Digicom 2000 User Manual

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Foundations of DigiCom 2000

Chapter Two

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 1

2-1

HELPFUL HINT:

This Chapter is necessary reading for all individuals wishing to become experienced in programming the DigiCom using simple or advanced programming methods.

If you haven’t already, be sure you read Chapter One, Equipment and its Care, which explains in detail how to care for the equipment. In it you will learn about the battery, the touch panel, overlays, the connecting ports and jacks, and DigiCom specifications.

Foundations of DigiCom 2000

To learn how to use your DigiCom, it is important to read the chapters in order. This chapter will help you to get the DigiCom up and going. When you read the next chapters you will learn about the basic features followed by information about the many advanced features of the DigiCom.

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2-2

In this Chapter

In this chapter, you will learn information to help you make decisions to setup your DigiCom to program messages. You will also learn some information important to ‘speak’ messages. These foundations are for the successful use of your DigiCom.

You will learn:

❑ How to “set up” the DigiCom hardware and

its accessories including plugging it in, using a microphone, inserting an overlay, turning DigiCom on/off and using sleep time.

❑ How to use Keyboard Overlays, function keys

and message keys

❑ How to understand and use “Program” and

“Play” Modes

❑ How to understand and use “Group” and

“Level” features

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2–3

Setting up the Equipment

What You Need

Before you start, check that the following items are in front of you;

❑ the DigiCom ❑ the power adapter ❑ Programmer Overlays including a 4x8

Programmer’s Overlay

❑ External microphone (optional)

Plugging in the DigiCom

If this is the first time using your new DigiCom, or if you suspect the batteries might be running low, plug in the battery charger / power adapter. This way your DigiCom will have adequate power while you are learning to use it.

For additional information on charging the DigiCom, see Charging the Battery in Chapter One.

DigiCom

Charger

Overlays

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 4

2–4

ABCDEFGH

4X8

SPEECH

CONTROLS

EDIT

SEQUENCES

COMMAND

CANCEL

ERASE

LEVEL

TRANSFER AREA MSG

ERASE

KEY

RS-232DISK

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

SCAN

CONTROLS

LOCK

LEVELS

KEY

CONTROLS

LOCK

GROUPS

SET UP

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD

BACKSPACE/ DELETE SEQ

LINK STOP GROUP

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

Using a Microphone: Internal or Exter nal

You can use one of two microphones to record messages. Your DigiCom has an internal microphone. It is located under a small hole on the upper right of the front panel and is labeled `Mic’.

If you have purchased an external microphone, you may find it easier to use since you can hold it closer to your mouth. To use the external microphone, be certain it has batteries. Plug it into the port labeled `EXT Mic’ on the right side panel. Contact your DigiCom representative for information on compatible external microphones.

Inserting an Overlay

If you are not already familiar with DigiCom overlays or the touch panel, read those sections of Chapter One before moving on. To use the DigiCom you need to have an overlay on the touch panel.

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2–5

Inserting an Overlay (cont.)

Following the instructions, insert a 4x8 Programmer’s Overlay with blank squares (message keys) on it. This overlay has 12 function keys labeled across the top row and four more rows of 8 keys each which are blank.

By putting this overlay in, you can set up the DigiCom and begin recording so you can practice basic operations.

Placing An Overlay on the DigiCom

❑ Locate the appropriate Programmer’s Overlay

(in practice example, 4x8)

❑ Lift the protective sheet of plastic by placing

your fingers near the top of the keyboard and lifting up to release the magnetic hold.

❑ Remove any overlay that might be there,

place a new overlay over the touch panel. Be sure and center the overlay so it is seated on the touch panel.

❑ Lower the protective sheet and secure it.

The magnetic strips will hold the protective plastic cover and overlay in place.

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2–6

Understanding the “Function Keys” Used for Programming

Before turning the unit on, look for a moment at the top row of keys on the overlay. They look like this:

The top row of keys constitutes the programming “function keys”. Learn to recognize the following qualities of these function row keys.

❑ There are 10 function keys in the row. The first

eight keys in this row each have 2 or 3 different functions assigned to them.

❑ The Function Row keys are color coded gold,

rose and white.

