Communication Devices

Single Message Communicators

A single message device is a great introduction to the power of communication.  Messages that allow you to attract attention, make requests, choose or even reject something that's not wanted can be a great start to being independent (and it can be great fun directing others!)

 

 

 

Ablenet Bigmack

 

The Bigmack Communicator is designed for those with motor, visual or cognitive impairments.  It offers a 5* activation surface with angled base, durable construction, 75 seconds of recording time and an external speaker jack.  Easy to set up and easy to use.  Requires one 9-volt battery (included).  Use more than one in the same room without interference.  Requires four AAA batteries (not included).

 

 

Price - R1,700

 

Ablenet LITTLEmack

 

The LITTLEmack Communicator has 75 seconds of memory to let students with disabilities communicate recorded messages.  A one-shot timer prevents accidental repetition.  An angled 2-1/2” switch surface makes it easy to see and access.  A cable for controlling external devices is provided.  Requires one 9-volt battery (included).

 

 

Price - R1,700

 

Talking Symbols Notepad 

 

Great for engineered environments, the Talking Symbols lets you make language ‘visible’ with motivational messages, assignments, instructions, reminders and more!  Record a 10-second message, add matching 2” x 2” symbol and mount your notepad on any surface using the included Velcro strip or the notepad’s internal magnet.  Great sound quality, light touch activation and large button area make it ideal for a range of users.  Batteries included.

 

 

Price - R880 (pack of 3)

 

GoTalk Button

 

The GoTalk Button records one 10-second message, and the large play button ensures easy use.  Its compact size (around 2” in diameter) makes it easy to slip in your pocket.  Or, use the built-in magnet for display on any metal surface.  Use multiple buttons for longer messages.  Button battery included.

 

 

Price - R120

 

GoTalk One

 

The Go Talk One has a large picture display with 10 second recording time. Big, visible play button. Slim and lightweight with excellent sound quality. Measures 57 X 120 X 6.5mm 

 

 

Price - R180

 

Put-Em-Arounds

 

These talking wall communicators give non-verbal children the ability to initiate communication throughout their day. Record your message (up to 20 seconds) and have the children actively participate with their peers, family, and teachers. Recording and re-recording requires only the push of a button. Wall mounting hardware is included. Requires 4 AA batteries.

 

 

Price - R800

 

Partner / Plus

 

Easily interlocks with other Partner/Pluses to create multi-message communicators. Start with one and add more as skills are acquired! Elevated platform and slot for picture cards- ideal for teaching object discrimination. Light touch message activation.

 

 

Price - R1,100

 

Mini-Com

 

Use these communicators individually or join them for building communication skills. Easy to use picture clip allows you to change pictures easily. Up to 20 seconds recording time. Requires 4 AA batteries.

 

 

Price - R880

 

Talking Alert

 

Bright light tells all! Pressing the textured lens turns on a bright light and starts your 20-second message. While the message is playing, a circle of lights indicate that words are being played. The 12-level unit allows you to record and play twelve 24-second messages. A special switch on the side of the unit selects messages. Wall mounting bracket sold separately. See item #466 below

Size: 7¾"W x 2½"H. Requires 4 AA Batteries.

 

 

Price - R1,230

 

Large Lens Switch

 

Easy to find!

A bright blinker on top of this switch makes it easy for the visually impaired to locate it. When touched, the textured lens has bright lights, music and vibration. Any one of these rewards can be switched on or off using the switch set on the bottom. The bright blinker can also be turned off.

Size: 8"D x 2"H. Requires 4 AA Batteries.

 

 

Price - R1,230

 

Bright Switch for Visually Impaired

 

Blinker flashes!

The flashing blinker helps visually impaired individuals locate the switch. When the switch is activated, the yellow textured lens lights brightly while music plays and the switch vibrates. A hidden switch set on the bottom allows you to choose any or all stimuli. The bright blinker can also be turned off.

Size: 7"D x 3¾"H. Requires 2 AA Batteries.

 

 

Price - R1,010



Two Messages and Sequencing

 

 

Two message devices are a great way to introduce choice making. Try using with messages that give real control and participation and with words that can be used in a variety of situations.

 

Stop/Go - playground games, P.E. activities, tickling, directing others' actions.

More/Finished - snack time (giving small amounts of food/drink), workbox activities, puzzle pieces.

On/Off - disco music, light shows, fans (e.g. in a sensory room).

Higher/lower - a 'Play Your Cards Right' style game.

Old/New - sorting activities.

My turn/your turn (or mine/yours) - game playing, share activities.

