AccessAble Glove Switch
By One Switch
Light Pressure Glove Switch - AccessAble Games (cost on request)
The GameBase was recently donated a Switch Glove with thanks to Javier Mairena of AccessAble Games in Spain. We love the simplicity of design, and how well they work with standard switch interfaces.
It works great with one-switch games such as Canabalt seen below (although Bill admits he was out of practice when he made the video). To find out more and to get in touch with AccessAble Games, read on...
Apple iPad
By One Switch
iPad - from Apple (reviewed by Barrie Ellis)
The Accessible GameBase has taken the plunge and got itself an Apple iPad. I've been the lucky person to test it out first, and my personal verdict is... it's winning me over slowly (but my daughter fell in love with it immediately).
Pros: Beautiful and responsive multi-touch LED screen; great-battery life; some really lovely apps, especially so, some of the cause and effect toys; mostly easy to use if someone has already set-it up for you; some very good accessibility features; iPad Google Maps is fantastic; runs most apps that an iPhone can run.
Cons: No standard USB socket; quite a basic and limited operating system and web browser with no Flash compatibility; most free apps seem to be riddled with adverts; horrible touch keyboard (although you can buy a proper Apple keyboard for it); expensive; memory can't be upgraded.
Here's some of my favourite sub £10 APPS for it so far...
Console Controllers
By Bill (R&D, SpecialEffect)
Quasicon
1P
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This oversized controller can be used (when
combined with the right adapter) with almost all consoles (PSone,
PS2, PS3, Xbox, Xbox 360). All the buttons on a regular
controller can be found, aswell as all three of the
joysticks (including D-Pad). Both the buttons and joysticks are
analogue, allowing for accurate gameplay and compatability.
Extensions for the joysticks make the movement of them more
sensitive and offer a larger area to grip.
This controller could provide a solution for those who find a
standard console controller simply too small to be able to
use.
http://www.quasimoto.com/accessories-for-home#1p_con
Console Switch Interface Deluxe
(C-SID)

The C-SID allows you to
use switches to play Xbox and Playstation. There are connections
replicating every button (aswell as four directions available for
each thumb-stick and the D-pad) on regular controller, allowing
you to create your own switch layout using just the buttons that
are required for a particular game. There is a joystick, which
can be used in place or the left thumb-stick, right thumb-stick
or D-Pad.
http://www.oneswitch.org.uk/1/AGS/AGS-switch/3/PS2-deluxe.htm
Lepmis






The Playstation3 - Switch Access Pod, (PS3-SAP) is their main
product at the moment. It allows the user the replicate each
button on a PS3 using switches. In addition to this you are
also able to use custom joysticks (see images above for examples)
to replicate the analog stick movements.
This is only part of the solution however, and LEPMIS has
an increasing range of accessories for this device, whilst also
specialising in creating one off solutions for specific
individuals.
www.lepmis.co.uk
Kontrol
Freek


These simple additions give added performance to Playstation or
XBox thumb-sticks, by simply clipping on to existing controllers.
The FPSFreek adds an extension to the height giving
more accurate control using less movement. The SpeedFreek acts as
a guide for the left thumb to stop it slipping of the
stick.
http://www.limexb360.co.uk/manufacturer/Kontrol+Freek
RJ
Cooper

The trigger buttons (R1, R2, L1 and L2) are moved to a larger
format on to a box which is attached to an XBox 360 controller,
for easier access for some players.

The triggers are moved from the rear of the gamepad to the front.
The two small red buttons replace R1 and L1, whilst the large
yellow ones R2 and
L2.

These joystick extensions allow a user more sensitive movement of
the analog sticks, whilst also offering people the chance to play
with their chin or mouth. The button enhancers do the
same.
http://www.rjcooper.com/game-controller/index.html
e-dimensional
One Handed Controller

Designed by the hardware moder Ben Heckendorn, this gamepad is
designed for one handed play. All the components can be moved
about to provide the best configuration for the user and the
game. For use with Xbox 360 (with adapter) and PS3.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/eDimensional-Access-Singlehand-Controller-PS2/dp/B001FSJXXG
Hori
Separate

As the name hints, this controller can be separated to allow for
total one (right) handed play or to allow two people to
share the controls. With one handed play the role of the
thumbstick can be quickly changed between left stick, right
stick or D-pad. For use with PS3 or Xbox 360 (with the
relevant adapters).
http://www.oneswitch.org.uk/1/AGS/AGS-onehand/hori-separate.htm
Gimpgear
Ultimate Controller

