Large, colorful surface, tough enough to stand up to years of vigorous use. Includes colored tops to meet vision or other needs with a choice of blue, green, red, and yellow. Includes a clear snap cap for symbol use. Good choice for persons with visual impairment or require a large target area.
- 5" activation surface
- 5.5-oz activating force
- Auditory click and tactile feedback
Selecting a Capability Switch
Capability switches are a core feature of access technology. They allow people with physical and/or cognitive disabilities to interact with technology. The proper switch opens up worlds of access communication devices, environmental controls, computer software, and mobile devices.
Switches come in different sizes and shapes. To choose the switch that works best for a particular circumstance, there are some important factors to consider.
Action
What actions can the person reliably perform? What action or body part can the person use – hand, head, eyes, mouth? Activating the switch should not cause undue fatigue, discomfort or pain, or compromise muscle tone. Many switches have the activation surface on the top, but others allow activation on other surface areas. There are switches that can be activated by different body parts or actions.
Targeting
Can the person hit a small target or do they need a larger one? Can they hit the top of a switch or other area? Activating the switch should not cause undue fatigue, discomfort or pain, or compromise muscle tone.Many switches have the activation surface on the top, but others allow activation on more surface area.
Amount of Force
How much pressure can the person consistently exert to activate the switch? Can they press on it or just touch it? There are switches that can be activated with a light touch or by proximity.
Perception
Does the person have perceptual difficulties? Do they need feedback from the switch (auditory, tactile, visual)? Most switches provide tactile and auditory feedback.
Device
What type of device does the person want to use the switch with? Some switches are designed to work with a specific item - such as a Bluetooth switch for an iPad.
Big Red switch is activated by pressing the 5" top of the switch and requires 5.5 oz. pressure to activate. It provides auditory and tactile feedback.