Accessible Switch Counter
Count using compatible switch inputs.
Tap, click or press Space to keep count.
Tap anywhere inside or press Space
How the Accessible Switch Counter Works
The Accessible Switch Counter counts presses from compatible assistive switches, such as button switches, sip-and-puff switches and head switches, which most switch interfaces send to the computer as key presses.
- Connect the switch interface: Plug the switch interface into a USB port or pair it by Bluetooth.
- Map the key: Press the switch once so the counter learns its key, such as Space or Enter.
- Press to count: Each switch press adds 1.
- Adjust timing: Set an ignore-repeat window and a minimum press time to filter accidental presses.
Accessible Switch Counter Formula
The Accessible Switch Counter counts a press when the press lasts at least the acceptance time and arrives after the ignore-repeat window.
- Press duration
- Time the switch stays pressed
- Acceptance
- Minimum press time, such as 100 ms
- Ignore repeat
- Time after a counted press when new presses are ignored
Example: Acceptance = 150 ms and ignore repeat = 500 ms. A 200 ms press at 1,000 ms counts. A press at 1,300 ms is ignored. A 120 ms press at 2,000 ms is too short and is ignored.
Accessible Switch Counter Reference Table
The Accessible Switch Counter conversion table lists common assistive switch types and starting settings.
| Switch type | Activated by | Typical acceptance (ms) | Typical ignore repeat (ms) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Button switch | Hand, foot or elbow press | 50 to 150 | 300 to 500 |
| Head switch | Head movement against a pad | 100 to 200 | 500 to 800 |
| Sip-and-puff | Breath into a tube | 100 to 300 | 500 to 1,000 |
| Proximity switch | Movement near a sensor | 150 to 300 | 500 to 1,000 |
| Eye-blink switch | Deliberate long blink | 300 to 600 | 800 to 1,500 |
About the Accessible Switch Counter
An Accessible Switch Counter is a counter designed for assistive switch input, so people who cannot use a touchscreen count with a single switch.
Switch access is a standard assistive technology for people with limited movement. iOS Switch Control and Android Switch Access use the same timing settings, acceptance time and ignore repeat, which the counter offers.
Ways to Use the Accessible Switch Counter
There are 5 main uses of the Accessible Switch Counter, including inclusive classrooms and therapy sessions.
- Inclusive classrooms: Students with limited movement take part in counting tasks.
- Therapy sessions: Occupational therapists count switch presses for motor goals.
- Cause-and-effect learning: Children see each press change a number.
- Independent tallies: Users count their own habits or prayers.
- Games: Players join counting games with a single switch.
Tool Details
- Category
- Tally & Calculation
- Controls
- Taps and keys
- Input Support
- Touch, Pen, Mouse, Keys
- Offline Ready
- On your device