the document by navigating to File using Alt + F and attaching it in Outlook. Then open Outlook, use F9 to quickly send the email once Outlook is open.

    These steps help students efficiently solve algebra problems in Word while using their Braille Display for input. Additionally, students can smoothly navigate Desmos for graphing, enhancing their algebra skills with the Focus 40 Display

    Enable Students to Efficiently complete Algebra with Focus Display

    1. Using Tables for Data: If the algebra assignment involves creating tables, students can use Alt + N to insert a table. On the Braille Display, press 6 + 8 + Space to activate the Alt command and navigate to the Table option. Once a table is created, pressing Tab will move between cells, and 4 + 5 + Space adds more rows as needed, making tables part of their Algebra workflow using a Focus Display.
    2. Auto-fitting Tables: To ensure tables fit content properly, use Alt + J + L to access the layout options. Select AutoFit Contents to adjust the table size automatically. This helps in organizing the data neatly for submission in Algebra with Focus Display assignments.
    3. Editing and Correcting Mistakes: If a student makes an error, they can use 3 + Space on the Braille Display to move by character and correct the mistake. Use Shift + 6 + 7 + Space to select the incorrect portion and retype it. The Braille Display’s tactile feedback helps ensure precision when editing formulas.
    4. Reviewing the Work: To review algebra problems, students can move back through the document using 1 + 4 + Space to navigate line by line. Press Insert + Up Arrow to have JAWS read back the current line, ensuring that everything is correct before submission.
    5. Final Submission Process: Once the assignment is complete, the student can go to Alt + F to access the File menu. Choose Share. From there, they can attach the document directly in an email. Using F9 forces Outlook to send the email quickly. Make sure their work is submitted on time, thereby completing their Algebra with Focus Display workflow.

    More Lessons for Math

    By following this step-by-step guide, students can efficiently complete algebra problems using the Focus 40 Braille Display, JAWS, and Word. The tactile feedback from the display, combined with JAWS’ audio guidance, enhances both speed and accuracy. This combination helps students solve math problems, graph equations, and organize data effectively. When using the Focus Display, students experience seamless transitions between tasks, ensuring smooth navigation throughout their algebra assignments.

  • Advanced Accessible Math: MathType and LaTeX in Word Using JAWS and a Focus Braille Display with Professor Betsey

    Dr. Betsey Doane shared her experience teaching math for over 50 years and the importance of making math accessible to all students, including those with visual impairments. She began by introducing the software MathType, essential for creating accessible math content. The software integrates into Word and allows users to write math that is accessible to both screen readers and braille displays. Her efforts truly embody the concept of Advanced Math Made Accessible.

    Dr. Doane explained the basics of LaTeX, a text-based language used for writing math. She demonstrated how to input and translate common math expressions such as fractions, square roots, and equations using LaTeX in Word. Her instructions included using the Focus 40 Braille Display and ensuring proper configurations for students to view math content in braille. This approach makes advanced math more accessible for everyone.

    LaTex using Mathtype to insert perfect Advanced math made accessible
    LaTex using Mathtype to insert perfect Advanced math made accessible

    She emphasized the importance of understanding both the visual and non-visual ways of presenting math, highlighting that students need the right software and commands to work effectively. By using LaTeX and MathType, both sighted and blind students can access and solve math problems, ensuring inclusion in any classroom setting. This makes advanced math accessible and easier to understand.

    She highlighted the use of MathType software, which integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Word, allowing users to create and present math content that is accessible through screen readers like JAWS and braille displays like the Focus 40. Dr. Doane explained how MathType enables students and educators to write complex equations, such as fractions, square roots, and exponents, in both visual and non-visual formats. This ensures that blind students can access the same content as their sighted peers, making advanced math more accessible.

