Instruction manual
Communication
Devices
AAC stands for Augmentative and
Alternative Communication. This is
any system a person uses to
communicate in addition to or instead
of speech, including pointing to
pictures and symbols, using gestures,
eye gaze, or electronic devices.
Speech:
The device may use a recorded
human voice (“digitised”) or have
electronic, computer generated
(“synthesised”) speech.
Symbols:
The device may use symbols to
represent messages for
communication. Some devices come
with their own symbols whilst others
may allow you to add your own
choice of symbols, photos or other
images.
This section describes electronic AAC
systems, also known as
communication devices, speech
generating devices or high tech
devices.
Devices that are similar in function
are grouped together and each
product is described by the same set
of features so you can directly
compare devices. Key features
described are:
Generating Language:
Refers to the way a person creates
messages with the communication
device and how language is arranged
on the device. They may use
symbols, words, spelling or a
combination of these.
Access:
Options for physical operation of the
device. If a person cannot use their
hands to press buttons on a device
(“direct access”) they may use
alternatives such as a switch, joystick,
mouse or headpointer.
Output:
The device may be capable of
connecting to and controlling other
equipment such as a computer,
printer, toy or electrical equipment
(eg. a TV or DVD player).
This information is provided as a
guide only. We always recommend a
communication assessment and trial
of different systems prior to
purchasing a device.
Play the message back by hitting the
large button on top (12.5cm across) or
plug in your own standard switch.
Access:
Play back a single recorded
message. The BIGmack is suitable for
a variety of purposes including:
• Calling for attention or requesting
help.
• Saying a repeated line in a story.
• Saying hello or goodbye to friends.
• Telling news or a special story.
• Telling a joke.
The BIGmack is a great tool for
participating in school or social
activities. To get the most out of this
tool many users benefit from having a
helper to record new messages
throughout the day so that
messages are appropriate for each
new activity.
Generating Language:
Attach your own symbols to the
BIGmack using the Snap Switch Cap,
included.
Symbols:
Up to 75 seconds of recorded speech
in a single message.
Speech:
A popular, durable single-message
communication device. The BIGmack
comes with 75 seconds recording as
standard. It has a black base with a
coloured top.
The device includes a transparent
Snap Switch Cap for attaching symbols
and a cable so you can connect a
switch-adapted toy or appliance.
BIGmack
These communication devices allow
you to record a single message. The
user simply presses the top of the
device to play back the message.
Single message devices are great tools
for teaching cause and effect, having
fun and developing basic interaction
skills. They can be used for a variety of
purposes, such as saying "hello",
asking for help, asking for a turn or
telling some news.
Single Message Devices
Communication Devices - Single Message Devices
05 Jun 2008
2
NovitaTech Regency Park
P.O. Box 2438, Regency Park, SA 5942, Australia Tel: 1300 85 55 85 (local call rate) Fax: (08) 8243-8337
Website: www.novitatech.org.au/at Email: assistivetech@novita.org.au Prices are subject to change without notice and are exclusive of GST
Please note that a delivery fee will be incurred for each order
Attach your own symbol to the top of
the Chipper, which is 8 1/2 cm square.
Symbols:
Up to 20 seconds of recorded speech.
Speech:
A portable recorded speech
communication aid that is used for
playing back a single message.
Chipper
4270
09
Large Snap Switch Cap $11.00
4204
95
Switchskins (Pk 2) $125.00
4270
86
Carry Strap $29.00
4271
64
BIGmack, Black $169.00
4271
63
BIGmack, Blue $169.00
4271
62
BIGmack, Yellow $169.00
4271
61
BIGmack, Green $169.00
4271
60
BIGmack, Red $169.00
Approx. 500g
Weight:
BIGmack now comes with a Snap
Switch Cap for attaching symbols to
the top of the device.
Optional Switchskin protects the device
from moisture and dirt.
Accessories:
The switch surface has a 12.5 cm.
diameter and an angled base.
Size:
Battery included.
Power:
The BIGmack comes with a cable for
connecting a toy or appliance. When
the BIGmack is talking, the toy will play
along. This can encourage a person to
use the device or be used to teach a
particular concept. For example, a toy
car could drive along while the
recorded message says
"GO! GO! GO!"
Output:
From: Ablenet