Contact the A T Guys

Monday, June 26, 2017

2017 Convention Scoop and Preorder Information

It's one of the busiest times of the year for us at A T Guys, it's Convention Time! This year, we'll have booths at both NFB in Orlando and ACB in Reno. Read on to learn about our special convention events and how to preorder your latest gadgets. If you're not joining us, we still have some new product news and info to share, so read on.

NFB 2017 in Orlando Preorders

We're excited to be returning to the Rosen Shingle Creek for this year's NFB convention in Orlando. Save time in the exhibit hall by placing a preorder now and picking up your item at the booth. Use coupon code nfb17 at checkout or simply use this link to apply the NFB coupon. Then, pick up your item at booth A19 during exhibit hall hours. We'll make sure we have your order available for pickup, so you do not have to pay for shipping! Preorders are available for most items we carry. Read on for a complete list at the end of this newsletter. Send us a message with any questions you may have.



ACB 2017 in Sparks Preorders

It's a safe bet that we'll have something that you'll want to have at our booth in the exhibit hall at the ACB Convention in Sparks. For ACB preorders, use coupon code acb17 at checkout or simply use this link to apply the ACB coupon. Then, pick up your item at booth 43 during exhibit hall hours.

We also will host two events on Sunday, July 2. At 7:15, we'll present an A T Guys product showcase with hands-on demos of the items we'll have in the exhibit hall. Then at 8:45, it's Blind Bargains Game Show Live where you may win some fabulous merchandise. Both events will be held in the Donner room. Check the convention program for details.



Introducing the Micro-Speak Talking Digital Voice Recorder

Micro-Speak Plus is a brand new digital voice recorder that combines smart design with ease of use and high quality performance. Micro-Speak Plus is packed with useful features including specifically designed software that provides spoken prompts and beeps to assist blind and low-vision users.

Record with the press of a button and playback immediately via the built-in speaker. High Definition recordings in WAV format ensure impressive results for unlimited speaking and listening activities.

Order the Micro-Speak Digital Recorder for $54.95

More Styles of Aftershokz for your Lifestyle

Aftershokz has expanded their lineup of bone conduction headsets, great for travel, the office, or the classroom. The Trekz Titanium Aftershokz have been one of their most popular models to date, and feature a titanium build and a much lighter design. If you haven't tried a pair of Aftershokz lately, they're quite different from models you may have seen a couple of years ago. Now, the wired model, the Sports Titanium, has been updated with the same titanium build. For smaller heads, the Trekz Titanium Mini is now available and provides a better fit.

Browse our entire selection of Aftershokz Open Ear Headphones

iDevices Switch Connected Plug, Now with Alexa, Siri, and Google Home Support

Control your fan, heater, coffee maker, and more directly from your iPhone and Siri, your Amazon Echo, or Google Home. Switch is one of the few connected plugs which supports all three of these ways to control your device, leading to more versatility and convenience. Plus, you can now monitor energy usage with the accessible iDevices app and cut down on your electric bill. Plus, do even more with the Home app on your iPhone.

Get the Switch Connected Plug Now for $49.99

A full-size Bluetooth Keyboard with Power

One of our most popular items will be available at convention this summer. The Matias Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard feels just like an Apple keyboard and also includes a dedicated numeric pad and arrow keys in the familiar layout. Plus, connect the Matias to up to 4 devices at once and switch between them with the press of a key. Also, charging your keyboard all the time is a thing of the past, as the Matias features up to 1 year of battery life on a single charge.

Listen to a short audio demo on the Matias keyboard
Check out the Matias Alumina Bluetooth Keyboard for $99

High Quality Voices for your Screen Reader

Love NVDA, but not the voice that comes with it? Or are you using narrator more often but wish you could have a familiar voice to go along with it? We are official distributors of the familiar Vocalizer and Eloquence voices. Either get the $69 package that gives you voices for NVDA, or choose Eloquence or Vocalizer voices which can be used with multiple screen readers. We're happy to help you find your voice, just ask.

Check out screen reader voices starting at $69

Other Items Available for Preorder

Here's a list of other items we'll have available this year.

