FAQ

Why can’t I order the Next Generation™ Perkins Brailler® from the resellers in the United States I currently buy the Classic Perkins Brailler from?

The American Printing House for the Blind was a partner to Perkins Products in the development effort of the Next Generation. In recognition of this, APH has exclusive distribution rights within the United States and US territories (Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Northern Marianas) for the first 6 months of the product launch. In the spring of 2009, we expect that the Next Generation Perkins Brailler will be carried by all of the resellers who have sold Perkins Braillers in the past.

Can I order direct from Perkins?

If you are ordering from and shipping within the United States: You may order APH Blue from Perkins Products at any time. However, if you wish to pay for the Braillers using Federal Quota Funds, you must purchase from APH. They can be reached at 800-223-1839 or www.aph.org. The colors of Raspberry and Midnight Blue will be available in the United States in April 2009.

If you are ordering from and shipping outside the United States: You may order Midnight Blue and Raspberry Next Generation Perkins Braillers from Perkins or from our international resellers in early 2009.

What is ‘polycarbonate’ and why is it durable?

Polycarbonate is the scientific term for high-impact plastic. This type of plastic is virtually indestructible and is used on cars, trucks, subway cars, riot shields and in many other applications requiring high durability AND a light weight. We believe that the combination of the polycarbonate outer shell and the metal inner workings gives the Next Generation Perkins Brailler the sturdiness to deliver years of service, but also allows us to provide a product which is smaller and more portable.

In addition, because the outer shell of the NEW Next Generation Perkins Brailler is designed to be more ‘closed’, with fewer openings in the casing which would allow dust and debris inside, we believe that the new brailler will provide the combination of toughness and high performance that Perkins Brailler users have come to expect. 

Is there a warranty on the new Perkins Brailler?

Yes, we provide the same 1 year warranty on the new Perkins Brailler, and a 90 day warranty on repairs. Please contact us if you have any issues.

What’s the difference between the Next Generation Brailler and the Classic Brailler?

If you look at the Features and Benefits you can see that the new brailler is smaller, 25% lighter, quieter due to the lighter keystroke and softer end-of-line bell, and more comfortable to use since the keystroke is shorter and the keys are closer to the table surface. Plus there are new features such as an Easy-Erase Button, Front Panel Margin Guides and redesigned Paper Feed Knobs which are easier to turn.

In addition, the Next Generation Perkins Brailler comes in cool colors – Midnight Blue, Raspberry and APH Blue – and utilizes tactile-friendly materials, giving it a sleek contemporary look and feel.

What do the braille dots underneath each of the braillers on the homepage mean?

The braille dots stand for “Perkins Next Generation.”