Clearly ClaroRead

Claro Software in Sweden

Sara Derkacht — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 04:50:00 -0800

Claro Software representatives meet up with the Swedish team earlier this month. Svensk Talteknologi, our Swedish partners, are having great success promoting the Claro Software range in Sweden and are planning to launch in the Nordic regions later this year.

Anders Abrahamsson awarded Karlshamn Entrepreneur of the Year 2009

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 04:59:57 -0800

Claro Software is delighted to announce that Anders Abrahamsson, from our Swedish partners Svensk TalTeknologi, has been awarded the Karlshamn Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2009.

The award, presented to Anders by the Chairman Sigvard Andersoon and Alderman Sven-Ake Svensson, was awarded in recognition of his innovative software company that has assisted users with reading and writing support.

When Anders Abrahamsoon moved to Karlshamn in 2000, he had already started up his business, Svensk Talteknologi (Swedish Speech Technology). Originally targeting the speech recognition and speech synthesis market, the company has increasingly focused on Text-to-Speech solutions, such as ClaroRead.

An important part of the business success has been getting their software into schools and colleges. Around 70,000 school computers in Sweden now have the software installed to assist students with reading and writing.

The next aim for Anders and Svensk Talteknologi is to launch their product range in the Nordic region. Claro Software would like to wish Anders and his company every success in the future.

BETT 2010

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 02:05:32 -0800

This year’s BETT show was another great success. The event, hosted at the Olympia in London, is the world’s largest educational technology event. This year was no exception, with large crowds battling the recent poor weather to attend the show. We invited our Swedish Partners Svensk Talteknologi to join us at the stand to demonstrate our international product range to customers from around the globe, making this a truly global event.

The BETT 2010 was an ideal opportunity to showcase the new products and updates that we will be releasing over the coming year, including ClaroIdeas, SymWord and the latest edition of ClaroRead for PC V5.5. Claro Software representatives were on-hand, demonstrating the latest product range updates and editions.

ClaroIdeas, the latest idea mapping solution from Claro Software, is an easy to use visual software package designed to assist users and groups to capture their ideas and files with more freedom and flexibility. Introduced for the first time at BETT 2010 we received some excellent positive feedback and reactions to this simple to use yet powerful software solution. If you would like more information about ClaroIdeas please check out the ClaroIdeas Pre-release PDF

Don’t forget to check out our website at ClaroRead.com

Next Exhibition ATIA 2010 Orlando 28-30 January 2010

ClaroRead V5.5 coming soon

Sara Derkacht — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 03:57:35 -0800

Claro Software is pleased to announce the upcoming release of ClaroRead for PC V5.5.

Building on the success of previous versions, V5.5 aims to offer more extended features and updates to the comprehensive reading and writing software solution. Key new features of ClaroRead V5.5 are the new Check Anywhere and Dictionary Tooltip features. Check Anywhere allows you to spell check any word from any PC application. The Dictionary Tooltip feature allows you to get a definition for any word anywhere.

Also included as a ClaroRead Extra is ClaroCapture V2, the latest version of our research tool. ClaroCapture V2 helps users collect text, images, screenshots, files, recordings and references in a project file. ClaroCapture is ideal for use when planning essays, reports brochures, assignments, presentations, and other detailed written work.

All versions of ClaroRead now include eight high quality text to speech voices that read anything from your PC clearly and accurately. RealSpeak voices include English, Scottish, Irish, Indian and Australian accents.

Introducing ClaroIdeas

Sara Derkacht — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 03:54:57 -0800

Launching early 2010, ClaroIdeas is an easy to use, powerful and fresh visual software solution for the creation of Idea Maps. ClaroIdeas will help users and groups to capture their ideas, pictures, research notes, web links, audio and video files with more freedom, flexibility and creativity.

Idea Maps allow a user to focus on bringing together thoughts and related content in various formats, and are a recognised way to maximise learning potential, improve problem-solving, enhance research and aid revision.

Once created, Idea Maps can be exported to a Microsoft Word document, PowerPoint presentation, PDF file and smart phone compatible images – great for presentation and revision on the move.

