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This report was written using the Integra Mouse.

1.0 Introduction

The purpose of the exercise was to ascertain whether or not the INTEGRA mouse was suitable for use by a disabled person in everyday computer operations, as a substitute for the normal mouse, and also to explore the range of options available to the disabled person using the INTEGRA.

The trial was carried out between the 20th and 25th of March 2009 at Leuchie House, North Berwick.

The only assistance given to the Guest was in setting up the INTEGRA, and switching on the computer.

2.0 Equipment Details

A joystick that is controlled by your mouth. Requires only 10 grams of lip
pressure for control. Clicking control by the sip/puff method. All mouse
functions available.
Accessibility: Provides hands free access to mouse functions
Technical Info: No drivers or additional software required, USB connection

3.0 Guest Details

The Guest was an adult male, unable to use either hand to operate the conventional mouse, but able to see adequately, move his head sufficiently in order to control the delicate orientation of the INTEGRA, and was also able to inhale and exhale as required allowing him to operate the INTEGRA.

4.0 Findings

After an initial practice period, the Guest was finally able to use the INTEGRA to operate the computer exactly as if he was using a normal handheld mouse. The Guest was soon able to access, completely unaided, any of the various different programmes available on the computer. In fact, it would appear that the only limit to his unrestricted use of a computer was his inability, being almost completely computer illiterate, to fully understand the detailed, and intricate, workings of a computer!

5.0 Conclusions

There is absolutely no doubt that the INTEGRA is an excellent piece of equipment, essential for anyone who wishes to use a computer, but is unable to use a conventional mouse.

However, it would only be of use to disabled people who have full control over their mouth and head movements.

Introducing a note of levity into this brief report, it could be said that if the INTEGRA system was to be rated on a scale of 1 to 10, it would probably be a 15.


6.0 Summary

Any disabled person, unable to us hands but with full neck and mouth control, wishing to operate a computer would, with very little practice, be able to do so, provided an INTEGRA suck and blow system was available.

By Duncan Campell