  • Bluetooth Multimedia Remote Control - Sale! $29.99.
    Phones and computers are great for playing music, but what if you want to skip to the next song or adjust the volume from across the room? The Bluetooth Multimedia Remote lets you wirelessly control your iPhone, Android, Apple TV, or computer. Play and pause music, skip to the next or previous track, adjust the volume, even activate Siri from an extremely lightweight device.
  • SoundPods Bluetooth Wireless Portable Speaker - $49.95
    This little speaker puts out big sound! The SoundPod by Blue Tiger is a wireless or wired heavy duty speaker with exceptional sound quality that fits in the palm of your hand. With long battery life, the SoundPOD will be putting out your tunes all day long. Also features a Micro SD card slot to play music directly from the speaker.
  • Meteor Vibrating Pocket Watch - $117
    The Meteor Vibrating Pocket Watch allows you to independently know the current time without disturbing others. It features a simple, three-button design and is especially ideal for persons with hearing loss.
  • iGrill Mini Wireless Cooking Thermometer $49.99
    The iGrill Mini is an accessible cooking thermometer which connects to your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad. Connect the thermometer, select the type of meat or food your are cooking, and relax. You will be alerted when your meat is done. And, the app works great with VoiceOver.
  • Customized Quantum Omnidirectional Bar Code Scanner for BC Scan - $149
    Get a free 3-year warranty when you preorder or purchase this item at convention a $59 value. Presenting our most affordable bar code solution yet. The Quantum is a portable bar code scanner that includes a built-in swivel stand and features simple, hands-free operation. Connect to your computer or notetaker for fast and accurate scanning. Plus, never pay for the BC Scan service or database updates.
  • SoundTrax Bluetooth Headset - $99.95


    While supplies last, from the same company which produced the popular SoundPods speaker comes a Bluetooth stereo headset with the same great features. Wirelessly connect to your phone or play music using the built-in Micro SD card slot or a headset adapter. These comfortable on-ear headphones featured padded cups and deep bass. Works for up to 30 hours on a single chaarge.
  • Tactile Screen Protectors - Starting at $8
    Featuring the full line of SpeedDots tactile screen overlays for iPhone, iPad, iPad Mini, and iPod Touch. Several styles to choose from. Type with confidence. Many models also available with Otterbox cases.
  • USB to AC Charging Adapter fits U.S. wall outlets - $10
    You can never have enough of these adapters. Plug in your iPhone or Android charging cable for fast wall charging.

We will do our best to get items not on the above list. If we are not able to bring an item to convention, we will let you know and ship it to you for free.

And stay tuned, we have more new products on their way!



have questions? Comments? As always, we'd love to hear from you.


Phone: (269) 216-4798
Skype: atguys
E-mail: support@atguys.com
Follow Us on Twitter
Like Us on Facebook

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Introducing the Micro-Speak Plus Digital Voice Recorder

Picture of Micro-Speak Digital Voice Recorder

A T Guys is pleased to introduce the Micro-Speak Plus Talking Digital Voice Recorder to the U.S. market. The portable recorder will be introduced at the ACB and NFB summer conventions and is available for preorder at atguys.com.

Micro-Speak Plus is a brand new digital voice recorder that combines smart design with ease of use and high quality performance. Micro-Speak Plus is packed with useful features including specifically designed software that provides spoken prompts and beeps to assist blind and low-vision users.

Record with the press of a button and playback immediately via the built-in speaker. High Definition recordings in uncompressed WAV format ensure impressive results for unlimited speaking and listening activities.

The Micro-Speak has plenty of room to record the moments in your life, featuring up to 48 hours of high-quality recording time. Users can play recordings or MP3 music files using the loud, built-in speaker or by plugging in a pair of headphones.

The Micro-Speak features a built-in rechargeable battery which can be charged from a computer or a wall outlet. The current battery status will be spoken in a clear voice when the unit is powered on.

The Micro-Speak is produced by Talking Products Limited and comes with a one year warranty against manufacturer defects.

Those visiting the summer conventions can place a preorder now and pick up the Micro-Speak at the A T Guys booths at the ACB Convention in Reno or the NFB Convention in Orlando. Others can place a preorder now with delivery expected in 1-2 weeks.

