Definition: assistive technology

(1) Technologies that support automobile drivers. See automotive safety systems.

(2) Hardware and software that help people who are physically impaired. Often called "accessibility options" when referring to using the computer, the field of assistive technology is quite vast and even includes ramp and doorway construction for wheelchair support.

Enhancements for using the computer include alternative keyboard and mouse devices, replacing beeps with light signals for the deaf, screen magnifiers and text enlargers, as well as systems that form Braille letters from on-screen text. See screen reader, voice recognition, TDD/TTY and accessibility.

A Specialized Keyboard

This IntelliKeys keyboard provides a 24x24 cell matrix that can be custom programmed with oversized keys for children with disabilities. (Image courtesy of AbleNet, Inc.)