Many companies have developed other software that provides voice recognition, reads computer screens or enlarges computer display. The force driving these developments isn't just those with disabilities, but physicians and lawyers who use voice recognition software to translate dictations.

Computer tools such as these provide access to the Internet, enhancing the lives of people with disabilities, according to findings from an online poll conducted earlier this year by Harris Interactive and the National Organization on Disability. Forty-eight percent of people with disabilities who are online say that the Internet has significantly improved their quality of life, while only 27 percent of people without disabilities who are online say the same.

As technology becomes more sophisticated, however, some innovations can create barriers. When appliance manufacturers moved from having buttons to touch screens, they added a barrier for people who cannot read screens. Web pages also can exclude users who can't read computer screens without large print or audio software.

A blind person reads a Web page with software that translates text on the screen into synthesized speech. But such software can't translate images. That means that any important information conveyed in an image - links or ads, for example - can't be translated. That part of the page is lost to a blind person.

There are other problems as well. Blind readers jump from link to link using their software. A link that reads "click here" is meaningless. A link that reads "click here to order" makes more sense.

"One area is of vital concern is the Internet and Title III of the ADA and how that will affect the Internet and e-commerce," says Chris Cox, assistant director of government affairs for the National Federation of the Blind.

The Federation wants to make sure that blind and visually impaired people are not left out as businesses move toward being more Web-based. The organization sued America Online last year because the information service was inaccessible to people with disabilities. On July 26, the 10-year anniversary of the ADA, the Federation and AOL settled, with AOL agreeing to work to make its products more accessible.

CAST, a non-profit organization that works to expand technology to people with disabilities, developed a program that will screen a Web site for accessibility. Bobby, a Web-based program developed by CAST, is available online at www.cast.org.

One company that has made a move to more accessible technology is California-based Bank of America. The company plans to implement talking automatic teller machines. Fifteen of the planned 1,600 ATMs in California are in operation. The machines provide audible instructions to people who cannot see the information on the screen. The ATMs have audio jacks that deliver spoken instructions privately to protect the security of blind and low-vision users. The company plans to add machines throughout its national network.

Locally, the Bi-State Development Agency will soon install 15 new MetroLink ticket vending machines that use audio directions to help customers make their ticket purchases.

And even more sophisticated technology is coming down the tracks. For example, researchers at Georgia Tech University, headed by assistant professor Thad Starner, are working to develop wearable computers that would translate sign language into voice or text.

Other devices - worn on the head - would magnify and enhance images for people with low vision.

While assistive technology provides opportunities for more independence to people with disabilities, it can be expensive. A power wheelchair can cost more than $4,000. Hydraulic lifts for vans and other tools can be expensive as well.

Several organizations can help people buy adaptive equipment. The St. Louis Technology Access Center, an office of the Missouri Assistive Technology Council, provides information and consultation for consumers needing adaptive equipment. The council's office also operates a "swap and shop" for used equipment, which is online at www.dolir.state.mo.us/matp/swapnshop.htm or available by phone at 800-647-8557 (voice) or 800-647-8558 (TTY).

The Missouri Division of Vocational Rehabilitation provides assistance with accommodations in the workplace. When Robyn Wallen recently took a job doing telephone sales, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation helped her get computer equipment adapted for low vision and a closed-captioned television that enlarges printed materials.