For more information or to place an order, please visit The Micro-Speak page on A T Guys, Email support@atguys.com, or call (269) 216-4798.

For dealer inquiries, please send a message to the address above.

Convention Preorders

Preorder the Micro-Speak to pick up at ACB in Reno
Preorder the Micro-Speak to pick up at NFB in Orlando

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

A T Guys Scoop: Convention Time, and New Products

Hello, and welcome to summer 2016. This newsletter is jam-packed and has the dish on hot new products, info on summer convention season, and much more. Read on for some cool news and info.



NFB 2016 in Orlando Preorders

We're excited to be returning to the Rosen Shingle Creek for this year's NFB convention in Orlando. Save time in the exhibit hall by placing a preorder now and picking up your item at the booth. Use coupon code nfb16 at checkout or simply use this link to apply the NFB coupon. Then, pick up your item at booths B18 and B19 during exhibit hall hours. We'll make sure we have your order available for pickup, so you do not have to pay for shipping! Preorders are available for most items we carry. Read on for a complete list at the end of this newsletter. Send us a message with any questions you may have.



ACB Plans in Minneapolis

We have some special events for those of you attending the ACB convention in Minneapolis on Thursday, July 7. First, you can place preorders and pick up your item at the A T Guys suite between noon and 4. Use coupon code acb16 at checkout or simply use this link to apply the ACB coupon. We will Email you with the suite number once it is available. You can also stop by during this time to look at many of our items and place orders. Note that preorders and pickups will only be available during this time---we do not have an exhibit hall booth.

Then, stop by one or both of our sessions that evening to learn about our latest products and talk about the latest in assistive technology. Look for more information in the convention agenda.



Hot: A full-size Bluetooth Keyboard with Power

We've often been asked for a bigger Bluetooth keyboard, and we think we've found one you'll love. The Matias Aluminum Bluetooth Keyboard feels just like an Apple keyboard and also includes a dedicated numeric pad and arrow keys in the familiar layout. Plus, connect the Matias to up to 4 devices at once and switch between them with the press of a key. Also, charging your keyboard all the time is a thing of the past, as the Matias features up to 1 year of battery life.

Listen to a short audio demo on the Matias keyboard
Check out the Matias Alumina Bluetooth Keyboard for $99

New Lower Price on the iDevices Switch Connected Plug

Now you can control your fan, heater, coffee maker, and more directly from your iPhone and Siri. Switch is the new connected wall plug from iDevices. Turn items on and off with a Siri command, or from the app. Plus, you can now monitor energy usage with the accessible iDevices app and cut down on your electric bill. Plus, do even more with the forthcoming Home app for iOS 10. It's a new kind of HomeKit product that we think you'll love.

Get the Switch Connected Plug Now for $49.99

New Vocalizer and Eloquence Voices for NVDA

Now you can use the voices you love with NVDA, the free and popular screen reader from NVAccess. The new Code Factory add-on consists of the popular Eloquence and Vocalizer Text-To-Speech synthesizer to be used with NVDA. Plus, we have a 7 day demo for you to try it out.

Check out the Code Factory NVDA Add-on for $69 or Get a 7-day Demo

Lowest Price Ever on the Blaze EZ Multiplayer from Hims

A T Guys is an authorized dealer for the Blaze portable multiplayers from Hims. Not only do these units play books in just about any format imaginable, it also includes OCR for reading print and wireless capabilities. Through June 30, get the Blaze EZ for our lowest price ever at $495, a $100 savings.

Learn more about the Blaze Ez Multiplayer from Hims

Other Items Available for Preorder

Here's a list of other items we'll have available this year.