Contact us for a pre-release copy of ClaroIdeas. To find out more download the Pre-release PDF file

Claro Software @ RAate 2009

Sara Derkacht — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 09:19:04 -0800

This year’s RAate 2009 Exhibition, hosted at the Hilton in Coventry, focused on the latest innovations and developments in assistive technology. Claro Software representatives attended the event and were on-hand to give live demonstrations of the software and answer any questions or queries.

As well as the latest update of ClaroRead for PC V5.1, we also introduced Oska, our On-Screen Keyboard Application. Oska is a software solution range designed to assist adult users who have difficulty using traditional computer input methods.

Oska comes with a range of alternative PC control methods that are unique to Oska, such as TenKey Mouse and One Switch Mouse. TenKey Mouse enables the user to control mouse movement using the numeric keypad found on a computer keyboard. One Switch Mouse enables the user to have full control of the mouse using a single switch. Coupling One Switch Mouse with Oska On-Screen Keyboard offers the user the ability to control the mouse and write.

For more information on the Oska Suite, visit the Oska Website

Next Exhibition: BETT 2010 13-16 January, Olympia, London

ATIA Chicago 2009

Sara Derkacht — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 07:44:48 -0800

ATIA Chicago 2009 was a great success and one of the busiest exhibitions of the year.

The show gave us a great opportunity to introduce the latest update of ClaroRead for PC V5.1, which includes the new American voices and Open Office support. We received great reactions and positive feedback from these new features. To find out more about ClaroRead for PC V5.1 please visit the ClaroRead Website

As well as showcasing the latest developments in ClaroRead for PC and Mac we also introduced Oska On-Screen Keyboard Application. The application assist professionals supporting people who have difficulty using traditional computer input methods.

Next Exhibition: ATIA 2010 Orlando 28 - 30 January 2010

ClaroRead Demo and Help Videos now on YouTube

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:26:28 -0700

The ClaroRead Demo and Help Videos are now available on YouTube. The videos will help you get the most out of ClaroRead for PC and Mac. See below for some example videos.

ClaroRead for PC Homophones Tutorial

ClaroRead for Mac Scanning Tutorial

To watch all the demo and help videos please visit www.youtube.com/clarosoftware

Claro Software BETT 2010

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 07:05:14 -0700

Claro Software is proud to annouce that we will be attending BETT 2010. The event, hosted at the Olympia in London, is the world's largest educational technology event and will run from the 13-16 January 2010.

Don't forget to come and see us at stand SN64, where representatives will be demonstrating the latest innovations in ClaroRead for PC V5.5 and Mac versions. We will also be introducing Oska, the On-Screen Keyboard Application.

To find out more visit the BETT 2010 website

Introducing Oska On-Screen Keyboard Application

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:37:05 -0700

The Oska Suite is a software solution range designed to assist people who have difficulty using traditional computer input methods. Oska offers a range of software to enhance the use of touch technology and alternative PC input methods. Download the 15 day demo now.

Read on to find out more about the exciting features of the Oska Suite.

The Oska Keyboard

The Oska Keyboard is an on-screen virtual keyboard that allows the use of multiple input devices including mouse, joystick, switch/scanning and head pointer control methods to use the keyboard. Oska offers total keyboard control of all your applications including word processors, email, web pages or any other text based application that you use. The Oska Keyboard allows the user to do everything you would do with a standard keyboard, offering more opportunities to work, learn, play and interact with others on their PC.

The Oska Keyboard Editor

The Oska Editor has been designed with ease of use in mind, allowing keyboards to be effortlessly adapted to specific requirements. All the keyboards in Oska are fully customisable, allowing the keyboard to be edited to suit the requirements of each user and task. Keyboards created with Oska work with touch screen devices, touchpad’s, mice, keyboard, joysticks and switch devices.

Oska Settings Editor

After a keyboard is created, the input methods can be defined and customised in the Oska Settings Editor. In addition, certain keys can be further defined by the user, giving further capability.

