Orbit Research ORBIT WRITER User manual

PROPRIETARY
INFORMATION
ORBIT WRITER
User Guide
30th July 2020
Version 1.1

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 2
Table of Contents
1INTRODUCTION------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 4
2DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONS --------------------------------------------------------------------- 5
3IN THE BOX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5
4FEATURES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 5
5ORIENTATION-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
5.1 KEY PLACEMENTS -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7
6GETTING STARTED ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7
6.1 CHARGING THE DEVICE-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------7
6.2 POWERING ON AND OFF----------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
6.3 QUICK STEPS TO PAIR WITH AN IOS DEVICE-----------------------------------------------------------8
7GENERAL SYSTEM COMMANDS AND INDICATIONS--------------------------------------------- 9
7.1 TURNING ON THE ORBIT WRITER------------------------------------------------------------------------9
7.2TURNING OFF THE ORBIT WRITER ----------------------------------------------------------------------9
7.3 ENTERING FIRMWARE UPGRADE MODE-----------------------------------------------------------------9
7.4 ENTERING DFU/BOOT MODE ----------------------------------------------------------------------------9
7.5 SYSTEM RESET--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
7.6 INSERTING AND REMOVING THE CHARGER-------------------------------------------------------------9
7.7 CONNECTING AND DISCONNECTING FROM SCREEN READER ------------------------------------- 10
7.8 AUTOMATIC TURN OFF ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
7.9 SELECTING THE VIBRATION INTENSITY LEVEL ------------------------------------------------------- 10
7.10 CHECK BATTERY LEVEL--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
7.11 LOW BATTERY INDICATIONS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
7.12 LOW BATTERY LOCKOUT-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11
8BUILT-IN SELF-TEST--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11
9SELECTING THE CHANNEL OF COMMUNICATION---------------------------------------------- 11
10 SELECTING THE COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL ------------------------------------------------ 12
10.1 SCREEN READER PROFILE (SRP) BLUETOOTH PROTOCOL -------------------------------------- 13
10.2 KEYBOARD-HID PROTOCOL---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
10.3 ORBIT-HID PROTOCOL---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
10.4 BRAILLE-HID PROTOCOL ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
11 PAIR AND FORGET----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
11.1 FORGET ALL THE DEVICES FROM THE ORBIT WRITER---------------------------------------------- 15
12 RECONNECTING WITH LAST CONNECTED DEVICE-------------------------------------------- 15
13 CONNECTING THE ORBIT WRITER WITH SCREEN READERS ------------------------------ 15
13.1 BEFORE YOU CONNECT--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
13.2 USING THE BLUETOOTH CONNECTION --------------------------------------------------------------- 16
13.3 IOS DEVICES--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
13.3.1 Connecting iOS with Bluetooth-------------------------------------------------------------- 16
13.3.2 iOS Resources ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
13.3.3 iOS Commands --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
13.3.4 Assign the key command on the iOS device--------------------------------------------- 22
13.4 MAC COMPUTERS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
13.4.1 Connecting Mac with USB-------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
13.4.2 Connecting Mac with Bluetooth ------------------------------------------------------------- 23

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 3
13.5 ANDROID DEVICES--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
13.5.1 Connecting BrailleBack with Bluetooth---------------------------------------------------- 24
13.5.2 Input Text With BrailleBack------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
13.5.3 BrailleBack Commands ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
13.5.4 Connecting the Orbit Writer to BRLTTY over Bluetooth------------------------------- 25
13.5.5 Connecting the Orbit Writer to BRLTTY with USB-------------------------------------- 26
13.5.6 BRLTTY commands---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
13.6 CHROMEBOOKS------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 27
13.6.1 Connecting Chromebook with USB -------------------------------------------------------- 27
13.6.2 Connecting Chromebook with Bluetooth-------------------------------------------------- 27
13.6.3 ChromeVox Settings/Commands----------------------------------------------------------- 27
13.7 FIRE TABLETS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28
13.8 WINDOWS PCS------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 28
13.8.1 Connecting Windows with USB ------------------------------------------------------------- 28
13.8.2 Connecting Windows with Bluetooth------------------------------------------------------- 28
13.8.3 Non-Visual Desktop Access (NVDA) ------------------------------------------------------ 29
13.8.4 Job Access with Speech (JAWS)----------------------------------------------------------- 29
13.8.5 System Access---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33
13.8.6 SuperNova --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33
13.8.7 Narrator ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 33
14 REBOOT THE DEVICE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
15 DEVICE UPGRADE PROCEDURE---------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
15.1 DOWNLOAD FIRMWARE PACKAGE --------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
15.2 USING THE WINDOWS PC UPGRADE UTILITY ------------------------------------------------------- 35
16 TROUBLESHOOTING -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 37
17 BATTERY USE AND REPLACEMENT----------------------------------------------------------------- 38
18 ACCESSORIES INFORMATION------------------------------------------------------------------------- 38
19 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 39
20 APPENDICES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 40
20.1 APPENDIX A–SYSTEM COMMANDS AND INDICATIONS -------------------------------------------- 40
20.2 APPENDIX B-HAPTIC INDICATIONS FOR VARIOUS EVENTS---------------------------------------- 42
20.3 APPENDIX C–KEYBOARD-HID PROTOCOL KEY COMMANDS ------------------------------------- 42
20.4 APPENDIX D-PROPER TRADEMARK NOTICE AND ATTRIBUTION--------------------------------- 46
20.4.1 Hardware Limited Warranty ------------------------------------------------------------------ 47
20.4.2 EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS--------------------------------------------------------- 47
20.5 APPENDIX C-FCC INFORMATION -------------------------------------------------------------------- 49
FCC Notice ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 49
FCC Caution --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
21 FURTHER INFORMATION -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 4
1 Introduction
The Orbit Writer is a compact and portable Perkins-style braille keypad with the
following features.