  • Sol Republic Shadow Headset - $99.99
    While supplies last. Sol Republic is a brand known for style and function, and we're pleased to offer the Shadow Bluetooth headset. These stereo earbuds rest around your neck and feature deep bass, Bluetooth 4.0 support, and multi-device connectivity. Plus, Sol Republic offers free replacement tips for life.
  • Aftershokz Bluez 2S 3rd Generation Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headphones - $99.95
    New model this year. The only Bluetooth stereo headphones that allow you to tune in to music or calls without tuning out the world, all with complete wireless freedom. Our open ear bone conduction headphones guide mini vibrations through your cheekbones to your inner ears, ensuring you can be open to ambient sound, even when you're plugged in, working out or on the go. This latest model features better transjuicers, the pads that go on your pads meaning more sound for you and less for your neighbors. The Sports M3 wired model is also available for $49.95.
  • New! The Perfect Remote for your phone or Computer
  • Bluetooth Multimedia Remote Control - $34.99.
    Phones and computers are great for playing music, but what if you want to skip to the next song or adjust the volume from across the room? The Bluetooth Multimedia Remote lets you wirelessly control your iPhone, Android, or computer. Play and pause music, skip to the next or previous track, adjust the volume, even activate Siri from an extremely lightweight device.
  • myCharge Peak 6000 Talking External Battery Pack - $79.95
    Charge your cell phone, voice recorder, and other devices while on the go. Voice prompts indicate battery and charging status, so you'll always know the status of your charger. Includes fold-out wall plug for quick charging of the battery. Charge your iPhone 2-3 times from one charge of the battery..
  • iGrill2 $99.99 and iGrill Mini $39.99
    The iGrill2 and iGrill Mini are accessible cooking thermometers which connect to your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad. Connect the thermometer, select the type of meat or food your are cooking, and relax. You will be alerted when your meat is done. And, the app works great with VoiceOver. Connect multiple probes to check the temperature for multiple items. Also now available, the Ambient Temperature Probe, great for use with a smoker or for just checking the outdoor or room temperature.
  • SoundPods Bluetooth Wireless Portable Speaker - $49.95
    This little speaker puts out big sound! The SoundPod by Blue Tiger is a wireless or wired heavy duty speaker with exceptional sound quality that fits in the palm of your hand. With long battery life, the SoundPOD will be putting out your tunes all day long. Also features a Micro SD card slot to play music directly from the speaker.
  • SoundTrax Bluetooth Headset - $99.95


    From the same company which produced the popular SoundPods speaker comes a Bluetooth stereo headset with the same great features. Wirelessly connect to your phone or play music using the built-in Micro SD card slot or a headset adapter. These comfortable on-ear headphones featured padded cups and deep bass. Works for up to 30 hours on a single chaarge.
  • Meteor Vibrating Pocket Watch - $117
    The Meteor Vibrating Pocket Watch allows you to independently know the current time without disturbing others. It features a simple, three-button design and is especially ideal for persons with hearing loss.
  • tech Solutions from Hims
    We offer the Smart Beetle 14-cell braille display, Candy 4 HD2 Portable Video Magnifier and the Blaze ET and EZ media players with OCR.
  • Customized Quantum Omnidirectional Bar Code Scanner for BC Scan - $149
    Get a free 3-year warranty when you preorder or purchase this item at convention a $59 value. Presenting our most affordable bar code solution yet. The Quantum is a portable bar code scanner that includes a built-in swivel stand and features simple, hands-free operation. Connect to your computer or notetaker for fast and accurate scanning. Plus, never pay for the BC Scan service or database updates.
  • Feel'n'see Tactile Screenshots for iOS 9
    Feel'n'See Screenshots are tactile and visual representations of the major screens you'll encounter while using your iDevice. Learn where the major icons are placed, get a feel for how screens are laid out, and gain a greater understanding of your touch-screen device. The 68-page guide includes screenshots for both iPhone and iPad users and is available in braille ($25), large print $20), or both braille and large print ($30.
  • RII 66-key Mini Bluetooth Keyboard for iPhone, PC, Mac, Android - $45
    One of our top sellers. Wirelessly connects to all modern smartphones. Tactile key layout with number row, arrow keys, and on/off switch.
  • Plantronics Marque 2 Talking Bluetooth Headset - $59.95
    The Plantronics Marque 2 is a one-ear, talking bluetooth headset that effortlessly pairs with your iPhone, Android, or other devices. Voice instructions will guide you through the setup process, and the headset will tell you how much talk time is remaining whenever you turn it on. Voice announcements for incoming calls, power on/off, and pairing are also given.
  • Magpul Low-profile Field Case for iPhone 6 - $16.95
    If you're looking for a tough case for your iPhone without a lot of bulk, this slimline case is a popular choice.
  • Tactile Screen Protectors - Starting at $8
    Featuring the full line of SpeedDots tactile screen overlays for iPhone, iPad, iPad Mini, and iPod Touch. Several styles to choose from. Type with confidence. Many models also available with Otterbox cases.
  • USB to AC Charging Adapter fits U.S. wall outlets - $10
    You can never have enough of these adapters. Plug in your iPhone or Android charging cable for fast wall charging.

