alternative keyboards and input devices handout
TRANSCRIPT
Alternative Keyboards and Input Devices November 19, 2008 - AIU Vision Program
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Alternative Keyboards and Input Devices
Scott A. DoughertyIDEA Training & Consultation Coordinator
Allegheny Intermediate Unit #3
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The Big Disclaimers
Not a company representativeNot a list of “must buys” - other products will:
Do some things in a better wayDo some things in the same wayDo some things in a worse wayDo some totally different things
What you see is NOT all you can getWe ARE dealing with silicon
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Housekeeping
Feel free to ask questions as they come to youWe will take a break mid-session, but feel free to move aroundMaterials are available for download at http://www.aiu3.net/
Alternative Keyboards and Input Devices November 19, 2008 - AIU Vision Program
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Session Goals
Provide an overview of input devices for the computerDemonstrate the use and application of several devicesDiscuss implementation of input devices in the course of daily learning experiences
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Keyboards
StandardQWERTYAlphabeticDvorak
PortableLarge Print/ButtonMiniature
Keytop Overlays & KeyguardsCoded/Alternate EntryProgrammableOnscreenWord prediction
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Standard Keyboards
FeaturesReadily availableCommonplace and familiarPlug-and-play or freely convertible via operating system
QWERTYDvorakAlphabeticMiniature
ConsiderationsSpecialized layouts impact generalization of skill on non-adapted computersPlug-and-play versus programmed
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Optimizer Keyboard
Optimize key to reduce movement away from keyboard
Mouse controlNumber pad
QWERTY format
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Tactile Pro 2.0
Replicates the feel of the old Macintosh keyboardAvailable in Mac and PC versionsUSB 2.0 port built into the deviceAvailable with a pre-programmed Optimizer button (see previous slide)
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Trackball Keyboard
Standard QWERTY keyboardIntegrated pointing devicePS/2 keyboardPS/2 or USB trackball
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Versa Point RF Keyboard
Wireless configuration100 foot rangeLine-of-site not required
Integrated pointing deviceAvailable as a combo with wireless cursor control unit
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Portable KeyboardsFeatures
Most are standalone word processorsReduce distractionsMay offer add-in functionality
Pre-programmedDownloadSD card
Text shared with computer via wire or wireless connectionDurability
Low power consumption
ConsiderationsInexpensive in comparison to a laptopScreen sizeBrightness and contrast limitsLimited display fonts and sizes
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CalcuScribePortable keyboardBuilt-in calculatorText display options
4-line8-line
File management system
FoldersMenu structure
Wireless beaming to other CalcuScribes for collaboration
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Dana Portable Keyboard
Palm-basedOrganization toolsDownloadable softwareLaptop-like functionality
Large screenBacklight for use in dark roomsSend or Sync
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Flexible Keyboard
Water resistantLow pressure to activateRollable for storage and transportAvailable in two heights
Standard (19.6 in)Short (16.2 in)
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Folding Keyboard by Matias
Full-sized keyboardIntegrated number pad with Tab key featureFunction key access
Arrow keysPage navigationDelete
Volume control keys
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Fusion Keyboard (The Writer)
Text-to-speech outputWord predictionSplit screen vocabulary word listsPre-programmed writing prompts
RubricsBasicPerfect ParagraphMulti-Paragraph EssaySix Traits of WritingPersuasive EssayResponse to LiteratureCreative WritingBuild-your-own
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Neo & Neo 2
Six font choicesCapable of running applets
Typing tutorWord predictionQuiz software
Wired or wireless transfer of textSaves automatically in 8 locations
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QuickPAD IR & QuickPAD Pro
Integrated typing tutorBuilt-in thesaurus and word predictionInfrared connection via dedicated receiverPassword-capable portfolio filing system to organize writing files
Up to 70 pages in 10 separate folders (QuickPAD IR)
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Large Print/Button Keyboards
FeaturesColor schemes for ease of viewing or identificationLarge “target”Clearer separation between letters on large keys
ConsiderationsLarger footprintReduced key setVisually distinct from traditional keyboards
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BigKeys LX & Keyboard PlusStandard keyboard footprintOne-inch keysLX model
60 keysBlack and white keys
Plus model48 keysColor keysBlack and white keys
Variety of layoutsQWERTYABC
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Clevy Keyboard