•Works with all smartphones and computers out of the box
•Seamless, instant connection
•Ultra-compact design easily fits in the pocket or purse
•Ergonomic Perkins-style braille keyboard
•High-quality scissors keys for smooth and quiet operation with positive
tactile feedback
•Navigation keys to control your smartphone or computer with intuitive key
combinations. No need to use touch gestures
•Works with iOS, Android, Windows, Mac OS, Fire OS, Chrome OS, and
Linux devices
•Read and send messages and emails
•Browse the internet and social media
•Control your smartphone or computer
•Simultaneous connection to 5 devices over Bluetooth and one over USB,
switch with hotkey combinations
•Support for all languages available on phones and computers
•Fast-charging long-life battery
oOver 3 days of operation
oCharge in under 2 hours
•Lightweight but rugged construction

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 5
o3.2 oz, 6.3 x 2.6 x 0.3 inches
o90 grams, 16.0 x 6.5 x 0.8 cm
•Haptic (vibration) feedback for actions and settings
•Attachment points for a strap or lanyard
•Comes with a USB charging cable
2 Documentation Conventions
For consistency and clarity, this documentation uses the following conventions.
Braille keys are indicated by a number. For example, if the documentation
indicates Dot 1, it shows Dot 1.
If multiple braille keys are required, the documentation indicates those keys by
showing the numbers separated by a space like this: Dots 1 4.
When modifier keys are used, the documentation separates the modifiers from
the rest of the keys with a plus (+) sign like this: Space + Dot 1. Recall that
modifiers, like the Shift key on a regular QWERTY keyboard, are keys you hold
down while pressing another key. This modifies the effect of the pressed key. On
a braille keyboard, Space is often used as a modifier to alter the effect of the
input keys.
Key mnemonics are written in capital letters for emphasis but are typed in braille
lowercase (unless otherwise stated). When one key follows another, the two keys
are shown with a comma between them. For example, the command Select, M
means to press and release the Select key, then press and release M (Dots 1 3
4) simultaneously.
The Up, Down, Right, and Left directional buttons on the navigation pad are
interchangeably referred to as arrows, buttons, arrow buttons, and arrow keys.
3 In the Box
In addition to the basic package that includes Orbit Writer and the printed quick-
start guide, the following accessories are available for sale:
•Orbit Writer device
•Standard-A to Micro-B USB cable
•Printed Quick-Start Guide
Check that all purchased items are in the box that you have received.
4 Features
These are a few of the features the Orbit Writer has to offer

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 6
•Perkins-Style Braille keypad
•Eight Braille Input keys and Space bar
•Navigation pad with four directional buttons (Up, Down, Left, Right) and
the Select button
•Supports up to five Bluetooth and one USB connection
•Micro-B USB charging port
•Bluetooth 5.0® wireless technology
•Rechargeable and non-replaceable batteries
5 Orientation
Orientation to the positioning of keys is important for understanding how the
device operates and how you input and receive information on the device.
To begin the exploration of the Orbit Writer, place the device on a flat surface in
front of you with the wide key closest to you. This is the proper operational
orientation.
On the left side of the device, going from front to back, there is a Micro-B USB
port.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 7
5.1 Key Placements
Moving toward the top and away from you, find a row of three keys, with a wider
one - in the middle. The wide key is the Space bar. The Dot 7 input key is to the
left of the Space Bar, and the Dot 8 input key is to the right of the Space Bar.
As you continue toward the top of the face of the device, there is a navigation
pad in the middle, between the Braille Input keys and Space bar.
