Microsoft and Computer Accessibility
for Individuals with Disabilities

An introduction to disabilities and computer accessibility as 
well as  Microsoft's accessible products and services.

Note: The print version of this document begins with two 
illustrations -- the Microsoft Windows logo, and the universal 
access symbol.

Overview

A personal computer can be a powerful tool for enabling people to  
work, create and communicate in ways that might otherwise be 
difficult  or impossible.  But this vision can only be realized 
if those  individuals with disabilities have access to the 
powerful world of  personal computing.

The issue of computer accessibility in the home and workplace for  
people with disabilities is becoming increasingly important.  It 
is  estimated that there are over 30 million people in the United 
States  alone who have disabilities that can be affected by 
computer design.    In addition, between 7 and 9 out of every 10 
major corporations employ  people with disabilities who may need 
to use computers as part of their  jobs .  As the population ages 
and more people experience functional  limitations, computer 
accessibility will become increasingly important  to the 
population as a whole.

Legislation, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, which  
affects private businesses with 15 or more employees and  Section 
508 of the Rehabilitation Act, which addresses government  
spending, is also bringing accessibility issues to the forefront 
in  government businesses and organizations that receive 
government funding.

This overview is designed to answer questions about computer  
accessibility for people with disabilities as well as Microsoft's  
participation in this important area.

What are Disabilities?

Individuals are not disabled.  Rather, people have difficulties  
performing certain tasks, such as using a keyboard in a certain 
way.   These difficulties are referred to as "disabilities."  
Disabilities can  be divided into four general categories.  These 
categories describe  groups of disabilities covering a broad 
range of people with widely  different levels of needs.

* Visual Impairment:

Ranges from slightly reduced visual acuity to total blindness.  
Those  with reduced visual acuity may only need images on a 
computer screen to  be reasonably sized or specially enlarged, 
while users with more severe  impairments may require output to 
be translated into spoken text or  Braille.

* Hearing Impairments:

Some individuals do not notice beeps or recognize spoken words.  
These  users may require a program to prompt them in a different 
manner, such  as a screen flash or displaying spoken messages as 
text.

* Movement Impairments:

Some users may be unable to perform certain manual tasks.  These 
can  range from difficulty holding a book to the inability to 
type two keys  at the same time.  Other individuals may have a 
tendency to hit multiple  keys, "bounce" keys when pressing or 
releasing them, or be unable to  manipulate a mouse.  These 
individuals may require keyboards and mouse  functions to be 
adapted to their requirements.

* Cognitive Impairments:

Cognitive Impairments take many forms, including retardation, 
short- and  long- term memory impairments, perceptual differences 
and language  impairments.  Proper software design can help 
increase the number of  people with mild cognitive impairments 
who can use computers.

What is Accessibility?

Accessibility means making computers accessible to a wider range 
of  users than would otherwise be the case.

Special needs can be addressed in several ways:

* New features that are built into hardware and operating systems 
that  help make them accessible to users with and without 
specialized  needs.  These are often referred to as "electronic 
curb cuts."  This  solution is preferred because the features are 
available on all  workstations and can be used with all 
applications.

* Utilities which modify the system to help make it more usable 
by more  people, but are not practical to install on all 
machines.  Examples  of utilities include Braille output systems 
for people who are blind  or modifications of the keyboard and 
mouse.

* Specialized applications, such as a word processor designed to  
integrate voice and text to help individuals with limited reading 
and  writing skills.

* Usability features that can be built into mainstream 
applications,  making them easier to use for people with 
disabilities.  Examples  include customizable colors and keyboard 
accelerators.  In many cases  these features also benefit people 
who do not have disabilities.

What is Microsoft Doing Today?

Microsoft has several programs in place to help users with 
disabilities  access computers and related materials.  

* Support Services for Individuals who are Deaf or Hard-of-
Hearing

Through a text telephone (TT/TDD) service, Microsoft provides 
people who  are deaf or hard-of-hearing with complete access to 
Microsoft(R) product  and customer support services.

You can contact the Microsoft Sales Information Center on a text  
telephone by dialing (800) 892-5234 between 6:30 A.M. and 5:30 
P.M.  Pacific time. For technical assistance you can contact the 
Microsoft  Support Network on a text telephone at (206) 635-4948 
between 6:00 A.M.  and 6:00 P.M. Pacific time. Microsoft support 
services are subject to  Microsoft prices, terms, and conditions 
in place at the time the service  is used.

You can also contact the Microsoft corporate switchboard on a 
text  telephone by dialing (206) 936-5066 between 6:00 A.M. and 
6:00 P.M.  Pacific time.