❑ By pressing these keys in various combinations,

you tell the DigiCom what you want it to do.

You will always press function keys in specific sequences to perform the functions described on each key.

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PROGRAM/

PLAY

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD

SPEECH

CONTROLS

LOCK LEVELS

ERASE LEVEL

AREA/

SEQUENCE

SEQUENCES

KEYBOARD

IMMEDIATE/

SCAN

KEY

LAYOUT

LINK

CONTROLS BACKSPACE/

LINK STOP GROUP

EDIT

TRANSFER AREA MSG

DELETE SEQ

RS-232DISK

CONTROLS

LOCK

GROUPS

VOLUME

DOWN

ERASE

KEY

VOLUME

SET UP

4X8

COMMAND

CANCEL

ABCDEFGH

2–7

Setup Functions

❑ If you want a function in the gold area of the

function row (upper area), you must first press the gold [OK/SET UP] key. Now the function row is actively the gold functions or [SET UP] Functions. These include:

Program/Play, Lock Levels, Area/Sequence, Keyboard Layout, Immediate/Link, Scan Controls, Key Controls and Lock Groups.

Generally, the steps to use a SET UP function are:

1. Press the key labeled [Set Up] (it doubles as the [OK] key).

2. The display will show the following message:

Press a SET UP Function Key

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

PROGRAM/

PLAY

SPEECH

CONTROLS

SPEAK

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

LEVEL

LOCK

LEVELS

ERASE LEVEL

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

AREA/

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCES

DEFINE

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

RECORD

TRANSFER AREA MSG

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

DISK

3. Press the Set Up key of your choice (gold labels)

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

SCAN

CONTROLS

RS-232

BACKSPACE/

DELETE SEQ

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

STOP

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

KEY

CONTROLS

ERASE

KEY

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

GROUP

LOCK

GROUPS

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 8

2–8

Command Functions

❑ If you want a function in the rose shaded

area of the function row, (lower area) you must first press the rose shaded COMMAND key. Now the lower part of the function row is active. There are several functions which are directed by COMMAND:

Speech Controls, Erase Level, Edit Sequences, Transfer Area Msg, Disk, RS-232, and Erase Key.

Generally the steps to use a COMMAND function are:

1. Press the rose shaded key labeled

[COMMAND] (it doubles as the [Cancel] key).

2. The display will show the following message:

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

RECORD

TRANSFER AREA MSG

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

STOP

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

KEY

CONTROLS

ERASE

KEY

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SCAN

CONTROLS

RS-232

BACKSPACE/

DELETE SEQ

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

COMMAND

CANCEL

Press a COMMAND Function Key

3. Then press the command key of your choice.

(rose labels)

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

PROGRAM/

PLAY

SPEECH

CONTROLS

SPEAK

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

LEVEL

LOCK

LEVELS

ERASE LEVEL

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

AREA/

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCES

DEFINE

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

DISK

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 9

2–9

Single Functions

The steps to use the plain (white) functions are:

❑ Press the key without pressing anything else first.

It is a single step function.

If you do not touch the SET UP or COMMAND keys first, the key does what is labeled in the white area. These keys provide control of various

functions useful during both programming and communication. These keys will perform the functions: Speak, Level, Define, Record, Link,

Backspace/Delete Seq, Stop, and Group.

HELPFUL HINT:

If you press the [SET UP] key or [COMMAND] key, but don’t need to perform a command or set up function – don’t panic! The key can be canceled simply by pressing the same key again.

A Brief Word About Message Keys

The remaining rows on the overlays contain message keys. These are pressed to record and play messages. On the blank areas on these keys you will write words or place pictures (icons, symbols) to represent recorded messages.

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

RECORD

TRANSFER AREA MSG

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SCAN

CONTROLS

RS-232

BACKSPACE/

DELETE SEQ

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

PROGRAM/

PLAY

SPEECH

CONTROLS

SPEAK

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

LEVEL

LOCK

LEVELS

ERASE LEVEL

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

AREA/

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCES

DEFINE

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

DISK

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

STOP

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

KEY

CONTROLS

ERASE

KEY

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

GROUP

LOCK

GROUPS

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 10

2–10

Using LCD Messages to Scroll Through Options

After you turn the DigiCom on and begin programming, many of the SET UP and COMMAND functions will require you to choose from a list of options. Some of the white function keys will provide options when you are in Program mode also. You will make selections using the [<], [>], [OK], and [Cancel] keys. Look at an overlay now to locate these keys.

