More Details
Software
* The operating system is Microsoft Windows Mobile TM 5.0 for Pocket PC, Premium Edition.
* The communication software is Say-it! SAM Layout Designer
* Editing software for computers running Windows comes as standard so that pages and setups can be edited and created then transferred to the Say-it! SAM Version 3
* It has a one gigabyte compact flash card built in
Speech Quality
* It provides synthesised or recorded speech
* The device is supplied with high quality NeoSpeech synthesised voices in US English accent
* Recorded messages can also be stored in the device
Programming
* Three output modes are available. Speech mode has speech output active for words and sentences to be spoken through the speaker; Spelling mode speaks the message first then speaks it letter by letter then speaks the message again and Silent mode displays words and messages on the screen only
* Messages can be created by selecting symbols on the touch screen display, or using text- to-speech by spelling words
* Sample page set are included, Ingfield Dynamic Vocabularies software, as guides to best layout design on smaller touch screen
* The software includes word prediction which tries to finish the word that the user has started typing and phrase prediction which tries to predict the next word after the user has finished typing a word
* Programming of the pages can be performed on the device or on PC editing software then transferred to the device
* Transferring of programming between the PC Layout Designer and the device is easily done via a USB memory stick
* Use the Picture Communication Symbols library included or import any other digital image
Access
* Direct touch access via the touch screen only
* The touch screen accepts finger or a stylus touch, with a small stylus supplied
* Touch access settings can be adjusted to suit the user's access needs
Portability
* Say-it! SAM is designed for portable use and is easily carried and used in one hand
* The device is supplied with a vinyl carry case with shoulder strap and a belt strap
* There is mounting adapter available is there is a need to attach the device to mobility aids
* The Say-It! SAM has an ergonomic and rugged casing, making it a very portable package
* Long life in built rechargeable battery
Accessories
Say-it! SAM Version 3 is supplied with
* A stylus, housed in the top of the casing
* Durable vinyl carry case with shoulder strap and belt strap
* USB transfer cable (for connecting to a computer)
* Microfibre screen cleaning cloth
* PC/editing programming software (only for Windows XP, Vista or 7)
* A user Manual
* A Quick start guide
* Ingfield Dynamic Vocabularies to get you started
* Available in different casing colours including black, blue, green, grey, pink, purple and red
Factors To Consider
Output
* Be aware of the speaker position on the device and take steps not to block the sound
* This device has three different output modes which can be used in different settings or for different needs
Input
* Recorded or synthesised speech should be setup to meet the need. This includes recording messages in a voice of the same gender, appropriate age and appropriate language. Similarly ensure that the speech synthesiser is setup up accordingly and also look at speech rate, pitch and volume so it can be clearly understood
* Regularly and appropriately clean the screen and the device
* This device is designed for hand-held use and is built upon a small pocket PC. Effective input will depend upon the user's ability to target smaller buttons
Access
* Ensure the input settings best suited are applied so that access to the device is not a barrier
* Write down the settings of the device and keep them in a safe place. They may be needed in the future if they are accidentally changed or the device is reset to factory defaults
* This device is direct access only
* There are no commercially available keyguards for this device
Portability
* Consider suitability for people who are independently mobile and the accessories available to assist
Programming
* As with all speech generating devices, as the communication needs of the person using the speech generating device changes, any pre-stored messages may also require changing. This may or may not be an ongoing process
* Backup any programming of pages regularly
* Consider whether the included language system for synthesised speech devices is the most appropriate for the communication need
* Consider whether the included language system can be supported in all environments until proficiency is reached
Special Features
* The use of a screen protector can safeguard the screen of this device
* Devices with LCD screens can be harder to see outdoors and be aware of reflected glare
Batteries and Charging
* Internal batteries requiring charging regularly and also need proper care. They should always be charged with the AC adapter that came with the device
* The internal battery may require replacement after some years of use. This will be an additional cost.
Mounting and Installation
* Some wheelchair mounting options are available but limited for this device as it's designed to be carried.
* A proper assessment of the access need should be a part of the entire prescription process
Accessories
* Consider if the device has Keyguards that may assist with access needs
* Consider if the carry case allows the device to be used without removing the device
* Consider splash guards or waterproof covers to protect the device from moisture
* Are there any future consumables that will be required over the lifetime of the device e.g. battery replacement after 2 years
Manuals and Support
* Detailed information to support programming and use of this device is available
* This device should be trialled to ensure suitability for an individual
* Training video's are available through the supplier to assist, including Webinars
Training Needs
* Consider your needs when selecting the device you want
Insurance
* As this a high expense device, consider taking insurance cover for this device against damage and theft
Prescription Guidelines
Assessment and advice from an interdisciplinary team, with an experienced speech pathologist and occupational therapist, in regard to mounting, programming and set up of this device is recommended.
Refer to the EnableNSW Prescription Guidelines for Speech Generating Devices for further information. This can be accessed at the EnableNSW website.
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