ChatPC-Silk+

ChatPC: Big Performance in a small package!
Although ChatPC is available in two hardware platforms, the software and user interface are virtually identical. ChatPC is a full-featured, dynamic screen device that allows hundreds of communication pages to be linked together to meet an individual’s communication needs for home, school, work and other situations in his/her life.

One of the many highlights of the ChatPC software is PalmChat, a word-based vocabulary, created by Nancy Inman, M.A.T., CCC-SLP and Janet S. Lehr, M.S., CCC-SLP, both who are widely known for the their work in developing, implementing and teaching word-based vocabulary programs. PalmChat is the first generative, core word vocabulary available for the ChatPC and is a major advancement for individuals who want a flexible language program without sacrificing device portability.

Another recent enhancement in ChatPC family is the integration of the NeoSpeech speech synthesizer, which has a very natural and easy-to-understand voice. DecTalk is also still available as an option for those who prefer the classic voice of ChatPC. Although all speech options offer both male and female voices, only DecTalk offers a child voice.

Pre-Loaded Vocabulary:
ChatPC now ships with five default vocabulary files, or page sets. Each vocabulary file was designed to address the communication needs of a particular group of individuals. Read the description of each one to see which program is most appropriate for you. Keep in mind that all vocabulary programs are fully customizable and can be personalized for each individual. Below is a short description of each vocabulary file.

PalmChat
PalmChat uses high-frequency core words to facilitate quick and easy sentence generation. It also includes nouns and adjectives that are organized in logical categories. All grammatical word classes have been included. As a sentence is being built, you often find that the next word you want to say can be spoken with one or two button presses. A ‘grammar’ key is used to provide morphological endings to verbs, nouns and adjectives. A spelling/word prediction page is used to spell words that are not included in the vocabulary set. Click here for more information.

VocabPC
VocabPC was designed by Gail Van Tatenhove, PA, MS, CCC-SLP, for adults and adolescents with developmental disabilities. Vocabulary in VocabPC is arranged as carrier phrases, interactive sentences, activity vocabulary and naming words. VocabPC uses a 12 location page layout. The included manual contains customizing hints, teaching strategies, flashcards and vocabulary documentation.

16 Basic and 16 Primary
16 Primary and 16 Basic are both starter vocabularies that consist of a combination of words, phrases and sentences. Both programs use a 16 location page layout and contain vocabulary used at school, at home, in daily activities and in general communication. Both programs provide access to spelling keyboards.


Saltillo Sampler
Saltillo Sampler is not a starter vocabulary file, but rather a set of pages that shows various capabilities and options of the ChatPC. You can see samples from a variety of symbols sets (PCS, Imagine, Unlimiter and Clarity). A variety of button sizes and page layouts can help you decide which setup works best for your client. You can also find various examples of integrating different tools and button actions into vocabulary pages.

General Features

• Colour Dynamic Display


• Lightweight and portable


• Software and hardware volume control


• On/off switch and auto power-down


• Several hours of recorded speech


• Holds numerous vocabulary files, each containing hundreds of pages


• 3,000 PCS symbols are included on the ChatPC. The included DesktopChat software includes approximately 10,000 PCS symbols, 3000 Imagine symbols, and 1,500 Clarity Symbols.


• NeoSpeech or DecTalk synthesized speech


• Accessed by finger touch


• Extended-life rechargeable (Lithium-Ion) battery.


• Screen size: 10cm (diagonal)


• 12 Assist warranty


• Size: 8.3cm x 14.2cm x 4.1cm with protective case.  7.5cm x 13.3cm x 3.6cm without case


• Weight: 0.35kgs. with protective case - 0.25kgs without case