The [<] and [>] arrow keys allow you to scroll through options so you can step forward and backward through the options. You will be able to change the display and when the display shows the desired option, select that choice by pressing the [OK] key. If you decide to leave things as they were, press the [Cancel] key.

As you follow the steps in upcoming sections you will be scrolling through options and using all you’ve learned to select options. By understanding these basics, you will be able to go on to program and customize quickly!

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 11

2–11

Turning the DigiCom On

To turn the DigiCom “on” when it is “off”, press the Reset button on the right side panel. Remember, the button is recessed to prevent it from being pushed accidentally. You will need to push the button with a pen or some other narrow object. When the DigiCom turns on the LCD display will quickly show:

and

Starting DigiCom...

and

DigiCom Version X.XX

GROUP A:PROGRAM LEVEL1 Areas

where XX.XX is the software version such as `Version 1.00’.

It will then be ready to use. If it was previously programmed, all message and setting files will be intact. Most electronic devices have two states, `on’ and `off’. The DigiCom has three states: on, off, and sleep. [Note: `Sleep’ is a resting state in which the DigiCom appears to be `off’ but is actually in a low power state with all functions ready and waiting. When your DigiCom first arrived, it was off.]

If the DigiCom is in sleep state, you can `wake’ it up by simply pressing any key. When the DigiCom `wakes’ up, it is ready to be used immediately.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 12

2–12

< HAVING TROUBLE?

If the DigiCom will not turn on, don’t panic. The most likely problem is that the battery has drained. Plug in the charger and then push the Reset button. If the DigiCom still doesn’t turn on, refer to Chapter Eight, Trouble Shooting.

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

Turning the DigiCom Off

The DigiCom will go into `sleep’ state automatically when not in use. This will conserve battery power yet allow DigiCom to be ready for use. However, there are times when the DigiCom should be completely switched off, such as for distance transporting.

To turn off the DigiCom, it must first be in PROGRAM mode.

Follow these steps to put the DigiCom into PROGRAM mode. (You will learn more about

PROGRAM mode later.)

1. Press the gold function key labeled [SET UP].

2. Press [PROGRAM/PLAY].

3. Press the [>] key to change the SYSTEM MODE to “PROGRAM”. (Note: If it is already in program mode, you can skip these steps.)

4. Press [OK] to confirm your selection.

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

PROGRAM/

PLAY

SPEECH

CONTROLS

SPEAK

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 13

2–13

Follow these steps to turn off the DigiCom:

1. Put DigiCom into PROGRAM mode.

2. Press the rose shaded key labeled [COMMAND].

3. Press the [Volume Down] key (it doubles as the [<] key).

4. The display will prompt the following:

Power Down? OK Cancel

5. Press the gold key labeled [OK] (it doubles as the [SET UP] key).

The DigiCom will then power down, turning the unit off. To turn it back on, press the Reset button on the right side panel.

Adjusting the “Sleep Time”

The time that the DigiCom waits after the last key press before `going to sleep’ can be adjusted. The delay ranges from a half of a minute to 4 minutes.

To change the delay, put the DigiCom into “Program” Mode and then follow these steps:

1. Press the [SET UP] key.

2. Press the [>] key. It doubles as the [Volume Up] key.

Sleep Time: 4.0m < > OK Cancel

where there is a number between 0.5 minute and 4 minutes.

4. Press [<] to shorten the time or [>] to lengthen the time.

5. When the display indicates the delay you want, press [OK].

6. Press [Cancel] at any time to quit and leave the settings as they were.

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

COMMAND

CANCEL

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/ SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 14

2–14

Using the Correct System Mode: Program or Play

The DigiCom has two system modes of operation: Program and Play. It is important to know when to use each mode. When a user is `speaking’ with the DigiCom, it should be in Play mode. When you are programming, it must be in Program mode. If you have been following along, you have already experienced a bit of programming using Program mode.

