Viewdata/Prestel and the disabled

Abstract

This year has seen the introduction of a computer-based telephone distributed and TV set received information system available as a public service. Viewdata is the generic name for this new system of communication which has been pioneered by the British Post Office. The necessary adaption of the television set, the decoder, can now be achieved for less than $50 (1979) using micro-circuits. The decoder has the ability to decode any non-speech signals, print or drawings, which are sent over the telephone line and to display them as text or simple diagrams on the TV set. Initially the communication will be one-way. The user will be able to receive information on his TV set but unable to respond or reply. As the system develops it will be possible to respond to information received, choose from a list of simple messages, originate individual messages and finally to participate in full two-way communication with the use of a typewriter-like keyboard.