Presented by: Shana A. Iguel Braille Printers

What is it? A Braille Printer is similar to a regular printer only they operate by embossing raised braille dots onto braille paper.

Background Information (How was it developed?) Braille was invented by Louis Braille (Jan. 4, Jan. 6, 1852) who was also blind. The significance of Braille was not identified until the passing of Louis and Dr. Thomas Rhodes Armitage and a group of four blind men and a woman established the British and Foreign Society for Improving the Embossed Literature of the Blind, which published books in Braille’s system. To produce Braille you must have a braille machine or a computer attached to a braille embosser and that will act as a braille printer.

Usefulness (Who can use this technology?) This technology is useful for all individuals especially those with visual impairments

Purpose (Why would someone want to use this technology?) People would want to use this technology because it provides an easier solution to making copies of Braille documents. The purpose of inventing this technology was to provide assistance for individuals who have visual impairments.

How does it work? (Explain how the technology works to provide assistance to someone in need) Braille printers receive data from computer devices and emboss the information in Braille onto paper through the use of solenoids that control embossing pins.

Advantages and Disadvantages Advantages Depending on the type of printer, you have options such as: one-sided and two-sided to choose from. Most efficient tool for making copies of documents. Disadvantages They are slower They are noiser They use up more paper to print the exact information as to be printed on a regular printer. It requires heavyweight paper

Cost Small-volume Braille printers cost between $1,800 and $5,000. Large-volume ones may cost between $10,000 and $80,000

Reliability Perfect for home or office use. Braille printers enable individuals to print and make multiple copies of documents.

Accessibility: Does the CNMI have access to this technology, why or why not? The CNMI has access to this technology it is just a matter of available funds to purchase the equipment.

What is the demographic of people who could use this technology? According to the National Federation of the Blind, the Disability Statistics of American Community Survey reported individuals with visual disability in 2011 ages 4 and under through 20 of all races showed a total of 656,300. Females: 308,600 Males: 347, 700

References: printers/desktop-braille-printers/ printers/desktop-braille-printers/