Pretorian Ultimate Switchbox USB Switch Interface

The Pretorian Ultimate Switchbox USB Switch Interface enables up to six wired assistive switches to control keyboard, mouse and gamepad functions on a compatible computer or device. With four selectable Levels and more than 100 available functions, it provides a highly adaptable access method for education, communication, work, gaming and leisure activities.

Each of the six switch sockets can be assigned a different function on every Level, providing up to 24 programmed switch positions. This allows separate arrangements to be created for different activities, software or users without repeatedly disconnecting switches or reconfiguring the interface.

A seventh 3.5mm socket can be connected to a switch dedicated to changing Level, allowing the user to move between arrangements independently. Levels can also be changed using the button on the front of the Ultimate Switchbox.

The interface arrives with useful default settings that may be suitable without further configuration. When changes are required, Learn Mode allows functions to be assigned without installing programming software. Custom settings are saved in the internal memory and recalled automatically when the Ultimate Switchbox is reconnected or moved between compatible devices.

Key Features

• Highly programmable USB interface for wired assistive switches
• Six standard 3.5mm switch-input sockets
• Four selectable Levels, each offering a separate function for every switch socket
• Provides up to 24 programmed switch positions across the four Levels
• More than 100 available keyboard, mouse and gamepad functions
• Allows any keyboard keystroke to be assigned to a switch
• Supports modifier keys including Shift, Control and Alt
• Provides left click, right click, double-click and drag mouse functions
• Offers up, down, left and right cursor movement at three selectable speeds
• Includes four gamepad-button settings
• Most functions can be configured to latch
• Four programmable macros, each containing a sequence of up to four keystrokes
• Macros can be assigned to sockets on more than one Level
• Seventh 3.5mm socket allows a separate switch to change Level
• Integral button provides an alternative way to change Level
• Choice of Simple or Advanced configuration
• Useful default settings may allow immediate use without configuration
• Learn Mode allows functions to be changed without installing programming software
• Internal memory retains customised settings between devices and sessions
• USB plug-and-play connection with no separate driver software required

SEN and Access Benefits

• Allows computer functions to be controlled through one or more reliable switch movements
• Provides an alternative for people who cannot use a conventional keyboard, mouse or game controller effectively
• Functions can be matched to each user’s movement, access method and preferred switch position
• Four Levels allow different switch arrangements to be prepared for separate activities or software
• A dedicated Level switch may allow the user to move between arrangements without assistance
• Macros reduce the number of activations needed to enter frequently used key sequences
• Modifier keys allow more complex keyboard commands to be completed through accessible switches
• Latching functions remove the need to hold a switch continuously for compatible commands
• Double-click performs two rapid clicks from one switch activation
• Drag removes the need to maintain pressure while moving an on-screen item
• Selectable cursor speeds can balance accurate positioning with efficient movement
• Can provide access to software that was not originally designed for assistive-switch use
• Stored settings provide a consistent arrangement between sessions and compatible devices
• May support greater independence in communication, learning, work, gaming and leisure activities

Available Functions

How the Four Levels Work

• Each Level stores an individual function for all six switch sockets.
• Changing Level makes a different group of six functions available.
• The Level can be changed using the integral button or a separate switch connected to the seventh socket.
• Custom settings are stored internally and recalled automatically when the interface is reconnected.

What Can It Be Used For?

• Alternative keyboard and mouse access
• Educational and communication software
• Compatible AAC software and devices
• Accessible PC gaming and gamepad functions
• Controlling presentations, media and creative software
• Entering frequently used commands or short key sequences
• Accessing software that does not include dedicated assistive-switch controls
• Computer, tablet or phone access where the device supports the required USB input functions

Product Details

• Product type: Programmable USB assistive-switch interface
• Programmable switch inputs: 6 x 3.5mm sockets
• Level-selection input: 1 x 3.5mm socket
• Selectable Levels: 4
• Programmed switch positions: Up to 24 across all four Levels
• Available settings: More than 100
• Configuration modes: Simple and Advanced
• Macros: 4
• Maximum macro length: 4 keystrokes
• Cursor directions: Up, down, left and right
• Cursor speeds: 3
• Gamepad-button settings: 4
• Connection: Wired USB
• Settings memory: Yes
• Driver software required: No
• Assistive switches included: No

Please note: Compatible wired assistive switches are required and are available separately. Tablet and phone compatibility depends on the device supporting the required USB keyboard, mouse or gamepad input. A suitable USB adaptor may be required and is not included. Software and device compatibility should be checked before ordering.

Windows 11 configuration: Pretorian advises against using WordPad during Learn Mode because recent versions may miss characters. An alternative text-entry application, such as Microsoft Word using the Courier font, should be used when programming the interface.