A white plastic power outlet controller with a three-pin socket on top and a small yellow switch near its base.

Participation Box

by AbleNet

Est. $50–$120, see price history

Typical price range, not a vendor quote. Confirm it with the vendor before buying.

Setup with instructions Plugging in the box and an appliance is simple, and written instructions are enough for a family member to do it. The harder part is picking the right switch and the right mode for the person, which is why this fits guided setup. An OT or ATP can help with switch choice if you aren't sure.

What it is

Summary

AI-generated from vendor-published content · October 1, 2026

The Participation Box lets someone use a switch to turn a mains-powered appliance on and off. You plug a lamp, fan, toy, TV, or similar device into the box, plug the box into the wall, and connect your own switch. It has three modes. Direct mode keeps the appliance running only while the switch is held. Timed mode runs it for a preset time, with six choices between 2 and 90 seconds. On/off mode flips the appliance on or off with each press. It works with switches that are pressed, blown into, sucked on, or activated in other ways. The box is small and light, but no switch comes with it, so you'll need to choose one that matches how the person can move.

Getting it

Try before you buy

Devices like this are often available to borrow through your state's AT Act program — typically free or low-cost — so you can try it before buying or pursuing funding.

Find your state's lending program →

Where to get it

Inclusive Technology Visit
Contact vendor for pricing

This is the vendor WhatCanHelp tracks for this product — it may also be available from other retailers or a local supplier, and prices vary.

How to fund this

These are common places to ask about paying for equipment like this. Each one decides its own eligibility and what it covers, so start by asking them.

All funding programs, state by state →

Details

Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
Type
Addresses
Platform
Age range
Complexity
Setup with instructions
Price
Est. $50–$120
Funding
  • AT Act lending
  • Medicaid waiver
  • Out of pocket
  • Vocational rehab

What setup looks like

  • With a guide
    1. Plug the appliance into the socket on the Participation Box, then plug the box into a wall outlet.
    2. Plug your switch into the box and choose a mode: direct, timed, or on/off. For timed mode, pick one of the six time settings.
    3. Test it with the switch and adjust the mode or time until it fits the person's needs. Allow about 15-30 minutes. See manufacturer support resources for detailed instructions.

View official support docs → (opens in a new tab)

Sources & fine print

Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from Inclusive Technology — view on vendor site (opens in a new tab); last checked October 31, 2026.

Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on October 1, 2026 · confidence: high. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.

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