System Mode: Program

To begin any programming into the DigiCom you must put it into Program mode. You cannot record, adjust the sleep time, or perform other functions unless you are in Program Mode. Program Mode will be used primarily by programmers and people helping the DigiCom augmentative communicator.

To enter Program mode, follow these steps:

1. Press [SET UP].

2. Press [Program/Play]. (It is the first gold colored

function key on left.)

3. If the display shows:

Mode: PLAY

< > OK Cancel

4. Press [<] or [>] and the display will show:

5. Press [OK]. When the DigiCom is in Program mode, you will

have access to all its functions. You will learn about these functions throughout the next few chapters.

Mode: PROGRAM < > OK Cancel

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

PROGRAM/

PLAY

SPEECH

CONTROLS

SPEAK

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 15

System Mode: Play

Play mode is intended for use by the person who is `speaking’ with the DigiCom. In most instances, this person should not have access to Program Mode.

In Play mode, all of the message keys are active. However, only the following user function keys are available: Speak, Level, Link, Backspace, Stop, Group, Volume Down, and Volume Up. This is to prevent the user from accidentally changing the DigiCom settings or erasing the message files that have been recorded.

To enter Play mode, follow these steps:

1. Press [SET UP].

2. Press [Program/Play].

3. If the display shows:

2–15

HAVING TROUBLE?

If the DigiCom responds differently than you would expect when you try to use the SET UP and function keys, repeat your steps and read carefully the messages shown in the LCD. If you do not see what is described in this handbook, refer to the troubleshooting chapter or call technical support for assistance.

Mode: PROGRAM < > OK Cancel

4. Press [<] or [>] and the display will then show:

Mode: PLAY < > OK Cancel

5. Press [OK].

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

PROGRAM/

PLAY

SPEECH

CONTROLS

SPEAK

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 16

2–16

HELPFUL HINT:

This section of the Handbook helps you to understand groups and levels. However, if you are a beginner, just remain in one Group. (Group A is recommended if this is a new device.) From one group, you can practice setting up levels, keyboard layouts, and recording messages. Later, if you want to use other groups, you can.

IMPORTANT:

To prevent accidents, you should always put the DigiCom back in Play mode after programming it. In Program Mode, with just a few random key presses, it is possible to erase an entire level or alter your customized settings. You will usually want the DigiCom to be in Play mode before you hand the DigiCom to a person to `speak’ with it.

Understanding “Groups” and “Levels”

The DigiCom is designed with six user groups. This is very powerful because it provides you with more programming options to meet the needs of the digitized speech communicator. These groups are categorized or “labeled” by the letters: A,B,C,D,E,F. Each group gives you access to a maximum of eight (8) levels at a time. The levels are listed sequentially: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. On each level you can choose the keyboard layout you want and make other choices to create communication overlays for a DigiCom communicator.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 17

2–17

Understanding “Groups” and “Levels”

(cont.)

Because DigiCom has 6 user groups (A-F) and 8 levels per group (1-8) the DigiCom offers a total of forty eight (48) levels. By using groups and

levels, you can program your DigiCom in various ways to successfully meet the communication needs of one or more people. Below we have provided a few examples describing single and multiple DigiCom communicator situations.

Single User: you could program only one group (Group A) with anywhere from 1 to 8 levels in that group. Each level could have the overlay of your choice with large or small keys on the overlays. The other groups could be ignored while all messages are available in the one group.

For another person, you may need more vocabulary options. You could program up to 8 levels in Group A to be messages about one topic; up to 8 levels in Group B to be messages about another topic; up to 8 levels in Group C to be messages about still another topic, etc. all the way through the 6 groups. This person would be using more groups and more messages.

Multiple Users on One DigiCom: If your DigiCom is to be used for more than one person you can program groups for up to six different people. Each person would have access to eight levels. Another way you could do this, is to program each user group a bit differently to meet selection method needs. (You can learn more about these ideas from this manual and augmentative communication literature.)