* Microsoft Publications for Individuals with Print Impairments

Individuals who have difficulties reading or handling printed 
materials  can obtain many of Microsoft's publications from 
Recording for the  Blind, Inc.  RFB distributes these documents 
to registered members of  their distribution service in the form 
of text files on floppy disks.   These files can be read by most 
text editors and Braille or voice output  systems.  Some titles 
may also be available on audio-cassette.  RFB's  collection 
includes a wide array of Microsoft product documentation as  well 
as books from Microsoft Press.

* Access Pack for Microsoft Windows

Access Pack for the Microsoft Windows(TM) operating system is a 
software  utility that provides features which make it easier for 
users with  movement or hearing disabilities to use Microsoft 
Windows 3.x.  Access  Pack for Microsoft Windows is discussed in 
greater detail below.

* Access Pack for Microsoft Windows NT

Access Pack for the Microsoft Windows NT(TM) operating system is 
a  software utility that provides features which make it easier 
for users  with movement or hearing disabilities to use Microsoft 
Windows NT  version 3.5.  It is discussed in greater detail 
below.

* AccessDOS

AccessDOS is a software utility that provides features which make 
it  easier for users with movement or hearing disabilities to use  
applications written for the Microsoft MS-DOS(R) operating 
system.  AccessDOS is discussed in greater detail below.

* Dvorak keyboard layouts

Microsoft distributes Dvorak keyboard layouts that make the most  
frequently typed characters on a keyboard more accessible to 
people who  have difficulty using the standard "QWERTY" layout. 
These layouts are  discussed in greater detail below.

* Product accessibility information

In order to make sure that vital information can be found by 
people who  need it, most Microsoft products include an appendix 
on Accessibility  for Persons with Disabilities in their standard 
printed and on-line  documentation. These sections list available 
resources and describe  features in the product that are useful 
for people with disabilities.

* Customizing Microsoft Windows

There are many ways you can adjust the appearance and behavior of  
Microsoft Windows to suit varying vision and motor abilities 
without  requiring any additional hardware or software. 
Application notes are  available that describe the specific 
methods available for each  operating system.

For more information see "Customizing Microsoft Windows," later 
in this  document.

* Microsoft Accessibility and Disabilities Group

Microsoft has established this group to make computers easier to 
use for  people with special accessibility needs.  This group 
works to make  Microsoft products and services more accessible as 
well as promote  accessibility throughout the computer industry.  
It also supports the  development of a rich variety of third-
party accessibility aids.

Third Party Products and Services

A wide variety of third party hardware and software products 
designed  to help people with disabilities use personal computers 
are currently  available.  Among the different types of products 
available for both MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows operating system 
are: 

* Programs that enlarge or alter the color of information on the 
screen  for people with visual impairments.

* Programs that describe information on the screen in Braille or  
synthesized speech for people who are blind or have difficulty  
reading.

* Hardware and software utilities that modify the behavior of the 
mouse  and keyboard.

* Programs that enable users to "type" using a mouse or their 
voice.

* Word or phrase prediction software that allows typing more 
quickly  with fewer keystrokes.

* Alternate input devices, such as single switch of puff-and-sip  
devices, for those who cannot use a mouse or a keyboard.

Getting More Information

* Information about Microsoft

For more information about Microsoft's products and services, 
customers  can contact the Microsoft Sales Information Center at 
(800) 426-9400.   For those with hearing impairments, the text 
telephone number is (800)  892-5234.

* Information for software developers

For information on software development of accessible products,  
developers can contact:

Accessibility and Disabilities Group
Microsoft Corporation
One Microsoft Way
Redmond, WA 98052-6933

(206) 882-8080 (voice telephone)
(206) 936-5066 (text telephone)
Fax (206) 936-7329

* Recording for the Blind

For more information on Recording for the Blind, customers can 
contact:

Recording for the Blind, Inc.
20 Roszel Road
Princeton, NJ  08540

(800) 221-4792
Fax (609)-987-8116

* Third party product information

The Trace R&D Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison 
produces a  book and a compact disc that describe products that 
help people with  disabilities use computers. The book, titled 
Trace ResourceBook,  provides descriptions and photographs of 
about 2,000 products. The  compact disc, titled CO-NET CD, 
provides a database of more than 18,000  products and other 
information for people with disabilities. It is  issued twice a 
year and should be available in many public libraries by  early 
1993.

