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For computer users who have visual difficulties that prevent them from working productively while using a desktop or laptop computer, it’s helpful to know that screen magnification software is available from a variety of sources. The following options are available free to consumers looking for utilities that won’t be expensive to acquire. These are simple screen magnification alternatives, which may not offer a complete solution for individuals who need more versatile support.
Microsoft’s Screen Magnification Utility
If you are using a recent version of the Windows operating system on your computer, you will find screen magnification utilities built into these systems. To find the magnification utility, click on programs. Then click on accessories followed by accessibility. The Windows screen magnifier can be used with other strategies such as adjusting the font style, size and colour. Microsoft has a very helpful selection of accessibility resources on the Web at www.microsoft.com/enable/
Information is available here to help computer users with visual, hearing, mobility and cognitive disabilities.
You can review their resource guide for people with visual impairments at www.microsoft.com/enable/guides/vision.htm
A Couple of Freeware Options
Other screen magnification utilities can be installed along with the Microsoft Windows magnification software for people who want the opportunity to experiment with additional features.
There are freeware screen magnifiers available for download from the Internet. Two that can be easily installed are Super Magnify and Zoomer. Both of these can be found through the screen magnifier link on the Pricelessware web page.
home.att.net/~willowbrookemill/pricelessdesktop.html
Super Magnify provides magnification of a portion of the computer screen from 2 to 15 times the actual screen view. The magnification window can be easily moved, resized or minimized to suit the user’s needs while working.
Zoomer operates in a similar way, however the magnification options range only from 2 to 4 times the normal view. Zoomer has simple instructions that accompany the installed software, but it’s very easy to find the available features by right clicking on the magnification window.
Want to Learn More?
If you are looking for information on more advanced screen magnification software, visit the Screen Magnifiers Homepage at www.magnifiers.org
Copyright © Janet Hopkins, 2002, may only be used or duplicated with permission.
Janet Hopkins is a teacher and AT Consultant in Kamloops, BC Canada. Janet is the moderator of the Assistive Technology Canada Listserv and publisher of Special Needs Tech News. Free copies of this publication are available from her web site.
Assistive Tech Educational Consulting
2265 MacIntyre Place
Kamloops, British Columbia
V1S 1H7
Canada
250-828-1444 Phone
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Assistive Tech Educational Consulting
Email: at_consulting@canada.com
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