Madenta's Tracker:
A Totally Hands-Free Mouse
Susan Gillern Pompa
LINC has added to its inventory of adaptive equipment a most amazing new computer
access tool to empower people with disabilities. Tracker, from Madenta Communications,
<http://www.madenta.com> gives full mouse control to people not able to use
a standard desktop mouse or Trackball. The infrared head tracking system is unlike
other alternative pointing devices operated by head movement in that it does not
require the user to wear a headset. The user just places a small reusable dot on
his/her forehead. When the user moves his head, the cursor moves on the screen.
Tracker replaces the standard desktop mouse and allows the computer user to perform
functions totally hands-free. Tracker allows for precise mouse tasks in CAD applications
to the computer. And, if the task calls for hands-free text entry, use Tracker with
Madenta's Screendoors II, an onscreen keyboard with word prediction. Tracker also
gives direct mouse control on voice dictation programs like Dragon Dictate, Kurzweil,
and Power Secretary.
Three options are available to perform mouse clicks: First, the user can use a dwell
selection program like Magic Cursor which allows mouse-button functions with simple
head gestures. Second, for power users, Madenta offers a discrete wireless sip/puff
switch. It allows the user to do single-clicks, double-clicks and point-and-drag.
It also offers multilevel switching for games and other programs. The last option
is single switch. If the computer user can press a switch, Tracker can be easily
connected to any type of single switch or wireless switch link.
Tracker was purchased under a grant from the USF&G Foundation to purchase adaptive
equipment. Tracker can be used with IBM compatible computers, Macintosh computers
and even the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It is fully portable and can easily
be mounted on both desktop and laptop computers.
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Connections Editor: Susan Gillern Pompa
Connections is a publication for members of Learning Independence Through Computers.
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