Should I upgrade to the Lightwriter SL40 from the SL35?

Many users of SL35 LightWRITERs wonder whether it would be worthwhile to upgrade to the new SL40. The SL40 offers many new features which may be helpful in increasing speed of message production or selection. The operating system and basic functions are different. Aesthetically it is modern and attractive. The following comparisons are detailed to assist with the decision-making process.    

feature	SL40 LightWRITER	SL35 LightWRITER
overview	The SL40 was released in Australia in March 2010. It continues to offer the favoured LightWRITER features: the dual displays enabling face-to-face communication; compact for portability; durable and reliable. In addition it attractive, available in modern colours. Most importantly however, this model offers very useful 'speed enhancement' strategies to increase the ease and rate of message formulation. The strategies are displayed visually, not so dependent on memory as the SL35 extra features.	The SL35 has been a popular device for the past 15 or so years. It is simple to use and for many people it will continue to be suitable for many years. The main features being: the dual displays enabling face-to-face communication; compact for portability; durable and reliable. ZYTEQ will be able to continue to provide repair services and support for the SL35 for at least 5 years from June 30 2010.
displays	Large bright display with two lines for user (1 is used for word prediction) and 1, 2 or 3 lines for the communication partner. Text does not scroll.	VFD (vacuum fluorescent display) or LCD (liquid crystal display) screens on both sides or a mixture. One line for each screen. Scrolls off the screen as you are typing or replaying a sentence.
typing text	Either ABC or QWERTY keyboard layout is available; no OFF button. Left and right configuration can be made. Device uses auto-off to turn off device or shut down feature in settings. Three keyguards are standard with purchase. Fit the preferred one.	You will have either ABC or QWERTY keyboard layout with an OFF button. Can turn off device, as well as set auto off time. Three keyguards available but need to request preferred one with order.
word prediction	Uses word completion and prediction as you are typing, with word choices viewed in the 4 text boxes at the bottom of the screen. Word is selected using corresponding number. Can add words to the dictionary. This is one of the key features of the SL40. The word prediction is visually clear and simple to use.	Uses word completion from a fixed and limited dictionary; one option appears as you are typing (all on the one line). Choose +/- key to scroll through other word options. Word is selected using REPLAY key.
memory features	Memory is extensive and is shared by phrase bank, notebook and pronunciation exceptions. Stored phrases – able to store numerous phrases. Can view all the phrases at any time using the PICK key and arrow keys to scroll down list. Or type a key word and then see a selection of phrases using that key word. Abbreviation expansion available where up to 4 items can be stored under each letter combination. These options then appear in the prediction boxes. These features may be a great help to those with good sight reading skills, and the visual display of the phrases is clear.	Abbreviation expansion relies on memory of MEM plus a alpha-numerica character, or abbreviation expansion e.g. ASAP = as soon as possible.
notebook	a separate section permits production and storage of long tracts of text for story-writing, note-taking, or to give a speech etc. Save with a designated name and recall later to speak out, edit etc.	No notebook section. Speeches can be given by linking memories of 250 characters each.
speech	high quality Acapela speech is used in either UK or US English. Both speech synthesizers are supplied and the operator can choose which to use. Settings permit speak: word, all. (speak: 'every key' and 'announce' - not available)	DECtalk speech only. Settings permit - speak:every key:announce;word; replay
set-ups	accessed through a visual/tab style activity bar	accessed through key sequences
peripherals	at this time no peripherals can be attached to the SL40 e.g printer, alternative keyboard.	alternative PC keyboards, scan module, direct mini-printer can be attached using serial port.
colour	black (charcoal) or white available	blue only
weight	870 grams	880 grams
dimensions	24mm x 14mm x 5.5cm	22.9 x 13.3 x 5.1 cm
wheelchair mounting	mounting plate available for Daessy, Monty, VESA and Toby Churchill Ltd mounts	mounting plates available for Daessy and Toby Churchill Ltd mounts
carry bag and accessories	user carry bag available ; carry-all supplied with SL40 upon purchase; other accessories to come.  Keyguards supplied with unit.	many accessories available that have been developed over a long period
battery	Rechargeable nickel metal hydride batteries All day battery life with standard usage (10% duty cycle) Shorter stand-by time than SL35.	Rechargeable nickel metal hydride batteries up to 8 hours of continuous operation after an overnight charge. Long stand-by time.