Vertically aligned keysKeys are four times larger than standard keysKeys colored by functionFewer keys than a standard keyboardDurable – keys are switches, not membranes
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Large Print Keyboard
Standard-sized keyboardEnlarged key font (roughly 3 times standard size)
Black on yellowBlack on ivoryYellow on black
Hot keys for common commands and applications
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ZoomText Keyboard
High-contrast keysWhite on blackYellow on black
16 programmable buttons
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Miniature Keyboards
FeaturesReduce “travel” for users with small hand spans or fingersMay be useful when
Fatigue is commonRange of motion is limitedOnly one hand is used for key activations
ConsiderationsKey face often features a smaller font than a standard keyboard
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EZ-Reach Keyboard
Flat profileVertically aligned keysBackspace and Enter are repositioned for access by the forefinger (rather than the little finger)
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FrogpadWired and wireless (Bluetooth) configurationsWearable version
PDAsHandheld devices
USB versionHandheldsLaptopsDesktops
Left and right hand modelsNon-standard key configuration (frequency-based)
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Half Keyboard
Palm-sizedLeft-hand onlyAllows user to type with left hand and navigate pointer with right hand
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Half QWERTY Keyboard
Full-sized keyboardQWERTY arrangement
Two-handed typistsLeft-handed typistsRight-handed typists
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Low Profile Keyboard 101 keysIntegrated pointer available
JoystickTrackball
Laptop-like feelLightweightFlat profile (approximately one inch high)Small frame (less than 6”x12”)
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Magic Wand KeyboardBuilt-in mouse
11 speedsLeft, right, & double clickClick-drag
Accessible with slight head or hand movement
Handheld wandMouthstick
No force required for activationSmall profile (7” x 6” x 0.5”)
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Space Saver Keyboard100 keysNarrow design (10.8”x6”)
Keypad, function, and arrow keys above standard alphanumerics
Two modelsDesk (weighted, 2.55”)Flat (unweighted, 0.75”)
Available with or without integrated touch pad
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USB Mini Keyboard by TashMembrane surfaceKeys less than ½-inch squareQWERTY layoutAuditory feedbackMouse Mode key for positioning and click functionsAdjustable features
Response rateKey repeat rateMouse tracking rate
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Ergonomic Keyboards
FeaturesIncreasingly available (and standard) in school, home, and work environmentsReduce repetitive stress injuries by supporting more natural hand positionsSome models are adjustable
ConsiderationsNot conducive to one-handed typingMay not fit into built-in keyboard trays
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Contoured Keyboard by KinesisTwo models
AdvantageClassic
Concave key arrangementAccommodates differing finger lengthsPrevents wrist extension
Central positioning of common “weak finger” keys
BackspaceEnter
Foot switch compatible
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Freestyle Keyboard by Kinesis
Adjustable, split keyboard
Pivot Tether connects both modules
Driverless Hot keys (not supported on Macs)Optional accessory packages for increased functions
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Goldtouch Keyboard
Splits into two sections for adjustment between 0 and 30 degrees
HorizontalVertical (tenting)
Integrated numeric keypadExternal numeric keypad available
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Maltron Ergonomic KeyboardConcave key wells to accommodate differing finger lengthsCentralized number keysVertical alignment of key rowsThumb keys
ReturnSpaceBackspace
Shift Lock feature
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Maxim Keyboard by Kinesis
Low-force keysHorizontal and vertical adjustments at 0, 8, or 14 degreesRemovable palm supportsEmbedded numeric keypadExternal numeric keypad available
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Natural Keyboard Elite by Microsoft
Keys aligned for natural wrist and arm alignment
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Tru-Form Keyboard
Split keyboard in an integrated unitBuilt-in wrist supportDual keys
PC – Alt, Shift, Control, & spacebarMac – Command, Shift, Option, Control, & spacebar
Option of built-in touchpad
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Keytop Overlays & Keyguards
FeaturesAdapt keyboards for moisture-prone useProvide color cues to emerging typistsRetrofit an existing keyboard inexpensivelyProvide support for users unable to support wrists or isolate keys easily
ConsiderationsAdhesives may leave a residue when removedOS settings may need to be adjusted (in cases where a keyboard is being changed to a non-QWERTY layout)
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Keyboard Skins
Protect keyboard from moisture and dustConforms to keyboards for a secure fitRequires model and FCC# at time of order (to ensure proper configuration)
