Free the Mice: Hands Free Devices Allow Greater Computer Utilization
By Wetzel, Vince; AT Journal, Vol. 102, No. 1Publication Date: September 2004
Article discusses the use of computer input assistive technology by a geneticist who suffered a car accident that caused him to become paralyzed from the neck down. He uses the Headmaster from Prentke Romich Company, which is a head-pointing computer access system that duplicates the function of a standard computer mouse. He also uses the Tracker from Madentec, which he uses when giving lectures or when he is at the library. The Headmaster utilizes a headset to maneuver the cursor on the computer screen. A sip and puff device on the device’s headset is used to make mouse selections. The Tracker utilizes a tiny sensor, which is placed on the forehead or glasses to track the user’s head movement. The user’s head movements are translated into cursor functions. Many such devices are available for use at facilities such as the Computer Access Center in Lost Angeles, California, which allows consumers to have a trial period using devices before they decide to purchase one.
Assistive Products Discussed: TRACKER 2000
HEADMASTER PLUS (MODEL HM-3P)
Published by:
AT Network (Web Site: http://www.atnet.org )
Link to text: http://www.atnet.org/journal/090101.htm
