Step-By-Step CHOICE

This compact communication device stores many messages which can be accessed using the prominent single button.  Alternatively a specialised remote switch can be used to activate the messages. Messages are simply recorded by a speaking assistant using the in-built microphone.  If desired a picture or photo can be placed under the clear protective cap to represent the stored message/s.

The Step-By-Step CHOICE - can be set up in many ways.

101+ Ideas For Using the BIG Step-by-Step™

Download the ideas here (PDF Download)

Single message:  

• record a message (total recording time of 4 minutes); the user activates the large round touch switch to "speak" the message.  The playback quality is loud and clear.  Single message devices can be used to introduce 'voice output'.  A child may participate in a game by giving a repeated instruction e.g. 'ready, steady, go!'  A student may have a task to perform where a repeated message is used e.g. "do you have any lunch orders today?"  A conversation starter may be useful to intiate a chat e.g. "what did you do last night?"
• the Step-by-Step has 3 levels so it would be possible to store 3 different messages and the assistant/support person can change the single message by changing the levels.  (a small sliding button on the side of the unit changes between levels 1, 2 and 3).

Step-by-Step:

• the multiple messages available provide more communication opportunities for the user.  To use the multiple messages the user would press the button once for message 1, then twice for message 2, 3 times for message 3 and so on.  There is no limit to the number of messages stored in this way, however the total recording time is 4 minutes.
• each of the three levels can have multiple messages stored in this way
• these could be used in a variety of ways. A useful 'errorless' communication set-up may require recording a series of messages which have the same communication function, for example various types of greeting: e.g. 1 x press = "hi, how are you?",  2 x press =  "g'day, how are things?", 3 x press = "hello, hello!".  The series of messages could be used to provide different information or instructions in a game e.g. 1 x press = "simon says clap your hands", 2 x press = "simon says jump up and down", 3 x press = 'growl like a lion", 4 x press = "you're out!"  OR a task e.g. 1 x press = "can you please turn on my computer", 2 x press = "my switch needs to be set up next, thanks", 3 x press = "can you ask me which game I want to play please?"

Multiple Step-By-Steps:

• The Step-By-Step is supplied with a connecting bracket so that several devices can be set up next to each other.

Other functions:

• The Step-By-Step also has a toy/applicance jack with cable.  The device can be used as a switch to operate a toy or appliance such as a battery-powered fan or radio.

  Accessing:

• The large button (63.5mm diameter / 2.5 inches) can be activated with a fist, hand or other body part.  
• A remote single switch can also be connected to the Step-By-Step if the user prefers a different way to operate the device.  Almost any switch can be connected. 

Note:

The Step-By-Step CHOICE with Levels communicator, differs from the Step-By-Step with Levels communicator as follows:  The CHOICE version requires multiple activations to speak out the sequenced messages; so message 1 = 1 hit; message 2 = 2 hits, message 3 = 3 hits.  The Step-By-Step with Levels produces the messages sequentially with a single hit.  Hit 1 = message 1, hit 2 = message 2, hit 3 = message 3.  Multiple activations are not required to produce the different messages.  These units are otherwise identical in size, shape, activation method and all other aspects.

Availability:

Usually in stock

Trial:

One of the step-by-step series may be available in our Single Message Assessment Kit.

As this is a low cost device it is not available for short-term trial through our usual 'loan/trial program'.  Instead we offer the Step-By-Step on a 'sale or return' basis.  This means it can be purchased and a new complete kit is supplied, and if it is unsuitable it can be returned within 14 days.  A refund will be provided less the original freight cost and less any 're-stocking fee' applicable. A re-stocking fee applies if packaging or components require replacing.  If the device and accessories are returned in resaleable condition, a refund will be provided less the original freight charge.

One of the step-by-step series may be available in our Single Message Assessment kit available to therapists for evaluation.

As this is a low cost device it is not available for short-term trial through our usual 'Guided Evaluation Program'.  Instead we offer the Step-By-Steps on a 'sale or return' basis.  This means it can be purchased and a new complete device is supplied, and if it is unsuitable it can be returned within 14 days.  A refund will be provided less the original freight cost and less any 're-stocking fee' applicable. A re-stocking fee applies if packaging or components require replacing.  If the device and accessories are returned in resaleable condition, a refund will be provided less the original freight charge.See "Purchase or Return" for terms. 

• recording time | 4 minutes in total
• connections | switch jack, toy/appliance jack
• dimensions | activation button = 63.5 mm diameter, height = 80mm, width of base-plate = 100mm
• activation force |  57 to 85 gms (2 - 3 oz)
• weight with battery | 241 gms (8.5 oz)
• power | 9 volt battery

Step-By-Step CHOICE instruction guide (PDF download)

101+ ideas for using single message devices by ABLENET (PDF download) 

• 4 interchangeable coloured twist caps (blue, yellow, red, green)
• 1 snap switch cap (clear)
• 1 connecting bracket
• 1 toy/appliance cable
• quickstart guide

Q: How do the step-by-steps differ? 

A: refer to Ablenet's comparison chart (PDF download)