A Voice Output Module Developed for a Blind Programmer

Abstract

This article describes a voice output module in use for one year by a blind computer programmer for reading messages, programs, and files. This module consists of a speech-by-rule program running in a microcomputer and a speech synthesizer. The program translates all printable text destined for a user into basic consonant and vowel sounds called phonemes. Commands to enunciate these phonemes are sent to a speech synthesizer, which in turn produces synthetic English speech that is generally intelligible and acceptable to programmers. The voice output module is plugged in between a typical computer terminal and its link with either a local or remote computer. Extensive text review and voice output controls are incorporated into the module to aid in computer programming.