Now that you know a bit about “levels” and “groups”, it is time to learn how to select these.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 18

2–18

Selecting “Groups” and “Levels”

Selecting a Group and Switching Between Groups

To select a group and switch between Groups:

Press the [Group] key. (white key next to Volume

Down key)

The first time you press it, you will see the current group displayed in the LCD. Each time you press [Group] after that, the DigiCom will advance to the next group. By pressing the [Group] key you will move through each group from A through F. You can record on as few or as many groups as you wish.

If you wish to remain in only one Group or have access to only a few Groups, you have options to “Lock in Groups” or “Lock out Groups”. These features only become active in Play mode. If you are a beginner with this device, pay particular attention to the “Lock in Groups” feature as you get started.

Lock Groups: Lock in Groups

All six groups are always available to you in Program mode. All six groups can be available to the user in Play mode. The DigiCom is shipped to you with all 6 groups available. If you wish a user

to stay in any one group, you will use the “Lock in Groups” feature. This will lock that group so you

stay in that group. Generally, you will make this decision once and keep this programmed for a lengthy period of time before making changes.

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

GROUP

LOCK

GROUPS

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 19

Lock Groups: Lock in Groups

(cont.)

To Lock a User into a Group:

1. Make sure the DigiCom is in Program mode.

2. Press [SET UP] and then [Lock Groups].

3. The display will show:

2–19

Lock in Groups < > OK Cancel

4. Press [OK] to go to the next item. The display will show:

Lock in: < > OK Cancel

you have 7 options: NONE or Groups A, B, C, D, E, F

if you do not want to lock into a group, always select NONE. (DigiCom is shipped with NONE as the default setting for Lock Group.)

5. Press the [<] or [>] key to select a group to stay on and then press [OK]. Once you have made your decision,

6. Press [OK]. The display will return to:

GROUP _: PROGRAM LEVEL 1: Areas

* where – shows the Group you selected

7. After locking into a group and changing to Play

mode, [Group] key is disabled so the user is forced to stay in that Group. While in Program mode, you will continue to have access to all groups. (This is an important distinction to remember!)

8. To Lock in: NONE, return to Program mode and press [Setup] and [Lock Groups] again. Repeat the above sequence and select `NONE’ or another group.

9. The user again has access to all six groups in Play mode.

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

GROUP

LOCK

GROUPS

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 20

Lock Groups: Lock out Groups

All six groups are normally available to the user in Program mode. All six groups can be available to the user in Play mode.

If you do not want to lock a user into just one group, but wish a user to have access to a limited number of groups, you may lock out the remaining groups:

To lock a user out of groups while giving access to specific groups:

1. Make sure the DigiCom is in Program mode.

2. Press [SET UP] and then [Lock Groups].

3. The display will show:

2–20

Lock in Groups < > OK Cancel

4. Press [<] or [>] key to go to select ‘Lock Out

Groups’. The display will show:

Lock out Groups < > OK Cancel

5. Press [OK].

6. The display will show:

Lock out: NONE < > OK Cancel

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

GROUP

LOCK

GROUPS

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 21

10. In both Program and Play modes, the user

does not have access to those groups locked out. The [Group] key will beep but will not change status beyond the groups you have made available.

11. To have full access to all the groups, return

to Program mode and press [SET UP] and [Lock Groups] again. Repeat the above sequence and select `NONE’.

12. The user now has access to all six groups.

2–21

Lock out Groups (cont.)

7. Press the [<] or [>] key to select a number of groups to lock out. Your options are: NONE, F,

E&F, D-F, C-F, and B-F.

8. Press [OK] to confirm your selection.

9. The display will return to:

GROUP A:Program LEVEL1: Areas

HELPFUL HINT:

“Lock in Groups” feature does not become active until you are in Play mode. “Lock out Groups” feature becomes available immediately in Program mode.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 22

Selecting a Level and Switching Between Levels

Once you have decided whether you want to lock into one group, lock out some groups or have access to all groups, you are ready to make decisions about Levels. You will use the Level feature frequently when using DigiCom. Switching between levels will be something you will do while programming and also something a person communicating with DigiCom will do.

Each Group gives you access to eight (8) Levels at a time. You can think of it as eight overlays on top of one another. Each Level is programmed separately. Therefore, you can program each Level differently. You can determine different Keyboard Layouts, messages, topics, etc. for each Level. To program and speak between Levels you first need to understand how to switch between Levels.