Brmm brmm/crash - sound effects when playing with toys.

 

 

 

iTalk2

 

The iTalk2 dual-message communicator, from AbleNet is ideal for choice making. Easy to record messages. Instructions printed right on the device. Angled for easy access. Two snap caps included. Picture Communication Symbol storage area is built-in. With dual toy/appliance jacks you can easily pair communication with a fun activity. Ten seconds per activation area.

 

 

Price - R1,920



Sequencing Messages



These devices can give potential access to many words/messages using just a single switch operation. Keep pressing the button to hear the different messages.

 

Say the sequence - count objects as they are placed in front of you, tell a story page by page, recite lines in a play or poem.

Be social - learn to turn-take, ask questions and carry on a conversation by using these devices with social scripts, e.g. "hi there/how are you?/I'm OK/what have you been up to?/sound good/well. better be off/see you."

Auditory communication aid - a simple communication aid for people who struggle with picture based systems. Listen to the messages on at a time and shout out/make a sign on the one you want. Great for reducing a '20 questions' routine or providing a larger range of items from which to make choices.

Did you know...? - with a Step-by-Steps, you can choose which part of the sequence activates your toy. "Are you ready?" "I'm gonna blow bubbles." (Bubble machine activates.) "Did you like that?"

 

 

BIG Step-by-Step

 

Like the BIGmack but allows a series of messages which the user can step through in sequence. One-shot timer prevents message repetition when a user continually activates a switch.LONGER 75 seconds of memory. Durable, high impact ABS plastic casing. 127mm diameter. Volume control and on off switch. External 3.5mm switch jack. External speaker jack for amplification. FREE Snap Switch Cap. FREE toy/appliance cable. CRYSTAL CLEAR sound. Available in green, red, yellow, blue and black - please specify colour when ordering

 

 

Price - R2,400

 

LITTLE Step-by-Step

 

Like the LITTLEmack but allows a series of messages which the user can step through in sequence. Theoretically there can be up to 45 messages totalling 75 seconds. Formerly known as Step-by-Step. One-shot timer prevents message repetition when a user continually activates a switch. 75 seconds of recording time. FREE toy/appliance cable. FREE Snap Switch Cap. 64mm target area. EASY to record. Angled base for easy access

 

 

Price - R2,400

 

Step-by Step with Levels

 

Like the LITTLE Step-by-Step, but allows up to three selectable sets or ‘levels’ of messages. These can be on separate themes, for different activities or times of the day. FREE Snap Switch Cap and toy/appliance cable.

 

Price - R2,800

 

StepPAD

 

Works like a tape recorder - only better! Ideal for recording step by step instructions. Press play to hear the cue as often as needed. Press ‘forward’ for the next step or ‘rewind’ for the previous one. You can change one step without affecting the others. Total 72 seconds of recording time. Batteries and clip included. Size: 55mm x 90mm x 11mm

 

 

Price - R400



Four Messages and up...

 

What is an SGD?

Often referred to as simply a communication device, an SGC or Speech-Generating Device is like a notebook computer specifically designed to assist a child in communicating.  These devices have touch screens, keyboards or switches that are used to select symbols, letters or words allowing a child to generate meaningful phrases that convey feelings, thoughts, needs and desires.  SGC's use either recorded voice (digitized speech) that is 'played back', or special software to 'synthesize' audible sounds and words.  Devices come in a range of sizes, types and even voices to accommodate a spectrum of user needs and abilities.  

 

 

Go Talk 4+

 

Portable durable and easy to use.  Super-sensitive 76mm x 76mm buttons.  Five ‘levels’ or sets of messages.  Two core message buttons that don’t change with the levels (an ideal place to store a ‘hello’).  Great sound quality.  Total message time of 4.5 minutes.  Record lock prevents accidental erasure.  Storage compartment for overlays.  Two AA batteries included.

 

 

Price - R1,900

 

Traxsys Inclusive 4talk4

 

A superb, robust, classroom speech output device from Traxsys. Four large, coloured buttons, each with its own message. Four distinct levels for pre-recorded messages. Plastic pocket inserts to allow you to use your own pictures to represent the messages. Excellent, clear speech with adjustable volume control (loud enough for school assembly!). In addition, the 4talk4 has sockets to allow you to connect external switches for those who need to use their own switches, and sockets so you can attach and control battery operated toys and devices. Press to say "Make the rabbit jump" and then see it happen! Switches and toys not included but the batteries are.

