More Details
Software
* DynaVox Series Five Software is installed on Maestro
* InterAACt software is also included. This package provides people with complex communication needs a pre-made communication framework
* Windows 7 is the operating system
* The software package can be customised to suit varying needs, abilities and access methods. Modify existing pages and create new ones for any input method
* Microsoft-compatible software applications can be used and the internet accessed on the Standard Model
* Multiple user profiles can be stored on a single device
* Music can be managed, stored and played
Speech Quality
* Recorded speech and synthesised speech can be used, depending on the communication software installed
* Australian RealSpeak voices of Lee and Karen are included with Maestro when it is purchased with The Grid 2 installed. Acapela English, AT&T and Microsoft voices are also supplied
* Maestro is loud enough for noisy environments. The speakers are located at the front of the unit so that sound is directed outwards
Programming
* Maestro is based on a Windows 7 tablet PC
* Programming will depend upon the communication software used
* The software can be set up for use by people of any age, as long as the vocabulary pages and access to the device is appropriate
* The Maestro supplied with Picture Communication Symbols and DynaSyms
Access
* Maestro offers many methods for different access needs
* Direct touch is the main access method. Messages can be created and spoken by pressing buttons on the touch screen
* Switch access is also built in. There are switch jacks for one or two switches with visual, auditory scanning or both options available
* Mouse or mouse alternatives can also be used to control the mouse cursor and access messages in that manner
* Keyguards are available if required
* An internal rechargeable battery is included that gives up to three hours of run time depending on the computer settings being used.
* An extended rechargeable battery is an option that gives up to nine and a half hours of run time
* The Maestro features a touchscreen and is suitable for viewing in both indoor and outdoor environments, dependent upon setup
Portability
* Maestro is quite light making this device easier to be carried regularly than others in this category
* A carry bag is an optional extra
* The size of the screen, approximately twenty six centimetres across the diagonal, and the weight of Maestro makes this device suited for being carried
* Maestro has mount plates compatible with the DAESSY or REHAdapt wheelchair attached support systems if a wheelchair support system is required
Accessories
The Maestro is supplied with:
* A USB keyboard and mouse
* An AC charger
* Manuals
* A one gigabyte memory stick
* A stylus pen
Factors To Consider
Output
* Be aware of the speaker position on the device and take steps not to block the sound
* Speech should be setup to meet the need. When using recorded speech, this can include another person recording messages in a voice of the same gender, appropriate age and appropriate language. For synthesised speech, ensure any speech settings meet the device user's need
Input
* Regularly clean the screen using appropriate methods, consult the device manual or the supplier for details
* Always remove any attached accessories before removing the device from a wheelchair mounted support system
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
* Switch and scanning users are unable to access the integrated computer functions.
Portability
* Consider suitability for people who are independently mobile and the accessories available to assist, particularly for this device as it's designed to be portable
* If using mobility aids, consider the wheelchair mounting options at the same time as the device. Effective access to the device is extremely important
Programming
* As with all programmable speech generating devices, as the communication needs of the person using the speech generating device changes, the messages then also require changing. This may or may not be an ongoing process
* Consider whether the included language system for synthesised speech devices is the most appropriate for the communication need
Special Features
* 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.
* Devices with LCD screens can be harder to see outdoors and be aware of reflected glare
* The combination of direct and indirect accessing modes makes this device useful for users who have changing accessing requirements or as a multi user device for a department.
* Internal memory and the use of external memory drives (USB drives) can assist users who are required to produce large files and give presentations.
Batteries and Charging
* Internal and external batteries requiring regular charging and also need proper care. They should always be charged with the AC adapter that came with the device
* The batteries will require replacement after some years of use. This will be an additional cost.
Mounting and Installation
* Wheelchair mounting options are available for this device if required. A proper assessment of the access need should be a part of the entire prescription process
Accessories
* 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, if they're available
* 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 Needs
* People supporting this device and it's users may require training for effective programming and use of the communication software.
* Consider your training needs when selecting the device you want
* Ordering of a dedicated device may be a requirement within some funding guidelines
Insurance
* As this a high-expense device, consider taking insurance cover for this device against damaged 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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