Communications devices may be operated by pointing with a finger or head-mounted device, by using a keyboard, or by activating a switch. Communication devices may be text or picture based. The picture to the right is a jellybean switch and one example of how they can be mounted. Many individuals may use only one switch where others use many. The mode of communication can be auditory, using synthesized or digitized speech, or visual.
Synthesized speech generates word sounds with a computer sound card.
Digitized speech uses previously recorded speech that sounds more natural than synthesized speech, but offers a more limited vocabulary. This symbol indicates accessibility for all abilities.