The options in computer hardware are constantly evolving and being adapted to meet the specific needs of individuals with disabilities. The main categories of hardware revolve around adaptive input and adaptive output.

Adaptive input can involve alternatively configured keyboards or variations on standard mice. Keyboards can often be easily modified, for example, by creating larger or smaller keys, or altering the location of particular keys (for example, the Dvorak layout or a simple ABC layout) (12). Onscreen keyboards can allow control of a keyboard via a mouse, which is good for individuals with less finger dexterity, or via another input device for those without control of their hands. Alternative mice come in an extreme variety because of the variance between individuals in what parts of their bodies they can move. Mouth sticks, joy sticks, track balls, “sip and puff” mice that work through breath, and mice controlled by head movements are only some of the examples (12). One interesting area of alternative input devices is eye tracking technology, which allows people with extremely limited mobility to operate computers. For more information, click here for more information about eye tracking.

There are also a variety of output devices, depending on disability - generally broken down by vision disabilities and hearing disabilities. For those with low or no vision, devices such as refreshable Braille displays offer a non-vocal (and therefore less distracting to others) way to read the screen. These displays are also better for fine tuning of work than a spoken voice (13). Screen magnifiers and other aids also exist for people who have some visual problems but still retain some sight. Of course, there are also screen readers that allow blind users to hear text read aloud as well. For those with hearing disabilities, sounds can be captioned or replaced with visual notices (for example, flashing windows instead of making a noise when something needs attention)

Click here for a demo of intellikeys

assistive communication device	braille keyboard with enlarged letters
braille mouse	"sip-n-puff" mouse by integra
enlarged keyboard	joystick
alternatively configured keyboard for people who use mouse sticks	braille refreshable display
modifiable keyboard	switch click-- an alternative mouse

(12) “Types of Assistive Technology Products.” 01 Jun. 2005. Microsoft. 16 Sept. 2005 < http://www.microsoft.com/enable/at/types.aspx>.
(13) Burgstahler, Sheryl. “Working Together: People with Disabilities and Computer Technology.” DO-IT 2002.