TIP#1: Learn about the manufacturer
Start your decision-making process by doing your homework.Your ECU dealer should help you answer the following questions about various ECU manufacturers:
-
Do they specialize in developing ECU units?
-
Have they developed innovative products or do they "follow the market" by copying other designs?
-
How many improvements have they made to their original designs?
You can learn about the system's manufacturer by carefully reading the literature it provides. But you may also want to talk to someone who has seen the evolution of ECUs, such as your occupational therapist. Getting to know the company behind each system can help you avoid purchasing an inappropriate ECU.
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#2: Find out how you will actually control the ECU
The more options you have--switch, voice, and/or both--the more independence you can gain. Look for the ability to customize or combine the control (input) devices to meet your needs. While a voice-activated system can give the most independence, one's voice can become weak by the end of the day, so an ECU that can be controlled by both voice and switch may be very beneficial.
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP3#: Find out if the ECU is dependent on other equipment
If you are considering an ECU that is operated by computer, be aware that if the computer "crashes" (stops working), your ECU will "crash", too. To protect yourself from this, look for a "stand-alone" ECU, one that functions independently from your computer.
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#4: Examine the ECU's flexibility
Can the system be modified to meet your needs? Suppose you have purchased an ECU unit and you have a new cable television system installed. Can control of the cable TV be added as a function right from your own home? Or do you have to send the unit back to the manufacturer, with all the costs and inconvenience involved in being without your unit?
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#5: Consider remote control capabilities
If you choose a system with remote control capabilities, you can move from room to room and operate the system from anywhere in your home--without moving the ECU. This vastly increases your mobility and your ability to function independently.
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#6: Find out exactly how the ECU is controlled
For example, when you want to turn on the television, can you simply say: "television", or do you need to chase through multiple layers of information? The most contemporary unit can be controlled without confusing visual or text interfaces, saving your time, frustration, and energy.
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#7: What's built in to the ECU you're considering?
Look for an ECU that has all functions built-in. One thing you should specifically ask about is whether or not the system conforms to industry-standard power line technology. If it conforms, you won't need lots of extension cords running throughout the house. Also look for the ability to control a computer. As mentioned in Tip #3, be sure your ECU controls the computer, not the opposite. On-line services, such as the Internet and the World Wide Web give you the ability to shop, bank, do research and communicate with people who share your interests--with incredible ease. For the best computer control, choose a system in which the mouse and keyboard are operated separately from the PC. This enables you to perform any mouse function without a lot of extra work, such as "warm booting" or "drawing in paintbrush".
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#8: Get all the installation details
Installing a unit for all of your personal needs doesn't have to be difficult. Focus your search on ECUs that offer "plug and play" capabilities. That means the ECU will be easy to install, and it will be easy to move, if necessary.
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#9: Make sure your ECU will keep working if there is a power failure
Be sure your ECU has a battery back up. If you ever lose power in the house, a battery back up will ensure that you can still make a telephone call in case of an emergency.
10 Tips For Choosing An ECU
TIP#10: Get all the facts on service and support
The key here is to find an ECU that is sold by knowledgeable, well-trained dealers. Asking some of the questions above will help you determine the quality of the various ECU dealers you may meet. Also ask the dealer for referrals. And find out each dealer's policies on service and support.
Back>>
