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From: Vixen@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.org (Vixen)
Newsgroups: misc.handicap
Subject: Re: USE MODEM AS TTY
Message-ID: <15796@handicap.news>
Date: 23 May 91 20:54:39 GMT
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Index Number: 15796

Hi Phil.

Just a note to you. There are a number of ascii capable TDDs! There
have been for awhile.

I have had two ascii capable TDDs already, each one provided to me.
at no charge, courtesy of Ma Bell.  My first was a Krown Research
Porta Printer Plus and my present is an Ultratec SuperPrint (with
the large external display.) Each TDD have Baudot / ascii modes,
110bps / 300bps speeds, half duplex  / full duplex and originate /
answer modes. There are a number of other brands which also offer
these features.

For those who want them and who live in states where Ma Bell
provides TDDs to certified deaf customers, and when they are
availble, all one has to do is ask for one (and perhaps swap their
Ma Bell owned Baudot only model.).

It is true that TDD to PC or BBS connect leaves a lot to be desired
when it comes to display. But, using 110bps speed and with some BBS
modification, such communication can be considerably smoother than
one might imagine. I have called my own BBS via TDD many many times
and do quite well. I might also add here that I am legally blind! I
have others who call via TDD as well. Of course, a larger display
would be nicer!

Yes, you are right, TDDs are still relatively expensive. I have
seen "Baudot only" types for as lows as $135.00. However, I am not
sure of the pricing for your typical Baudot / ascii capable model,
but Baudot only TDDs have been a thing of the past (so to speak)
for a time now. I understand that my Ultratec SuperPrint with the
huge external L.E.D. runs for around $600.00 to $700.00. All I can
say is, "Thank goodness for Ma Bell" otherwise I could not afford
my TDD at all.

Keepin' the faith!

.                         Vixen

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