Trace R&D Center
S-151 Waisman Center
1500 Highland Avenue
Madison, WI 53705-2280

(608) 263-2309 (voice telephone)
(608) 263-5408 (text telephone)
Fax (608) 262-8838

* Assistive technology programs

For general information and recommendations about how computers 
can help  specific individuals, customers should consult a 
trained evaluator who  can best match the individual's needs with 
the available solutions. An  assistive technology program in your 
area will be able to provide  referrals to programs and services 
available to you. To locate the  assistive technology program 
nearest your location, you may contact :

National Information System
Center for Developmental Disabilities
University of South Carolina
Benson Building
Columbia, SC  29208

(803) 777-4435 (voice or text telephone, inside the United 
States)
(803) 777-6222 (voice or text telephone, outside the United 
States)
(803) 777-6058 (fax)

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows

Making it easier for people with disabilities to access the power 
of  Windows

Overview

The Microsoft Windows family of products is designed to make PC's  
easier to use for everyone, from PC professionals to average 
users,  including those users with disabilities.  To meet this 
goal, Microsoft  provides Access Pack for Microsoft Windows.  
Access Pack for Microsoft  Windows is a set of utilities that 
make it easier for users with motion  related disabilities to use 
the keyboard and mouse.  Users that desire  visual feedback 
rather than sounds will also find Access Pack valuable.   A PC 
with Access Pack installed is ideal for settings where computers  
are used by multiple people, such as public or workgroup 
machines.   Machines with Access Pack can easily be used by both 
those individuals  that require its additional features and those 
that do not.

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows was developed through a 
cooperative  effort with the Trace R&D Center at the University 
of Wisconsin-Madison  with funding from the National Institute on 
Disability and  Rehabilitation Research.

Features

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows contains the following features  
that make the Windows operating system more accessible for those 
with  motion and hearing-related disabilities.

* StickyKeys:

Many software programs require the user to press two or three 
keys at  one time.  For people who type with a headstick or 
mouthstick, that just  isn't possible.  StickyKeys allows users 
to press one key at a time and  instructs Windows to respond as 
if they had been pressed simultaneously.

* SlowKeys:

For some individuals, the sensitivity of the keyboard can be a 
major  problem, especially if they hit keys accidentally.  
SlowKeys instructs  Windows to disregard keystrokes that are not 
held down for a certain  period of time.

* RepeatKeys:

Most keyboards allow users to repeat a key just by holding it 
down.  For  people, who can't lift their fingers off the keyboard 
quickly enough,  this convenience can be a major annoyance.  
RepeatKeys lets users adjust  the repeat rate or disable it 
altogether to best customize their  environment.

* BounceKeys:

For users that "bounce" keys, resulting in double strokes of the 
same  key or other similar errors, BounceKeys instructs Windows 
to ignore  unintended keystrokes.

* MouseKeys:

This feature lets individuals control the mouse from the 
keyboard.   Users can enjoy the flexibility of moving a mouse 
around the screen,  selecting menus and other convenient mouse 
functions from the keyboard.   MouseKeys can also help give users 
finer control than can be achieved  with a standard mouse.  A 
mouse is not required for this feature to  work.

* ToggleKeys:

ToggleKeys provide audio cues, high and low beeps, to tell the 
user  whether a toggle key is active or inactive.  It applies to 
the Caps  Lock, Num Lock and Scroll Lock Keys.

* SerialKeys:

This feature, in conjunction with a communications aid interface 
device,  allows the user to control the computer using 
alternative input devices  as if they were using a standard 
keyboard and mouse.

* SoundSentry:

Windows beeps when it wants to signal the user, but this is not 
useful  for users with a hearing impairment or who work in a 
noisy environment.   SoundSentry tells Windows to send a visual 
cue, such as a blinking title  bar or screen flash in addition to 
a beep.  The user can then see the  message that may not have 
been heard.

* TimeOut:

TimeOut turns off Access Pack's functionality after the system 
has been  idle for a certain period of time.  It returns the 
system to its default  configuration.  This feature is useful on 
machines shared by multiple  users.

The above features can be used alone or in combination to best 
suit a  user's needs and environment.  The features can also be 
customized to  create a personalized desktop that allows 
individuals to be their most  productive.  In addition, once the 
Access Pack has been installed, an  individual requiring a 
feature can access it without special assistance.  When all 
features are turned off an individual who does not require the  
functionality should not notice that Access Pack is installed.  

Access Pack and Government Regulations

With Access Pack for Windows and third-party products that make  
Windows accessible to people with visual impairments and 
Microsoft's  documentation in electronic form, Windows meets 
recommendations in the  Government Services Administration 
guidelines relating to software  accessibility. These guidelines 
were developed in response to section  508 of the Rehabilitation 
Act.  This law was written to ensure  accessibility for 
government employees with disabilities.  Access Pack  for Windows 
can also help employers accommodate individuals with  
disabilities, as required under the Americans with Disabilities 
Act.

