Adaptive Computing: Gemini Augmentative and Alternative Communication Device
The Gemini Augmentative and Alternative Communication Device is designed to
help people with learning, communication, or computer access difficulties lead
more independent and productive lives. There are many communication devices
available for people with disabilities, but unlike most of the others this is
an actual computer, providing access to the Internet as well as any software
applications the user installs. Built on the body of an Apple iBook, the Gemini,
designed by Assistive Technology, Inc. of Newton, Massachusetts, features all
of the capabilities of the Apple product, as well as additions including enhanced
stereo sound, multiple USB ports, a touchscreen, a wheelchair joystick input
connector, and connectors for 2-4 large switches for users lacking fine motor
skills. Gemini delivers a considerable amount of computing power: the PowerPC
G3 processor runs at 300 megahertz, and the unit has 160 megabytes of built-in
memory with a 3-gigabyte hard disk.
The unit is small and portable. Because it's built from a laptop, Gemini is
lightweight (6.6 pounds), with dimensions comparable to a coffee table book.
Most Gemini users are students who use Gemini at home and at school, often carrying
the same unit around with them. Thus, it comes with a padded carrying case and
fold-away handle, as well as a back-pack-style carrying case. The case can easily
be hung on the handles of a wheelchair, and wheelchair mounting options are
also available.
As an adaptive technology, Gemini is quite versatile, suited to a range of
input methods, including touchscreen, switch input, on-screen keyboard, external
keyboard, joystick, headmouse, and other pointer devices. Although Gemini comes
with a suite of software tools including Dynamically Pro, Boardmaker, and one
other option (see accompanying story), users can easily augment its capabilities
by loading other applications.
Gemini users can get on the Internet in a variety of ways. Gemini houses a
built-in 56K modem and a 10/100BASE-T Ethernet port. Apple's AirPort wireless
feature is available as an option for those seeking a wireless solution. As
with a standard computer, all the user needs is an Internet Service Provider
and an e-mail address. A built-in CD-ROM drive is there for music lovers or
those working with CD-based assignments.
Assistive Technology offers Gemini in a basic package plus a variety of hardware
and software bundles. The Gemini kit includes the Gemini AAC Device and Computer,
USB microphone, USB keyboard, USB mouse, on-screen Gemini keyboard, AC power
adapter, user's guide, and a one-year limited warranty. Bundles vary from the
"Classic" to the "Deluxe" Wheelchair Bundle. The Classic
includes the Gemini kit, Speaking Dynamically Pro and Boardmaker software, USB
floppy-disk drive, USB 3-port hub, additional battery and charger, a table-top
stand, and one communication solution option. The Wheelchair bundle adds a wheelchair
battery adapter and wheelchair mount. The deluxe model includes a zip drive,
AirPort card and base station, and optional Dynamically Pro boards. www.assistivetech.com.
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Adaptive Software
Communication Solutions
The Gemini Augmentative
and Alternative Communication device comes pre-loaded with Speaking Dynamically
Pro and Boardmaker software, sold by Mayer-Johnson. Speaking Dynamically
Pro, created by King Software Development, turns a Macintosh or Windows
computer into a communication device. It is appropriate for communication
programs for individuals who cannot speak, for use as an interactive tool
for inclusion of special-needs students in regular classes, in a training
program for learning communication and language skills, and as an educational
tool to encourage literacy.
The customized dynamic
screens are versatile and easy to use. Users can create new boards or
work with the 90 ready-made boards, tailoring them to fit individual needs.
Users can click on buttons on the screen (setting them to speak), change
screens, type messages, or do other tasks. Speaking Dynamically Pro features
text-to-speech functions; recorded (digitized) speech; the ability to
put pictures, photos, or text on buttons; sentence-building activities;
sound effects; link boards; auditory scanning; highlighting function;
QuickTime movies; button magnification for low vision; and easy use of
graphics. Users can resize, paint, flip and rotate, and add color to backgrounds.
The product is accessible through mouse, joystick, touchscreen, trackball,
head-pointing device, alternate keyboard, or switch using built-in scanning
modes.
Boardmaker is a graphics
database containing more than 3,000 picture communication symbols in bitmapped
clip art form. Created by the staff of the Erinoak Center in Ontario,
Canada, the program allows users to build customized boards of symbols
and letters to enable communication with individuals or groups. Finding
and pasting pictures is easy. Users can adjust the size and spacing of
the pictures, as well as print and save boards for future use. Files can
be saved onto disk or imported into desktop publishing software. Available
in 10 languages for Macintosh and 17 for Windows, users can build communication
boards in a language without having to know how to speak it themselves.
The product comes with a user's guide and explanatory videotape. www.mayerjohnson.com.
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