On Thursday, October 24th, Dianna Feldman of Assistive Technology, Inc. will visit LINC to present
a demonstration of some of the latest Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices,
ranging in prices and in capabilities. She will demonstrate the Gemni & Gemini SE. The Gemini
allows a parent or professional to load third party communication or education software, as
needed by the user. The Gemini is a universally accessible device suited to a range of motor control abilities and
access methods, touch screen, switch input, on-screen keyboard, joystick, head mouse, external keyboard
and mouse or alternative pointer. Both the Gemini and the SE can be powered on with the power button or a
remote switch. The device allows the user to position and operate the device on a wheelchair, desk or other
flat surface. It is lightweight, and can be easily adjusted to a variety of angles to suit the needs and
preferences of the user. The kits include all the hardware, accessories and documentation needed to get
started quickly and easily.
Also on display that evening is the Mercury and the Mercury SE. The Mercury is the first fully
integrated Microsoft Windows XP-based AAC device. The Mercury provides users with a voice to communicate
socially and a Windows computer to work independently. The SE also serves as an environmental control unit.
The third item that Dianna will demonstrate is the LINK, the ìsmartî keyboard that talks. Featuring
DECtalk high-quality speech output, LINK is an easy-to-use, lightweight communication device. It offers
keyboard shortcuts for abbreviations and messages, flexible readback and keyboard settings, 9 voices, and
multiple files for storing 64 pages of text, which can be downloaded to a Mac or PC.
Workshop attendees will have a hands-on opportunity to take a closer look at these devices and ask
questions about pricing, funding, and operating.