Vol. 2, No. 1, Jan/Feb 1994	Previous Issues Subscribe to AT Messenger Download PDF Viewer
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AT Product Spotlight...Intellikeys

Ed Salisbury, AT Specialist, DATI Kent County Assistive Technology Resource Center

What is Intellikeys? Intellikeys is an easy to use, fully functional alternate keyboard produced by the Intellitools company, formerly Unicorn Engineering. An alternative keyboard allows people who may not be able to use a standard keyboard to access the computer. Unlike most alternate keyboards, the Intellikeys requires no interface. A keyboard interface generally costs between $500 and $1000. Intellikeys is also compatible with Macintosh, Apple II and IBM and compatible computers. It plugs directly into the back of the computer, allowing the standard keyboard and the mouse to remain active. Intellikeys works with all programs and uses none of the computer's valuable memory.

To use the Intellikeys, one simply attaches the keyboard to the computer with the appropriate cable, then slides in one of the six overlays that accompany the keyboard. Intellikeys will automatically recognize any of these six overlays. The overlays are designed to accommodate those who may have visual impairments, limited fine motor control, spastic movements, or cognitive impairments. The overlays are:

• IBM - emulates the standard IBM keyboard providing larger key areas, bold characters, and contrasting colors.
• Apple - emulates the standard Apple or Macintosh keyboard with the same features as the IBM overlay.
• Basic Writing - organizes the letters of the alphabet into alphabetical order rather than the standard "qwerty" keyboard layout. This overlay also provides the user with numbers, punctuation, and keys that are used most often.
• Alphabet - includes keys with large bold letters in alphabetical order, punctuation, and a few of the necessary keys like return and space. This overlay is excellent for beginning writers who may be confused or distracted by the standard 101-key keyboard layout.
• Numbers - consists of a numeric keypad and a set of arrow keys that can be used for mouse or cursor movement. The arrows overlay consists of four large arrows that can take the place of the mouse, or act as arrow keys to move the cursor. A few necessary keys, like return and space are also included.
• Set-up - allows the user to customize the keyboard touch features to their particular needs. Among these touch features are hold-down time, repeat rate, and key latching.

If one finds that the six overlays are not sufficient for his or her needs, an inexpensive software program called Overlay Maker can be purchased that will allow the user to create custom overlays. Keys on the custom overlay may be as large or as small as the user desires. The color and shape of the key may also be controlled. A key can be used to represent a character, phrase, or complex function. For example, one key on the Intellikeys may type a person's name and full address to the computer when depressed. Another key may type a series of DOS commands to an IBM or compatible computer to automatically load or start a program. The overlay maker program is a valuable tool for a parent, teacher, or therapist to create a means of computer access that is only limited by his or her imagination. So far, Overlay Maker is only available for Macintosh and Apple II computers. Once an overlay is created with the Overlay Maker program, it may then be used on an IBM or compatible computer.

Other accessories for the Intellikeys include keyguards for each of the six standard overlays, and the Intellitalk talking word processor. The keyguards are designed to allow a person to rest their hand on the keyboard without depressing any keys. Keyguards also help those who may slide their hand across the keyboard or have difficulty targeting a specific key. The Intellitalk talking word processor is another inexpensive program that may be used with or without Intellikeys on the Macintosh computer. With the Intellikeys attached, the Macintosh can be made to operate as a communication aid for the home, classroom, or worksite.

The Intellikeys with cable and the six standard overlays can be purchased for less than $400.00. The Overlay Maker and Intellitalk programs bundled together are only $99.00 for Intellitools. The keyguards may be purchased separately for $50.00 each or as a set for $250.00. If you would like to borrow an Intellikeys or see a demonstration, call your local DATI Assistive Technology Resource Center.