Abstract: A processor, portable power source and Braille character touchpad with a first column area is described, containing three substantially linearly arranged finger responsive areas corresponding to column representations of a Braille character and an adjacent-offset second column area containing one finger responsive area to indicate a null column. Braille character is input by engaging at least one area of the three substantially linearly arranged finger responsive areas and the one finger responsive area. Alternatively, a Braille touchpad containing six finger responsive areas arranged in two columns corresponding to first and second column representations of a Braille character and an adjacent touch gesture pad is described, containing a plurality of finger and gesture responsive areas. A Braille character is input by engaging at least one of the six finger responsive areas and the plurality of finger and gesture responsive areas. Word processing and command action may be initiated by the gesture pad.