Tapio FAQ
1: How do I plug Tapio into an iPad or iPhone?
Tapio is a native USB device. To connect to an iOS Device use an Interface Adapter from Apple, or a third party supplier. Apple brand adapters are available from Origin Instruments for the Lightning connector and USB type C (iPad Pro). Origin Instruments no longer offers the legacy 30-pin adapters, but they are available on the second hand market.
2: Will Tapio work with my iPhone?
Yes, Tapio works with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.
3: Will Tapio work with my iPad?
Yes, Tapio works with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.
4: Does Tapio require iOS Switch Control?
No, Tapio will work with any apps that use specific keyboard characters such as those popularized by RJ Cooper and Ablenet. Refer to your app documentation and the Tapio manual to see if Tapio supports the characters required by your app.
5: What version of the operating system has Switch Control?
Apple Switch Control is included in all versions of the operating system since iOS7.
6: Can I use Tapio on an iPad and a Macintosh computer?
Yes, Tapio is a native USB switch interface that with an Apple Adapter can be plugged into iOS Devices (iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch). When using it with a computer remove the Apple Adapter and plug Tapio directly into one of the computer's USB ports.
7: Can I use Tapio on a Windows or Linux computer?
Yes, just plug Tapio into an available USB port.
8: Can I use Tapio on an Android smartphone or tablet?
Yes, plug it into the smartphone or tablet using the appropriate adapter for your device. Starting with Android version 5.0 there is a built-in scanning capability called Switch Access for Android.
9: Can I use Tapio on an Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) Device?
Yes, as long as it has a USB port. However, most AAC Devices have a built-in switch interface that may meet your needs.
10: What does it mean if I get a message when plugging Tapio into an iOS Device?
iOS devices work with USB keyboards, but third-party support is unofficial. If you see a message claiming Tapio is not supported tap OK and dismiss the message. If you are using iOS Switch Control, you may use your Tapio to scan to and tap OK to dismiss this message.
11: How do I connect two adaptive switches?
Switch combinations such as Sip/Puff or Left/Right can directly connect using a single stereo cable. For connecting two switches with independent cables and connectors, use our dual-mono-to-stereo adapter. Not all adapters are alike. Please see the Stereo to Mono Adapter document for more information.
12: Tapio can emulate a keyboard, mouse and joystick. Which mode should I use?
When using an Apple iOS Device with Switch Control, we recommend using the Tapio 1 (Default) keyboard Mode.
When using a computer, we recommend Joystick Mode.
However, you must set Tapio for the events your application is expecting. For example, if the iOS app is looking for RJ Cooper events, then set Tapio for RJ Mode. If a computer application is looking for mouse buttons, then use Tapio's Mouse Mode.
13: Will Tapio wakeup my computer or iOS device?
Tapio can wake a host that supports USB remote wakeup. Tapio will wake most computers, but not iOS devices.
14: Why does the LED come on when plugging Tapio into a computer or iOS Device?
When first plugged in, the host goes through a process called USB enumeration, which means the host is trying to determine what has been plugged into its USB port. In the case of Tapio, the host is determining that it has been configured (using Tapio's mode switch) to emulate a mouse, joystick, or keyboard.
15: Why does the LED come on when I actuate one of my adaptive switches?
This is used to help you determine if the host (computer or iOS Device) has properly enumerated Tapio and that Tapio can see the adaptive switch actuations. If you press an adaptive switch and the LED does NOT light, it means one of the following: Tapio is not properly enumerated, the host has removed power, the adaptive switch is defective, or Tapio is defective.
16: What kind of adaptive switch is required for Tapio?
Practically any switch that closes two contacts can be used, such as SwitchIt Up!, Specs, or Jelly Bean switches. Of course, it must have a 3.5-mm connector to plug into Tapio's 3.5-mm, stereo jack.
17: How does Tapio read the switches?
Tapio's microprocessor puts a low voltage with high source impedance on a contact and looks for it to be shorted to the common contact by the switch. Tapio also “de-bounces” the adaptive switches to prevent multiple switch events from an electrically “noisy” switch.
18: Can I use Tapio while charging my iPad?
Yes, use Apple's Lightning to USB adapter with its standard Lightning power port. Plug your Tapio into the USB port and your iPad (or iPhone) charger into the Lightning port on the adapter. Tapio is available with Apple's base USB to Lightning adapter and the one that includes the Lightning power port.
For devices that use a USB-C port, you can use a USB-C powered hub with its power adapter or a battery pack.
19: Must I use the Apple brand USB adapters?
No.