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows Specifications

Access Pack consists of three keyboard drivers and a mouse driver  
that replace the standard Windows drivers.  In addition, it 
includes:

* The Access Utility (ACCESS.EXE) for controlling and customizing 
the  Access Pack functions

* Complete on-line documentation in both Microsoft Windows Write 
and  formatted text file formats

* On-line help

System Requirements

The Access Pack software is fully compatible with most systems  
running Microsoft Windows 3.0 or 3.1, or Windows(TM) for 
Workgroups 3.1  or 3.11.  It is compatible with keyboards 
supported by those operating  systems.  It can also be used with 
a Microsoft Mouse, an IBM(R) PS/2(R)  mouse or no mouse.  It does 
not support enhanced features provided by  Microsoft Mouse 
version 9.x or the Microsoft BallPoint(R) mouse.

Ordering Information

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows is available on the Microsoft  
Windows Driver Library as ACCP.EXE.  If you have a modem, you can  
download this file from network services, including CompuServe(R) 
(GO  MSL), GEnie(TM), Microsoft On-line, various user-group 
bulletin boards,  including BBSs on the Association of PC User 
Groups or APCUG network,  and the electronic download service 
maintained at Microsoft (phone (206)  936-6735).  The electronic 
download service is open 7 days a week from  2:30 A.M. to 1:00 
A.M.  Modem settings are 1200,n,8,1 or 2400,n,8,1 or  9600,n,8,1 
or 14000,n,8,1.  It supports V.32 and v.42 standards.

This file is also available on the Internet in /softlib/mslfiles 
at  FTP.MICROSOFT.COM or WWW.MICROSOFT.COM

Customers within the United States who do not have a modem can 
obtain  disks by calling the Microsoft Sales Information Center 
(800) 426-9400.   Customers who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can 
call the text telephone  (TT or TDD) number at (800) 892-5234.  
Customers outside of the United  States should contact the 
Microsoft subsidiary in their country.

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows NT

Making it easier for people with disabilities to access the power 
of  Windows NT 

Overview

The Microsoft Windows family of products are designed to make 
PC's  easier to use for everyone, from PC professionals to 
average users,  including those users with disabilities.  To meet 
this goal, Microsoft  has developed Access Pack for Microsoft 
Windows NT.  This kit provides  access to features in the 
Microsoft Windows NT operating system that  make it easier for 
users with motion related disabilities to use the  keyboard and 
mouse.  Users that desire visual feedback rather than  sounds 
will also find these features valuable.  Access Pack can be  
installed on any computer running Windows NT version 3.5, which 
can then  be used by both those individuals that require its 
additional features  and those that do not.  A PC with Access 
Pack installed is ideal for  settings where computers are used by 
multiple people, such as public or  workgroup machines. 

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows NT is based on work done by 
Trace  R&D Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, whose 
original  research was funded by the National Institute on 
Disability and  Rehabilitation Research.

Features

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows NT contains the following 
features  that make the Windows NT operating system more 
accessible for those with  motion and hearing-related 
disabilities.

* StickyKeys:

Many software programs require the user to press two or three 
keys at  one time.  For people who type with a headstick or 
mouthstick, that just  isn't possible.  StickyKeys allows users 
to press one key at a time and  instructs Windows NT to respond 
as if they had been pressed  simultaneously.

* SlowKeys:

For some individuals, the sensitivity of the keyboard can be a 
major  problem, especially if they hit keys accidentally.  
SlowKeys instructs  Windows NT to disregard keystrokes that are 
not held down for a certain  period of time.

* RepeatKeys:

Most keyboards allow users to repeat a key just by holding it 
down.  For  people, who can't lift their fingers off the keyboard 
quickly enough,  this convenience can be a major annoyance.  
RepeatKeys lets users adjust  the repeat rate or disable it 
altogether to best customize their  environment.

* BounceKeys:

For users that "bounce" keys, resulting in double strokes of the 
same  key or other similar errors, BounceKeys instructs Windows 
NT to ignore  unintended keystrokes.

* MouseKeys:

This feature lets individuals control the mouse from the 
keyboard.   Users can enjoy the flexibility of moving a mouse 
around the screen,  selecting menus and other convenient mouse 
functions from the keyboard.   MouseKeys can also help give users 
finer control than can be achieved  with a standard mouse.  A 
mouse is not required for this feature to  work.

* ToggleKeys:

ToggleKeys provide audio cues, high and low beeps, to tell the 
user  whether a toggle key is active or inactive.  It applies to 
the Caps  Lock, Num Lock and Scroll Lock Keys.

* SerialKeys:

This feature, in conjunction with a communications aid interface 
device,  allows the user to control the computer using 
alternative input devices  as if they were using a standard 
keyboard and mouse.

