Assistive technologies enable users to access information in the most appropriate way. Some of thesetechnologies are already provided in your operating system. Others can be purchased through vendors, oraccessed through the World Wide Web http://www.lenovo.com/healthycomputing.Assistive technologiesSome accessibility technologies are available through the Accessibility Options program. Dependingon your operating system, the number of accessibility options available varies. In general, accessibilityoptions enhance the way users with hearing, vision, or mobility limitations navigate and use their computer.For example, some users might not have the fine motor skills required to use a mouse or select keycombinations. Other users might require larger fonts or high-contrast display modes. In some cases,magnifiers and built-in speech synthesizers are available. For detailed information about each of thesefeatures, consult the Microsoft help information system.To use the Accessibility Options program, go to Control Panel and click Ease of Access ➙ Ease ofAccess Center.Screen-reader technologiesScreen-reader technologies are primarily focused on software application interfaces, help informationsystems, and a variety of online documents. However, in the case where a screen reader cannot readdocuments, the document must first go through a conversion process. One solution converts AdobePDF files into a format that is read by the screen-reader programs. This solution is a Web-based serviceprovided by Adobe Systems Incorporated. Through http://access.adobe.com, Adobe PDF documents canbe converted to HTML or plain text in many languages. One conversion option converts PDF documentson the Internet. A second option enables users to submit the URL of an Adobe PDF file through e-mail toconvert it to HTML or ASCII text. Adobe PDF files on a local hard disk drive or hybrid drive, local CD-ROM,or LAN also can be converted by attaching the Adobe PDF file to an e-mail message.Traveling with your computerThis topic provides information to help you work with your computer when you are travelling.Travel tipsUse the following travel tips to travel more confidently and efficiently with your computer.• Although it is safe to allow your computer to go through the x-ray machines at airport security stations, itis important to keep your eyes on the computer at all times to prevent theft.• Consider bringing an electrical adapter for use in an airplane or automobile.• Because you might need to use your computer in less than perfect lighting conditions, enable the backlitfeature by pressing Fn+Spacebar to illuminate the keyboard.• If you carry an ac power adapter, detach the ac cord from it to avoid damaging the cord.Note: If you use the backlit feature, the battery life is slightly reduced.Travel tips on airplanesIf you carry your computer into an airplane, take note of the following tips:• If you intend to use your computer or wireless services (such as Internet and Bluetooth), check with theairline for restrictions and availability of services before boarding the airplane. If there are restrictionson the use of computers with wireless features on the airplane, you must abide by those restrictions. Ifnecessary, disable wireless features before boarding.• Be careful about the seat in front of you on airplanes. Angle your computer display so that it does not getcaught when the person in front of you leans back.Chapter 3. You and your computer 55