People with motor difficulties, who are unable to directly access a device, can use a switch as a means to access and control electronic assistive technology. The switch acts as an interface between the user and the device. They are connected to controllers and communication aids and when activated (contact is made with the switch) send a signal to the device or devices to be operated. When used with other assistive technology, activating a switch can, for example, turn on the lights, change a television channel or make an alarm call. Switches utilize even the most minimal movement capabilities of an individual and can be activated by hand, foot, finger, head, chin, mouth, sip/puff, knee etc.

We provide a range of mounting solutions for our switches. Switches that are appropriately mounted and situated according to the requirements of the user enable correct operation of the device.

All the range of touch/contact activated switches feature auditory and tactile feedback which means that the user will know that they have activated the switch via movement and a clicking sound. All switches are supplied with an industry standard 3.5 mm mono Jack.

Switches connect to assistive technology products, in this case an environmental controller, enabling the user to operate the equipment via the method of Switch Scanning. 

Switch Scanning

When the user clicks the switch, the scanning process starts (each icon highlights in turn).

If the user clicks the switch when the lamp icon is highlighted, the device sends a signal to the Infra-Red socket (to which the lamp is plugged into) which then turns on the power and the lamp will go on.                          

 To turn off the lamp the user simply clicks the switch, waits for the scanning to reach the 'Lamp' icon, clicks the switch again when the icon is highlighted, the signal is sent to the socket to turn off the power to the lamp.