assistive technology
Hardware and software that help people who are physically impaired. Often called "accessibility options" when referring to enhancements for using the computer, the entire field of assistive technology is quite vast and even includes ramp and doorway construction in buildings to support wheelchairs. For more information, visit the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) at www.atia.org.
Enhancements for using the computer include alternative keyboard and mouse devices, replacing beeps with light signals for the deaf, screen magnifiers and text enlargers and systems that form tactile Braille letters from on-screen text. See screen reader, voice recognition, TDD/TTY and accessibility.
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| Specialized Keyboard |
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| This membrane keyboard from IntelliTools provides a 24x24 cell matrix that can be custom programmed. This application uses an oversized keyboard for children with physical disabilities. (Image courtesy of IntelliTools, Inc., www.intellitools.com) |