All the buttons and joystick controls you would find on a regular
gamepad are reproduced on this enlarged controller. It can be
built to be played with any console or a PC.
Gimpgear
Versatility

A console switch interface, which can be built with sip/puff
switches.
Sip and Puff
Mouth Joystick

Allows console play with mouth movement alone, with all the
controls you would find on a regular controller replicated.
http://www.broadenedhorizons.com/videogaming.htm
Frag FX

A mainstream PS3 controller designed to improve FPS play.
Controlscan be split between two people with one using the mouse
to replicate the movement of the right analog stick (used for
aiming) with four buttons plus shoot and the other
player using the left analog stick to control movement.The
sensitivity of the mouse movement reqiured can be adjusted.
http://www.whsmithentertainment.co.uk/games/games-accessories/frag-fx-v2-ps3-controller-fragfx/10052533.html
PS3 Logitech
Mediaboard Pro

For use with the PS3 media centre.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Logitech-Cordless-Mediaboard-pro-Bluetooth/dp/B000W9N7JU
XFPS 360
Adapter
This adapter allows for a keyboard and mouse to be plugged in to
be used as controls for Xbox 360 gameplay.
http://www.consolesandgadgets.co.uk/catalog/xbox-360-xfps-360-p-2690.html
Logitech
Netplay

Can be used (with an adapter) to play PS3 with the
controller resting on a desk top. Giving easy access to
typing.
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-NetPlay-Controller-Sony-Playstation/dp/B00006SKJ4
Playstation
2 -
Consoles and Gadgets (£79.98 plus p&p)
The PS2 "One Handed Controller" is a brand
new replica of the Dragonplus RPG DuoCon 2 controller,
long since out of production, but a firm favourite with
those who play console games with one hand.
This controller can be used equally well by left and right handed
players, thanks to the intuitive layout of the buttons, and a
D-pad on both sides. Using separately purchased
controller adapters, you
can connect this to Xbox 360, PS3, PCs and
more.
It is possible to get this working on a Wii
too, but it will only work with games that are compatible with a
"classic controller". This includes Super Mario Kart and all
Gamecube games.
Overall, the build quality seems very good, it should suit most
hand sizes comfortably, and the LED lights may assist
visually impaired players find the controller on first
start-up.
In short, probably the best alternative one-handed controller for
mainstream games consoles.
Wii-mote Controllers - D.I.Y. Accessibility Hacks
By One Switch
When the Nintendo Wii was released in 2006, it's Wii Remote (or Wiimote as I prefer to wrongly call it) was hailed as revolutionary.
It certainly did open up gaming for many people who previously found the likes of a Sony Playstation Joy-pad far too complicated. Unfortunately, it closed the door on a lot of people too, such as accessibility switch users.
The good news for some of those excluded players, is that there are ways to adapt the Wii remote to make it a bit more accessible.
Online Multiplayer Gaming Intro Guide
By Bill (R&D, SpecialEffect)
One of the great things about gaming is the competitive aspect. When playing against the computer, no matter how smart the AI is, it can sometimes start to feel repetitive. Therefore, playing against a real life actual human being offers the added challenge and interest of more randomised gameplay with the added competitiveness of playing against and with another human being.
Playing online makes gaming an increasingly sociable activity allowing you to play with or against friends without being in the same room (or even continent) aswell as make new gaming friends.
Look out for terms such as 'Network Features,' Online Multiplayer' etc on the back of a games box to see if a game has online gaming features.
Conecting your console to the internet also allows you to download and try demos of games to see if the subject and gameplay is right for you before buying the full version.
XBOX 360
To play others online you must pay a subscription for XBOX Live Gold.
To connect to your internet either use an ethernet cable or for a wireless connection you need an XBox Wireless Adapter.
http://www.xbox.com/en-GB/live/Get_Connected.htm
PS3
Playstation Network is, for the time being, free, meaning no subscription is required. Either connect using an ethernet cable or connect using the internal wireless.
http://uk.playstation.com/psn/
Wii
Multiplayer gaming is also free on the Wii WI-FI Connection. No ethernet cable can be used, instead the internal wireless connection must be used to connect to the internet.
http://uk.wii.com/wii/en_GB/wiiware/wii_connect_853.html
Keyboards
By Bill (R&D, SpecialEffect)
One Handed
Keyboards