 

 

Price - R4,750

 

Partner / Four

 

Lightweight and portable 9 (shoulder strap included). 8 seconds per message with a square picture size of 70mm. 'Real-Voice' high quality audio reproduction. Two output jacks to connect toys or appliances and two input jacks for switch access. Optional vibrating feedback and LED illuminated feedback available for ease of operation by visually impaired users.

 

 

Price - R2,550 (without LED's)   

- R2,940 (with LED's/Vibrating)

 

Cheap Talk 4 In-line

 

Our popular Cheap Talk 4 with the switches arranged in a line. Available in four 1-Level models: Direct; Direct, Jacks and Say It Play It; Direct with Overlay Option; and Direct, Jacks and Say It Play It with Overlay Option. Two models also available with 12-Levels: Direct with Overlay Option and Direct and Jacks with Overlay Option. The Overlay Option comes with a plastic overlay that is permanently attached to the Cheap Talk. Sheets of icons can then be slipped in and out from the overlay grid. Size: 12½" x 3" x 6". Requires 4 AA Batteries.

 

 

Direct - R1,260

Direct w/ Overlay Option - R1,500

Direct, Jacks & Say It Play It - R1,650

Direct, Jacks & Say It Play It w/ Overlay Option - R1,750

Direct, Scan and Jacks - R2,700

 

Global SuperTalker™

 

The progressive communicator that's as flexible as you need to be!

The SuperTalker can meet each student's developing communication needs with the 1, 2, 4 and 8 message grid options. Begin with a single message button and, as the learner progresses, increase the complexity and choice by adding more buttons. The selectable grid formats make it easy to customise this communicator to your learners' needs. You can insert your own pictures to act as a prompt for each message too.

The SuperTalker includes these outstanding features:

* 8 'levels' or sets of messages.
* Selectable grid formats.
* Keyguards for 1, 2, 4 and 8 grids.
* Sequential message access: step through the messages with a switch.
* Volume control with lockout.
* Keyguard storage.
* 8 minutes memory.
* Requires 4 AA batteries.

The SuperTalker can also be bought with jacks to enable direct switch control (not via scanning) and external toys to be connected. This version also has a 16 minute total message memory.

 

 

Global SuperTalker - R2,580

SuperTalker (inc. switch access) - R5,150



Scanning / Using Objects

 

About Scanning
For people not able to directly press buttons but wanting to access more than one or two messages, using switches with a scanning system is the main alternative. Scanning refers to the way items on a screen or buttons on a device are highlighted in turn (either automatically or by pressing a switch) and when the highlight reaches the desired item a switch is pressed to select it. However, this is usually a skill that has to be learnt - it is cognitively more difficult than direct access and physically may require repeated or timed movements that often needs lots of practice in order to achieve.

 

 

Traxsys Inclusive Scan4

 

The scanning version of the 4talk4 has been carefully designed to introduce scanning techniques. It has very bright scanning lights, auditory scanning and can use single or two switch scanning. - Bright lights, clear speech and a real outcome (with toys connected) - Access four messages using single switch scanning, starting at a realistically slow speed - Move on to accessing the messages using two switch scanning - Single switch 'dwell' scan mode: press the switch to control the scan and dwell on the one you want to activate - Also use in direct mode: press the area to hear message - The light above the active area illuminates to reinforce which has been pressed - Includes sockets to connect battery operated devices. Two toy leads included.

 

 

Price - R7,180   Switches not included

 

Tech/Scan

 

Multi-Level Augmentative Communication Device
These are scanning versions of the Tech/Talk and Tech/Speak devices. They are available with a black grid on a grey base. Prompt lights sit in the grid above the overlay. No need to punch holes in your overlay. They can be used through touch as well as switch(es).
Tech/Scan 8
With 8 messages on 8 levels, this model has 2 scan modes - linear and step scan.
Tech/Scan 8 Plus
As above, but with additional, optional auditory prompts at each level. This model includes rechargeable battery and charger.
Tech/Scan 32
With 32 messages on up to 6 levels, this model has 3 scan modes - row/column, linear and step scan.
Tech/Scan 32 Plus
Like the Tech/Scan 32 with 6 levels, but with additional, auditory prompts at each level. This model includes a rechargeable battery and charger

 

 

Tech/Scan 8 - R11,900

Tech/Scan 8 Plus - R15,200

Tech/Scan 32 - R14,400

Tech/Scan 32 Plus - R18,700

 

Talara 32

 

The Talara-32 is a simple communication aid that records human voice and other sounds for playback. Simply record messages and play them back. Need to re-record?—just do it—the Talara-32 adjusts its memory automatically. It is an electronic communication device with levels, direct and switch/scanning access and flexible size key patterns making it easily customizable for both children and adults with wide ranging abilities and needs. It is similar in many respects to the popular ZYGO Macaw, however the Talara is simpler and some of the more sophisticated functions of the Macaw are not available in the Talara — to make a more straightforward device where you don't need to pay for features you won't be using.

