There are currently two types of switch devices on the market – one type that allows access to specifically designed apps, and another type that allows a more comprehensive access method to the iPad. However, as of yet, this second option is limited and does not allow true universal access to your iDevice, and will discussed in more detail below.
To look at the switch connectors designed to control specific apps, there are currently four main devices. These will not allow you to browse to the app you require and then open it, but will allow control to the app once opened. Most apps use either ~1 and ~3 or space and enter to control functions within the app.
The first is the RJ Cooper Bluetooth Super Switch is a switch in itself, or you can connect an external switch to it, if the individual requires an alternative. It is charged through the USB port of a computer, and can be used with any app that is set to use an auto or step scan pattern, using ~1 and ~3. This is available from TherapyBox.
Next is the AirTurn, marketed as the SwitchBox in the UK and Ireland (also available from TherapyBox). This device requires you to use your own switches; two can be inserted, and again is recharged through the USB port. This is set to use ~1 and ~3 to control apps.
The Blue2 (AbleNet, available from QEDonline) again can function as a switch itself using the pads at the front of the device (two switches in this case) or external switches can be attached. This device is battery operated, and compatible with AbleNet’s apps, which use space and enter keystrokes.
The fourth option, the APPlicator (also know as Switch4Apps, available from TherapyBox, QEDonline and Inclusive) allows more flexibility in access. Up to 4 switches can be attached, and it will work with any application, providing that the settings are matched to the switch requirements for particular apps (~1, ~3, space and enter are the common settings). It also allows access to the inbuilt iPod music function as well as the camera shutter button on the iPad.
If you are looking to acquire a switch interface, Jane Farrall has a useful blog, detailing which devices are compatible with specific apps. http://www.janefarrall.com/html/resources/Switch%20Accessible%20Apps%20for%20iPad.pdf
The second type of switch interfaces, as mentioned above, allow more comprehensive access, to launch as well as control apps. This uses VoiceOver, the inbuilt screen reader for individuals with a visual impairment, using a “tab” like function to scan over options. For this to work, apps need to be compatible with VoiceOver, which depends on individual developers.
The Tecla Shield was one of the first access options that allowed access to the iPad as a whole – using the VoiceOver function. Scanning, using one or two switches, uses an automatic scan, the speed of which can be controlled by an additional piece of hardware. Holding the switch for differing lengths of time can change the function – i.e. select, reverse scan, escape, access keyboard etc. There is no battery built into the device, so either connection to a USB port or external battery is required. This is available to buy directly from www.komodoopenlab.com.
The Switch2Scan (available from TherapyBox, QEDonline and Inclusive) allows for the connection of up to four switches to scan and select apps, but as apps can have different control functions, it may be necessary to press a button on the box to change task, so may not allow for fully independent use.
Although it looks similar to the Switch2Scan, the SimplyWorks interface uses a particular range of input devices (it-Switch and it-Keys keyboard) to control applications. Both of these devices are charged through USB.
Next, we have the Connect (previously known as the Keynote), a more integrated solution that serves as a protective case and external speaker as well as a switch interface. Both wired switches and wireless switches, such as the JellyBeamer, can be linked to the iPad through the Connect. It is available from both TherapyBox and Inclusive.
Also in development is the Tornado from Origin instruments and the iPad VO Controller from RJ Cooper.
