The
other day I was at the print shop trying to
decide between color
printing and ordinary digital
printing for a batch of documents I needed
to send out for work. I often find in the course
of a day there are too many decisions to be
made.
There
is for example, color printing and black and
white. You can buy an ordinary brochure or consider
a custom trifold one to enhance your message
or corporate image. Much the same may be said
of selecting accessories for your wheelchair.
When it comes to power controllers, there are
pros and cons.
A
powered wheelchair controller is useful as the
command center for the wheelchair. This places
a module rather than you in control of movement
and function. Modular Vs. Integral Controllers
Power controllers that are integral often contain
all the necessary components you need to operate
your wheelchair.
If
this is too fancy you can opt for a modular
controller designed with separate functions
for controlling various elements of movement.
Less expensive models and choices often include
use of modular controllers but may include use
of a standardized integral controller. An integral
controller is beneficial because it is often
less expensive and easy to operate.
However,
it is also generally less adaptable and much
larger than a modular controller. If you decide
on a modular unit you'll have to be certain
it will integrate with the circuitry already
programmed into the wheelchair, presenting possible
compatibility issues. This is not always the
case with an integral controller.
A
modular system also allows addition of some
other neat and useful accessories and driving
controls including a chin control or touch pad.
Ultimately you will have to decide on your needs
and the amount of flexibility you need when
operating your wheelchair. The modular wheelchair
is definitely advantageous, albeit a lot more
expensive, for someone who needs greater flexibility
when controlling their wheelchair.
For someone needing something more standard,
an integral unit will often do nicely.