One Switch Mouse

One Switch Mouse enables a user to control the mouse pointer using a single switch. Coupling One Switch Mouse with Oska On-Screen Keyboard offers the user the ability to control the mouse and write.

Joystick Mouse

Joystick Mouse enables any joystick or gamepad controller to be operated like a standard computer mouse. Using a joystick or gamepad rather than a computer mouse can be more comfortable for the user, allowing for a greater degree of accuracy.

TenKey Mouse

TenKey Mouse lets you use the numeric keypad at the right of a computer keyboard to operate the mouse. TenKey Mouse can be a useful mouse alternative for people with limited mobility or Work Related Upper Limb Disorder.

3D Mouse

3D Mouse supports new 3D mouse hardware from 3D Connexion and enables the hardware to be used to control the mouse.

Head Pointer and Mouth Stick Keyboard

The Head Pointer and Mouth Stick Keyboard is an on-screen keyboard designed to aid operation when using Oska with a head pointing or mouth stick mechanism. Head Pointer and Mouth Stick Keyboard has been designed to assist head pointer and mouth stick users to access their PC with a greater degree of control and efficiency.

Scroll Wheel Scanning

Scroll Wheel Scanning utilises the scroll wheel found on most standard computer mice to control a switch/scanning system.

If you are an IT Professional with works with disability support and would like an evaluation copy of the Oska Suite please contact us. We will be more than happy to assist.

For more information visit www.oskaworld.com

Upcoming Exhibitions for Claro Software

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 03:41:30 -0700

International Dyslexia Association Exhibition

The 60th International Dyslexia Association will take place on the 11-14 November. Hosted at the Walt Disney World Resort Lake Buena Vista, Florida, Claro Software will be presenting the latest product innovations at the event.

Come and see us at stand 415 where representatives will be showcasing ClaroRead for PC and Mac as well as the Lightning Magnifiers range.

For further information please visit the International Dyslexia Association website

ATIA 2010

The Assistive Technology Industry Association Exhibition will be taking place on January 28-30 2010, in Orlando, Florida.Showcasing excellence in assistive technology, we will be presenting the latest innovations in ClaroRead for PC and Mac as well as introducing Oska, the On-Screen Keyboard Application.

Don't forget to visit us at the event were representatives will be on-hand to answer any of your questions or queries and will be showcasing the latest product range.

For further information, please visit the ITIA website

Claro Software ITIA Chicago 2009

Sara Derkacht — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 07:08:06 -0700

Claro Software is pleased to annouce that we will be attending the 2009 ITIA Conference 29-31 October, Chicago. Showcasing excellence in assistive technology, we will be presenting the latest innovations in ClaroRead for PC and Mac as well as introducing Oska, the On-Screen Keyboard Application.

Don't forget to visit us at stand 121 were representatives will be on-hand to answer any of your questions or queries and will be demoing the latest product range.

To find out more please visit the ATIA website

Hope to see you all there!

Will ClaroRead Install On Our Network?

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:13:09 -0700

Schools and larger organizations wishing to use ClaroRead will be pleased to know that ClaroRead can be installed from a central network location onto every machine in that network - as long as you have purchased a site or multi-user license.

Using Microsoft Windows Installer (MSI files) for its software installers, ClaroRead can be installed using standard Microsoft installation techniques (for more information, visit the Microsoft Developer Network site here).

Users will notice on a site or multi-user license the following contents on their software, allowing for network installation:

setup.exe

This displays the first user interface and calls all the program and voice installers in turn. It is the program run when an end user uses the CD. It uses information from setup.ini and program.txt (e.g. "InstallClaroRead5.txt") to control the installation, including commandline arguments passed to msiexec.exe during installation. Finally, it triggers the User Access Control in Vista so that subsequent MSIs are installed with the correct administrative permissions.

program.txt, e.g. "InstallClaroRead5.txt"

(These used to be .bat batch files.) Each line of this file is passed to msiexec.exe by setup.exe, so it determines what is installed from the CD. You can therefore determine the settings for a single-user installation from it.

