The Audio Abacus: Representing a Wide Range of Values with Accuracy and Precision

Point estimation is a relatively unexplored facet of sonfication. We present a new computer application, the Audio Abacus, designed to transform numbers into tones following the analogy of an abacus. As this is an entirely novel approach to sonifying exact data values, we have begun a systematic line of investigation into the application settings that work most effectively. Results are presented for an initial study. Users were able to perform relatively well with very little practice or training, boding well for this type of display. Further investigations are planned.

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2004
• Where: ICAD
• Authors: Bruce N. Walker, Lisa M. Mauney, Justin Godfrey
• Keywords: Audio Abacus, Emerging Technology, Exact Data Values, ICAD 2004, Unexplored Facet