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What is
an ECU?
In order to operate most everyday household
appliances -- including light switches, lamps,
radios, televisions, fans, stereo systems, kitchen
appliances, thermostats and air conditioners
-- an individual must be mobile and have fine
motor skills. For individuals with disabilities
who may have difficulty in one or both of these
areas, environmental and remote control units
(ECUs) make everyday living easier and more
independent.
ECUs are devices or software that allow spontaneous
and programmed control over electrical appliances
and other items. They emit a remote signal which
is sent to a receiver that is either attached
to or incorporated into the appliance being
activated. Common control signals include: infrared,
radio, ultrasound, and AC power line carrier
signals. The signals transmit information which
allow a person with a disability to independently
control his/her environment.
ECUs
Some ECUs are designed for simple solutions,
such as turning a light or appliance on and
off. Others can be attached to a wide variety
of switches, such as a button or toggle switch.
By pressing a switch, the user can operate many
different appliances. Less expensive ECUs simply
turn items like lights and fans on and off.
Others enable the user to change channels on
a TV, radio or stereo.
Plug 'n
Power Units
Just going to your local hardware or electronics
store, you can find simple and relatively inexpensive
remote controls called 'plug 'n power' units.
These can be used to turn on and off ceiling
lights, lamps, radios, hair dryers, air conditioners,
etc. Plug 'n power units are remote controls
operated by pushing a small button or series
of small buttons. Users can operate lights and
appliances from their bed, chair, wheelchair,
or other position, thereby reducing or eliminating
the need for mobility.
Personal
Computer-Based ECUs
More complex ECUs may involve the use of a personal
computer and related software to manage the
operation of a wide variety of electrical systems,
including televisions and VCRs, kitchen appliances,
stereo systems, heating and cooling systems,
lights, automatic beds and doors, telephones
and alarm systems.
Voice-Activated
ECUs
For individuals who do not have the gross motor
coordination to use a switch or the fine motor
coordination to operate plug 'n power units,
there are ECUs available which can be activated
by a person's voice. Voice-activated ECUs enable
a user to control a full range of electrical
household items simply by giving verbal commands.
Do you have a specific question
or comment about Assistive Technology?
Post
it here. Thank you.
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