We will do our best to get items not on the above list. If we are not able to bring an item to convention, we will let you know and ship it to you for free.



have questions? Comments? As always, we'd love to hear from you.


Phone: (269) 216-4798
Skype: atguys
E-mail: support@atguys.com
Follow Us on Twitter
Like Us on Facebook

Friday, June 20, 2014

A T Guys at the NFB and ACB Conventions

Whether you'll be visiting Orlando for the NFB convention or Las Vegas for the ACB convention in July, A T Guys will be on hand with the latest affordable mobile technology and gadgets,. Save time at convention by preordering now and pick up your items at the show. Details are below. We can't wait to meet you at the conventions, but if you're not able to make it, we hope to hear from you soon as well.

A list of items available for preorder is posted below. If you need something that's not on this list, just ask and we'll do our best.

NFB attendees should use coupon code NFB14 on the checkout page and pick up at booth D7 during exhibit hours. ACB attendees use coupon code ACB14 to pick up at booth 45 in Las Vegas.

Introducing the iGrill2 and iGrill Mini

The iGrill2 and iGrill Mini are accessible cooking thermometers which connect to your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad. Connect the thermometer, select the type of meat or food your are cooking, and relax. You will be alerted when your meat is done. And, the app works great with VoiceOver. Connect multiple probes to check the temperature for multiple items.

Listen to an audio demonstration of the iGrill2 and iGrill Mini

The iGrill2 is available now or at convention for $99.95. The iGrill Mini is available for $39.95.

Learn more about the iGrill2 and iGrill Mini

Other Items Available for Preorder
  • Customized Quantum Omnidirectional Bar Code Scanner for BC Scan - $149
    Get a free 3-year warranty when you preorder or purchase this item at convention a $59 value. Presenting our most affordable bar code solution yet. The Quantum is a portable bar code scanner that includes a built-in swivel stand and features simple, hands-free operation. Connect to your computer or notetaker for fast and accurate scanning. Plus, never pay for the BC Scan service or database updates.
  • SoundPods Bluetooth Wireless Portable Speaker - $49.95
    This little speaker puts out big sound! The SoundPod by Blue Tiger is a wireless or wired heavy duty speaker with exceptional sound quality that fits in the palm of your hand. With long battery life, the SoundPOD will be putting out your tunes all day long. Also features a Micro SD card slot to play music directly from the speaker.
  • Aftershokz Bluez 2 2nd Generation Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headphones - $99.95
    New model. The only Bluetooth stereo headphones that allow you to tune in to music or calls without tuning out the world, all with complete wireless freedom. Our open ear bone conduction headphones guide mini vibrations through your cheekbones to your inner ears, ensuring you can be open to ambient sound, even when you're plugged in, working out or on the go.
  • RII 66-key Mini Bluetooth Keyboard for iPhone, PC, Mac, Android - $45
    One of our top sellers. Wirelessly connects to all modern smartphones. Tactile key layout with number row, arrow keys, and on/off switch.
  • myCharge Peak 6000 Talking External Battery Pack - $89.95
    Charge your cell phone, voice recorder, and other devices while on the go. Voice prompts indicate battery and charging status, so you'll always know the status of your charger. Includes fold-out wall plug for quick charging of the battery. Charge your iPhone 2-3 times from one charge of the battery..
  • Plantronics Marque 2 Talking Bluetooth Headset - $59.95
    The Plantronics Marque 2 is a one-ear, talking bluetooth headset that effortlessly pairs with your iPhone, Android, or other devices. Voice instructions will guide you through the setup process, and the headset will tell you how much talk time is remaining whenever you turn it on. Voice announcements for incoming calls, power on/off, and pairing are also given.
  • Meteor Vibrating Pocket Watch - $117
    The Meteor Vibrating Pocket Watch allows you to independently know the current time without disturbing others. It features a simple, three-button design and is especially ideal for persons with hearing loss.
  • iBill BankNote Identifier - $119
    The new iBill is faster, easier to use, and better than ever. The new design includes a easier-to-use money slot, louder volume, and more. Rapid and immediate identification of paper money without having to depend on anyone.
  • Incipio Stowaway Credit Card Case for iPhone 5 and 5S - $34.99
    An iPhone case with a built-in hinged flap to store your ID, credit cards, and more. Ideal for travel, the back of the case opens to reveal a small compartment to store your valuables so you don't need to carry your wallet. Access to charging ports is also built-in.
  • Tactile Screen Protectors - Starting at $8
    Featuring the full line of SpeedDots tactile screen overlays for iPhone, iPad, iPad Mini, and iPod Touch. Several styles to choose from. Type with confidence. Many models also available with Otterbox cases.
  • USB to AC Charging Adapter fits U.S. wall outlets - $10
    You can never have enough of these adapters. Plug in your iPhone or Android charging cable for fast wall charging.

