Additional Detail for BAT Keyboard

An input system called "chording" is used to type on the BAT. Similar to Braille combinations of keys are pressed simultaneously. The BAT has seven keys, four for the fingers and three for the thumb. The center thumb key is used in combination with the four finger keys to type "space" and "a" through "z". The two outer thumb keys are used for special keys like "Alt", "Shift" and cursor movement. "Sticky" or "latching" keys are used to enter multiple key sequences, i.e. Alt F to open a file.

Users can do anything on the BAT keyboard that they would with an extended keyboard and more.

Key Features

• Ability to access the entire extended keyboard with only one hand
• Very little hand and arm movement required to type
• Ergonomically designed to position the hand in the most comfortable position
• Easy to use
• IBM Compatible - Just plug and play, easily connected through the keyboard port, no driver required
• Macintosh Compatible - connects through the ADB port and requires a small software driver (98k) be installed
• Daisy chainable - Both IBM and Macintosh compatible versions allow for an extended keyboard to be plugged directly into the BAT and used simultaneously allowing other users to access the computer
• Compact and light weight - The small size allows for easy placement in any position; i.e. desk top, lap, or mounted on a wheel chair
• Easy to learn - The learning curve has been shown to be shorter than that of the QWERTY (extended) keyboard. The chord design was based on research which considered a frequency of use character index, the biomechanical action required to chord, and the cognitive process required to remember the chord combination.
• Learning time - Within only a couple of hours of training users are familiar with the idea or feeling of what it is like to chord and have the letters, numbers and basic punctuation memorized. After only 20 to 30 hours users are up to speed, typing anywhere from 301 to 50 words per minute