To select a Level and switch between Levels: Press the [Level] key.

The first time you press it, you will see the current level displayed in the LCD. You will see other setting information as well (group, system mode, etc.). Each time you press [Level] after that, the DigiCom will advance to the next level. By pressing the [Level] key you will move sequentially through each level from 1 through 8. You can record on as few or as many levels as you wish.

If you wish to remain on only one level or have access to only a few levels you have options to “Lock In Levels” or “Lock Out Levels”.

If you are working with a very young learner or person starting with a limited vocabulary, pay particular attention to both the “Lock in Levels” and “Lock out Levels” features.

2–22

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

LEVEL

LOCK

LEVELS

ERASE

LEVEL

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 23

Lock Levels: Lock in Levels

All eight levels are normally available to the user in Play mode. If you wish a user to stay at any one level, however; you may lock into that level so you stay on that level.

To Lock a User into a Level:

1. Make sure the DigiCom is in Program mode.

2. Press [SET UP] and then [Lock Levels].

3. The display will show:

2–23

Lock in Levels < > OK Cancel

4. Press [OK] to go to the next decision. The display will show:

you have 9 options: NONE or Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8

if you do not want to lock into a level, always select NONE. (DigiCom is shipped with NONE as the default setting for Level Lock.)

Lock in: < > OK Cancel

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK

SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

LEVEL

LOCK

LEVELS

ERASE LEVEL

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 24

Lock Levels: Lock in Levels

(cont.)

5. Press the [<] or [>] key to select a level to stay on and then press [OK]. Once you have made your decision,

6. Press [OK]. The display will return to:

2–24

GROUP A:Program LEVEL1: Areas

7. When the DigiCom is switched to Play

mode, [Level] key is disabled so the user is forced to stay on that level. While in Program mode, you will continue to have access to all levels.

8. To unlock the level, return to Program mode

and press [Lock Levels] again and select Lock in: `NONE’.

9. The user now has access to all eight levels of

that Group in Play mode.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 25

Lock Levels: Lock out Levels

All eight levels of the currently selected user group are normally available to the user in both Program and Play mode. If you wish a user to have limited access to a certain number of levels, you may “lock out” the remaining levels.

To Lock Out Levels while giving access to specific levels:

1. Make sure the DigiCom is in Program mode.

2. Press [SET UP] and then [Lock Levels].

3. The display will show:

2–25

Lock in Levels < > OK Cancel

4. Press [<] or [>] key to go to select ‘Lock Out Levels’. The display will show:

Lock out Levels < > OK Cancel

5. Press [OK].

6. The display will show:

Lock out: NONE < > OK Cancel

GROUP A:Program LEVEL 1: Areas

7. Press the [<] or [>] key to select a number of levels to keep out. Your options are: NONE, 8,

7&8, 6-8, 5-8, 4-8, 3-8, and 2-8.

8. Press [OK] to confirm your selection.

9. The display will return to:

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

LEVEL

LOCK

LEVELS

ERASE LEVEL

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 26

2–26

Lock Levels: Lock out Levels (cont.)

10. Now, in both Program and Play modes, the

user does not have access to those levels locked out. The [Level] key will beep but will not change status beyond the levels you made available.

11. To have full access to all the levels, return

to Program mode and press [SET UP and Lock Levels] again and select `NONE’.

12. The user now has access to all eight levels.

Erase a Level

Because the DigiCom automatically erases a level as you change methods (Areas, Picture Sequence, Spell Sequence) or the keyboard layout is altered, it is seldom necessary to manually erase a level. However, if you ever wish

to erase a level manually, follow the steps below.

1. Make sure the DigiCom is in Program mode.

Be certain you are in the desired Group on which you want to erase a level.

2. Press [Level] until the level which you wish to

erase is visible on the display.

3. Press [Command] and then [Erase Level] to

erase a level. The display will prompt you:

Erase Level?

OK Cancel

4. Press [OK] to erase the level or [Cancel] to

leave it intact.

ARE YOU SURE?

OK Cancel

5. Press [OK] to confirm or [Cancel] to leave it

intact.