We will do our best to get items not on the above list. If we are not able to bring an item to convention, we will let you know and ship it to you for free.

have questions? Comments? As always, we'd love to hear from you. Please note it may take longer than usual to return your calls and Emails during the conventions.


Phone: (269) 216-4798
E-mail: support@atguys.com
Follow Us on Twitter
Like Us on Facebook

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Announcing the A T Guys Summer Internship

If you're looking for a job that's a bit different, A T Guys is looking for an outgoing person to join us this summer as an intern. Read on to learn how this all

works.

What can you bring to the table?

We're looking for a variety of skills from a potential intern and expect that you probably won't have all of these. But here are a few things we're looking for:, the more the better:

  • Extensive knowledge of assistive technology for the blind and visually impaired including computers, cell phones, and other devices
  • Ability to help customers over the phone or via Email with sales or technical support queries
  • Website programming using HTML, CSS< Javascript, PHP, databases, or other languages
  • Graphic design including brochures, online content, and other materials
  • Product sales including willingness to attend trade shows and conferences
  • audio or video production and editing
  • People with big ideas and who are not afraid to think outside the box

An internship at A T Guys is a two-way street. we'll share our knowledge in many of the areas listed above and ask that you are ready to learn and be a part of the team. We will strive to give you meaningful work experience and allow you to build or do something big.

Details

You will work 20-30 hours per week from our office in Kalamazoo, MI. You are welcome to work from home from time to time, but we would like you to be in town and available. We are happy to provide housing recommendations that would be within a short walk of the office. Hours are flexible. We're not a 9 to 5 company.

Some travel may be required from time to time, and you will be reimbursed for travel costs if this occurs.

We'd ask for a minimum 10 week commitment from you, but are flexible as to your start date, in case you have a summer vacation already planned.

Interns will start off by earning a small stipend and will have the opportunity for advancement.

A T Guys is poised for growth, and we hope you come join us as we change the face of assistive technology.\

If you're interested, please send a cover letter and resume to jj at atguys dot com. Put the cover letter in the body of your E-Mail message and attach the resume. We're particularly interested in the skills you have and how you'd like to work with us to grow the company.

Thanks for your interest, and good luck.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Avoiding Common Website Accessibility Mistakes

With an aging population and the use of computers and mobile devices by blind and visually impaired people on the rise, the importance of a website that is universally accessible to all cannot be understated. Considering accessibility at design time will give your brand a potential wider audience as well as improve the likelihood of higher search engine placement.


Despite the most well-intentioned website designer, we often run into situations where a website becomes difficul or even impossible to navigate or use. Here are a few common mistakes we've seen that can be easily corrected.


Label your Links


To a seasoned web designer, the use of alt tags may seem like elementary knowledge. Still, we see websites every day that neglect to label the links in their navigation bar or give descriptions for important images. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind.



