More Details

Setup/Installation
* Windows 8.1 operating system
* Powers both Unity and Essence software
* May run Grid 3 communication software if requested
* May run other Windows application including menu-driven programs
* Editing/Backup - may be completed on device or remotely
* Telecommunication features include email and social media as device connects to WiFi.
* Device may interact with a compatible mobile phone allowing users to send and receive SMS.

Device Specifications
* Connections: WiFi, Bluetooth and IR capabilities
* Ports: two 2.0 USB ports, one 3.0 USB port, one Mini USB port, switch ports and HDMI port
* Rechargeable batteries, 11-13 hour battery life (normal operation)
* Interface can be customised to suit the person's needs (e.g. contrast, number and size of cells, borders etc.)
* Pre-made pages for scanners
* Dual cameras
* USB flash drive

Language Setup
* Pre-loaded with a full range of Unity language systems (including 144-location version and the new CoreScanner page set) or Essence vocabulary systems (60- and 84-location versions)
* Optional WordPower and Picture WordPower vocabularies
* Also supports WordCore and Child Page-Based Vocabularies
* Presets to support implementation of LAMP therapy strategies for emergent communicators with autism
* Optional Grid 3 communication system
* Word Prediction
* Picture Prediction feature that 'learns' the user's most common extended vocabulary choices and automatically arranges the Activity Row icons for easier access

Voice Output
A range of male and female synthesised voices including:
* Acapela (now includes 2 x Aussie Kids Voices - Liam and Olivia)
* IVONA (now includes 2 x Aussie Voices - Russell and Nicole)
* Fonix DECtalk
* RealSpeak (now includes 2 x Aussie Voices - Lee and Karen)
* Microsoft

Access Options

1. Direct Selection
* Via touch or capacitive stylus
* 4, 8, 15, 28, 36, 45, 60 and 84 icon locations, keyguards available
*Adjustments of direct selection e.g. key latching, tremor setting, repeat delay, select on release, hold time
*Auditory prompts to aid individuals with visual impairments

2. Switch Access
* Single or dual switch scanning
* Bluetooth switch
* Block and customisable scanning
* Auditory and step scanning
* Pages suitable for scanners (e.g. CoreScanner)

3. USB Connectivity
* Allows use of Mouse, Joystick and with Mouse Emulation Access Products

4. Headtracking
* Via NuPoint HeadPointing

Portability/ Mounting/ Positioning
* The device is portable and has an in-built wire stand

Standard Accessories
* Carry strap
* Carry Case
* Stylus

Support/ Services
* Complete Operator Manual on USB Flash Drive
* Content manual in device
* 1 year warranty, may obtain additional warranty at a cost
* Contact supplier for support
* Supplier holds regular free training online webinars
* Supplier has 'Device Trial Scheme'

Other Features
* Access to computer (e.g. accessing the Internet, email, YouTube, Facebook, documents, pictures, etc.)
* Unity or Essence programs can be used as the on screen keyboard
* Includes environmental control capabilities.

Considerations

Access
* Consider the user's pointing accuracy and motor control
* Consider sensory needs (vision and hearing)
* Consider layout (size and number of cells), as well as colours and contrast
* Consider fatigue
* Consider speed of access and operation
* Does the user need assistance from communication partner to access device (such as turn device on or off, navigate through pages etc..)?
* Consider appropriate and safe mounting
* Can more than one access method be used at once (e.g: switching and eye-gaze)

Communication
* Is the user a pre-intentional or intentional communicator?
* Consider the person's current language skills (understanding and production of language) and their potential language development.
* Does the system match the person's current language skills and does it allow for later language development?
* Does the system require literacy skills?
* Does the system allow access to literacy and literacy development?
* How is language represented? (pictures, symbols, text etc..)
* Can the individual compose novel messages?
* Can vocabulary/messages provided be used across several contexts/situations?

Support
The involvement of a speech pathologist is recommended to ensure the system meets the user's current communication skills and allows for language development.
* Users and support people require training in the programming and the use of this device. Access to consistent therapy support is highly recommended.
* Programming performed on the computer is more efficient than on the device for people who are supporting its use.
* The operational features of the device can be locked out if required. This can prevent unintentional programming and changes to the device.
* This device contains pre-programmed page sets that are designed to be used as a base for users to customise as required. This can reduce the programming time required.

Place Of Manufacture

Unknown

Price Guide

Price from Liberator

Models

* Accent 800
* Accent 1000 (check separate item)
* Accent 1400 (check separate item)

Standards

Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information about standards also see
http://at-aust.org/home/assistive_technology/standards.html

TGA
Many of the items on the Assistive Technology Australia website are categorised as a Medical Device. Medical devices that are approved for use in Australia have been entered into a national database called the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), which is maintained by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). You can ask the supplier for the ARTG number for the device you wish to purchase and search the ARTG for the entry. To access information on the ARTG visit www.tga.gov.au

When buying a medical device it is advisable to only choose a medical device that is recommended by a healthcare professional and has been included on the ARTG.