Specialized Devices

For individuals with definite disabilities, working with a computer can be a challenge that requires some specialized devices. Those with physical or visual limitations may not be able to operate standard keyboard & mouse input devices & need specialized hardware devices known as adaptive or assistive expertise. Such expertise ranges from alternative keyboard & mouse designs to eye tracking devices.

Keyboard Design Options
Alternative keyboard designs provide users with the ability to input information & interact with computer programs. Some keyboard options need only one-handed modification, while others offer programmable keys to perform common actions with a single stroke. The letters & buttons of a regular keyboard can "grow" by the user placing an overlax with larger type on top.

Speech Input Devices
For those individuals with limited movement, specialized programs & headsets permit interaction with the computer through speech commands. Speech recognition application is installed on the computer, allowing the computer to automatically type as the user dictates, or execute commands spoken. The user speaks directly in to a headset microphone to make selections, run programs & input information & information.

Alternative Mouse Devices
Mouse options offer some individuals with limited dexterity & ranges of motion an effective way to make selections & interact with the computer. Some mice offer larger buttons & trackballs to permit for effortless modification, while other variations permit the user to operate the tool with foot or head movements. Touchpads, similar to those found on laptops, offer users the ability to move & select objects with the touch of a fingertip.

Switches
Individuals with limited movement can use switch devices to interact with the computer. These switches, which can look like colorful mousepads that connect to the computer, or head-mounted “sip & puff” versions which use air to make selections, are used with specialized software; they permit selections with only a small amount of pressure & limited movement. Depending on the specific abilities & needs of the user, pad switches can be operated using different parts of the head, such as the eyebrow or mouth, or with the hand or foot. Air switches affix to the head as would a headset, but offer a small tube in lieu of a microphone to interact with the computer & make selections.

Touch-Sensitive Screens
Similar to touch pads, touch screen monitors permit input through touch-sensitive screens. The user basically touches the appropriate icon on the screen to open & interact with programs, & makes use of an on-screen keyboard to input information & information. Users can use a finger or, for those with limited physical control, a special “wand” which attaches to a headband or is held in the mouth to select the appropriate images on the screen.

Eye Tracking Systems
A more technologically-advanced process of input makes use of eye movement to register choice & commands. Eye tracking application systems permit users with extreme physical disabilities to interact with the computer by eye movements. A specialized camera mounts to the computer & focuses on the eye of the user. Application reads the movement & gaze direction of the eye to register selected selections, while a “click” can be set to a slow blink, or linger on the choice.