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KeyguardsAvailable in plastic or metal versionsMay be easily removed, if necessaryConforms to specific keyboard arrangments(specified at time of order)Keyguards are often available for specialized keyboards (through the keyboard manufacturer)
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Keytop Overlays
BrailleEarly LearningFinger PositionHigh ContrastLarge PrintUppercase/Lowercase
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Coded/Alternate Entry Keyboards
FeaturesUtilize chords, codes, or pre-programmed settingsReduce keystrokesReduce hand movement (travel)
ConsiderationsLearning curve is typicalNon-intuitive
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BAT KeyboardLeft and right hand modelsSingle-handed keying
Can be used in addition to a standard keyboardFree hand for Braille reading
Seven keys to perform all standard keystrokes
Chord-based entryProgrammable macros
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Darci USB
Adjustable, stored settings
One to three switches TimingCode set
Plug-and-play (no specialized drivers)Bus-powered for convenience and portabilityAudio feedback
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EasyLink Braille Keyboard
Bluetooth Brailler6 Braille keys3 function keys
Compact designHighly portable10 hours of continuous use on battery
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EZ Keys XPMultiple layouts/entry methods for adapted computer access
MouseSwitch access
SingleMultiple
KeyboardMouse emulation softwareMorse Code
Built-in featuresText to speechWord predictionAbbreviation expansion
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Jouse2
Morse code joystickControl movement with mouth, chin, cheek, or tonguePerform mouse clicks with the integrated sip and puff switch
Emulates mouse and keyboard activationsFour user-selectable versions of Morse Code
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LomakLight operated mouse and keyboard
Handheld pointerHead pointer
Plug-and-playRequires little physical effortReduces accidental input through dual input
Selection confirmed by illuminationConfirm key to use
Equidistant, circular key arrangement
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Programmable Keyboards
FeaturesAllow macros to be programmedAllow computer input via traditional and non-traditional means
Letter-basedWord-basedPhrase-basedPicture-based
Highly customizableUser requirementsActivity requirements
ConsiderationsTime and planning is often required prior to useTypically require specialized drivers (not plug-and-play)
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DX1 Keyboard
25 repositionable keysUseful when vision, dexterity, or range of motion hinder use of other devices
Scalable – add keys when neededMacros
ProgrammablePre-builtRecordable
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IntelliKeys KeyboardBuilt-in stand for flat or angled useWide variety of overlays
Pre-programmedPrintableCustomized (with separate Overlay Maker software)
Keyguards availableDual-switch inputsCompatible with IntelliTools software and activities
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X Keys Stick
Programmable softwareMacro Works (PC)iKey (Mac)
Sixteen keysRepositionableBacklight illumination for low-light useLegends
Pre-cut for handwriteMicrosoft Templates
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X-Keys Keypad
Programmable keypadWorks as an auxiliary keyboardTwo configurations
20 keys (39 macros)58 key (115 macros)
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Onscreen KeyboardsFeatures
Keyboard and text are on the same planeAbility to change layoutAlternate input
Mouse – click or dwellSwitchTouchscreen
Integrated word prediction and abbreviation expansion
ConsiderationsLoss of “real estate”Fatigue and repetitive stressMay require assistance with programming/set-up
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Clicker 5Support or develop writing skills in “non writers”Allows for high level of structureOption for textlesscompositionUniversal DesignQuick, on-the-fly changes to cell contentFree, content-sharing site
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CubeWriter
Customizable interfaceLettersWordsNumbersPunctuation
Personalized word listsThree modes of use
TypeWriteTeach
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Discover:Screen by Madentec
Text-to-speechPoint and click access
LettersWordsPhrases
Adjunctive (works with all applications on a computer)
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IntelliTools Classroom Suite
Fully customizableSwitch-readyScanning availableCompatible with IntelliKeys USB
Pre-made overlaysOverlay Maker software is required for custom overlays
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KeyStrokesMacintosh softwareFive resizable layouts
Number padFunction keysNavigationQWERTYAlphabetic
Modifiable keys and backgroundResizableDwell selection
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Onscreen by IMGBuilt-in supports
Word predictionCalculatorsMacrosNumeric layoutsInternational layouts
Dwell selectionVerbal Keys FeedbackShow/Hide key functionSmart Window repositioningScanning option available
