Services

ATEC provides a number of services, including assessment, training, delivery, installation, technical support and consultation in many different areas of assistive technology. ATEC’s loan and reuse services provides equipment loan, sale, exchange, and equipment for rent. We also accept donated equipment and equipment for recycling.

Locations

ATEC provides services at our center, and elsewhere in the community, including home, work, school, or hospital. We can provide services almost anywhere throughout southern California.

About assistive technology equipment

One piece or a whole system of equipment can be modified or customized to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

Examples of assistive technology

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

AAC refers to ways other than speech that are used to send messages from one person to another. We all use augmentative communication techniques, such as facial expressions, gestures, and writing, as part of our daily lives. An AAC system can be as simple as a communication book or board, or as complex as a voice output communication aid. Various AAC devices are available, including electronic devices that speak in response to entries on a keyboard or other methods of input such as switches controlled by motions as simple as a push of a button, a puff of air, or the wrinkle of an eyebrow.

Alternative Computer Access

Alternative computer access helps people with a disability to use a computer effectively. Alternative Computer Access may be hardware, such as ergonomic keyboards, compact keyboards, enlarged keyboards, alternative mouse pointing devices, touch screens, joysticks, and single or dual switches. ACA may also be software such as screen reading and screen magnification programs, scanning and reading software, on-screen keyboards, word prediction, and computer-based graphic organizers.

Low Vision and Blindness Technologies

Low vision and blindness technologies are various hardware and software that can help people with a visual impairment work, use a computer and become more independent in their daily activities. In addition to screen reading and screen magnification programs for a computer, these technologies also include scanning and reading programs, closed circuit televisions or electronic magnifiers, global positioning systems for the blind, electronic Braille notetakers, refreshable Braille displays, and Braille embossers. This category also includes handheld magnifying glasses, audiobooks, talking watches, and large print books.

Electronic Aids to Daily Living (EADLs)

EADLs are used specifically to provide independent operation of appliances and electronic systems such as lights, televisions, stereo, VCR and DVD players, telephones, automatic door openers, and computers. Electronic Aids to Daily Living are also known as Environmental Control Units.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science of fitting products, tasks, and environments to people to decrease risk of injury/illness, enhance worker productivity, and improve quality of work life. Injuries affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves and discs can be reduced or eliminated with ergonomics. These injuries are frequently called musculoskeletal disorders, repetitive strain Injuries, and cumulative trauma disorders.

Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)

ALDs help people with hearing impairments function better in their day-to-day communication situations. An ALD can be used to overcome the negative effects of distance, background noise, or poor room acoustics. People with hearing aids or cochlear implants can use an ALD to enhance the quality of the sounds during conversation. People with less residual hearing will benefit from the use of an assistive listening device because the device will provide extra lip-reading clues.

Cognitive Impairment Aids

Cognitive disabilities impact an individual's ability to access, process, or remember information. Therefore, simple and electronic systems can assist in organizing information, serve as memory aids, or guide a person through a series of complicated steps.