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Dynamic display has quickly become the norm when it comes to AAC. The use of mainstream off-the-shelf
technologies from Smartphone PDA's to NetBook computers, or the more hardened devices built from scratch by AAC
vendors are everywhere. There may be many situations where the enthusiasm to use dynamic display is not matched with a
user's needs. Because of the limitations of funding only one device every five years, you want to get
the most capable system available at the time. While there is a core philosophy about choosing the simplest technology
to achieve the desired outcome for the client and support team, we may not always choose the simplest system for other
reasons. |
With this underlying notion we would like to proceed with a comparison of static display devices like the
Talara and MACAW with the Optimist dynamic display system and review the likely suitability of these completely different
types of systems. |
The advent of dynamic display communication devices (DDD) has brought about significant change for users of
alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) devices in terms of options and functionality. A growth in the range of
dynamic display devices available has increased the considerations for those making recommendations about devices. The
similarity to personal computers (PCs), and the use of commercial PCs makes the choice of these systems appealing. In terms
of practical application, however, there are many considerations, particularly for users, which means that static display devices
still maintain a crucial place of importance amongst the array of devices available. |
Opposing Perspectives
Considerations of vision, accessing, memory, portability, durability,
personal choice and cognition may be important factors influencing the ‘best’ choice from the user's
perspective. Programming differences, comparative repair costs and available support may be some of the factors
affecting the ‘best’ choice from the perspective of the support team.
Are people receiving inappropriate
devices? Which device should we recommend? What is the best device? Is static display too low tech?
Sometimes people perceive static display devices to be ‘older’ technology. Although they have been around
quite a bit longer, they are, after all, computers. Many such devices are just as internally sophisticated technologically as the
newer dynamic display devices, utilizing processors, memory devices, and integrated circuit boards just like the computers you think of. |
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I want the best thing money can buy.
Dynamic display devices are viewed as the ‘best’, a
‘panacea’ etc. possibly because they may have more features and a wider functionality, for example, they may be able to store
human voice (digitized) messages and are able to convert text-to-speech (synthesized) for voice output. It may be parents are pushing
for this, as they perceive this as ‘best’, and of course want the best for their child. The latest device comes with the
wow factor, and the marketing buzz keeps everyone talking about it. However successful use by the client is our primary goal.
Whether the features make the device better will depend on the needs of the user. |
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Static Display |
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Pros
Durable
Instant-on or always on
Long battery life
Easy to learn to use
Easy to record new vocabulary
Symbols, pictures, & text
Often more concrete representations
Static overlays can be used as backup without device
Easily adapted keyguards and accommodations
Very lightweight and easy to carry
Long product life cycle
Durable, less likely to break
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Cons
Does not come pre-loaded with vocabulary
Requires motor control to change overlays
Limits novel expression
Have to create, carry, and manage overlays
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Dynamic Display |
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Pros
Large, preloaded vocabulary
Easy to customize samples for user
Easy for user to change pages independently
Symbols, pictures, and text
Computer screen generates images
Many access methods
Use synthesized and/or recorded voices
Provides access to other computer programs
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Cons
Lengthy boot up time
Limited battery life
Hard to program
Time consuming to learn to use
Can't see the screen outside
Fragile, expensive
Short product life cycle
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Digital Recording Static Display | ZYGO Digital Recording devices |
Sounds great every time. |
MACAW 5 |
Talara-32 |
Store messages created by human voice
Play back recorded messages to “speak”
Only messages that have been recorded are available
Record in any language, any age, male or female
Use symbols, pictures, letters, words, and objects on overlays
Print active scene displays from digital photographs
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