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REACH Interface Author by Applied Human Factor
140 preprogrammed layouts
CustomizableCreate-your-own
Key Size Button for quick resizingBuilt-in supports
Word predictionScanningWord use learningDwell selection
Smart KeysRemoves or deemphasizes unlikely combinationsAutoType for single-result combinations
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ScreenDoors 2000 by Madentec
Built-in featuresWord predictionAbbreviation expansion
Three keyboard layoutsQWERTYAlphabeticFrequency of Use
Dwell selection
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SofType
Five layoutsQWERTYAlphabeticFrequency of useNumericKidKeysCreate-your-own
ResizableSizeFontSpacing
Built-in featuresWord predictionDwell selectionJitter controlDragger – single switch control of mouse functionsMacro programming
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WiVik by Prentke Romich50 layouts in 22 languagesFully customizableRepositionableBuilt-in features
Word predictionAbbreviation expansionDwell selectionScanning
AutomaticStepDirect
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Word PredictionFeatures
Rate enhancement to reduce keystrokesReal-time display of choices
VerticalHorizontalDynamic
Access to specialized word lists as neededText-to-speech capability
ConsiderationsAdjunctive versus self-contained word predictionPhonetic versus sequence based
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Co:Writer
Intelligent word predictionFlexible spellingCollected wordsPredict AheadeWord BanksBasic, personal, and topic dictionariesText-to-speech
Neo version availableAdjunctive use (may be used with a wide range of applications)
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Cloze Pro
Type or paste prepared textRemove words automatically or manually
Word or letter recurrenceSequencePattern
Present words in a grid or pop-up listPrompt with word shape, word, exposed lettersUseful when etext is availableSuitable for assessment and cloze-style tasks
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Writing With Symbols 2000
Four writing environments
Symbol ProcessorWord ProcessorGrids for PrintingGrids for Writing
Customizable word listsUseful as a teacher or student tool
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Soothsayer
Text-to-speechAdjunctive word predictionAutoType FeatureAbbreviation ExpansionSentence completionAutomated correction of common spelling errors
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WordQ
Text-to-speechAdjunctive word predictionUsage examples for confusing wordsAccommodates phonetic spelling attemptsOffers the option of speech recognition via SpeakQ
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Other Input Devices
MiceTrackballsJoysticksNumber PadsSwitches and switch interfacesTouchscreensHead miceMicrophone and speech recognition
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Other Input Devices
Mouse optionsSwitch adaptedErgonomicHandheld
TrackballsJoysticks
GamingRoller JoystickRoller Joystick Plus
Number Pads
Switches and Switch Interfaces
Crick USBDon Johnston Switch Interface ProIntelliKeys USB Keyboard
Touchscreens & monitorsHead Mouse
Tracker Pro
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Speech Recognition
Utilizes a microphone to input textRequires adequate speech skillsRequires significant executive functions to maintain a topic and perform corrections/trainingMay allow for reduced use of the hands when controlling the computerConsider environment and task when implementing
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Dragon Naturally Speaking, IBM Via Voice, Mac Dictate
Continuous recognitionAllows for keyboard-free text inputSupport for adult and teen voicesAnalyzes existing documents for vocabulary and styleNoise-cancelling headset or array microphone is recommended
Skip Training optionAccuracy tool setWorks in an adjunct capacity to other softwareNot suitable for discrete recognitionSpecialized versions available (Dragon NaturallySpeaking)
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SpeakQCustomizable training Discrete and continuous prediction modesSpeech feedback of recognized text No verbal commands for control or correction Integrated word prediction capabilityText-to-speech feedbackAllows for both keyboard and speech inputServer-level storage of student voice files
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Sources of Input Devices
EnableMarthttp://www.enablemart.com/
Infogriphttp://www.infogrip.com/
Retail office suppliers
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Questions & Evaluations
Are there questions you haven’t asked yet?What further information do you need?
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Contact Information
Scott A. DoughertyIDEA Training and Consultation
Coordinator, Assistive TechnologyAllegheny Intermediate Unit #3475 East Waterfront DriveHomestead, PA [email protected] ● 412-394-5992 (Fax)
Kendra BittnerIDEA Training and Consultation
Coordinator, Assistive TechnologyAllegheny Intermediate Unit #3475 East Waterfront DriveHomestead, PA [email protected] ● 412-394-5992 (Fax)
AIU Assistive Technology Home Pagehttp://www.aiu3.net/Level3.aspx?id=1220