screen reader reporting of negative values

Hi,

 

I am interested in finding the best way to include negative values in a
table. For example a table showing an overdrawn bank account or a
temperature below zero (c or f).

 

It seems that there is some variability in the level of screen reader
(and/or browser) support for coded — and — or the standard
keyboard dash.

 

One possibility would be to combine one of the above with the word 'minus'
which is positioned off-left so that it is not visible but will still be
read by a screen reader. However, this could result in some screen reader
users hearing "minus dash $40.00. Would this be worse than risking some just
hearing $40.00?

 

Thanks,

 

Roger

 

Roger Hudson

Web Usability

Mobile: 0405 320 014

Phone: 02 9568 1535

Web: www.usability.com.au

Blog: www.dingoaccess.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/rogerhudson

Email: rhudson@usability.com.au