What is alternative access?
Alternative access technology offers people who have physical difficulties different ways to control a computer.
There are many different types of alternative access, all of which can be used with a Grid Pad.
Eye gaze options
Eye tracking systems use infrared technology to track your pupils and allow you to navigate and control your computer using your eyes. We offer a variety of eye-gaze cameras to help every individual find the most effective solution.
Switch options
Switches are available in many shapes and forms, from simple buttons to complex devices. There are many ways to activate a switch, from tapping with a hand or finger, to using facial expressions or muscle movements.
Pointer options
You may be familiar with a traditional computer mouse or track pad – pointing devices are very similar. They come in a range of shapes and sizes including dead trackers, motion trackers, joysticks and roller ball mice.
Touch options
Touch access allows you to interact with your device by using a touch screen. Simply touch cells to activate them. There are lots of settings available to configure your setup and we offer bespoke keyguards to help with precision.
Meet alternative access users
Claire
Claire is a 50-year-old eye gaze user, who lives with her husband Les in Essex, UK. Claire has cerebral palsy which affects her ability to communicate verbally.
Joe
Joe communicates using Grid Pad 10s with touch access. He has Dystonic Athetoid Cerebral Palsy which affects his movement and communication.
Kellie
Kellie is a 22-year-old eye gaze user. She has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and lives in Northern Ireland with her parents.