The navigation pad contains the four directional arrow buttons (Up, Down, Left,
Right) and the Select button.
The six traditional braille input keys are aligned horizontally along the top edge of
the face of the display, Dots 3 2 1 on the left and Dots 4 5 6 on the right.
when using the device with a screen reader on a host device, such as an iPhone,
the Braille Input keys can be used to input text or control functionality of
applications.
6 Getting Started
This section explains how to charge, turn the Orbit Writer on and off and quick
steps for connecting with iOS device.
6.1 Charging the Device
When you receive the Orbit Writer, it may already have a charge; however, we
recommend charging it fully before or during first use. You can use the device
and charge it at the same time.
When the battery in the Orbit Writer gets to 20%, it gives three small haptic
pulses at every 3 minutes. This behavior is normal, indicating that the battery is
low.
To charge the device, use the provided Standard-A to Micro-B USB. Insert the
small end of the cable into the Orbit Writer’s USB port with the bumps facing up.
It should slide in without resistance; do not force it. Then insert the large end of
the cable into a computer USB connector or the AC adapter. Plug the adapter
into an AC wall connector.
When you plug in the charger it gives a single short haptic pulse and when you
unplug the charger, it gives battery indication. The charger plug and unplug event
indications are also provided when the unit is off.
We recommend to charge the device for atleast 2 hours always. Usually the Orbit
Writer indicates battery full (Level 5) after 1.5 hours of continuous charging but
we recommend to charge it for more 30 minutes.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 8
If you have charged the device for 4 or more hours, and it does not power on,
contact Customer Service at [email protected]
6.2 Powering On and Off
The navigation pad is found between the Braille Input keys and Space bar. See
the Orientation section for more information.
To power the device on, press and hold the Up Arrow and Down Arrow keys
together until you feel a short haptic pulse. To power the device off, press and
hold the same key combination until you feel a long haptic pulse. This is how the
Orbit Writer lets you know it is coming on or shutting down.
When you turn the Orbit Writer on, it resumes using the last-used channel. If this
is the first time you are using this device, the first Bluetooth channel (Channel 1)
is selected by default
If the Orbit Writer was turned off with any of the five Bluetooth channels active,
the same channel is activated when the unit is turned back on
After being idle for as long as the automatic power off time limit has been set the
Orbit Writer automatically turns off to conserve power. See the Automatic turn off
section for more information.
6.3 Quick steps to pair with an iOS device
The Orbit Writer can connect to computers and mobile devices to access all of
their functions and features. The following is a simple description of the steps for
connecting
Step 1. Turn on the Orbit Writer by pressing Up + Down Arrow keys. It responds
with a short vibration pulse.
Step 2. You can connect the Orbit Writer to multiple devices. Each connection
is called a channel. Channel 1, the default channel, is already set. Enable pairing
on channel 1 by pressing and holding Space + Left Arrow + Dot 1 until you feel a
short vibration pulse. To read about using other channels, please refer to the
section Selecting the channel of communication.
Step 3. For iOS devices, go to Settings > Accessibility > VoiceOver, and turn
VoiceOver on. Then go to the Braille item and select it. Look in the list of
available braille displays for “Orbit Reader 20” followed by the last four digits of
your Orbit Writer’s serial number and select this.
The Orbit Writer responds with three short vibration pulses. The first short pulse
indicates it has successfully paired and the other two indicate it has successfully
connected with the iOS device. Once it has paired and connected, it is important
to first lock and unlock the iOS device before using the Orbit Writer with it.
When you lock or unlock your iOS device, the Orbit Writer gives two short
vibration pulses to indicate connection or disconnection with Voiceover.
Notes:
1. If the connection fails, delete the pairing record from your device, and try
the steps above again.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 9
2. Up to five devices can be simultaneously paired over Bluetooth to the
Orbit Writer. To use a channel other than channel 1, please refer to the
section Selecting the channel of communication.
3. If the Orbit Writer is already on and the smartphone is woken up (due to a
notification or button press), it will reconnect immediately.
4. If the iOS device is already awake and the Orbit Writer is turned on, it will
reconnect with the last used device automatically. It may take up to 10
seconds to be reconnected.
7 General system commands and indications
This section describes the key commands and haptic indications for various
events and actions. Also, details can be found in the form of a table, go to
Appendix A - System Commands and Indications at the end of this document.
7.1 Turning on the Orbit Writer
The Orbit Writer can be turned on by pressing Up Arrow + Down Arrow keys
together for one second. It responds with a single short pulse.
7.2 Turning off the Orbit Writer
The Orbit Writer can be turned off by pressing Up Arrow + Down Arrow keys
together for one second. It responds with a single long pulse.
