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A switch, in its simplest definition, is an electromechanical device that is used to activate or deactivate
an electrical signal. By opening or closing a contact, a switch can provide a single electrical connection to provide transmission of a single impulse.
There are literally hundreds of thousands of different kinds of switches available, from the tiniest mechanical switches and electronic equipment, all the way up to enormous switches used in mess of equipment and machinery. In addition there are also many different types of switches, such as mechanical, infrared, electromagnetic, hydraulic, temperature, touch sensitive, proximity; just to name a few.
In the field of assistive technology, switches have developed according to the needs of individuals with various types of disabilities.
It is clear to see that the range of switches we see in the AT field have been ingeniously designed to take advantage of the movements and physical control that people have, despite their disabilities.
There are many uniquely designed switches which can be ingeniously used to enable a severely disabled person to do things which would not be possible without the switch interface and appropriate application.
A switch interface bridges the gap between the person with a disability
and the equipment or the function to be performed.
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