A portable device for providing an information management system for blind
individuals, including those who read Braille format writing, and who may
either partially or completely lack sight capabilities, and/or who may be
unable to process visual information obtained from printed character
materials. The portable device features a scanner for scanning the printed
material, software for interpreting and translating the printed material
into Braille and a Braille array display for displaying the Braille. In
addition, the portable device preferably features an annotation feature
for adding notes to the text as well as for separate text entry, more
preferably through a Braille keyboard. Other preferred components include
an organizer component for providing calendar information, reminders and
other useful functions for the management of information. A management
component provides a software module for displaying menus for selecting
functions, such that a Braille equivalent of a GUI (graphical user
interface) is provided. Thus, the portable device of the present invention
provides a complete information management solution for blind individuals.