7.3 Entering Firmware upgrade mode
For upgrading the Orbit Writer from PC, Connect the Orbit Writer to the PC using
the USB cable. Press and hold down the Up Arrow + Dot 5, then press Dot 8.
Release Dot 8 first, then release the Up Arrow + Dot 5.
7.4 Entering DFU/Boot mode
For upgrading the Bootloader of the Orbit Writer from PC, Connect the Orbit Writer
to the PC using the USB cable. Press and hold down the Up Arrow + Dot 6, then
press Dot 8. Release Dot 8 first, then release the Up Arrow + Dot 6.
7.5 System reset
Press Up Arrow + Dot 8 keys together to reset the Orbit Writer.
7.6 Inserting and removing the charger
When you receive the Orbit Writer, you should bring the battery to a full charge.
This is achieved by connecting the Orbit Writer to the charging cable, connecting
the other end of the cable to a USB charger, and plugging the charger into an
outlet. If these steps are accomplished, the Orbit Writer will produce a short
vibration, alerting you that it is now receiving power. If you then remove the
charging cable from the Orbit Writer, the Orbit Writer produces a vibration pulse to
indicate the battery charge level. To read about the battery level indication refer to
the section Check battery level.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 10
7.7 Connecting and disconnecting from Screen reader
The Orbit Writer gives two short pulses when it connects to and disconnects from
any screen reader application.
7.8 Automatic turn off
The Orbit Writer turns itself off after being idle for the selected automatic power-off
timeout. It generates a long pulse when turning itself off. The power-off timeout
can be set to four different values by pressing Space + Left Arrow for one second.
Press and release Space + Left Arrow to check the currently selected value of the
power-off timeout. The Orbit Writer responds with the haptic indication which
matches the current level of the timeout. The following table shows the various
power-off timeout settings along with their vibration patterns.
Level
Power off time
Haptic Indication
1
5 Minutes
One short pulse
2
10 Minutes (Default)
Two short pulses
3
20 Minutes
Three short pulses
4
30 Minutes
Four short pulses
7.9 Selecting the Vibration intensity level
The vibration intensity level can be toggle among 3 options by pressing Space +
Right Arrow for one second. Press and release Space + Right Arrow to check the
currently selected level. The Orbit Writer responds with the haptic indication
according to the current level of the intensity. The following table captures the
available options. By default, level 2 (Medium intensity) is selected.
Level
Vibration intensity
Haptic Indication
1
Low
One short pulse
2
Medium (Default)
Two short pulses
3
High
Three short pulses
7.10 Check battery level
Press and hold Space + Up Arrow for one second to check the battery level. The
Orbit Writer responds with several short pulses as per the battery level.
•Level 1. Single short pulse if the battery capacity is less than 20%.
•Level 2. Two short pulses: if the battery capacity is between 20% and 40%.
•Level 3. Three short pulses: if the battery capacity is between 40% and 60%.
•Level 4. Four short pulses: if the battery capacity is between 60% and 80%.
•Level 5. One long pulse: if the battery capacity is greater than 80%.
7.11 Low battery indications
The Orbit Writer gives three short pulses every 3 minutes if it detects the battery
capacity low in the range between 1% and 20%.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 11
7.12 Low battery lockout
The Orbit Writer gives a short pulse at power on if it detects the battery capacity
critically low 0% and immediately turns itself off automatically.
8 Built-in self-test
Once the Orbit Writer is turned on press and hold Select + Space keys together
for one second to enter in built-in self-test (BIST). It responds with a long pulse.
Under this test, all keys can be tested. To test the key, press that key, and the
Orbit Writer responds with a single short pulse for each keypress event.
The Orbit Writer can be exited from a built-in self-test by pressing and holding
Select + Space keys together for one second. It responds with a long pulse.
9 Selecting the channel of communication
The Orbit Writer supports up to five Bluetooth channels and one USB channel.
This means that you can use the Orbit Writer over USB with your desktop computer
and also set up Bluetooth connections to your phone and tablet. The user can
select one active channel at a time while the other channels remain in standby
mode. The Orbit Writer sends keypad events to the device connected to the active
channel.
The Orbit Writer supports 5 Bluetooth communication channels and 1 USB
channel. For each Bluetooth channel (channels 1-5), two communication
protocols are possible:
•Screen Reader Profile (SRP)—used to communicate as a braille device to
screen reading software
•Keyboard-HID—used if the Orbit Writer is to emulate a QWERTY
keyboard.
For the USB channel (channel 6), the possible protocols are Orbit-HID (supported
by screen reading software such as JAWS or NVDA) and Braille-HID. For most
situations, the default protocols for Bluetooth and USB channels will not need to
be changed. The following table summarizes the commands to activate each
channel.
