Switches and Scanning Software: Jump Right In!
By LeHew, Susan; PN: Paraplegia News, Vol. 57, No. 12, pp. 46-47Publication Date: December 2003
Article discusses scanning technology, which the author discusses in terms of two functions: (1) software used with a scanner to copy images onto a computer, and (2) technology that allows a person with very limited movement to independently use a computer. Different features and settings are available to support successful use of scanning software. If a person is able to use two adaptive switches, one can be used to move the cursor to the desired location, while the other can be used to make a selection. Settings within the software package should include the ability to change the scan rate, the visual display being scanned, and to customize the input timing on the switch. Most single-switch scanning products support word prediction, which is software that automatically predicts the word being spelled so that the user can select the whole word at once, saving multiple keystrokes in the process. Most commercial products also support abbreviation expansion, which allows long phrases to be produced from short combinations of letters. A list of five scanning software products are listed, along with the manufacturers web site: (1) Discover Switch, from Don Johnston Equipment, (2) EZ Keys, from Words +, (3) SwitchX, from Niemeijer Consult, (4) WiViK with REP, from Prentke Romich Company, and (5) ScanBuddy, from Applied Human Factors.
Assistive Products Discussed: SWITCH XS
SCANBUDDY
DISCOVER:SWITCH
WIVIK 2
EZ KEYS
Published by: PVA Publications (Website:http://www.pvamagazines.com)
Paralyzed Veterans of America (Web Site: http://www.pva.org )
