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NWT Literacy Council | A Guide to Assistive Technology |
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| Alternative Mouse Systems(3) Alternative pointing devices are used to replace the mouse. The keyboard keypad can function as a mouse using Mousekeys. Many of the alternative keyboards have Mousekeys built in, so the keys on the keyboard can toggle between text input or mouse input. Trackballs are upside down mice, with the ball on top and several buttons. Many trackballs offer the left and right mouse buttons plus one or two more which can be programmed to be a double click or drag lock. Many local computer vendors stock trackballs- the programmable ones are also available from assistive technology vendors. These allow the user to use one to 5 switches to control the mouse- the more switches the user can control, the faster the mousing around. Mouse input can also be given by high tech pointing devices, which transmit the location of a transmitter or reflective dot on the user's head to the computer system. Separate switches or just dwelling on a location are used for mouse clicks and drags. These are frequently used with on-screen keyboards for text input by people with limited movement due to quadriplegia or muscular dystrophy. Kensington Expert Mouse Pro Trackball The Trackball design saves on desk space and arm movement and its four extra-large buttons are easy to click and comfortable to use. The 'Mouseworks' software that comes with the Expert Mouse saves time by reducing repetitive tasks. The Expert Mouse's large ball offers more control and precision with less arm and hand movements and its symmetrical design fits left and right-handed users. Users do not have to hold down a mouse button while dragging, plus the ability to temporarily slow down the cursor or lock it on a straight line. The Expert Mouse comes with software for customization. Cost: $320
Aroga 3 Source: Glossary of Adaptive Technology, University of Toronto, Adaptive Technology Resource Centre. |
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