Audio description
Click here to view all products that have audio description
You might have used this on videos or DVDs with an AD marking. It works like a commentary for people who have difficulty seeing the screen. During the programme a voice describes what is shown and what is happening on the screen during gaps in the dialogue.
Here is a link to listings of TV programmes with audio description: www.tvhelp.org.uk/audes/schedule.php
AD is available on a wide range of digital TV products for use with an aerial, aswell as on Sky and Virgin services (see below). But note it not currently available on Talktalk (formerly Tiscali) digital TV services that are delivered through your telephone line.
BSkyB satellite and the Virgin Media cable company broadcast audio description combined with a programme’s soundtrack. You just have to change the settings on the TV – no special kit is needed. Further information from Sky Accessibility Helpline and Virgin Media customer services. You can also get more information on AD from RNIB.
Other equipment for people with poor sight
- 'Smart Talk' Goodmans set top box -this talking set top box announces all on-screen information, including programme guides and menus, using synthetic speech. It also delivers audio description.
- Sky Talker - this text to speech device is available from BSkyB's Accessibility Service for use with Sky or Sky+ boxes.
You can also get AD though the following special equipment
- Nebula PC card – called the DigiTV, it is a computer adapter for watching digital TV programmes with audio description on your PC. DigiTV also works with speech and magnification software. Information on 01689 897090 or at www.nebula-electronics.com
- Portset digital media centre - a box that provides all digital terrestrial TV channels, sound only, with audio description when it’s broadcast, plus spoken text services, record and playback. Information on 01489 893919 or at www.portset.co.uk/pdmc.htm.