We got a mention on Linuxmall!

[Buddy Brannan]

Hey guyZ,

Speakup got a mention on the Linuxmall news page! Specifically,
Zipspeak. ... Great follow-up to last week's article on access to Linux by
blind folks. Here's the article:

       
               Zip Up: New Linux Distribution Speaks to Users
                                      
                              By Michelle Head
                                      
       Software designers are continuing to make breakthroughs in the
      development of software for blind or visually impaired users. A
   collaboration with Speakup screen reader enables Slackware's ZipSlack
      Linux to talk its user through installation and startup without
   sighted help--and the Blinux (Blind + Linux) subscriber list promptly
            brought this new application to its target audience.
                                      
   The standard version of ZipSpeak is available for download. Customized
    versions are available on request from the developer, Matt Campbell.
                                      
    ZipSpeak is a simplified mini-Slackware Linux system containing the
     7.0 version of ZipSlack and the 0.08 version of the Speakup screen
    reader. ZipSpeak contains a set of Linux kernels with Speakup built
   in, one for each speech synthesizer. Since ZipSlack requires a minimal
    amount of space, ZipSpeak can be installed on an existing MS-DOS or
                              Windows system.
                                      
        Backing up, reformatting or repartitioning the hard disk for
   installation of ZipSpeak is unneccesary since ZipSlack uses the UMSDOS
   file system and already contains the programs it requires. This makes
   ZipSpeak easy to install; sighted help is not necessary to install or
   start up a talking system. Speech feedback guides the user through the
                                  process.
                                      
       When news of ZipSpeak hit the BLinux discussion list its users
   immediately started asking for and offering help and advice about this
    custom Linux distribution. Blinux-list, a subscriber list for blind
     and visually impaired users found on the Blinux web site. One user
     asked about the compatibility of components he already owned with
     ZipSpeak other list subscribers answered him promptly, chipping in
                           with their experience.
                                      
    Products like ZipSpeak--and the pipelines that support them--serve a
    vital purpose in carrying new information to the blind and visually
    impaired user community. In turn, the constant trouble-shooting and
   exchange of ideas within these groups give developers a chance to know
            exactly what their target audience wants and needs.
                                      
                             About the Author:
                                      
   Michelle Head is an experienced author who decided to plunge into the
    world of Linux journalism. Michelle is a new Linux enthusiast and is
      excited about the Linux community. She welcomes feedback on her
   articles and would love to hear ideas for future articles. She can be
                     reached at Michellh at LinuxMall.com.
                                      
                              Related Stories
                                      
                       Feeling Your Way Through Linux
                                      
                                 References
                                      
                               Matt Campbell
                             ZipSpeak Download
                                  Speakup
                                   Blinux
                                  ZipSlack
                                      
                           Back to LinuxNews.com

-- 
Buddy Brannan, KB5ELV        | Friday whistle, how did I make it?
Email: davros at ycardz.com     | If I had my way, I'd run out naked!
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