Assistive Technology

There are literally hundreds of assistive technology products. These products have been designed to collectively meet the needs of individuals across a wide-range of disabilities—blindness, learning difficulties, etc. as well as temporary or permanent problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis. Typically these products are built to run on specific computer operating systems (e.g. Windows XP) and/or add features to a computer application (e.g. Microsoft Word). In short, assistive technology allows an individual with a disability or functional limitation to independently use his/her personal computer—even if they can’t see the monitor, type on the keyboard or move/click the mouse.

Hearing

People who have hearing impairments may be able to hear some sound, but may not be able to distinguish words. Other people may not be able to hear sound at all. For people with hearing impairments, computer prompts such as beeps and spoken messages can be problematic. People with hearing impairments need to get visual signals for all information otherwise conveyed by sound.

Mobility

Mobility impairments can be caused by a wide range of illnesses and accidents such as arthritis, stroke, cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and repetitive stress injury, amoung other causes. These make using standard keyboards, mouse devices, and software programs difficult. The devices contained in our mobility category offer enabling solutions for these sorts of issues.

Communication

Enabling Communication Devices facilitate and empower individuals with communication impairments to more readily transfer concepts and emotions to an intended person or group. These devices assist people of all ages in communicating. Product range includes speech generating aids, prerecorded message devices, software applications to help people develop fine control of their voices, or even hardware aimed at helping someone with choice making.

Learning

Education is a lifelong series of learning opportunities – all of which serve to improve people's understanding of their world while empowering them to live better lives. TechReady offers a wide assortment of products targeted at improving learning for people of all ages and all abilities.

Keyboards and Mice

TechReady offers a wide variety of Keyboards and Mice. These products aim at maximising productivity. The ergonomic designs are designed specifically to minimise user-fatigue and discomfort which sometimes occurs with the use of standard configurations. TechReady also offers other specialised products such as keyboards for one-handed typists, large print or large button keyboards for those with mobility or vision issues, as well as large trackball mice.

Environmental Control

Environmental Control technology is any system or design that permits remote control of electronic devices in an environment. For example, an individual can remotely and independently turn lights off or on, answer or initiate phone calls, or simply unlock a door. Environmental Control devices empower individuals to more easily function independently and safely.

Vision

From low-vision to blindness, there are a broad range of visual impairments. We carry a variety of solutions that answer the needs of those challenged by visual impairment. Screen magnification systems, screen readers, video magnifiers, Braille devices, talking appliances, translation software, and colour recognition devices are but a few of the solutions we bring to you. For help with choosing a magnifier, please download our Magnifier Catalogue.

Switches

A switch is an input device used to control assistive devices and computers. There are a variety of types of switches. Switches make activities easier and are ideal for people who struggle with motor control issues. Switches can help with sequential message communication, environmental control, and computer functions. There are many different types of switches including sensitive, large button, small button, sip/puff, and foot switches. Some switches can be plugged directly into the computer but most are used in conjunction with a switch interface.

Workstations & Ergonomic Chairs

The TechReady Workstation Programme is designed to meet the growing need for “accessible” environments. These all-access workstations include adjustable-height furniture and accessories which adapt according to your needs.

Training/Assessment

Matching the most suitable enabling technology with the end user is only the first step in helping someone maximise their potential. The TechReady team believe technology is a tool which can provide an outcome. But simply having tools doesn't mean someone knows how to put them to use. Our trainers specialise in empowering people to use their technology tools with efficiency, fun and a sense of accomplishment.