Skip to main content
Computer Angels Self-built alternative communication

Writing and scanning

ScanBoard

System-wide on-screen scanning keyboard

Write in any program with one or two switches: email, browser, documents, chat.

  • Single switch
  • Two switches
  • Voice
  • Keyboard
Free free software, no charge
Available
Request information Technical specifications

Description

ScanBoard is an on-screen keyboard that sits on top of any application and sends real keyboard events to the operating system. That means it works everywhere: in the mail client, the browser, the text editor, the chat window, without the target program needing to know anything about the aid.

The layout can be arranged by frequency of use: the most common letters of the language take the positions reachable with the fewest scan steps, appreciably reducing the number of activations needed. It includes features often overlooked but decisive in daily use: latching modifier keys, scanning pointer control, shortcuts to the applications used most.

With PredictIT active, word prediction appears directly in the top row of the keyboard.

Who it is for

People who cannot use a physical keyboard but have at least one repeatable voluntary movement.

Features

Works in every program

Sends real keyboard events to the operating system.

Frequency layout

Common letters reachable in fewer steps.

Scanning pointer

Move and click the mouse with the same switches.

Latching modifiers

Ctrl, Alt and Shift stay active until the next key.

Built-in prediction

A row of suggestions when PredictIT is installed.

Multiple profiles

Different settings for different times of day.

Technical specifications

Scanning

ModesAutomatic, step, inverse, row-column, group
Step time0.2-6 s
Rejection time0-2 s, against involuntary activations
Automatic restartsConfigurable, from 1 to unlimited

Inputs

Switches1 or 2, via jack with adapter, USB-HID or Bluetooth
AlternativesKeyboard key, mouse button, voice command

Output

CompatibilityAny application: system keyboard events
Mouse controlSector or directional movement, all clicks

Requirements

SystemWindows 10+, Linux X11 or Wayland with accessibility portal

Supported access methods

How the person operates the aid. If the method you need is not listed, write to us: it is often just a matter of an adaptation.

Single switchUse with one switch and automatic scanning. Two switchesOne switch moves the scan on, the other confirms. VoiceVoice commands or non-verbal vocalisations. KeyboardUse with a standard or expanded keyboard.

Documentation and files

Request information

Tell us what you need and where the aid would be used: we reply with a concrete proposal, and if this is not the right product we say so.

The catalogue handles no payments: this is an enquiry, not an order.

Enquiry aboutScanBoard

This is where we reply.

Only if you would rather be called back.

Tell us about the situation: which movements are possible, in what setting (home, school, work), with what goal.

Fields marked * are required.

Often used together

Software + hardware kit

Sguardo

Eye pointing with low-cost hardware

An infrared bar and eye-tracking software: the pointer follows the gaze, selection happens by dwell or with a switch.

€ 320 Made to order
Hardware

Tap Uno

Pressure switch with adjustable activation force

The starting switch for almost every path: wide surface, perceptible click, force adjustable from 40 to 250 grams.

€ 45 Available
Software

PredictIT

Word and sentence prediction

Roughly halves the activations needed to write, learning the vocabulary of the person using it.

Free Available