Introduction
PucK.js is a programmable Bluetooth sensor and switch. You can customise Puck.js with JavaScript using a Web Browser. Puck.js comes with Bluetooth low energy, accelerometer, gyro, 3 axis compass, temperature sensor, IR and NFC.
The Puck.js is affordable, and power-efficient – allowing it to run for a long time on a coin cell battery (up to a year). It has a diameter of 33mm and a height of 15mm. It can be paired to Android, iOS and windows. Puch.js is one of a number of microcontroller Espruino boards.
Although Java Script may be hard for the beginner or non-programmer. There are a large number of tutorials on the Espruino website which contain a range of hardware projects that can be created with Espruino-based microcontrollers.
One very useful feature of this product is that it can be set up as a Bluetooth keyboard and emulate a keyboard press including multimedia keys. So this can be used as part of an assistive technology solution to support someone with a disability when used with other assistive technology software. The video below shows a number of examples of what can be done.
The good: The puck.js is affordable at £30, wireless and power efficient.
The not so good: Requires knowledge of JavaScript programming to set up the puck.js
The verdict: The Puck.js can emulate a Bluetooth keyboard and this opens it up to use as part of many assistive technology solutions to support someone with a disability.