* SoundSentry:

Windows beeps when it wants to signal the user, but this is not 
useful  for users with a hearing impairment or who work in a 
noisy environment.   SoundSentry tells Windows NT to send a 
visual cue, such as a blinking  title bar or screen flash in 
addition to a beep.  The user can then see  the message that may 
not have been heard.

* ShowSounds:

Allows you to request applications to caption any speech or other  
information they would normally present by sound alone.

* TimeOut:

TimeOut turns off Access Pack's functionality after the system 
has been  idle for a certain period of time.  It returns the 
system to its default  configuration.  This feature is useful on 
machines shared by multiple  users.

The above features can be used alone or in combination to best 
suit a  user's needs and environment.  The features can also be 
customized to  create a personalized desktop that allows 
individuals to be their most  productive.  In addition, once 
Access Pack has been installed, an  individual requiring a 
feature can access it without special assistance.  When all 
features are turned off an individual who does not require the  
functionality will not notice that Access Pack is installed.  

Access Pack and Government Regulations

With Access Pack for Windows NT and third-party products that 
make  Windows NT accessible to people with visual impairments and 
Microsoft's  documentation in electronic form, Windows meets 
recommendations in the  Government Services Administration 
guidelines relating to software  accessibility. These guidelines 
were developed in response to section  508 of the Rehabilitation 
Act.  This law was written to ensure  accessibility for 
government employees with disabilities.  Access Pack  for Windows 
NT can also help employers accommodate individuals with  
disabilities, as required under the Americans with Disabilities 
Act.

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows NT Specifications

Access Pack contains the following components:

* The Access Utility (ACCESS.EXE) for controlling and customizing 
the  Access Pack functions

* Complete on-line documentation in both Microsoft Windows Write 
and  formatted text file formats

* On-line help

System	 Requirements

The Access Pack is compatible with all systems running Microsoft  
Windows NT Workstation or Windows NT Server version 3.5.  It does 
not  require specific mouse or keyboard drivers.

Ordering Information

Access Pack for Microsoft Windows NT is included with Microsoft  
Application Note WN0789, and distributed as WN0789.EXE.  If you 
have a  modem, you can download this file from network services, 
including  CompuServe (GO MSL), GEnie, Microsoft On-line, various 
user-group  bulletin boards, including BBSs on the Association of 
PC User Groups or  APCUG network, and the electronic download 
service maintained at  Microsoft (phone (206) 936-6735).  The 
electronic download service is  open 7 days a week from 2:30 A.M. 
to 1:00 A.M.  Modem settings are  1200,n,8,1 or 2400,n,8,1 or 
9600,n,8,1 or 14000,n,8,1.  It supports V.32  and v.42 standards.

This file is also available on the Internet in /softlib/mslfiles 
at  FTP.MICROSOFT.COM or WWW.MICROSOFT.COM.

Customers within the United States who do not have a modem can 
obtain  disks by calling the Microsoft Sales Information Center 
(800) 426-9400.   Customers who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can 
call the text telephone  (TT or TDD) number at (800) 892-5234.  
Customers outside of the United  States should contact the 
Microsoft subsidiary in their country.

AccessDOS

Making it easier for people with disabilities to access their 
personal  computer

Overview

Microsoft is committed to making all of our products easier to 
use  for everyone, from PC professionals to average users, 
including those  users with disabilities.  To meet this goal, 
Microsoft provides  AccessDOS.  AccessDOS is a software utility 
that makes it easier for  users with motion related disabilities 
to use the keyboard and mouse.   Users that desire visual 
feedback rather than sounds will also find  AccessDOS valuable.  
A PC with AccessDOS installed is ideal for settings  where 
computers are used by multiple people, such as public or 
workgroup  machines.  Machines with AccessDOS can easily be used 
by both those  individuals that require its additional features 
and those that do not.

AccessDOS was developed by the Trace R&D Center at the University 
of  Wisconsin-Madison with support from IBM and the National 
Institute on  Disability and Rehabilitation Research.

Features

AccessDOS contains the following features that make the MS-DOS  
operating system more accessible for those with motion and 
hearing-related disabilities.

* StickyKeys:

Many software programs require the user to press two or three 
keys at  one time.  For people who type with a headstick or 
mouthstick, that just  isn't possible.  StickyKeys allows users 
to press one key at a time and  instructs the application to 
respond as if they had been pressed  simultaneously.

* SlowKeys:

For some individuals, the sensitivity of the keyboard can be a 
major  problem, especially if they hit keys accidentally.  
SlowKeys causes  applications to disregard keystrokes that are 
not held down for a  certain period of time.

