An Analog Data Storage System for a Reading Machine for Blind Readers

The problem of output for reading machines for the blind is discussed and it is concluded that speech is essential if reading rates greater than 80 words/min are desired. Means for achieving this are considered to be dependent on the design of a cheap compact data store. Assuming that monotonic telephone-quality speech would be acceptable, the minimum storage capacity for normal reading speeds is shown to be 6 × 10-6 bits, if speech synthesis is not used.