    Advanced Math Made Accessible with LaTex

    Dr. Doane also provided an introduction to LaTeX, a powerful text-based language used for writing mathematical expressions. She demonstrated how to write math using LaTeX syntax, such as using backslashes for commands like fractions and square roots. By using LaTeX in Word with MathType, math content can be rendered correctly on both screen readers and braille displays, making it easier for blind students to follow along in class and complete assignments. This is another way to make advanced math accessible.

    Furthermore, Dr. Doane stressed the importance of configuring braille displays correctly, ensuring that input is set to computer braille and output is set to grade 2. She provided step-by-step instructions for adjusting these settings on the Focus 40 Braille Display, ensuring that students can navigate math content effectively, contributing to the overall goal of making advanced math accessible.

    In conclusion, Dr. Doane encouraged educators to adopt these tools and techniques to create an inclusive learning environment where both sighted and blind students can excel in mathematics. Her detailed instructions and practical advice offer a clear path toward accessible math education for all.

    Other Math Lessons

    Hayes learns proper Word setup for Math with Math Editor and Jaws commands with brailliant display

    Setting up Braille Math editor in WORD to left justify and work in computer and contracted braille

    UEB Math Lessons Galore with JAWS or NVDA

    Digital UEB Math & Braille Math Editor in WORD with JAWS UEB Mode

    UEB Math using Braille Math and Word Math Editors with Jaws and split-braille-for-buffer-mode

    UEB Math with NVDA in WORD using unicode-LaTex or Braille -easy to advanced math

    Digital Math with UEB Math, NVDA completing Matrices in WORD Math Editor 365

    JAWS or UEB Math in WORD Math Editor-Unicode-LaTex Braille=learning easy to advanced math

    Quadratic Formulas with UEB Math or Nemeth and/or display with JAWS audio & MathCat

    Matrices in WORD Math Editor-Braille Math editor with Jaws using LaTex, auditory and/or Braille

    MathKicker. AI- Solutions to Math Issues

    Digital Quadratic Math with Jaws or NVDA in Mathkicker.ai – auditory and/or braille display

    Complete Advanced Math with LaTex to finish math fast using Mathkicker.AI, JAWS, NVDA and/or display

    Math & AI =Mathkicker.ai convert PDF math or any work into WORD docx.

    Perfect Digital Math at all levels using only audio or tactile Braille or both in Mathkicker.ai

    Math & AI is MathKicker.ai — convert to .docx from clipboard- make inaccessible accessible

    Mathkicker.ai-take an image of math and make it perfect Math in Word Math editor with screen reader

    Mathkicker.AI -change Math PDF to text in WORD Math editor in less than a minute with screen reader

    Graphing, Split Braille and More

    Transcribe Math into Word documents for blind students using Math editor, Jaws and a Braille Display

    Quadratic equation and how to fix math mistakes, braille math editor, Jaws in Word Math editor

    Braille Math in Word with editor, JAWS, braille display and ease for multi-line math problems

    Graphing Inequalities, functions and shading with Desmos and screen reader

    Create Geometry Shapes from Math Work in Desmos with screen reader

    Geometry in DESMOS graphing Calculator with screen reader

    Desmos graphing calculator with shaded Parabolas, screen reader, braille display and embosser

    Students with Math

    Braille Math editor Contracted out, computer in mode with Tay–most efficient

    Jaws Braille Math editor in Word by Aubrey

    Braille Math Editor in Word with Jaws, Focus Braille Display by Campbell

    How to Get a Job

    How to Stop Cheating

    And Even 3 fingers can do all of these lessons

    And start with IXL on a display

  • Using Focus 40 Braille Display to do Math Work in Word with Jaws

    Using Focus 40 Braille Display to do Math Work in Word with Jaws, Kim demonstrates commands in WORD using FOCUS 40 Braille display exclusively. She can control her computer and complete her math work in WORD with just the display.

