Alternative Keyboards and Input Devices Handout

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/


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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

Documents

Alternative Keyboards and Input Devices Handout