 

 

The Talara has 2 modes: PLAY — this mode is for the user. The messages are selected and spoken when the user selects a key either by pressing it directly, or by using a switch with scanning. The messages are usually represented with a paper overlay, which may display pictures, photos, graphics or words. RECORD — this mode is for the support people who will be setting up the device for the user. In this mode the support person can set the size of the keys and record the messages. Some characteristics are changed using controls on the side of the unit (i.e., scan speed and scanning mode).

 

The main features of the Talara-32 are:

- The number and size of keys can be readily changed to suit people with varying visual, physical and cognitive abilities. All the key patterns shown below are able to be set, providing the opportunity to change key patterns according to development or changes of the user. All levels must have the same key-pattern.

- The 45 minutes of available recording time can be used flexibly. There is no restriction of recording time per key, as there often is with other devices in this category.

- The hinged overlay retainer makes overlay exchange easy.

- Its simplicity and light weight.

 

ce - R6, 362

Price - R8,500

 

4pic4

 

A set of plastic inserts for the 4talk4 or Scan4, in a ringbinder. Store your images for communication activities, or make a simple communication book.

 

 

10 Inserts - R270

15 Inserts - R360

 

Cheap Talk 8 Direct, Scan, and Jacks

 

Our popular Cheap Talk 4 now scans! Allows the use of single or dual switch scanning. A light illuminates sequentially above each message square. This versatile unit also allows direct activation by pressing the squares or 1 to 4 external switches. Features scan modes, with a choice of eight different scanning options, including audible scan (see below). The scanning speed is adjustable to accommodate a wide range of abilities

 

 

Price - R3,350



Portable / More to say

 

 

Tech/Talk 8

Press on each of the eight message cells for a clear audible message. Select one of six, eight or twelve message sets (or levels). This gives a choice of either forty-eight, sixty-four or ninety-six messages. Messages can be recorded and then will last 100 years without battery back-up or can be changed again in seconds. Tech/Talk is an extremely robust device but its light-weight and carry strap make it very portable. Good battery life with 4 AA batteries. A versatile, sturdy and state-of-the-art multi-message device at a very good price with these distinctive features:

* Record & playback up to 48 or 64 messages on 6 or 8 levels with 8 messages per level.
* Four seconds per message.
* Eight 2.5 inch x 2.5 inch message cells compatible with Mayer-Johnson BoardMaker.
* The light touch membrane switch pad provides consistent ease of activation.
* Simple rotary on/off volume control and a level select switch.
* Built in speaker and recording with jacks for optional external inputs or outputs.
* Digital "Real Voice" messages are easily recorded in any language.

A scanning version is also available
Available with a black grid/grey base or a white grid/blue base. Please state your selected colour when ordering. The Tech/Talk is also available with an extended memory of nine seconds per message and/or jack sockets for attaching external switches.


 

Price - R6, 362

6 Levels - R5,200

8 Levels - R5,800

12 Levels - R8,400

 

Go Talk 9+

 

A powerful, portable, easy to use and very durable speech output device. Use it as an introductory communication aid and also for curriculum enrichment.

This new version of the popular Go Talk now has 5 levels on each of it's 9 message keys. It also has 3 useful 'core' message keys that stay the same on each level. All new technology provides great sound and volume control, plus easier sequential recording, an option for whole level erasing and built-in overlay storage.

Its light weight and built-in handle make the Go Talk 9+ very portable. It is slim enough to fit into a backpack and attractive enough to use everyday, anywhere. Two AA batteries (included) last a long time.

5cm square buttons with built-in keyguard help the user select the right message. Change levels with a press of a button. Overlays are stored inside and slide in and out easily. Adjust the volume by pressing up and down buttons.

Dimensions: 229 x 305 x 22mm.

 

 

Price - R2,500

Go Talk Carry Stand

 

A convenient, portable, easy to use tote that fits the GoTalk 4+, GoTalk 9+ and GoTalk 20+.
This lightweight, durable green vinyl folder holds GoTalks securely when closed and opens easily for use as a stand.