VISTA_EOAC_DESCRIPTION is the text that appears in Vista's Ease of Access Center as a description of the program.

Program folder, e.g. "ClaroReadPLUS"

The program folder contains the main files for installing the Claro program including:

The program installer MSI file, e.g. "CR_3.1_00.msi" - This program is passed to msiexec.exe with the /I switch in CD installation by setup.exe.

An internationalization transform MST file, e.g. "Swedish.mst" - This is used to translate the installation process only, not the final installed program. If your end users are not going to run the installation program then it is not required, but you must remove it from the msiexec.exe commandline arguments defined in program.ini or else make sure it is present.

Configuration and installation files, e.g. "default.loc", "WordRead PLUS.exe" - The other files in the Program folder are external to the MSI installer file but are necessary for it to install correctly. If you copy the MSI somewhere else to install from there (e.g. a network drive) then be sure to move these files as well.

Voices folder

The Voices folder contains all the RealSpeak and Acapela voice installer MSI files, called something like "RS05_00.msi" or "AC01_00.msi". These are self-contained MSIs so can be used directly. They require administrative privileges to install.

For additional information on network installation and multi-user pricing, please email us at usasales@clarosoftware.com.

ClaroRead & Dragon NaturallySpeaking Bundles

Sara Derkacht — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:35:28 -0700

Claro Software is now offering useful Claroread and Dragon NaturallySpeaking bundles.

Dragon NaturallySpeaking, available in Preferred and Professional versions, is the ideal software for creating documents and emails, filling out forms, and streamlining workflow tasks - all by speaking. When combined with the power of Claroread, each provides a complete reading and writing solution.

Benefit from hands free navigation all by speaking with Dragon NaturallySpeaking. Users can also discreetly access all Claroread features by voice, even when the Claroread toolbar is minimized to the system tray. Ideal for those who have difficultly using a standard mouse and keyboard.

Use Claroread to read any text while setting up Dragon during the Audio Setup Wizard and the New User Wizard.

Once text has been dictated using Dragon, Claroread can edit and correct any mistakes or improve the overall content of the document.

For additional information on Claroread and Dragon NaturallySpeaking bundles, as well as educational pricing on each, visit us online at ClaroRead.com.

What's the EXTRAS Button All About?

Sara Derkacht — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:38:22 -0700

ClaroRead v5 provides an EXTRAS button that neatly groups together additional support features helpful in enhancing user experience.

ClaroView Screen Color Filter: ClaroView acts a a colored overlay on the computer screen. Providing a color screen overlay is beneficial for individuals who experience visual stress (such as condititions resulting from Irelen Syndrome) or general visual fatique from a computer screens glare. ClaroView is also an ideal tool for those with Autism related light sensitivities and ADD or ADHD related visual challenges to reduce perceptual stress while reading and writing.

ScreenRuler: ScreenRuler works as a reading bar and strip magnifier which highlights and magnifies a selected part of the computer screen. Perfect to assist anyone focusing on words or objects, this tool can also change contrast and dim a background for easier viewing.

ClaroCapture: A popular study skills tool, ClaroCapture lets users collect text from any Word document or webpage and group it as a project file. The research can then be sent to Word or PowerPoint and incorporated into papers and presentations.

Speaking Calculator: For those quick calculations, EXTRAS features a speaking calculator that reads back whatever is input as well as answers to equations.

Accessible PDF: This standalone accessible PDF reader is a free download feature for ClaroRead v5. Accessible PDF converts accessible PDF's into a webpage style format, while keeping the original layout, or a simple text view for easy text to speech feedback. Accessible PDF also allows users to change any of the color, font, and spacing using the features on ClaroRead's toolbar.

For additional information on ClaroRead's EXTRAS features, visit us online at http://www.claroread.com/.

The New ClaroRead for Mac Version 4

Sara Derkacht — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:49:52 -0700

The latest text to speech software and learning support program, ClaroRead (http://www.claroread.com/) has released a new version for Mac. ClaroRead for Mac provides the tools to give Mac users independence and accuracy in written work. It can reduce reliance on tutors and support staff by providing accurate high quality proofreading, and turning any text into audio for listening.