  • Include alt tags for all links. The tag should be the name of the link. Do not include the word "link" in the alt tag, as screen access software will already convey this information.

  • Include alt tags for important images. These may include pictures of a building or of a product. Give a concise description of the image.

  • Use an empty alt tag for Aesthetics such as dividers or image placeholders. If it does not add any redeeming value to your content, it's best to just hide it.

  • For logos or word graphics, use the words that appear in the logo or picture as the alt tag.


Use of Headings


While there is no firm guideline on the use of headings, it is generally a good practice to use headings to separate major sections of a web page. Be consistent when using heading levels on your site. Include a heading above the main body of each web page and make this a level one heading. Screen readers include commands to jump to a specific heading level. If a web page includes search results or article headlines, use heading tags at the beginning of each article. The Google search results web page is a good example of this design in practice. If you do not want to alter the visual appearance of a website, use a style sheet to change the appearance of your heading text.


Music on Web Pages


There are few things more annoying to a blind person browsing a website than a loud musical interlude or video playing while they are trying to navigate. Blind users utilize screen readers to read the text that appears on a web page. If music or a video plays as soon as the website is opened, it is difficult or impossible to hear the speech.


Flash Content


Some websites are designed entirely or mostly in Flash. Not only does this pose an accessibility nightmare, it also makes your site difficult or impossible to be indexed by Google and other search engines. While mechanisms exist to create accessible Flash content, not all screen access software interprets the content equally or at all. While Flash may be acceptable for some video content, it's best to use other avenues for creating your site.


Conclusion


Following the above guidelines will give you a tremendous head start in designing your website for universal accessibility. That being said, there is no true substitute for website accessibility testing. A T Guys offers accessibility testing for your website by humans, not a machine. Our testing includes the use of multiple screen readers on both Windows and Mac computers as well as today's popular mobile devices. Please call us at (269) 216-4798 or send us a message to learn more.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

A T Guys now Taking Preorders for Custom-fitted Leather iBill Case

A T Guys, a leader in affordable assistive technology solutions, has announced the availability of a custom-fitted leather case for the popular iBill Banknote Identifier. Preorders are now being accepted at the A T Guys website or via the phone, and the cases are expected to ship by August 1.



The TurtleBack Orbit iBill Case is a form fit custom leather case, designed to enable
the user to easily use the Orbit iBill while in the case. The leather iBill Case
will provide security, durability and will protect the unit in bad weather and breakage. Two snaps hold the iBill snugly inside the case while a belt clip allows for additional flexibility.



"We are pleased to partner with A T Guys to produce high-quality leather cases for the iBill, and take great pride in providing the best possible technology protection and peace of mind," commented Brian J. Eremita of Executive Products. Executive Products has developed a reputation for producing custom cases for a variety of technology products and produces their products in the USA.



The case is available for a preorder price of $19.99 plus shipping. Orders are now being accepted at http://www.atguys.com or by phone at (269) 216-4798. A T Guys is also a distributor of the iBill Banknote Identifier.



A T Guys offers a growing array of affordable technology products and accessories for consumers and professionals including the customized BCScan bar code scanner, SpeedDots tactile screen protectors for the iPhone, the KNFB Reader Mobile, the Window-Eyes screen reader from GW Micro, Code Factory's Mobile Speak and Mobile Geo solutions for cell phones, the Duxbury Braille Translator, portable book players and magnifiers from Hims, and much more. Customized support and training is also available upon request.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Exhibitors Wanted for First Ever Michigan Vision Expo in Kalamazoo

A T Guys is pleased to suppor a new opportunity to learn about the latest in technology and services for the blind and visually impaired. Applications are now being accepted for the first ever Michigan Vision Expo. The event will showcase the latest in assistive technology, resources, and other services which can benefit the lives of those who are blind, visually impaired, or losing their vision. Try out the latest portable magnifiers or talking computers, learn about local organizations serving the visually impaired, and meet successful
blind and visually impaired adults.


The event will be held on Saturday, October 1 from 10 A.M.-4 P.M. at the Kalamazoo Public Library in downtown Kalamazoo. The location is ADA accessible and convenient to public transportation. For more information or to register as an exhibitor, please visit http://www.michiganvisionexpo.org.