 

Price - R450

 

Go Talk Overlay Software

 

Makes it easy to create great looking overlays! Includes over a thousand images and you can add your own. Overlay cells can contain an image, text or both. You can change the colour, size and font of text, and move, enlarge, rotate and crop pictures. Includes templates for Go Talk, Go Talk 4 and the One by Four Talker. Save overlay files and share them with other Go Talk users. Print your overlay with any inkjet or laser printer.

 

Price - R700



Twenty Messages and Beyond

 

 

Go Talk 20+

 

A powerful, portable, easy to use and very durable speech output device.

Go Talk 20+ is lightweight and rugged like all Go Talks, but has 100 message capacity. Each of the 20 message keys has 5 levels. Plus there are 5 buttons for essential messages which stay the same even when the level is changed. All new technology provides great sound and volume control, plus easier sequential recording, an option for whole level erasing and built-in overlay storage.

Its light weight and built-in handle make the Go Talk 20+ very portable. It is slim enough to fit into a backpack and attractive enough to use everyday, anywhere. Two AA batteries (included) last a long time.

2.5cm square buttons with built-in keyguard help the user select the right message. Change levels with a press of a button. Overlays are stored inside and slide in and out easily. Adjust the volume by pressing up and down buttons.

 

 

Price - R3,300

 

Tech/Speak 32

 

Multi-Level Augmentative Communication Device

Press on each of the thirty-two message cells for a clear audible message. Turn the rotary switch to select one of two, four or six message sets (or levels). This gives a choice of up to 192 messages. Messages can be recorded and then will last 100 years without battery back-up or can be changed again in seconds.

Tech/Speak 32 is an extremely robust device but its light-weight and carry strap make it very portable. Good battery life with 4 AA batteries.

A versatile, sturdy and state-of-the-art multi-message device at a very good price with these distinctive features:

* Record & playback up to 192 messages on 6 levels with 32 messages per level.
* Two seconds per message.
* Thirty-two,1.25 inch x 1.25 inch message cells compatible with BoardMaker.
* The light touch membrane switch pad provides consistent ease of activation.
* Simple rotary on/off volume control and a level select switch.
* Built in speaker and recording with jacks for optional external inputs or outputs.
* Digital "Real Voice" messages are easily recorded in any language.

A scanning version is also available

Available with a black grid/grey base or a white grid/blue base. Please state your selected colour when ordering. The Tech/Talk is also available with an extended memory of four seconds per message.

 

 

2 Levels - R5,800

4 Levels - R6,800

6 Levels - R8,500

12 Levels - R11,950

 

The AMDi "Smart" Series

The Smart Series from AMDi incorporates many new features, including a smart overlay system, an interchangeable flash memory system, a slimmer profile, a handle for easy carrying, controls hidden behind a door and a low battery indicator located on the grid.

Smart Overlay System
Each overlay can be keyed by simply punching a hole in the designated area, using a standard hole punch. Each Smart Series device then senses the hole pattern on the overlay. This makes changing levels quick and easy - simply change the overlay and the level is changed accordingly!

Interchangeable Flash Memory System
Each interchangeable flash memory card holds 6 levels of recorded voice with up to 30 minutes of recording time. This will give you unlimited numbers of levels on your device!

Each device also has:
• 'Real-Voice' high-quality audio reproduction.
• 'Time-Lock' recording control technology.
• Rechargeable battery.
• Light touch water resistant membrane panel.
• Lightweight and portable (shoulder strap included).
• Removable top grid for easy cleaning.
• Smart Overlay System that is easily created with Tech/Overlay Designer (included).
• Optional carrying cover and/or deluxe carrying case.
• External speaker and record jacks for increased flexibility.
• One-year manufacturer's warranty, including parts and labour.

Price - R6, 362

 

 

AMDi Smart/128

 

The Smart/128 has 128 locations that allow for more extensive communication. It also has a transparent top grid which can be easily removed. With the grid, the Smart/128 is a standard static 128 location AAC device. Without it, Smart/128 can be used for pictorial communication. This brings a whole new level of versatility.
• Record 128 messages per level.
• 6 levels for up to 768 messages.
• 2.25 seconds per message = 1,728 seconds total = 28.8 minutes.
• Smart Overlay System 1-6 levels.
• Interchangeable FLASH memory.
• Optional interchangeable keyguards: 4, 8, 16, 32 and 128 locations.
• Rear mounted volume and level controls.

 

 

Price - R13,000

 

Please note that due to the ever fluctuating exchange rates all prices are approximates and are subject to change. Please contact us directly should you require an official quote.