Information on how to join the blinux listserve

What about blinux-list?

The focus of blinux-list is to improve blind support for the famous free Linux operation system. Blinux list is devoted as a meeting place to exchange ideas and information about blind support for Linux. Blinux list is assigned as catalyst to speed development of software for the blind user to run his own Linux workstation. Blinux list shall serve as an amplifier to intensify the silent whispers of Linux blind support into a loud babble :).

To improve the information to noise ratio, blinux-list runs moderated. I read all messages and forward them to blinux-list. Blatant off topic advocacy threads will be rejected and mega quoting will be cut to reasonable size.

What about Linux as operation platform for blind support?

Some aspects which come into mind are:

The source code of the whole Linux operation system is freely available. Development of new features is not hindered, since there are no "undocumented features" or "trade secrets". You are allowed to modify the source code to adapt it to your needs. Since Linux, like all Unix flavors, can be configured in nearly every aspect, adding new drivers or user shells is feasible. Linux is a reliable and stable operation system for heavy duty use. Running background tasks like talking shells is easy. Linux developers have fun in making Linux an excellent operating system. What could be a more effective motivation to deliver the best than having fun? :)

For an excellent approach to the world of Linux blind support read the Linux Access-HOWTO. You will find there a rich collection of information about support for blind people running Linux. The Linux Access-HOWTO can be found at sunsite.unc.edu/pub/Linux/docs/HOWTO/ .

How can YOU profit from blinux-list?

You can't always get what you want (R.Stones :) but if you are looking for new blind support software to run your Linux workstation you might find here places where you can get what you need.

If you have something to say about blind support because you are developing software for blind people, use blinux-list as a loudspeaker to promote your stuff and get feedback from the streets. You might pick up new ideas and exchange your knowledge with other developers.

Blinux list can be used to introduce blind support hardware which runs in connection with Linux or you can find people to build drivers to support your hardware. If you want it, there will be an 'hardpointer' archive file which will hold information concerning blind support hardware.

If you are a help professional, who is dealing with blind persons and computers, you might find here the weapons you need to promote Linux as operation system of choice for your school or organization (and spare them some $$$ since Linux is free for everyone).

And last but not least: If you are a blind hacker who enjoys tweaking your computer for maximum performance and workability, blinux-list might be the place for you to get useful information and pointers to new hot stuff.

What about the long term goals of blinux-list?

A nice long term target is to build a complete blinux package which can be easily installed from CDROM. This blinux package shall include a talking shell, drivers for braille readers and printers, scanner software which is able to read books, a talking web browser and voice control for your Linux workstation. (yeah I know I'm modest :). The blinux package will be available free for everyone interested.

Last words...

So I am exposing the blinux-list to the elementary forces of the net, hoping that they will procreate an intelligent and noisy child ;). You have a suggestion, question, complaint concerning blinux-list? Mail it to me NOW!

Hans
zocki@goldfish.cube.net

PS: For help