* RepeatKeys:

Most keyboards allow users to repeat a key just by holding it 
down.  For  people, who can't lift their fingers off the keyboard 
quickly enough,  this convenience can be a major annoyance.  
RepeatKeys lets users adjust  the repeat rate or disable it 
altogether to best customize their  environment.

* BounceKeys:

For users that "bounce" keys, resulting in double strokes of the 
same  key or other similar errors, BounceKeys causes applications 
to ignore  unintended keystrokes.

* MouseKeys:

This feature lets individuals control the mouse from the 
keyboard.   Users can enjoy the flexibility of moving a mouse 
around the screen,  selecting menus and other convenient mouse 
functions from the keyboard.   MouseKeys can also help give users 
finer control than can be achieved  with a standard mouse.

* ToggleKeys:

ToggleKeys provide audio cues, high and low beeps, to tell the 
user  whether a toggle key is active or inactive.  It applies to 
the Caps  Lock, Num Lock and Scroll Lock Keys.

* SerialKeys:

This feature, in conjunction with a communications aid interface 
device,  allows the user to control the computer using 
alternative input devices  as if they were using a standard 
keyboard and mouse.

* SoundSentry:

Many applications beep when they want to signal the user, but 
this is  not useful for users with a hearing impairment or who 
work in a noisy  environment.  SoundSentry allows the user to 
choose a visual cue, such  as a flashing symbol or screen flash 
in addition to a beep.  The user  can then see the message that 
may not have been heard.

* TimeOut:

TimeOut turns off AccessDOS's functionality after the system has 
been  idle for a certain period of time.  It returns the system 
to its default  configuration.  This feature is useful on 
machines shared by multiple  users.

The above features can be used alone or in combination to best 
suit a  user's needs and environment.  The features can also be 
customized to  create a personalized desktop that allows 
individuals to be their most  productive.  In addition, once the 
AccessDOS has been installed, an  individual requiring a feature 
can access it without special assistance.  When all features are 
turned off an individual who does not require the  functionality 
should not notice that AccessDOS is installed.  

AccessDOS and Government Regulations

With AccessDOS and third-party products that make the system  
accessible to people with visual impairments and Microsoft's  
documentation in electronic form, Microsoft MS-DOS meets 
recommendations  in the Government Services Administration 
guidelines relating to  software accessibility. These guidelines 
were developed in response to  section 508 of the Rehabilitation 
Act.  This law was written to ensure  accessibility for 
government employees with disabilities.  AccessDOS can  also help 
employers accommodate individuals with disabilities, as  required 
under the Americans with Disabilities Act.  

AccessDOS Specifications

AccessDOS is of a memory-resident software utility which also  
provides an integrated user interface for controlling and 
customizing  AccessDOS functions.

In addition, it includes:

* Complete on-line documentation in formatted text file format

* On-line help

* A memory-resident utility to enable AccessDOS's mouse features 
on  PS/2 machines without physical mice

System Requirements

The AccessDOS is fully compatible with most systems running MS-
DOS  3.3 or higher.

In order to use the mouse emulation features you must have a  
Microsoft or IBM serial or PS/2 style mouse.  AccessDOS does not 
support  the Microsoft BallPoint(R) Mouse at this time.  On an 
IBM PS/2 you can  also use these features with no mouse attached.

AccessDOS will require 11KB of conventional memory (25KB if the  
SerialKeys feature is required).

Ordering Information

AccessDOS is available on the Microsoft MS-DOS Supplemental 
disks.  

If you have a modem, you can download DOS62SP.EXE or DOS62S.EXE 
from  network services, including CompuServe (GO MSDOS), GEnie, 
Microsoft On-line, various user-group bulletin boards, including 
BBSs on the  Association of PC User Groups or APCUG network, and 
the electronic  download service maintained at Microsoft (phone 
(206) 936-6735).  The  electronic download service is open 7 days 
a week from 2:30 A.M. to 1:00  A.M.  Modem settings are 
1200,n,8,1 or 2400,n,8,1 or 9600,n,8,1 or  14000,n,8,1.  It 
supports V.32 and v.42 standards.

This file is also available on the Internet in /softlib/mslfiles 
at  FTP.MICROSOFT.COM or WWW.MICROSOFT.COM, and in the Microsoft 
Windows NT  Resource Kit.

Customers within the United States who do not have a modem can 
obtain  disks by calling the Microsoft Sales Information Center 
(800) 426-9400.   Customers who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can 
call the text telephone  (TT or TDD) number at (800) 892-5234.  
Customers outside of the United  States should contact the 
Microsoft subsidiary in their country.

