A touchpad allows the cursor on a computer screen to be moved by gliding a finger over the surface of a specialised pad. To ‘click’, the surface of the pad is gently tapped. The surface of a touchpad is very sensitive to minimize the movement and pressure required. The touchpad reduces the physical requirements by the forearms, wrists and fingers and is ideal for people with limited movement or strength in these areas.
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Workplace solutions and adjustments
People who are unable to hold a device such as a standard mouse or who have very limited mobility can use touchpads to enable them to use a computer independently. Users are required to have an ability to move just one or two fingers, as may be the case when someone has motor neurone disease or a high level spinal injury. Touchpads are also suitable for people who have limited or weak hand function.
References
Aidis 2006, Touch Pad, Aidis Trust, London, viewed 17 March 2011, http://www.aidis.org/support/touch_pad.php.
Hudson, R. 2005, Disabilities and Technologies, Sydney, viewed 17 March 2011, http://www.usability.com.au/resources/statistics.cfm.