ATLA

A form of assistive technology that provides an alternate means to control appliances or tools in the environment is known as Electronic Aids to Daily Living (EADL) or Environmental Control Unit (ECU). These devices can range from simple to complex. Complex systems provide individuals with the ability to control all aspects of their environment like lights, fans, doors and latches, HVAC systems, entertainment and audio-visual components, and more. Simple devices usually just control one thing like a TV through infrared (IR), electric lights through X-10 or a door opener through radio frequency (RF).

Another form of environmental control system is a switching device that allows a disabled person to control many aspects of his or her home environment from a single unit, and the prescription of one may allow people with severe physical disabilities to continue to be independent and to live at home.

The most common equipment that can be controlled is a door intercom, telephone, lighting, and domestic appliances such as television, radio, and video recorder. The system can be operated in various ways, from simple hand or foot switches to more complex chin controls, suck- puff controls, and even controls governed by eye movements. Environmental controls can have a major impact on the lives of severely disabled people, not only by enhancing their independence but also by reducing the stress and workload on their careers.