Summary: NCBI can provide guidance and training in the use of a wide range of technology solutions to make it easier to access printed information.

    Finding solutions

    Our information technology trainers can help you find a solution to improve access to information and communication through the use of assistive or adaptive technology, which includes software that enlarges print on your computer or reads aloud what is on the screen. Scanners transfer printed material onto your computer, while portable note takers and talking mobile phones may also be of use.

    Our technology trainers work with people on a one-to-one basis, and will recommend the types of technology that might meet your needs.

    You can test out the equipment to make sure that it works for you and we will then install it for you in your home, workplace, college or school. We can also provide follow-up support and training in either groups or individual classes.

    Inclusive technology

    NCBI’s Centre for Inclusive Technology (CFIT) was established to help work towards an information society that is accessible to all.

    CFIT provides advice on the design of technologies including websites, mobile phones, computer software and ticket machines, helping to ensure that these everyday technologies are accessible to the widest possible audience.

    Assistive Technology Available

    Find out more about assistive technologies currently available.

    NCBI's Monthly Technology Podcast

    NCBI’s monthly technology podcast takes a look at what’s happening in the assistive technology area for people with sight loss in Ireland. Presented by Stuart Lawler, the podcast introduces you to not only some of the technological innovations and projects that are taking place around NCBI, but also what is happening with other organisations in Ireland and beyond.

    The Episodes

    July 2012 

    This month we find out what was new at Sight Village when we chat with Darragh Ó Héiligh, who attended the event. Mark Magennis of NCBI CFIT demonstrates an accessible digital set-top box from Bush Australia. Kieran O'Callaghan, winner of the CFIT Technology Showcase 2012 tells us about his winning invention and another very exciting product he is developing. Finally, Dr. Dónal Fitzpatrick from the school of computing at DCU talks to us about assistive technology and some of his thoughts for the future.

    June 2012

    • Paul Traynor, NCBI’s Technical Support officer talks about his work and gives us some tech tips to keep our computers in top shape.
    • Greg Fields from Research In Motion (RIM) talks about BlackBerry accessibility, and we hear a quick demo of the new BlackBerry screen reader.

    Giving feedback

    We’d love to hear from you if you have comments, suggestions or pieces for inclusion on a future podcast. Please get in touch by emailing technologypodcast@ncbi.ie.

    • Get support on assistive technology

      For technical support on assistive technology you are currently using, contact the technical support service Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm on LoCall 1850 33 43 53.

      To arrange an appointment with a technology trainer contact 1850 33 43 53 or talk to your community resource worker.

    • Accessible Mobile Phones

      Find out more about accessible mobile phones that speak and are easy to use.

    • Assistive Technology Acquisition Grant

      The Assistive Technology Acquisition Grant (ATAG) is an NCBI initiative which exists to help reduce the cost of assistive technology for people who are blind or vision impaired.

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