Dvorak Keyboard Layouts

Making it easier for people to type with two hands, one hand or 
one  finger

Overview

Microsoft distributes Dvorak keyboard layouts that make the most  
frequently typed characters on a keyboard more accessible to 
people who  have difficulty using the standard "QWERTY" layout. 
There are three  Dvorak layouts: one for two-handed users, one 
for people who type only  with their left hand, and one for 
people who type only with their right  hand. The left- or right-
hand keyboard layouts can also be useful for  people who type 
with a wand. You do not need to modify your hardware  keyboard to 
use these layouts.

These layouts are available for Microsoft MS-DOS versions 5.0 and  
higher, Microsoft Windows 3.1, Windows for Workgroups 3.1 or 
higher, and  Microsoft Windows NT 3.1 or higher.

What Is a Keyboard Layout?

A keyboard layout is a map or a definition of how keys are laid 
out  on your keyboard. The keyboard layout you use is determined 
by software  in your computer. The letters on your keys indicate 
the standard layout  for your keyboard. There are many different 
keyboard layouts in use  throughout the world. The one you 
ordinarily use depends on the country  you are in or the language 
you use.

Dvorak Keyboard Layouts

Dvorak keyboard layouts are based on designs created by August  
Dvorak, a professor at the University of Washington during the 
1930s and  1940s. Dr. Dvorak studied the way people type standard 
English, and  determined the most common letter combinations. He 
then designed new  keyboard layouts to speed up typing and reduce 
fatigue. These layouts,  now called Dvorak or simplified keyboard 
layouts, were initially  developed for two-handed typists. 
Following World War II, Dvorak layouts  were developed for 
typists who use the right or left hand alone.

Benefits of Dvorak Layouts

Dvorak layouts reduce the amount of motion required to type 
common  English text.  This may help avoid some types of 
repetitive strain  injuries associated with typing. Studies have 
also shown an increase in  typing speed and accuracy when using 
the Dvorak layout for two hands. 

Ordering Information

Dvorak keyboard layouts are available in the file GA0650.EXE. If 
you  have a modem, you can download these files from network 
services,  including CompuServe (GO MSL), GEnie, Microsoft On-
line, various user-group bulletin boards, including BBSs on the 
Association of PC User  Groups or APCUG network, and the 
electronic download service maintained  at Microsoft (phone 
206-936-6735).  The electronic download service is  open 7 days a 
week from 2:30 A.M. to 1:00 A.M.  Modem settings are  1200,n,8,1 
or 2400,n,8,1 or 9600,n,8,1 or 14000,n,8,1.  It supports V.32  
and v.42 standards.

This file is also available on the Internet in /softlib/mslfiles 
at  FTP.MICROSOFT.COM or WWW.MICROSOFT.COM.

Customers within the United States who do not have a modem can 
obtain  disks by calling the Microsoft Sales Information Center 
at (800) 426-9400.  Customers who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can 
call the text  telephone (TT or TDD) number at (800) 892-5234. 
Customers outside of the  United States should contact the 
Microsoft subsidiary in their country.

Note: The print version of this document contains illustrations 
of the various keyboard layouts discussed here.  The following is 
a textual presentation of the standard "QWERTY" keyboard, and the 
three Dvorak layouts.

STANDARD QWERTY KEYBOARD LAYOUT
--------------------------------------------
 ~  !  @  #  $  %  ^  &  *  (  )  _  +     
 `  1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  0  -  =  bks 
--------------------------------------------
                                   {  }  |  
 tb  Q  W  E  R  T  Y  U  I  O  P  [  ]  \  
--------------------------------------------
 cps                             :  "       
 lck  A  S  D  F  G  H  J  K  L  ;  '  entr 
--------------------------------------------
                            <  >  ?         
 shft  Z  X  C  V  B  N  M  ,  .  /   shft  
--------------------------------------------


TWO-HANDED DVORAK KEYBOARD LAYOUT
--------------------------------------------
 ~  !  @  #  $  %  ^  &  *  (  )  {  }      
 `  1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  0  [  ]  bks 
--------------------------------------------
     "  <  >                       ?  +     
 tb  '  ,  .  P  Y  F  G  C  R  L  /  =  \  
--------------------------------------------
 cps                                _       
 lck  A  O  E  U  I  D  H  T  N  S  -  entr 
--------------------------------------------
       :                                    
 shft  ;  Q  J  K  X  B  M  W  V  Z   shft  
--------------------------------------------