We look forward to your comments and suggestions, and welcome any companies or organizations who wish to assist in planning this event.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

iPhone Tactile Screen Protectors are Here; Preorder and Pick Up in Orlando or Reno

A T Guys is pleased to offer much requested tactile screen protectors for the iPhone, available from a new, reliable source. Place your preorder now and pick up your protector at the NFB or ACB national conventions. Note if you will not be attending one of these conventions, we plan to begin shipping after July 15. Use coupon code Orlando for the NFB convention or Reno for the ACB convention.


Produced by Speed Dots, our custom screen overlays
provide guidance and facilitate navigation of touchscreen devices by placing a single
dot over each letter and control, making it easier than ever before for blind and
visually impaired individuals using the Voiceover screenreader to both orient, as
well as input text and access screen controls quickly and efficiently. Our standard
overlay contains a dot on each letter and input control while our advanced overlay
contains similar markings on buttons and input controls, however only the letters
F and J on the virtual keyboard will contain raised dots.



Why use a tactile screen protector?


While it is true that a blind or visually impaired person does not require tactile feedback to use a touchscreen with voiceover, We have discovered that placing single Braille dots in a few key locations on the
screen can provide a noticeable increase in speed and productivity. If you are new to the touchscreen environment, or dislike the fact that there are no physical buttons on your phone, , then the tactile screen protector can offer both a practical, and affordable solution for you!




How And Why?



While apple has done a great job making its touch screens fully accessible to blind and visually impaired users, , simply placing raised
dots on the surface of the screen in a few key locations can help individuals input text and information accurately and confidently! Apple, along with many third-party developers typically place buttons in the same locations, which we are subsequently able to mark with a small, raised Braille dot. These tiny dots can be easily felt, but in no way obstruct a sighted person's view of the screen as our screen protectors are clear. This makes it easy for you to share your phone with sighted friends, colleagues, family members, etc., without interfering with the phone's operation




Below is a list of the dots and what they represent:

  • Top Left: back/ cancel
  • Top Right: ok /done
  • Top Center: search/heading/Safari address bar
  • Center of Screen: number 5 on the phone pad.
  • Middle Right: send button for text messages
  • Across the Bottom: 5 evenly spaced dots representing soft key functions.
  • Lower Left: Shift
  • Lower right: Delete/Backspace
  • (All of the keys listed above are marked identically on both the Standard and Advanced models of our tactile screen protectors.)

  • Virtual Keyboard (Standard): Each letter is marked with a single dot, with the exception of letters F and J, which are blank and contain no dots. Many users like this layout, as frequently, the dots can be used to represent other points of reference when the keyboard is not enabled.

  • Virtual Keyboard (Advanced): This configuration contains dots on the letters F and J *ONLY*. Users also like this configuration because it is less cluttered, yet still provides the ability to orient to the center row of keys quickly while typing.

Note: Both keyboard options are available. Please be sure to select the correct product when placing your order.



If you are new to the iPhone's layout, or have any questions about either the Standard or Advanced tactile screen protectors, please e-mail support@atguys.com or call (269) 216-4798.


We are also still taking preorders for virtually anything else in our catalog, including the iBill money identifier and BCScan bar code scanner. Visit http://www.atguys.com for details.


A T Guys will be exhibiting at table A-1 at the NFB convention in Orlando and booth65 at the ACB convention in Reno. Stop by to say hello and check out our latest products.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

A T Guys Now Offering Hims Products including BookSense, BrailleSense OnHand

A T Guys is proud to now be an official distributor for Hims products including the Sense notetakers and the BookSense digital book players. We've used the BookSense in our office since its release and are happy to now have the opportunity to offer it to our customers. Plus, shipping is always free on any BookSense product. To learn more about the three BookSense models available or to place an order, visit our BookSense page.


In addition, A T Guys is now the exclusive Michigan distributor for the BrailleSense OnHand, VoiceSense QWERTY, and BrailleSense Plus notetakers. Please call (269) 216-4798 for more information on these products.