Verizon Introduces Broadband Video Call Center Link for Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Customers in Mid-Atlan...(zon's News Center on the World Wide Web ...),Health

About Videophone Use

Many deaf or heard-of-hearing customers are already very familiar with videophones, using them to work with video relay services to communicate with hearing persons with the help of an interpreter who translates messages to and from American Sign Language (ASL), or for direct communication with others who know and use ASL. Some computers equipped with the proper software and Web cameras can be used as well. Videophones can be hooked up either to a regular TV or to a PC monitor [http://www.dlink.com/products/?sec=1&pid=293] or can be desktop units complete with a small screen [http://www.dlink.com/products/?sec=1&pid=302].

For effective video conferencing communication at good frame rates, customers need a high-speed line with a downstream speed of at least 256 kilobits per second or higher. Verizon's High Speed Internet services start at speeds of up to 768 Kbps and range up to 50 Mbps on FiOS Internet connections.

Phones are simply dialed as usual, though with some equipment setups the phone number dialed actually represents a computer IP address

Customers have options regarding the hardware they use. Phones made by companies like D-Link can be purchased for about $150 to about $300, depending on the model and connection type. But other models by other makers are available free to users of various video relay services, which are publicly funded under Federal Communication Commission requirements.

Products Available From Verizon for Consumers With Disabilities

Big Button Corded Feature Phone (ITT2400). Prov
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