Ace Centre

The main background software that is running on your smartphone, computer or tablet. Examples include Windows, iOS and Android. Each platform has a different set of accessibility options so needs consideration for disability access when purchasing a device. Also described as the "platform."

A rollerball or trackball is a type of mouse. Instead of moving the mouse around on a surface it stays in the same place and you roll a ball on top. This is particularly useful if you have limited space or an uneven surface. 

A system where the computer listens to you, understands what you say, and responds to commands. Typically this has been to transcribe text into a document from voice, but recently is used more widely through devices such as Alexa and Google Assistant.

An accessibility option on most devices that allows a user to press keyboard shortcut keys one after the other, instead of holding them down at the same time. For example CTRL and then C, rather than CTRL and C. 

A stylus is used to access touch screen devices and, occasionally, standard keyboards. They are most often held in the hand but sometimes people use styluses mounted to head gear, in the mouth, or using the foot. 

Switches are special buttons that provide access to modern tablets, smartphones and computers. A single button can perform similar functionality as a mouse, keyboard and touch screen. They accomplish this through an approach known as scanning. 

A system that allows a person to use a single button (or other switch) to select from multiple options, such as an entire keyboard layout. Each option is presented, one a time, usually in an endless loop. The person pressed their button when the option they want is highlighted.