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Life's Uncertain

so eat dessert first!

My Mac Setup

My 2024 iMac Setup

This is the setup I use every day. It is built around hands-free computer access, using a mix of pointer control, facial movement, voice, and the On-Screen Keyboard.

I am not affiliated with Apple. I depend on these tools daily, and I would gladly help improve them.

My iMac at a Glance

  • Model: 2024 24-inch iMac
  • Chip: Apple M4
  • Memory: 32 GB RAM
  • Storage: 1 TB SSD
  • Operating system: macOS Sequoia

The machine has enough power that the accessibility features run smoothly alongside the work I do.

How I Control the Mac

My control system uses several tools together:

  • Head Pointer moves the cursor with head and neck movement
  • Facial Expressions handle clicks, right click, double click, drag, and pausing Head Pointer
  • Voice Control handles navigation, opening apps, switching windows, and dictation
  • On-Screen Keyboard helps when Voice Control does not do what I need

No single tool does everything. The strength is in combining them.

On-Screen Keyboard and Custom Layouts

I use the On-Screen Keyboard when Voice Control gets stubborn or when I need specific commands.

I have used custom keyboard layouts for commands like:

  • Save
  • Select
  • Copy
  • Paste
  • Frequent shortcuts

These custom keyboards can be powerful, but they are not perfect. Some bugs and command issues still need work.

Physical Setup

My iMac is not on a normal desk. It is mounted so I can use it while lying almost flat in bed.

The setup includes:

  • iMac mounted on a monitor arm
  • an extra vertical monitor beside it
  • a VESA adapter for the iMac
  • screens angled downward so I can see them from bed

This lets caregivers reposition the screens without needing to move or twist me.

My Workflow in Practice

A typical computer session looks like this:

  • Move the cursor with Head Pointer
  • Click with Facial Expressions
  • Use Voice Control to open apps, switch windows, and dictate text
  • Use the On-Screen Keyboard for precise input or stubborn commands

It is not magic. It is a working system made from several imperfect tools.

What Changed From My Older Setup

For many years, my setup depended on external hardware:

  • SmartNAV head-tracking camera
  • glasses with a reflective dot
  • sip-and-puff straw for clicking

That setup worked, but the software eventually became a problem as macOS changed.

The newer built-in Mac tools reduce the amount of external hardware near my face and around the computer.

Who This Setup Might Help

This kind of setup may be useful if you:

  • Have little or no hand function
  • Can move your head and neck in controlled ways
  • Can use facial expressions for simple actions
  • Can use voice for at least some commands
  • Need computer access while reclined or in bed

It may also help caregivers, family members, and assistive technology specialists understand what a practical hands-free setup can look like.

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