So what's new in ClaroRead for Mac Version 4?

Visual Highlighting: The new focus sentence feature greys or dims out sentences in MS Word not being spoken by the ClaroRead voice. This is helpful for focussing the eye on the text, and also tracking the position in a document.

Research and Capture Information: The new ClaroCapture program included with ClaroRead for Mac V4 lets you collect text from any document and web page, grouping it as a project file. The research file can be sent to Word or PowerPoint. It can also extract highlighted text from Microsoft Word documents. A great study skills tool.

Scanning Paper and Converting PDF Files: ClaroRead Plus for Mac V4 now comes with a Scan button to launch Readiris Pro 11 OCR software. The highest quality Optical Character Recognition is now included in ClaroRead Plus, making it ideal for scanning or converting books, articles and other content to become accessible, readable and editable.

Word Check Window: The improved Word Check Window feature now integrates homophones, spelling suggestions and meanings in one window while working in Microsoft Word. There is also a dictionary lookup button which gives you direct access to the Mac’s Dictionary. Any spelling corrections you make in the Check window are remembered, and you can review your own spelling corrections later under the Check tab in the Settings pane. You can use this information to build your personal correction list which inserts your personal corrections above all others in the Check window.

ScreenRuler: ScreenRuler provides an on-screen ruler which tracks the mouse pointer to help focus on a particular area of the screen.

Word Prediction: ClaroRead for Mac V4 now includes a word predictor which learns as you type and can be trained from Word documents or the clipboard. There are a range of different settings for you to customize to your needs under the Prediction tab in the Settings pane.

Extras Button: The Extras button on the toolbar gives you access to the other software bundled with ClaroRead: ClaroView, ScreenRuler and ClaroCapture. There is also a link to the Mac’s calculator giving you quick access to this Mac application.

IMPROVED! ClaroView for Mac: ClaroView for Mac will work with any piece of software, as it acts as an "overlay" on the Mac screen. With ClaroView, you can change the color of the screens overlay from a whole color spectrum toolbar selection. You can also then adjust the tint level to make it brighter or darker. As users have different visual preferences, ClaroView allows you to set the color of the overlay.

Visit us online to read more about the newest version of ClaroRead for Mac or try it for yourself by visiting our download store.

The Benefits of Software on a USB Stick

Sara Derkacht — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:04:07 -0700

It is important that ClaroRead goes wherever its user goes.

ClaroRead Premium offers users the same benefits of ClaroRead Plus, but with a portable USB stick and a CD. Therefore, Premium can be installed on a single computer (such as a home computer) using the standard CD, as well as used on multiple computers (such as a school, work, or library computer) with the USB stick.

The benefit of the USB stick not only allows users to move from computer to computer with ease, but all files are kept right on the stick - there is no need to download the program any computer and any work done can be saved right to the stick.

If you are a student, school, or place of business, learn how ClaroRead Premium can best accomodate users in your environment by visiting us online at ClaroRead.com.

Using ClaroRead with ESL Learners

Sara Derkacht — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:05:49 -0700

For individuals looking to use ClaroRead as a tool to assist in learning the English language, there are many features ESL learners can benefit from.

Spelling

The Spelling button on the ClaroRead toolbar is an advanced spell checker for use when writing. Instead of simply highlighting a misspelled word, as many spell checkers do, ClaroRead Spelling combines a homophone, dictionary, thesaurus, reference dictionary, and spellchecker in one. Once a misspelled word is selected and the Spelling button is selected, users can view the words definition, alternative words that may be used, examples of the word used in a sentence, and have the word read aloud for verbal confirmation it is correct.

NEW Word Checking

ClaroRead version 5 provides a new Word Checking feature that allows users to double check the word they are using in a particular context by offering definitions and correct spellings of a word. In addition, a Google search link is also provided for looking up words online. For ESL learners unsure of the proper word to use, Word Checking offers comprehensive support in selecting and learning vocabulary.