#
Channel
Command to activate the channel
1
Bluetooth
Space + Left Arrow + Dot 1
2
Bluetooth
Space + Left Arrow + Dot 2
3
Bluetooth
Space + Left Arrow + Dot 3
4
Bluetooth
Space + Right Arrow + Dot 4
5
Bluetooth
Space + Right Arrow + Dot 5
6
USB
Space + Right Arrow + Dot 6
You can switch to any channel by pressing the corresponding activation command.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 12
When you switch to any channel, the channel status is indicated by a unique
vibration pattern.
1. No Bluetooth device is paired with the channel –Three short vibration
pulses.
2. A Bluetooth device is paired but not actively connected –Two short vibration
pulses
3. A Bluetooth device is paired and connected –A single short vibration pulse.
10 Selecting the communication protocol
The following table captures the key commands to select the desired
communication protocol for a channel,
Channel
Number
Channel
Communication
Protocol
Commands
1
Bluetooth
SRP (Default)
Select + Dots 2 3 4 7
Keyboard-HID
Select + Dots 1 3 7
2
Bluetooth
SRP (Default)
Select + Dots 2 3 4 7
Keyboard-HID
Select + Dots 1 3 7
3
Bluetooth
SRP (Default)
Select + Dots 2 3 4 7
Keyboard-HID
Select + Dots 1 3 7
4
Bluetooth
SRP (Default)
Select + Dots 2 3 4 7
Keyboard-HID
Select + Dots 1 3 7
5
Bluetooth
SRP (Default)
Select + Dots 2 3 4 7
Keyboard-HID
Select + Dots 1 3 7
6
USB
Orbit-HID (Default)
Select + Dots 1 3 5 7
Braille-HID
Select + Dots 1 2 7
While you are using the Orbit Writer for the first time, it starts with the default
channel, which is channel 1 and the default protocol which is SRP (Screen Reader
Profile).
By default, each Bluetooth channel is configured to connect over SRP protocol. If
you wish to connect over the Keyboard-HID protocol, you can switch.
By default, the USB channel is configured to connect over the Orbit-HID protocol.
If you wish to connect over Braille-HID protocol, you can switch.
Note - After activating the Keyboard-HID protocol on any desired Bluetooth
channel turn off the Bluetooth of previously paired iOS/Mac devices on other
channels before enabling pairing on the desired channel.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 13
10.1 Screen Reader Profile (SRP) Bluetooth protocol
The SRP Bluetooth protocol must be active on the desired Bluetooth channel
before activating Bluetooth pairing on the same channel. Fortunately, SRP is the
default protocol active by default on all five Bluetooth channels. VoiceOver (iOS),
VoiceOver (Macbook), Brailleback (Android), BRLTTY (Android), VoiceView
(Amazon Fire tablet), NVDA (Windows), JAWS (Windows), and ChromeVox
(Chromebook) are screen reading programs which support SRP. Braille devices
connected to screen reading software using SRP send commands directly to the
screen reader, and what the commands do depends on the screen reader's
interpretation of the command. For example, both screen reading programs—
BrailleBack (Android) and NVDA (Windows PC)—support the SRP protocol.
When the Orbit Writer or any other Braille device connects to Brailleback using
SRP, one needs to enter Space + Dot 7 to erase the previous character while
editing a document. If, however, in the same situation, if NVDA is the screen
reader, one needs to enter Dot 7 to erase the previous character while editing a
document. A screen reader can also translate the key inputs from the Orbit Writer
to the desired language. So, when the Orbit Writer connects to any screen reader
using the SRP protocol, the user enters the key commands that are supported by
the screen reader itself.
10.2 Keyboard-HID protocol
The Keyboard-HID Bluetooth protocol has to be selected on the desired
Bluetooth channel before activating the pairing on the same channel.
When this protocol is activated the Orbit Writer directly talks with the OS running
on the host like any other Bluetooth keyboard available in the market and doesn’t
directly connect with any Screen reader. The host OS converts the key
commands from the Orbit Writer and executes the function defined by the OS
itself. The Orbit Writer activates the keymap given in Appendix B - Keyboard-HID
protocol key commands under this protocol. So, when the Orbit Writer connects
to any host under this protocol user has to follow these key commands. As the
screen reader doesn’t connect to the Orbit Writer under this protocol user cannot
use the translation feature provided by the screen reader.
