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DISCLAIMER:
Whilst all care is taken to provide accurate information with respect to the item described, the Independent Living Centre (ILC) is not involved in product design or manufacture, and therefore not in a position to guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Selection of equipment, which is both suitable and appropriate for individual needs remains the responsibility of the person(s) considering requisition, and no responsibility is taken by the ILC for any loss or injury caused through use of the equipment or alleged to have arisen through reliance upon information provided. As information is subject to change any enquiries should be directed to the manufacturer.
Item Details
A Buyers Guide - Voice Output Communication Aids
ILC Reference NO 61:04:600
Item sourced from ILC ACT database
Short Description
Voice output communication aids are electronic devices that allow the user to create or select a message and produce speech. A variety of systems are available, and many can be used with alternative access such as switches. Speech may be synthesized (computer produced) or digitised (based on a recorded human voice). In addition to voice output, some devices have a screen providing visual output and/or a printed message.
Price Guide
Refer to supplier details for pricing.
More Details
. The communication goals of the user will determine the features required in a voice output communication aid. It is important to trial a voice output communication aid in the actual settings in which the device will be used before purchase. This allows for the identification of potential problems (eg. the user may have difficulty seeing some screens in bright sunlight so if outdoor use is important, alternatives may need to be considered).
. There are a range of features to consider in voice output communication aids including:-
. PORTABILITY - consider size and weight
. QUALITY OF THE SPEECH (eg. digitised speech tends to be easier to understand, but messages must be pre-recorded).
. OTHER OUTPUT NEEDED - in some situations it may be desirable to have a printed message (eg. to clarify the spoken message in a noisy environment).
. The RANGE OF SYMBOLS that can be used with the voice output
communication aid (eg. some aids can be used with photographs or picture symbols while others require spelling skills).
. NUMBER OF MESSAGES or amount of memory available.
. ALTERNATIVE ACCESS options if necessary.
. EASE OF PROGRAMMING and maintaining the aid.
CONSULTATION:
. In some situations it may be appropriate to consult an expert in the area of augmentative communication.
. Communication assessment and intervention should be tailored to meet the needs of the individual.
. The Computer Assistive Technology Services (CATS) is a division of The Northcott Society located in North Parramatta.
. They also travel extensively throughout NSW.
. The Assistive Technology Service of The Spastic Centre of NSW is located in Allambie Heights.
This information has been prepared by the Computer Assistive Technology Service (division of Northcott Society).
Supplier Information - click to supplier for contacts details
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