    Here are some essential commands for using the Focus 40 Braille Display to do math in Microsoft Word:

    Basic Navigation to braille Math Work in WORD

    • Move to the next word: Dot 5 + Dot 6 + Space
    • Move to the previous word: Dot 2 + Dot 3 + Space
    • Move to the next line: Dot 4 + Dot 5 + Space
    • Move to the previous line: Dot 1 + Dot 2 + Space

    Selecting Text with Focus 40 Braille Display

    • Select a word: Dot 5 + Dot 6 + Space + Dot 7
    • Select a line: Dot 4 + Dot 5 + Space + Dot 7

    Math Commands using Focus 40 Braille Display

    • Insert an equation: Alt + = (use the Braille display to type Alt + =)
    • Navigate within an equation: Use the same navigation commands as above to move through the equation.

    Editing and Formatting for Math Work in Word

    • Bold text: Ctrl + B (use the Braille display to type Ctrl + B)
    • Italicize text: Ctrl + I
    • Underline text: Ctrl + U
    Kim using the Focus 40 Display for math
    Kim using the Focus 40 Display for math

    Using JAWS with Math

    • Read the current equation: Insert + 5
    • Move to the next equation: Ctrl + Alt + Right Arrow
    • Move to the previous equation: Ctrl + Alt + Left Arrow

    These commands will help you efficiently navigate, select, and edit mathematical content in Word using the Focus 40 Braille Display.

    Calculator commands: with JAWS

    Basic Navigation

    • Read the current display: Insert + Up Arrow
    • Read the previous calculation: Insert + Shift + Up Arrow
    • Move to the next button: Tab
    • Move to the previous button: Shift + Tab

    Performing Calculations in Windows Calculator

    • Clear entry: Delete
    • Clear all: Esc
    • Equals: Enter

    Memory Functions

    • Store in memory: Ctrl + M
    • Recall from memory: Ctrl + R
    • Clear memory: Ctrl + L
    • Add to memory: Ctrl + P
    • Subtract from memory: Ctrl + Q

    These commands will help you efficiently navigate and perform calculations using the Windows Calculator with JAWS12.

  • Connect Focus 40 braille display to Jaws

    Connecting a Focus Braille Display to a computer using JAWS screen reader enhances accessibility for blind and visually impaired users. The process of connecting a Connect Focus 40 Braille display allows users to interact with digital content through tactile feedback, improving independence and productivity. By following a few simple steps, you can seamlessly connect the Braille display via USB or Bluetooth and configure it in JAWS for optimal use. This guide provides an easy-to-follow approach for setting up your Focus Braille Display and ensuring smooth integration with JAWS.

    Here are the steps to connect a Focus Braille Display to your computer using JAWS screen reader:

    Connect Focus 40 Braille Display or other displays

    1. Power on the Focus Braille Display

    Ensure the Focus Braille Display is fully charged and powered on before connecting.

    1. Connect the Display to the Computer

    Use either USB or Bluetooth to connect the Focus Braille Display to your computer.

    For USB: Plug the USB cable into both the Braille display and the computer.

    For Bluetooth: Enable your computer’s Bluetooth and pair the Focus display in the Bluetooth settings.

    1. Enable Braille in JAWS

    Open JAWS by pressing Insert + J. Then, press Alt + O to open the Options menu.

    Press B to select Braille or use the arrow keys to navigate, then press Enter.

    1. Select the Braille Display

    In the Braille settings window, ensure the “Focus” display is selected under the Default Braille Display dropdown.

    If it’s not selected, use the arrow keys to choose “Focus” or manually type the model of the Braille display.

    1. Check Braille Display Connection

    After selecting the correct display, click OK or press Enter to confirm the connection.

    JAWS should now detect the Focus Braille Display. Braille output should appear, and the display keys will control JAWS.

    1. Configure Settings (Optional)

    To further customize settings like verbosity and Braille output, go to Braille options via Insert + J, Alt + O, and B.

    1. Test the Connection

    Use JAWS commands on your keyboard or the Focus Braille Display keys to navigate.

