Macaw 5

ZYGO Macaw

What is the Macaw ?

The Macaw is a communication device used by people who do not have functional speech. Pictures or words are used to make an overlay (or a display) which represent the messages stored in each key. The person using the Macaw selects the message and the Macaw speaks it for them. A person with speech records the desired messages onto the Macaw.

The Macaw is mostly used by people who do not have the ability to spell the messages they wish to communicate. Instead they can press or select the key which depicts the required message, or whole words can be used on the overlay.

People who use the Macaw include children or adults with Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Autism, Developmental Delay, Acquired Brain Injury and Stroke. The diagnosis is not a critical component. If the person does not have functional speech and needs a device which does not reply on spelling then the Macaw may be suitable.

Macaw Family
( 5 series, Green series, DACtyl series)

The Macaw is a speech generating device designed for recording human voice for playback when keys are selected. It is a sophisticated electronic communication device with numerous functions and features making it easily customisable for both children and adults with wide ranging abilities and needs.

The Macaw 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 (or switches) with scanning (or coded access) or joystick. The messages are usually represented with a paper overlay which may display pictures, photos, graphics or words.

RECORD — the programming mode is for the 'support' people who will be setting up the device for the 'user'. In this mode the support person can change the size of the keys, record the messages, activate scanning and other accessing settings, choose a mode for changing levels and many other operations.

The main features of the Macaw are:

it's facility for storing levels for easy change between message sets. Macaw 5s have 32 levels, Green Macaws have 63 levels. The user may have access to a large number of phrases or messages, or many simple message sets.
the number and size of keys can be readily changed to suit people with varying visual, physical and cognitive abilities.
it's durability and reliability.
it's longevity is testimony to the success of it's design and functionality. Improvements in it's operation have been the only changes to the base design.

All Macaws SUPPLIED WITH:

battery charger
sample overlays
keyboard frame (overlay retainer)
warranty registration card
neck strap
operation manual
lolly switch
set of hex keys/wrenches

New Macaws are Cheaper!
We have been able to reduce pricing significantly due to manufacturing cost reductions, and we are happy to pass these on to customers.

"Whats New in MACAW 5"

The new Macaw 5s are significantly lighter than the old model.
The hinged magnetic overlay retainer (and keyguards) were well received.
In addition the power can be provided by off-the-shelf regular batteries or rechargeable batteries.
The comprehensive range of functions and features remain the same as past models
Extended recording is no longer necessary.
78 minutes of recording time

See Model Specifications Below
And The Model Comparison Table

Direct Selection
If the person can point to the keys and press them with their finger or hand - this is called Direct Selection.

Scanning
If the person has a severe physical disability and has limited movement and cannot point to or press the keys, a single switch may be used with a foot or head for example, and used with the scanning lights on the Macaw. When the scanning light is on the desired message key the person activates the switch to make a selection. This is called Indirect Selection or scanning in this instance.

All new Macaws can be operated by Direct Selection and Scanning. Someone using Direct Selection may need a keyguard to help them point more accurately. A keyguard is a frame with a grid which fits on top of the keyboard. Keyguards are available to fit the various size squares which can be set up on the Macaw.

Specifications

All Macaw 5s and Greens have:
[see below for DACtyl specifications]

Wedge shape, [front height 1.3 cm (1/2 in) and back height 6.35 cm (2-1/2 in)]
Keyboard size 29.2 cm (11-1/2 in) wide by19.7 cm (7-3/4 in) high
Weight 0.9 kg
Keys require 114 gm of force
Function keys require 228 gm of force
Keys (Macaw 5 family) 4 x 8 pattern, 3.2 cm square between centres / 2.9 cm square
Rigid handle
An internal microphone
A 7.6 cm (3 in) internal speaker
User accessible functions from the keyboard:
Talk/Repeat Strings
Silent Selection of Message
Volume Control
Levels
Adjustable volume control
A transparent keypad cover to protect overlays
Enlarged-Key Patterns (macaw 5 family) 2 x 1, 4 x 1, 2 x 2, 4 x 2, 4 x 4
Variety of mounting system options
Message Retrieval systems of:
— Single key
— String Messages
(using silent and/or spoken selections)
— Dynamic Levels
— Key Link
Power:
20 hours continuous output on full charge
12 hours continuous use when scanning
4 hours charge time
rechargeable nickel-metal hydride or
alkaline batteries purchased locally

Standard Features:
'no dead spaces' on keyboard
power OFF without losing recordings
battery level indication
recording time remaining indicator
facility to move or delete message
computer transfer of messages for back-up or download
auditory scanning (with cueing) and earphone if desired
visual scanning modes for one or multiple switches
and MORE!!

DACtyl Macaw

The DACtyl Macaw is identical in operation to the Green Macaw. It has an oversized keyboard measuring 25 cm x 38 cm.
Weight: kg
Keys: 19 mm x 19 mm