Allora
Overview
Allora is a portable speech generating device which converts text-to-speech. Speech is high quality Australian RealSpeak male or female voice. Access is via the keyboard or switch/scanning. Built-in GEWA environmental control is installed as standard. The casing is available in black or light-grey.
Features
Generating messages on the Allora is simple. Text is typed using the keyboard, and this appears in the 40 character display. The text is spoken when <enter> is pressed, or after each word if 'wordecho' is activated.
Listen to a sample of the Australian RealSpeak female voice click here
Listen to a sample of the Australian RealSpeak male voice click here
Word prediction is available. Prediction options appear in the second line of the display. Allora predicts the next word according to its knowledge of word pairs. This can reduce keystrokes by approximately 50%. Words can be added to and removed from the dictionary. Word prediction is shown in the image below.
Communication speed may also be enhanced by the use of pre-programmed messages and abbreviations. One hundred and eleven messages can be stored under key sequences of Function (Fn) plus another key or Shift plus another key. Each message can have a maximum of 1000 characters. Abbreviations can also be stored for example ASAP = as soon as possible.
An ATTENTION key can be used to play a sound. This can be changed and personalised with Allora Tools.
A range of WAV files are supplied, for example, applause, "oops", sigh, "whew" and can be assigned to keys. Original recordings can be made and assigned to keys also.
Accessing
The keyboard is splashproof silicone elestomer molded membrane which has "stndard' sized raised keys with white key labels on a black background. A keyguard is available. This is secured to the top of the unit using four screws. QWERTY or ABCD layout is available, and must be specified at the time of ordering.
Scanning is activated as soon as a switch is plugged in to the switch port. Further settings can can be adjusted in the settings menu. A scan matrix is displayed, line-by-line in the top right of the display. As soon as a switch is plugged in, this function commences. Scan speed, switch acceptance time and post selection delay can be adjusted.
Time
The Allora has an in-built real time clock. You can decide whether you want to read or read and hear the time and or date when this function is selected.
Environmental Control
The Allora is supplied with a built-in GEWA environmental control unit. This allows the user to operate television, DVD and other appliances using the Allora. [This is offered as 'standard' from February 2012]
See 'accessories' for mounting information.
Please go to 'tech specs' for more details.
The manual is available under "Support"
Supplied with:
- charger
- manual
- Allora tools CD
- USB cable
- carry bag with shoulder and carry strap
Optional Extras:
- Daessy mount plate for quick release system
- Keyguard
Trial:
The Allora is available for short-term trial. Please read about our loan scheme for further details.