’Lightning Fast’ Switch Increases
Accuracy, Reduces Fatigue

Wireless switch with
Bluetooth technology
responds to the faintest
muscle movement

by Alyssa Quintero

As technology evolves, new adaptations for hands-free computer access tools help people with muscle diseases communicate, stay online and even drive a wheelchair — all with the slight movement of one working muscle.

More than a switch

Although single-switch scanning is considered a slow method for computer access, David Jayne is scanning faster and more accurately with the Impulse switch, which responds to slight muscle movements in his forehead.

For longtime ALS survivors David Jayne and Jack Hurst, AbleNet’s new Impulse computer-access device keeps them online and connected to the world.

Manufactured by Neural Signals for AbleNet, the Impulse switch ($2,100) is wireless and powered by Bluetooth technology. It uses an electrode to measure electromyography (EMG) impulses through small muscle contractions, providing a way to control computers and speech-generating devices with very small movements.

Used in conjunction with a Windows-based computer, Impulse detects and wirelessly transmits the EMG signal to a Bluetooth receiver. Specialized Impulse software then processes the muscle signal as a switch “click,” which activates the communication software, such as EZ Keys (manufactured by Words+; retail price $1,395), for complete computer control.

The switch can be used for 24 hours between charges, and the adjustable switch sensitivity makes it effective for