RIGHT SINGLE-HANDED DVORAK KEYBOARD LAYOUT
--------------------------------------------
 ~  !  @  #  $                 ?  {  }      
 `  1  2  3  4  J  L  M  F  P  /  [  ]  bks 
--------------------------------------------
     %  ^     >                    :  +  |  
 tb  5  6  Q  .  O  R  S  U  Y  B  ;  =  \  
--------------------------------------------
 cps  &  *                          _       
 lck  7  8  Z  A  E  H  T  D  C  K  -  entr 
--------------------------------------------
       (  )     <                 "         
 shft  9  0  X  ,  I  N  W  V  G  '   shft  
--------------------------------------------


LEFT SINGLE-HANDED DVORAK KEYBOARD LAYOUT
--------------------------------------------
 ~  {  }  ?                 $  #  @  !      
 `  [  ]  /  P  F  M  L  J  4  3  2  1  bks 
--------------------------------------------
     :                       >  ^  %  +  |  
 tb  ;  Q  B  Y  U  R  S  O  .  6  5  =  \  
--------------------------------------------
 cps  _                          *  &       
 lck  -  K  C  D  T  H  E  A  Z  8  7  entr 
--------------------------------------------
       "                    <  )  (         
 shft  '  X  G  V  W  N  I  ,  0  9   shft  
--------------------------------------------


Customizing Microsoft Windows

Adjusting Microsoft Windows, Windows for Workgroups and Windows 
NT to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities
	
There are many ways you can customize or adjust the appearance 
and  behavior of Microsoft Windows to suit varying vision and 
motor abilities  without requiring any additional software or 
hardware. These include  ways to: 

* Adjust the use of color and size of some screen elements. 

* Make it easier to see the mouse pointer and select objects 
using the mouse.  

* Adjust the keyboard speed. 

* Automate common tasks.

The specific methods available depend on which operating system 
you  are using, so Microsoft provides application notes 
describing the  specific methods available for each operating 
system.

For information relating to customizing Windows 3.0 for people 
with  disabilities, see Application Note WW0786; for Windows 3.1, 
Application  Note WW0787; for Windows for Workgroups NT 3.1, 
Application Note WG0788;  for Windows NT 3.1, Application Note 
WN0789.

The Application Note WN0789, "Customizing Windows NT for 
Individuals  with Disabilities", also includes Access Pack for 
Microsoft Windows NT,  a utility which allows the user to 
configure features in the operating  system that make it easier 
for individuals who have difficulty using a  keyboard or mouse, 
or who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.

Ordering Information

If you have a modem, you can download the application note files  
WW0786.TXT, WW0787.TXT, WG0788.TXT and WN0789.EXE from network 
services,  including CompuServe (GO MSL), GEnie, Microsoft On-
line, various user-group bulletin boards, including BBSs on the 
Association of PC User  Groups or APCUG network, and the 
electronic download service maintained  at Microsoft (phone 
206-936-6735).  The electronic download service is  open 7 days a 
week from 2:30 A.M. to 1:00 A.M.  Modem settings are  1200,n,8,1 
or 2400,n,8,1 or 9600,n,8,1 or 14000,n,8,1.  It supports V.32  
and v.42 standards..

These files are available on the Internet in /softlib/mslfiles at  
FTP.MICROSOFT.COM or WWW.MICROSOFT.COM.

Customers can receive these application notes by fax through the  
Microsoft Fast Tips Service at (800) 936-4200.  You must use a 
touch-tone phone to use this service.

Customers within the United States who do not have a modem can 
obtain the  application notes by calling the Microsoft Sales 
Information Center at  (800) 426-9400.  Customers who are deaf or 
hard-of-hearing can call the  text telephone (TT or TDD) number 
at (800) 892-5234. Customers outside  of the United States should 
contact the Microsoft subsidiary in their  country.

(C)1992, 1993, 1994 Microsoft Corporation.  All rights reserved.

Microsoft, MS-DOS, BallPoint and the Windows logo are registered  
trademarks and Windows and Windows NT are trademarks of Microsoft  
Corporation. CompuServe is a registered trademark of CompuServe, 
Inc.   GEnie is a trademark of General Electric Corporation.  IBM 
and PS/2 are  registered trademarks of International Business 
Machines, Inc.

The information contained in this document represents the current 
view  of Microsoft Corporation on the issues discussed as of the 
date of  publication.  Because Microsoft must respond to changing 
market  conditions, it should not be interpreted to be a 
commitment on the part  of Microsoft, and Microsoft cannot 
guarantee the accuracy of any  information presented after the 
date of publication.

This document is for informational purposes only.  MICROSOFT 
MAKES NO  WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IN THIS DOCUMENT.

Document No. 098-50034

Last revised on November 21, 1994.

Notes

Trace Research and Development Center at the University of 
Wisconsin-Madison.  "A Practical Experiment in Simplified 
Keyboard Retraining", U.S. Navy, July 1944.

 



 

 