    If the connection works, the Braille display will respond to the text output from the computer.

    By following these steps, you should successfully connect your Focus Braille Display to a computer using JAWS.

    Braille Display and Other Lessons

    Quadratic Formulas with UEB Math or Nemeth and/or display with JAWS audio & MathCat

    Complete Advanced Math with LaTex to finish math fast using Mathkicker.AI, JAWS, NVDA and/or display

    Transcribe Math into Word documents for blind students using Math editor, Jaws and a Braille Display

    Track Changes with Commands-inserting comments and editing work

    Essential WORD keyboard commands for setting defaults

    Excel line plot graph-copy to Word for Math

    Complete an excel graph and copy into Word document with screen reader

    Basic WORD JAWS commands with Typing Trick

    Rebuild Microsoft Word Template when it is not working well

    Other Focus Display lessons

  • Focus Display Navigation options

    Dr. Robinson demonstrates how to navigate with the Focus 40 Braille Display, highlighting various commands and features for efficient use. She introduces the Focus 40 Braille Display, explains the importance of navigation commands, and demonstrates various navigation techniques. Additionally, she covers Focus Display Navigation Options to help users maximize their efficiency.

    Focus Display Navigation Options Video Highlights

    • Introduction to navigation
      • Dr. Robinson introduces the Focus 40 Braille Display.
      • Explains the importance of navigation commands.
      • Prepares to demonstrate various navigation techniques.
    • Basic navigation commands
      • Shows how to move to the top and bottom of the display.
      • Uses specific key combinations for navigation:
        • Move to Bottom: Press dots 4-5-6 + Space.
        • Move to Top: Press dots 1-2-3 + Space.
      • Emphasizes the logic behind the commands.
    • Line and word navigation
      • Demonstrates moving one line at a time.
      • Uses key combinations for precise movement:
        • Move Down One Line: Press dot 4 + Space.
        • Move Up One Line: Press dot 1 + Space.
      • Explains how to navigate by words:
        • Move Forward One Word: Press dot 5 + Space.
        • Move Back One Word: Press dot 2 + Space.

    Other Display Navigation

    Focus braille display navigation options using router key
    Focus Braille Display navigation options using router keys
    • Router keys and mode buttons
      • Highlights the use of router keys for quick cursor movement.
      • Introduces mode buttons for different navigation options:
        • Router Keys: Press the router key above the desired character.
        • Mode Buttons: Located on the left and right sides.
      • Shows how to navigate by paragraphs and sentences:
        • Move Forward One Paragraph: Press the right rocker switch down.
        • Move Back One Paragraph: Press the right rocker switch up.
        • Move Forward One Sentence: Press the left rocker switch down.
        • Move Back One Sentence: Press the left rocker switch up.
    • Panning and rocker switches
      • Explains the function of panning buttons:
        • Move Forward One Display Width: Press the right panning button.
        • Move Back One Display Width: Press the left panning button.
      • Demonstrates the use of rocker switches for line navigation:
        • Move Up One Line: Press the right rocker switch up.
        • Move Down One Line: Press the right rocker switch down.
      • Highlights the benefits for sighted individuals working with Braille learners.

    Benefits of Focus Display

    The Focus 40 Braille Display offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it enhances Braille literacy through intuitive navigation commands. Additionally, its versatile features support efficient reading and writing. Moreover, students can easily move through text, improving their skills. The Focus Display can be used exclusively to control the computer–that means, you DO NOT need to use the keyboard if you cannot or do not want to. This makes for VERY efficient math calculations. The device’s compatibility with various screen readers ensures accessibility. Furthermore, its portability allows seamless use in different environments. Overall, the Focus 40 empowers users, boosting their independence and confidence in learning.