10.3 Orbit-HID protocol
The Orbit-HID is a USB protocol and it has to be activated on the USB channel
before connecting to PC/laptop. By default, the USB channel 6 is configured to
connect over this protocol. Almost all screen reader uses this USB protocol to
connect with any Braille device over the USB. When this protocol is activated the
Orbit Writer and any other similar Braille device directly talks with the Screen
reader like SRP protocol. The behavior of this protocol is similar to the SRP
protocol but only the physical connection is different from the SRP protocol. SRP
protocol works over wireless Bluetooth while the Orbit-HID is for USB. This
protocol can be used when working with few popular screen readers which also
support Orbit-HID protocol. These screen readers are NVDA (Windows), JAWS
(Windows), Narrator (Windows), BRLTTY (Android), VoiceOver (Macbook), and
ChromeVox (Chromebook).

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 14
10.4 Braille-HID protocol
The Braille-HID is a USB protocol and it has to be activated on the USB channel
before connecting to PC/laptop. Only VoiceOver (Macbook) supports this
protocol. So, this can be used when you want to connect and use the Orbit Writer
with VoiceOver (Macbook) over the USB channel.
11 Pair and forget
To use the Orbit Writer wirelessly over Bluetooth, the user must first configure a
Bluetooth partnership between the Orbit Writer and the smartphone or tablet. If
no host is paired over the currently-activated channel, you can pair/connect a
host over the channel.
Activate the desired Bluetooth channel and the communication protocol with the
appropriate key command, bearing in mind that SRP is the default protocol for all
Bluetooth channels (1-5).
Channel 1: Space + Left Arrow + Dot 1
Channel 2: Space + Left Arrow + Dot 2
Channel 3: Space + Left Arrow + Dot 3
Channel 4: Space + Right Arrow + Dot 4
Channel 5: Space + Right Arrow + Dot 5
Channel 6: Space + Right Arrow + Dot 6
After activation of the desired Bluetooth channel, press and hold the same keys
used for the channel activation for one second to enable the pairing for the just-
activated channel. Once pairing has been enabled, the Orbit Writer forgets any
device that might have already been paired previously on that channel.
Initiate a Bluetooth scan on the smartphone or tablet and find the Bluetooth name
“Orbit Reader 20 XXXX” where XXXX is the last four digits of the Orbit Writer's
serial number printed on the backside of the unit. Tap on the device name to
initiate pairing with the Orbit Writer.
Once paired, the Orbit Writer responds with a single short pulse and disables
pairing for the current Bluetooth channel. If the Orbit Writer doesn’t receive any
pairing request from the smartphone or tablet within 3 minutes, it automatically
disables pairing.
The Orbit Writer responds with a single short pulse if a successful pairing occurs.
Otherwise, it responds with two long pulses.
For iOS devices, the Orbit Writer responds with three short vibration pulses. The
first short pulse indicates it has successfully paired and the other two indicate it
has successfully connected with the iOS device. Once ithas paired and connected,
it is important to first lock and unlock the iOS device before using the Orbit Writer
with it

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 15
11.1 Forget all the devices from the Orbit Writer
Press and hold Space + Down Arrow keys together for one second to forget all the
devices from the Orbit Writer from all five available Bluetooth channels. It also
restores the protocol selection for each channel to default SRP.
The Orbit Writer responds with a single short pulse if it succeeds otherwise it
responds with two long pulses.
Note: If the Orbit Writer is not connecting on the active communication channel,
unlock your device so it will detect the Orbit Writer and activate the channel.
12 Reconnecting with last connected device
The Orbit Writer preserves the required information about the device connected
on the last active communication channel as well as protocol and re-connects to
that device on the same channel with the same protocol at power on.
13 Connecting the Orbit Writer with Screen readers
The Orbit Writer connects with host devices (i.e., computers, phones, tablets) to
provide braille input to that device. The host device must be running software that
supports braille.
Host Device
Screen Reader
Windows PCs
JAWS®, System Access, NVDA, SuperNova,
Windows Narrator
Mac® computers and iOS®
devices
VoiceOver
Android devices
BrailleBack, BRLTTY, Amazon VoiceView
Chromebook
ChromeVox
When you use Orbit Writer as a keypad for other hosts, the screen reader on that
host device provides the translation and other braille settings. Consult the
documentation for your screen reader.
13.1 Before you Connect
Newer versions of screen readers recognize the Orbit Writer as the Orbit Reader
20. The table below shows the first version of the screen reader to directly
support the orbit Writer as Orbit Reader 20.
Screen Reader
Version
VoiceOver on iOS
10.2
VoiceOver on Mac
10.11
NVDA
2017.1
ChromeVox
61.0.3163.120
System Access
3.7.85

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 16
SuperNova
16.05
13.2 Using the Bluetooth Connection
Bluetooth is a technology that wirelessly connects devices, such as the Orbit
Writer, to host devices, such as phones, tablets, and computers. For example,
when using an iPhone with VoiceOver, you can control the iPhone with the keys
and buttons on the Orbit Writer.