Homophones

Understanding the difference between two words that sound alike but are spelled differently can be as challenging for ESL learners as it is for those fluent in English. ClaroRead's toolbar provides a Homophone support button to assist users in identifying, choosing and editing homophones within a document to ensure correct word choice.

Word Prediction

The Word Prediction feature of ClaroRead is not only a great way to complete typing faster, but it also assists with making sure the user selects the correct word as he or she types. As the user writes, potential words the user is meaning to type appear in a pop up box by the sentence. The user can select the appropriate word choice from the ClaroRead listing to ensure correct its the right word, spelling, and context.

For additional information on how ClaroRead can help ESL learners, visit us online at http://www.claroread.com/.

Why use Word Prediction?

Sara Derkacht — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 17:17:03 -0700

ClaroRead's Word Prediction feature is helpful for users who struggle with word selection or spelling. As a user types, a box appears with possible words the user is meaning to type. The dictionary learns as one types, and rejects words that don't pass the automatic spellcheck.

Instead of spending time typing an entire word - and risk a mispelling, or trying to decide which word is best to use in a particular context, users simple select the correct word from the choices given in the Word Prediction box.

In addition, The ClaroRead Advanced Settings Editor allows the creation of multiple Prediction Dictionaries, by importing words from existing documents. This tool is ideal for creating subject and curriculum specific dictionaries and catering to the needs of the specific user.

For additional information about ClaroRead's Word Prediction Feature, visit us online at ClaroRead.com.

The Benefits of ClaroRead's Homophone Support Tool

Sara Derkacht — Fri, 29 May 2009 11:23:41 -0700

Homophones are best described as words that sounds the same but are spelled differently, such as "there" and "their" or "witch" and "which." For someone who struggles with reading and writing, distinguishing which word is most appropriate to use in a specific context, as well as spelling it correctly, can be challenging.

Using the homophone support button on the ClaroRead toolbar allows users to:

-Identify every homophone listed in a document. ClaroRead provides a feature that actually highlights homophones in blue, so they can be easily identified after a document is written or as the writer writes them.

-Add additional words the user finds particularly tricky for ClaroRead to identify and correct within the Advanced Settings Editor.

-Select a homophone and view alternative words that sound the same, along with the meaning of each word.

-View a picture of the homophone (over 1000 images are provided with ClaroRead) if text definitions are not thorough enough to help the user identify the correct word.

-Have everything in the homophone feature read back to the user with ClaroRead's sophisticated text to speech capability.

For additional information about ClaroRead's homophone support features, visit us online at http://www.claroread.com/.

Student Case Study: What Can ClaroRead Do For You?

Sara Derkacht — Fri, 22 May 2009 10:24:15 -0700

Senior high school student Makenzie Kozojet, 17, of New Orleans, has been using ClaroRead for two years.

A dyslexic and auditory learner, Makenzie plans to go to college next year where she hopes to continue using ClaroRead.

Makenzie says “I read slowly. I can mix letters up and I struggle with some words. But ClaroRead reads text out and helps with your comprehension, without the need to have someone read out loud for you.

“I did use another product before, which had the same basic process of reading words out – but it was more complicated to use, and it couldn’t scan in text and books.

“Reading 30 pages a night would basically take me about two hours. But with ClaroRead, I can do it in 30 minutes to an hour. So it more than halves my reading time.

“When I am doing research, or making notes, it is a lot more useful to have text read out to me. ClaroRead can also read my own stuff back to me. Hearing my mistakes helps me fix them much more easily.

“My grades are all As and Bs. I am not sure what I want to do – perhaps I will study something do with either science or art.

“I have a 3.5 grade point average. Based on my academic grades, the colleges I’ve applied to are offering me scholarship support, that is, financial help to go to college. I’m just not sure which one I want to go to yet!

“ClaroRead has made me a lot more focussed and helped me save time. It has definitely made a difference in my comprehension and reading and writing.”

Makenzie’s mum Christine says “It is incredible the difference ClaroRead has made in Makenzie’s schoolwork. I used to have to read to her all the time – but as you get older you don’t want your mom reading to you!

