Input and output devices for users with specific needs
Introduction
There are a number of input and output devices, which have been designed for users with specific needs in mind.
Input devices and output devices
Most able bodied users will use a mouse and keyboard to point, make selections and enter data. For users with specific needs, these options may not be open to them and alternatives need to be used. A range of large trackerballs have been produced as an alternative to mice. A trackerball looks a little bit like an upside down mouse, with a large ball on the top. To use it, users simply push the ball around, using large buttons to make selections as with conventional mice. These help people with restricted motor skills as they are not required to accurately move a mouse into position.
Specialist keyboards (known as 'concept keyboards' can also help. These may have large keys, a reduced number of keys and functions which can be accessed without having to hold down a number of keys at the same time. This is particularly useful when used with voice recognition software, as text input and commands can be given using voice commands. You can also get left-handed and right-handed keyboards, which can aid users who only have the use of one hand. Specialist keyboards are useful for a wide range of problems, from mobility issues to visual impairment to arthritis problems.
Some users may have Quadriplegia, paraplegia and other spinal injuries. Users who have one of these conditions can make use of eye tracking devices as they may not be able to move a mouse, trackerball or other pointing device at all. Eye tracking devices allow a user to point on the screen by following a user's eye movements. Other devices exist as well. These include pointing sticks attached to the head and devices which allow a user to blow or suck into a tube, which activates a switch. Using this with specialist software allows a user to perform a variety of tasks.
A number of devices exist for people who have movement in their legs but restricted movement in their arms. For example, pointing devices, which are foot-controlled are available.
For users with various degrees of restricted vision, there are braille key overlays for keyboards as well as oversized keyboards with large keys to reduce input errors. Users with these needs can also make use of magnifying devices as well as software tools to magnify parts of the monitor screen.
Speakers can be used with text recognition software to read back websites for users with vision issues. In addition, there are printers which can print in braille.