If the Orbit Writer is on, when you wake up or turn on the host device, it connects
]99automatically. When the host device enters sleep mode or is turned off, Orbit
Writer disconnects and waits for the host to wake and open the connection again.
For the SRP protocol, it is currently not possible to wake up the host from the
braille keyboard on the Orbit Writer, but for the Keyboard-HID protocol, you can
wake the host as you can with Bluetooth keyboard.
For the SRP protocol, there are only two ways to wake up a host:
•Pressing the Power button
•Receiving notification
To pair and connect the Orbit Writer to a host device, see the Bluetooth section
for the device type.
Connecting iOS with Bluetooth
Connecting Mac with Bluetooth
Connecting Android with Bluetooth
Connecting Windows with Bluetooth
Connecting ChromeBook with Bluetooth
13.3 iOS Devices
You can only connect iOS using Bluetooth. The iOS devices support SRP and
Keyboard-HID protocol for the Bluetooth channels. The desired protocol can be
selected on the Orbit Writer.
13.3.1 Connecting iOS with Bluetooth
Connecting Orbit Writer to an iOS device provides the ability to type and control
the iOS device with the Orbit Writer keyboard and directional buttons.
Follow these steps to pair and connect with the iOS device over Bluetooth when
SRP protocol is selected:
1. On the iOS device, go to Settings > Accessibility > VoiceOver, and turn
the VoiceOver on.
2. On the Orbit Writer, activate the desired Bluetooth channel. E.g. To
activate the Bluetooth channel 1 press and release Space + Left Arrow +

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 17
Dot 1. The Orbit writer responds with a unique vibration pattern according
to the status of channel as mentioned in Selecting the channel of
communication.
3. If SRP protocol is not already activated then activate it on the channel by
pressing Select + Dots 2 3 4 7.
4. Activate the pairing on the desired Bluetooth channel. E.g. To enable
pairing on Bluetooth channel 1 press and hold Space + Left Arrow + Dot 1
for one second. The Orbit writer responds with a single short pulse.
5. On the iOS device, go to Settings > Accessibility > VoiceOver > Braille
6. Look for the name of the unit in the list of possible braille displays. It
shows up as Orbit Reader 20 plus the last four digits of the serial number.
7. Activate the Orbit Reader 20 device in the list to pair.
8. The Orbit Writer responds with a single short haptic pulse when pairing is
completed.
9. The Orbit Writer gives two short haptic pulses when it connects or
disconnects with the Voiceover.
Follow these steps to pair and connect with the iOS device over Bluetooth when
Keyboard-HID protocol is selected:
1. Activate the desired Bluetooth channel. E.g. To activate the Bluetooth
channel 1 press and release Space + Left Arrow + Dot 1.
2. If the Keyboard-HID protocol is not already activated then activate it on the
channel by pressing Select + Dots 1 3 7.
3. Activate the pairing on the desired Bluetooth channel. E.g. To enable
pairing on Bluetooth channel 1 press and hold Space + Left Arrow + Dot 1
for one second. The Orbit writer responds with a single short pulse.
4. On the iOS device, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
5. Look for the name of the unit in the list of possible braille displays. It
shows up as Orbit Reader 20 plus the last four digits of the serial number.
6. Activate the Orbit Reader 20 device in the list to pair.
7. The Orbit Writer responds with a single short haptic pulse when pairing is
completed.
8. The Orbit Writer gives two short haptic pulses when it connects or
disconnects with the iOS device.
Note –Here, in case of Keyboard-HID protocol the Orbit Writer doesn’t connect
with the VoiceOver, but it connects directly with the iOS.
Once you pair an connect the unit, you can use the Orbit Writer input and
navigation keys to control your iOS device.
For more information about iOS and braille displays, see Braille Displays for iOS
on the Apple® Accessibility website.

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 18
13.3.2 iOS Resources
•Apple Blind and Visually Impaired User Community
•Andrea's Head Wiki
•TechVision Tutorials
•Youtube Videos on iPad/iPhone and Braille
•Braille Displays for iOS
•Common braille commands for VoiceOver navigation using iPhone, iPad,
and iPod® touch
13.3.3 iOS Commands
The VoiceOver has assigned Braille key commands for various iOS functions
and a few functions require the user to assign the key command as per their
convenience. The VoiceOver provides flexibility to define a desired key command
against every feature available. Here is the list of all the functions and default key
commands defined by the iOS, for a few function which doesn’t have any default
key command assigned have been highlighted by “No Assigned Braille Keys”.
This list of commands is also accessible on the iOS device once the Orbit Writer
connects with the VoiceOver. Settings > Accessibility > VoiceOver > Commands
> Orbit Reader 20. Note –This table is applicable for the iOS device v13.6 The
default key commands for your device may have a different table.
