Tagged: dme, Switches, Technology
- This topic has 7 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 2 years, 3 months ago by
DeAnn R.
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December 3, 2020 at 9:15 am #25451
I’m relatively new to the world of switches. My new wheelchair has the power toggle in the most inconvenient place so the wheelchair guy plugged in a switch. Granted it at least makes it functional, but I’m not crazy about it because it’s ultra sensitive and kind of large. I know nothing about switches. Are there options? Where do I look? What do I look for? I’d also love to hear what other uses switches have. Like could they be used to turn on a laptop? I’m struggling with the power button being on the top left.
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December 3, 2020 at 11:04 am #25454
Hi DeeAnn,
Yes, the options with switches are pretty much limitless. Is there any chance you could tell me which model he gave you, so I could get a better idea of what you consider too sensitive? That way I can make suggestions (or make you a switch).
As for the question about the laptop…. You should post that to the ATMakers group on FB. Lmk if you would like a link.
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December 3, 2020 at 3:27 pm #25456
Hi DeeAnn,
Switches seem to be a necessary part of mobility living. For me, I have limited strength and limited range of motion. So, I need switches close to my joystick so I can reach them without moving my hand. I have 2 physical switches on my chair (Quantum Edge-3). One switch turns my chair on and off as well as toggles through the four modes of the chair. The second switch is unique in that through that one button I am able to control my phone, my hand warmer, and the headlights and taillights on my chair.
Yes, a switch can be used to control a laptop. For Apple products (iPhone, iPad, MacBook Pro) there is a feature Calle Switch Control. A switch (button) on your wheelchair can be attached to a Bluetooth controller that is paired with your laptop. With Switch Control enabled, you can do nearly anything on a laptop by simply pressing the button.
There are really endless types of buttons available. Here’s a link to an Australian website that gives a good overview of what’s out there: http://www.tecsol.com.au/SwitchMicrolight.htm
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December 3, 2020 at 5:46 pm #25458
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OVDxGMMS6I6ugoYIo9ww1fZOFWO9_oS2/view?usp=sharing
Here’s a list of switches and the amount of force required to activate each one. You may want to replace your ultra-sensitive switch for one that requires more force. Your wheelchair rep or therapist should have a few for you to try.
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December 4, 2020 at 9:42 am #25461
Thanks for the input everyone. I’ll look into different options.
Yvette, I don’t see anything that indicates what switch it is. I’ve tried attaching a photo if that helps.
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December 4, 2020 at 7:05 pm #25470
DeAnn, that is the Micro Light Switch, one of the most sensitive switches out there. I love those things!
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December 9, 2020 at 11:34 am #25509
Deann, yes, that is a Microlight switch, which is definitely a huge favorite for those who WANT sensitive. What size would you like it to be? Do you know where you will want it mounted?
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December 9, 2020 at 1:38 pm #25511
Robert I can certainly see where it would be useful, just not how I have it set up. Yvette, I guess I don’t know how small they come, maybe like nickel size? I would still probably mount it on the joystick. Except I’d put it on the right hand side as opposed to the left where the power toggle is. Open to suggestions.
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December 10, 2020 at 12:06 pm #25528
Deann, would you be able to message me on FB, or email, since I can’t seem to get this to let me know when others comment?
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