Frogpad
Belkin n52te
There are many one-handed keyboards on the market some aimed to
save space, be more productive and some to help gaming.
http://www.frogpad.com/
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Belkin-SPEEDPAD-NOSTROMO-N52-TE/dp/B0010YL6ZS
Keyguard

Maxess Keyguard
Keyguards allow users to relax their hands on top of the keyboard
without pressing unwanted keys or stop involuntary movements from
making unwanted keystrokes.
http://www.maxesssite.co.uk/
Jumbo
Keyboard

Jumbo keyguards can give the user bigger targets to aim at and
some are available with colour coding. Keyguards are also
available for some jumbo keyboards.
http://www.inclusive.co.uk/catalogue/acatalog/jumbo_xl.html
Ergodex

This keyboard allows you to create your own keyboard layout
and lets you map out the keys using the software provided.
http://www.ergodex.com/mainpage.htm
On-Screen
Keyboards

Wizkeys
On-Screen keyboards open as a separate window on your computer
and allow you to use the functions of a keyboard, without the
need to use a physical standard one. They predominantly
interacted with using the cursor, but can also be used with
a touchscreen or eye-control software. Programs such as The Grid
2 and VS Communcator 4 include on screen keyboards and allow
you to, through simple editing software, personalise them
for an individual.
http://www.inclusive.co.uk/catalogue/acatalog/wizkeys.html
http://sensorysoftware.com/thegrid2.html
http://www.viking-software.com/products/04/updates.php
Switches
By Bill (R&D, SpecialEffect)
The use of a switch,
however simple it may seem, can allow you, with the use of the
right software, to access whatever you would like on a
computer.
There are many different types of switches aimed at different
types of users with different abilities. Some of them are
listed below, showing the wide range
available.
Jelly Bean
Switch
This type of switch is, perhaps, the most commonly used. It is
generally available in three different sizes. They are easy
to mount with velcro or screws and the smallest size comes with a
strap which can be used to position the switch on a
wrist.
Links:
http://www.techready.co.uk/Assistive-Technology/General-Switches/Jelly-Bean-Switch
http://www.thesensorycompany.co.uk/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=63
http://www.inclusive.co.uk/catalogue/acatalog/ablenet_switches.html
http://www.qedonline.co.uk/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=78&products_id=683
Pillow Switch
A switch with a soft textured
surface, which can be attached to a pillow, head rest or a
mounting arm for use with the head.
Links:
http://www.qedonline.co.uk/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=227
http://www.inclusive.co.uk/catalogue/acatalog/tash_pillow_switch.html
Micro Light Switch

This requires only the most sensitive of touches to activate
it.
http://www.inclusive.co.uk/catalogue/acatalog/tash_microlight_switch.html
Impulse Switch

This switch uses voluntary muscle movements to trigger it.
An EMG electrode sends bluetooth signals wirelessly to a
computer.
http://www.qedonline.co.uk/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=78&products_id=689
Bloc Switch

A heavy duty switch with a large, colourful
surface area.
http://www.spacekraft.co.uk/pdf/2007/early_years/044%20-%20045.pdf
Slim Line Switch

Again this this switch has a large, colourful surface, but
requires a lighter touch.
http://www.spacekraft.co.uk/pdf/2007/early_years/044%20-%20045.pdf
UV Rod Switch

Moving the rod from side to side activates this switch.
http://www.spacekraft.co.uk/pdf/2007/early_years/044%20-%20045.pdf
Sound Switch

This switch can be adjusted to react to
different levels of sound input from a micrphone or
headset.
http://www.qedonline.co.uk/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=233
Sip Puff
Using the mouth to sip or puff through the straw activates
two different function with this switch.
Links:http://www.techready.co.uk/Assistive-Technology/Sip-Puff-Switches
http://www.orin.com/access/sip_puff/index.htm
Mounting

Different mounting is available to help position the switches in
the most comfortable positions for the user.
The Maxess mounts and tray(top left) allow the switches to
be angled at an accessible and comfortable poistion and placed in
different conficurations depending on the user and the activity.
The Manfrotto (middle)clamps on to a table or
wheelchair and can be adjusted to place the switch within reach
of the user and then locked to hold the position, creating a
rigid, sturdy arm mount. Whilst, the goosneck (right)
mount offers a less rigid arm to hold a switch, whlst
clamped onto a surface.
Maxess:
www.maxesssite.co.uk/
Manfrotto:
http://www.aacmounts.com/2_3_manfrotto_arm_mounts.php
Gooseneck:
http://www.inclusive.co.uk/catalogue/acatalog/more_switch_mountings.html
Trabasack