Braille Commands
Function
Keys
Next Input Mode
Space + Dots 2 3 6
Next Output Mode
Space + Dots 1 2 4 5
Pan Left
Left Arrow or Space + Dot 2
Pan Right
Right Arrow Or Space + Dot 5
Toggle 8-Dot Braille
No Assigned Braille Keys
Toggle Announcement History
Space + Dots 1 3 4 5
Toggle Contractions
No Assigned Braille Keys
Toggle Word Wrap
No Assigned Braille Keys
Translate
Space + Dots 4 5
Translate Braille to Clipboard
No Assigned Braille Keys
Device Commands
Function
Keys
Control Centre
Space + Dot 2 5
Home
Space + Dot 1 2 5
Notification
Space + Dot 4 6
Open Next App
No Assigned Braille Keys
Open Previous App
No Assigned Braille Keys
Rotate Device Left
No Assigned Braille Keys
Rotate Device Right
No Assigned Braille Keys
Show App Switcher
Space + Dots 1 2 5 (Twice)

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 19
Show/Hide Keyboard
Space + Dot 1 4 6
Siri
No Assigned Braille Keys
Speak Screen
No Assigned Braille Keys
Toggle Orientation Lock
No Assigned Braille Keys
Volume Down
Space + Dot 1 2 6
Volume Up
Space + Dot 3 4 5
Interaction Commands
Function
Keys
3D Touch Selected Item
Space + Dots 3 5 6
Double Tap
Space + Dots 3 6 (Twice)
Escape Current Context
Space + Dots 1 2
Label Selected Item
Space + Dots 1 2 3 4 6
Long Press
Space + Dots 3 6 7 8
Scroll Down
Space + Dots 1 4 5 6 or Space + Dots
1 4 5 6 8
Scroll Left
Space + Dots 2 4 6
Scroll Right
Space + Dots 1 3 5
Scroll Up
Space + Dots 3 4 5 6 or Space + Dots
3 4 5 6 8
Speak Item Summary
Space + Dots 3 4
Start or Stop Current Action / Answer
a call
Space + Dots 1 5 6
Tap
Select or Space + Dots 3 6
Toggle Item Watching
No Assigned Braille Keys
Keyboard Commands
Function
Keys
Bottom of Document
No Assigned Braille Keys
Command
Space + Dots 1 7
Control
Space + Dots 3 7
Copy
Space + Dots 1 4
Cut
Space + Dots 1 3 4 6
Delete
Dot 7 or Space + Dot 7 or Space +
Dots 1 4 5
Down Arrow
No Assigned Braille Keys
First Word
No Assigned Braille Keys
FN
Space + Dots 5 7
Last Word
No Assigned Braille Keys
Left Arrow
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Keyboard
No Assigned Braille Keys
Option
Space + Dots 2 7
Paste
Space + Dots 1 2 3 6
Redo
Space + Dots 2 3 4 6

Orbit Writer –User Guide Version 1.1
Orbit Research Confidential and Proprietary Information 20
Return
Dot 8 or Space + Dots 1 5 or Space +
Dot 8
Right Arrow
No Assigned Braille Keys
Select All
Space + Dots 2 3 5 6
Select Left
Space + Dots 2 3 5
Select Right
Space + Dots 2 5 6
Shift
Space + Dots 4 7
Shift-Tab
Space + Dots 1 2 5 6
Speak Link Address
No Assigned Braille Keys
Speak Number Of Lines
No Assigned Braille Keys
Speak Selected Text
No Assigned Braille Keys
Speak Text Style
Space + Dots 2 3 4 5 6
Tab
Space + Dots 2 3 4 5
Toggle Command
Space + Dots 1 8
Toggle Control
Space + Dots 3 8
Toggle FN
Space + Dots 5 8
Toggle Option
Space + Dots 2 8
Toggle Shift
Space + Dots 4 8
Top of Document
No Assigned Braille Keys
Undo
Space + Dots 1 3 5 6
Up Arrow
No Assigned Braille Keys
Navigation Commands
Function
Keys
First Item
Space + Dots 1 2 3
Last Item
Space + Dots 4 5 6
Move to Bottom of Container
No Assigned Braille Keys
Move To Status Bar
Space + Dots 2 3 4
Move to Top of Container
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next to Blockquote
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Bold Text
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Character
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Colour Change
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Container
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Different item
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Font Change
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Form Item
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Heading
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Image
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Italic Text
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Item
Right Arrow Or Space + Dot 4
Next Item Of Same Type
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Line
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next Link
No Assigned Braille Keys
Next List
No Assigned Braille Keys