    Options for going between the display to take notes and the computer give many more options also

  • Switch Focus Braille Display Modes Quickly

    Dr. Robinson explains the three toggles to Switch Focus Braille Modes quickly on your Braille display. One toggle puts you into Braille mode for all Braille tasks. Another toggle switches to computer braille which inputs direct Nemeth code for math. The third toggle is for computer in and contracted out for either Nemeth or UEB math.

    Access Jaws settings to set up Focus Braille Mode Options

    First, press Insert + 6 to check your settings. Type “braille m” and down arrow to “Braille mode.” You can access options one by one with arrow keys or press F6 to jump to structured then Alt+T to jump to output. Press down arrow to UEB Grade 2 then tab to input and c to computer braille first to uncheck the box that says “Show current word in computer Braille”. Shift tab back up to input and choose UEB for both input and output. You can have other options also but this is what used here.

    Tab through back to For structured Braille mode, check “Active cursor follows Braille cursor” and “Braille cursor follows active cursor.” These settings help beginners, especially when working with sighted personnel learning Braille to following along visually for instructor. Always have a certified Braille instructor (TVI) to teach reading and writing Braille correctly.

    Always press Alt + A to apply settings before exiting. However, if you do not like the extra information at the start of your display, shift tab back to search in settings and type status and enter. Down arrow to status and F6 and down to right (to place status on the right of display) and down to none and apply that and close. When you first turn on your Braille display, the status characters may be confusing to young learners. Additional Braille Display Lessons here.

    Focus Braille Display Image with Button options

    switch Focus display modes quickly on display
    Switch Focus Braille display modes quickly on display

    For advanced users, status dots help in tables and other navigation. Beginners should start with “none.” Press Alt + A to apply changes, then enter to close. The Braille display functions like a Braille writer. Keys 1 2 3 are on the left, and keys 4 5 6 are on the right with space in between the left and right side. The left pinky key is backspace, which changes to dot 7, and the right pinky is enter or dot 8 in combination with other keys.

    More Videos Lessons

  • Cleaning the Focus Braille Display and Running Diagnostics

    Before you begin, remember when you are using your devices to maintain upright posture to protect your spine and neck. So, regularly cleaning the Focus 40 Braille Display and running diagnostics is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. Dust, dirt, and oils from your hands can accumulate on the Braille cells, potentially causing malfunctions or reducing the tactile quality of the display. By keeping the Braille cells clean, you ensure that the device remains responsive and accurate. Running diagnostics helps identify any issues early, allowing for timely repairs and preventing more significant problems down the line. This proactive maintenance not only extends the life of your device but also ensures a reliable and efficient user experience12.

    Here are the steps to clean the Focus 40 Braille Display and run diagnostics:

    Cleaning the Focus 40 Braille Display

    1. Turn Off the Device: Ensure the Focus 40 Braille Display is turned off and unplugged.
    2. Prepare Cleaning Materials: Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water or isopropyl alcohol. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
    3. Clean the Braille Cells: Hold the device upside down or at a downward angle. Gently wipe the raised Braille dots with the dampened cloth, ensuring all dots are cleaned. Use as much of the cloth’s surface area as necessary to avoid spreading dirt1.
    4. Dry the Device: Allow the device to air dry completely before turning it back on.
    5. Try it out and if you need training on reading as fast as you can on the display, let us know.

    Running Diagnostics

    1. Turn On the Device: Power on the Focus 40 Braille Display.
    2. Enter Diagnostic Mode: Press and hold the Menu button while turning on the device. Continue holding the button until the device enters diagnostic mode.
    3. Run Tests: Use the navigation keys to select and run various diagnostic tests, such as checking the Braille cells, buttons, and connectivity.
    4. Review Results: Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the diagnostic mode to review the results and identify any issues2.
    Cleaning the Focus 40 Braille Display and running diagnostics
    Cleaning the Focus 40 Braille Display and running diagnostics

    Regular cleaning and diagnostics help maintain the performance and longevity of your Focus 40 Braille Display, ensuring it remains responsive and reliable.

    Here is a video to demonstrate braille reading speed

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