Described as:
"Ergonomically designed for safety and comfort. A great way to
access communication aids and games
anywhere.
Ideal as:
-A firm, level surface for communication aids, switches
and toys.
-The curved shape hugs the body’s contours. The padded rim
and cushion base are ergonomically designed for comfort and
safety.
-Trabasack is light weight. It can be attached onto the front
of a therapy chair, buggy or wheelchair and used throughout
the day. When not in use it can be conveniently worn as a
rucksack, carry bag or stowed at the back of a chair.
-Items are stored safely within the bag after use."
Hand Held Mice
By Bill (R&D, SpecialEffect)
Rollerball /
Trackball
BIGtrack
Rollerball mice come is various sizes, and can accomodate
small or resricted hand movements, allowing the use of
just your fingers to move the cursor.
The BIG track offers a large surface area, requiring no fine
motor skills to operate it is also available with the option of
two switch inputs.
http://www.bigtrack.co.uk/


Logitech Marble Mouse PowerBall
Mouse
Logitech
make many models of trackerballs.The Marble Mouse sits
comfortable in the hand like a regular optical mouse, but
requires no hand movement. It has the left and right buttons
positioned so you don't have to move your hand to access them. In
addition to these this model also has a small 'Back'
button on the left and a small 'Forward' button on the right for
easier internet use. Unlike the majority of rollerballs or
trackerballs the Powerball Mouse is designed to be held without
using a surface to rest on, allowing the user to sit away from a
desk. It has a small ball to be used with the thumb, a trigger
button (replicating a regular left mouse click) to use with the
index finger and an additional two buttons on top for left
and right clicks.
http://www.logitech.com/
http://www.postthisinc.com/mouse.html
Mouse Joysticks

Optimax Joystick
Joysticks which replicate mouse
movements to control the cursor can offer an alternative
for users with fine motor skill difficulties, whilst also
often offering a large surface to hold onto. Some also offer
different levels of cursor speed to choose from.
http://www.inclusive.co.uk/catalogue/acatalog/optimax_wireless_joystick.html


Tash
Joysticks
The Tash Multiple Switches mouse on the left has four
directions, and a button replicating the left mouse
click.
The Tash Joystick on the
right is described as a 'Rugged, simple, to use joystick for all
mouse functions. Smooth proportional action'. It also has a
dedicated 'double' click
button.
http://www.aacmounts.com/5_7_tash_usb_multiple_switches.php
http://www.liberator.co.uk/index.php/products-1/computer-access/joysticks-trackballs/tash-joystick.html
Glide
Pads

Cirque Glide Point
Glide pads which are independant of your computer (via USB) can
be held in a comfortable position in your hands or poistioned
flat on a surface. The surface reqiures only a light touch
to move the cursor and can be used to replicate the mouse clicks
by tapping on the right for right click and the left for left
click. There are also buttons which can be used in addition or
combined to allow for comfortable use.
http://www.keytools.co.uk/product.php?productid=16212
Head-Mouse
By Bill (R&D, SpecialEffect)

SmartNav 4
Head-Mice are used to control the cursor using movement
of your head. This is done by positioning a reflective
dot on your forehead or wearing a cap with a reflective strip in
the centre of the peak. You place the reciever on top of
your minitor or laptop screen (connected to your computer via
USB), where it has a clear signal to the reflective dot.
The software allows the sensitivity of movement required to
move the cursor to be adjusted, aswell as the dwell
time (the amount of time the cursor is placed over something
until it is selcted) to be adjusted. This replicates the mouse
clicks of a mouse, which can be alternated using the on screen
tool bar e.g. left click, right click etc... Alternatively, a
switch can be used as the selection method.
Eye-Gaze Technology
By Bill (R&D, SpecialEffect)

myTobii P10 Quick Glance 3
Eye-Gaze can allow you to control a computer with the sole use of you eyes. This can be done via two predominent methods.
The first, which requires very accurate eye-control, is direct control of the cursor. With this you move, as with any other pointer method, the cursor around the screen to open and close windows etc, with the addition of an on-screen keyboard to type into documents, search engines etc...
The second is the control of cells, used in programmes such as The Grid 2 and Communicator 4, which allow the user to perform any activity they would on a regular computer, such as checking emails, searching the web, play games etc... by looking at the area allocated to a cell to select it.
There are an increasing amount of eye-control machines available, some are entire units with camera and computer combined or separte camera you can plug into a laptop.

alea intelligaze