“It has been a real confidence boost for Makenzie, and as result she is getting great grades at school. She used to struggle with a lot of her reading. It was really laborious, but ClaroRead just takes that away from her. And by having words read out, her comprehension has really improved.

“She and her friend were studying the same material together for a test recently and they were using ClaroRead. Makenzie ended up doing better on the test than her friend. She never gets a C – her grades are great.

“Imagine you are sitting in a classroom and the teacher asks you to read out loud and you can’t read as fast as the other kids. It’s terrifying, the other kids think you are stupid. It could really affect your self-esteem.

“Now that Makenzie uses ClaroRead, her grades are as good or better than her classmates, and she doesn’t have these issues any more. Since we bought the program, she has used it everyday – and that is a real testimony to the quality of the product. ClaroRead really has been a lifesaver.”

The New ClaroRead Version 5 Now Available

Sara Derkacht — Wed, 20 May 2009 16:20:42 -0700

With the launch of ClaroRead v5, educators and students alike are inquiring about the newest features. Read on for additional information or see first hand by downloading a FREE 15 day trial.

Visual highlighting

The new focus sentence feature dims out sentences in Word not being spoken by ClaroRead. This is helpful for focussing the eye on the text, and also tracking the position in a document. The word trail feature makes words colour progressively as they are spoken by ClaroRead. This allows effective word by word highlighting, with minimal visual disruption. Any color can be chosen to highlight the text.

Research and capture information

The new ClaroCapture program included with all versions of ClaroRead V5 lets you collect text from any document and web page, grouping it as a project file. The research file can be sent to Word or Power Point. It can also extract highlighted text from Microsoft Word documents. A great study skills tool.

Scanning paper and converting PDF files

ClaroRead Plus V5 now uses the updated Omnipage 16 engine, which gives you faster and more powerful scanning, including a rich new Preview function. The Preview function lets you pick scan order, size, orientation and other settings. The highest quality optical character recognition is now included in ClaroRead Plus and Premium, making it ideal for scanning or converting books, articles and other content to become accessible, readable and editable.

Word checking

Word Check now gives extra definitions, context for the current spelling, and a Google search link within the improved Word Check window. Any corrections you make in the ClaroRead spellcheck window are remembered, and you can review your own spelling corrections later. You can use this information to build your personal correction list and add your corrections directly to Word’s Autocorrect in bulk from the ClaroRead Advanced Settings Editor.

New voices

Claro has always aimed to offer the highest quality voices for inclusion with ClaroRead. Two new voices have been introduced for ClaroRead Plus V5, a Scottish female Heather and another English male William. Links to the samples of the new voices are below:

http://www.clarodownloads.com/audio/ClaroHeather.mp3

http://www.clarodownloads.com/audio/ClaroWilliam.mp3

Readable font

The Tiresias family of fonts have been designed for optimum accessibility and usability. Tiresias PC font is now installed by ClaroRead V5 for use in all your Windows applications. Tiresias was developed by Dr John Gill currently at RNIB Scientific Research Unit.

ClaroRead USB and ClaroRead Premium Bundle

ClaroRead Standard on a USB pen drive has been popular since release. This is now available as V5, and also includes ScreenRuler, Claroview and Claro Capture on the USB stick. We have reviewed the pricing of the ClaroRead Premium bundle and reduced it to $210.00. The ClaroRead Premium (ClaroRead PLUS CD and ClaroRead Standard USB pen drive) bundle no longer includes our MindFull concept mapping tool (still available separately) but does include the new USB Exporter function for synchronising the settings of ClaroRead PLUS on the PC with the USB stick (or vice versa).

For additional information, visit us online at http://www.claroread.com/ or download the informational specification sheet here.

Welcome to the Official ClaroRead.com Blog

Sara Derkacht — Mon, 18 May 2009 16:00:58 -0700

Welcome to the official ClaroRead.com blog, a place to find updates, news, and tips about Claro Software's ClaroRead and innovative line of assistive software, including speech technology, image technology and touch technology.