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Hardware solutions
Generally when you purchase a computer it comes with a standard mouse and keyboard. However, there are many different options available to you which may be more appropriate. Below are some of these options.
- Connecting Hardware
- Compact Keyboards
- Ergonomic Keyboards
- Large Keyboards
- Rubber Keyboards and Covers
- Keyguards
- Mice
- Trackballs
- Touchpads
- Joysticks
- Touch Screens
- Head Controlled Pointers
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Connecting Hardware.
USB port adaptor for PC keyboards and mice.
By using a USB port adaptor it is possible to connect multiple keyboards and mice to the same computer at the same time, providing complete flexibility. Another useful feature of these devices is the ability to 'Hot-Swap' devices without risking a crash on the computer.
More Information.
Compact Keyboards.
Cherry G84 Compact Keyboard and external numeric pad.
Small keyboards can be more easily positioned and are often suited to single handed users. They can fit between the arms of a standard wheelchair.
The actual key sizes are fairly similar to a standard keyboard. Space is generally saved by removing the numeric keys and reducing the gaps around the editing and function keys.
If the numeric pad is essential, then it is possible to buy them separately and position them to the left or right as needed.
More Information
- Factsheet on Keyboard and Mouse Alternatives (PDF 500KB)
- Factsheet on Single Handed Keyboard Use (PDF 177KB)
Ergonomic Keyboards
Fujitsu Butterfly Keyboard and the Maltron Ergo.
Ergonomic keyboards are aimed at those wanting to touch type using both hands. Generally they incorporate a split between keys operated by each hand with the aim of reducing strain in wrists and arms. A number of variations on this design are available, including those pictured above.
More Information
- Factsheet on Keyboard and Mouse Alternatives (PDF 500KB)
- Factsheet on RSI - Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (PDF 42KB)
Large Keyboards
WinKing Keyboard and the IntelliKeys with 3 of the standard overlays.
Expanded keyboards can help in situations where it is difficult to accurately locate a normal sized keytop. The larger size gives more area to "aim at".
Many expanded keyboards have a "built-in guard" as the letters are slightly sunk beneath the surface of the keyboard.
"IntelliKeys" is a flat keyboard which is pressure sensitive. It comes with a number of "overlays" which define the action of areas on the surface of the board. You can change layouts "on the fly". In addition you can design your own layouts. This can be useful if you only want to work with a small number of keys.
Concept keyboards are also flat and pressure sensitive. These come in A4 and A3 sizes and have a number of predefined "cells" on their surface. Using a software package it is possible to assign certain keystrokes/sounds/actions to particular areas on the concept keyboard. After defining the areas on the keyboard, a paper overlay can be printed or drawn to show the active areas.
More Information
Rubber Keyboards and Covers.
Waterproof rubber keyboard.
Here is an example of a waterproof keyboard which is made out of rubber. It is designed to work in harsh environments, and can be wiped clean after use.
If you prefer to use a standard keyboard, there are many plastic covers available which can be fitted over the top of the keys.
More Information
Keyguards
The Cherry Compact keyboard with optional keyguard.
These are rigid plates with holes designed to work with specific keyboards. The holes are positioned over each key and they make it impossible to press two keys at once. As a further benefit it is possible to rest hands and arms on the guard without pressing keys. They can be removed and fitted for use only when required.
It can often be easier to purchase a keyboard and guard together rather than get one to fit a specific keyboard.
More Information
Mice
The Tiny Mouse, size adjustable Whale Mouse and a collection of Contour Mice.
It is often worth trying a few different mice as different sizes and shapes are available and require varying amounts of pressure on buttons.
The mice illustrated above are from a range of ergonomic mice which can be used to help gain better control of the device, or help alleviate the symptoms of certain upper limb disorders. The Contour mice are available in 5 sizes for the right hand and 3 for the left.
It is also important to note that everything within Windows is accessible from the keyboard alone. There is no need to use a mouse at all if you can not, or do not, want to use it. Perhaps the most important accessibility option within Windows generally are 'keyboard shortcuts'. Many advanced computer users, find that keyboard shortcuts also provide a much faster way around the computer when in standard applications. Try 'Ctrl+S' to save your documents, rather than using your mouse, for a better idea of how useful using a keyboard instead of a mouse can be. Then, when you're ready, you might be interested in reviewing our specialist factsheet on the area, listed below.
More Information
- Factsheet on Keyboard and Mouse Alternatives (PDF 500KB)
- Factsheet on Keyboard Shortcuts in Windows (PDF 47KB)
Trackballs
The Kensington Expert Mouse Pro and CST KidTrac with external switch support.
A trackball is basically an upturned mouse. Rather than rolling the mouse on the table top it is a static device, with the ball on the top being moved using fingers, thumbs and palms. Larger trackballs are often suitable for use by feet.
More Information
Touchpads
Cirque Cruise Cat touch pad.
These devices are often found on portable computers. They are stationary pads which are operated by sliding your finger across the surface. Clicking can be done with buttons or by "tapping" lightly on surface. They can be held in the hand or placed on a desk.
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Joysticks
Traxsys Roller Plus Joysticks.
This type of device works in a similar manner to the joystick control on a wheelchair. The mouse pointer moves fastest when the joystick is pushed fully forward. The joystick illustrated has a built in guard and has a drag lock button and a button which sends a double click.
Some joysticks come with a variety of attachments such as a t-bar or ball. These attachments make the joysticks suitable for a wider range of people.
More Information
Touch Screens
Touch Window and Software.
Here selections and movements are made by pointing at the screen surface. Touch screens act in the same way as a normal screen but have sensitive surfaces. It is also possible to put a "Touch Window" over the front of a standard monitor to give the same function as illustrated in the picture above.
A lightpen is a similar idea, requiring you to hold a pen and point it at the screen.
More Information
Head Controlled Pointers
smartNAV3 Head Mouse System.
Here the pointer is moved across the screen simply by moving your head. These systems can be very costly (over £1000). They work well with on-screen keyboards. Normally a switch is used to do the equivalent of a mouse click.