Hardware

Some of the resources that get listed fall under several categories but I thought it best to create a page for hardware links and resources.

http://www.rehabtool.com/ This site has it all as far as links to other sites go. No matter what type of tool or assistive device you want, there is a link for it. The site also provides definitions of terminology and has links to news and events related to A/T. A good place to start when trying to find hardware and also compare suppliers.

http://atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics.php A good go to site that provides basic information about A/T. The low tech resources section was good but not inclusive but it did provide links to the providing companies where more aids can be found.

http://www.enablemart.com/ This is a good site that offers a lot of hardware it gives a review of the device and highlights the features. All the review info is positive because they are also trying to sell you a device.

http://www.abilityhub.com/switch/index.htm There is a website called "Ability Hub" which provides lots of products around Assistive Technology. The link above will take you right into their area on switches. Two switches I founds interesting was the head mount sip and puff switch. This switch is much less conspicuous and easier to use than the examples we've seen in class. It wraps around the head the same way a microphone headset would. The other switch is a touchless switch. This uses a digital video camera in conjunction with switch technology. The camera is focused on a part of the body that can be moved. If that part is moved outside of a specific parameter a switch is activated.

After reading several merchant sites I found out that this mouse alternative device has ports to hook up switches to use instead of the buttons. This feature makes this a very attractive alternative to the standard mouse and can be customized in grip style and button accessibility. It is the __TRAXYS Joystick II__

[|www.rjcooper.com] provides software and hardware for persons with special needs. They also offer scanning systems. We received a CD in class that contains there full catalog.

http://www.wrightstuff.biz/index.html?OVRAW=devices%20for%20disabilities&OVKEY=device%20for%20disability&OVMTC=standard&OVADID=2679886522&OVKWID=22727647522 This website has many great tools for thos ewith disablilities. It is called The Wright Stuff! Their goal is to make life easier for those with difficulties in activities of daily living.

__**Readingpen Basic Edition**__, The tool is a neat concept and may provide motivation for less confident readers to read more. It uses OCR, optical character recognition, like other programs such as the Kurzweil. The tool is not consistent and could slow some readers down. Those that can master the tool can improve their comprehension. It is not good for younger readers and I would suggest 4th grade and above. There is limited research on the effectiveness of the Readingpen and the cost is almost $300. These twop factors combined with advancing nanotechnology, I would recommend waiting on newer versions.