6. If you erase it, that level will return to the

default setting: 4x8 Areas.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 27

Introduction to Areas and Sequences

There are two ways that messages can be associated with keys. The first method is through Areas. Area means only a single message is recorded within a key Area. The key areas can be of different sizes (large or small as seen on the overlays) and the messages can be of different lengths (from single sounds, words, phrases or full speeches or songs). There is no relationship between the length of a message and the size of a key area. For example, you may program a large area that says `Hello!’ or a little one that says `It’s raining today; let’s stay home.’

The number of messages possible on a level depends on the keyboard layout chosen for that level. For a 4x8 overlay, we are able to record 32 messages on one level when using Areas. You can put one message in each key when using Areas. For information and steps to programming in Areas, you will read Chapter Three, Set Up and Basic Programming of the DigiCom: Areas.

The second method of associating messages with keys is called encoding or message sequencing. Both Picture Sequencing and Spell Sequencing use this method. Through sequences, a message is accessed by pressing a combination of one or more keys. Programming and communicating using Picture and/or Spell Sequence is usually more complex. For information about using DigiCom in these methods, please refer to Chapter Five, Picture and Spell Sequences. ( This chapter will also describe the sequence prediction capabilities available to make these methods easier to use.)

2–27

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 28

Introduction to Areas and Sequences (cont.)

Generally speaking, using Areas is easier than using Picture Sequencing and Spell Sequencing. Also, if you are just learning to program digitized devices for the first time, you will probably find it easier to learn to make overlays and program in Areas. Using Areas can be a very powerful method for a person to communicate using the DigiCom.

When selecting a method, remember that each level you use can be programmed differently using whatever method you want: Area messages, Picture Sequences, or Spell Sequences.

Keyboard Layouts

Selecting a Keyboard Layout

Since the touch panel is programmable, the DigiCom must be set up with a keyboard layout matching the overlay that will be used. (In our example, the 4x8 overlay must match the keyboard layout.)

To setup the Keyboard Layout, follow the steps below:

1. Insert a Programmer’s overlay. Make note of

the grid on the overlay that you have inserted.

2. Be certain you are in PROGRAM mode.

(learned previously)

3. Press the [Set Up] key.

4. The display will show the following message:

2–28

Press a SET UP Function Key

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING

TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME DOWN

VOLUME

SET UP

PROGRAM/

PLAY

AREA/

SEQUENCE

PLAYING TIME

IMMEDIATE/

LINK

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

LOCK HOLDTIME SCAN

AUTOSPEAK SEQUENCE

EDIT

SEQUENCE

SET UPOKCOMMAND

CANCEL

SPEAK LEVEL DEFINE RECORD LINK BACKSPACE STOP REMOVE

ERASE DISK TRANSFER

VOLUME

DOWN

VOLUME

KEYBOARD

LAYOUT

RECORD

TRANSFER AREA MSG

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 29

Selecting a Keyboard Layout

(cont.)

5. Press the [Keyboard Layout] key.

6. The DigiCom will display:

2–29

Keyboard: 4x12

OK Cancel

(or another keyboard size, e.g. 2x4, 4x8, 1x3, 2x6, 1x2)

7. Press the [>] key to step forward or [<] to step back through the possible keyboard layouts.

8. When the display shows the layout that matches the current overlay, press [OK]. If this keyboard layout is different than before,

9. The DigiCom will display:

Erase Level?

OK Cancel

10. Press [OK] to continue with the keyboard

layout change.

11. You may press [Cancel] at any time to quit

and leave the layout as it was.

HELPFUL HINT:

You will notice that menu options `wrap’ around. If you are at the very beginning and want to get to the very end, instead if pressing [>] many times to step through the entire list, press [<] once to jump to the end. This works in both directions.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 30

Types of Keyboard Layouts

The dimensions of a Keyboard Layout correspond to the number of message keys on an overlay.

Remember the following information from Chapter One:

❑ Overlays have layouts with a varying number

of message keys on each.

❑ There are 6 layouts/grids of message keys:

4x12, 4x8, 2x6, 2x4, 1x3, and 1x2.

❑ There is a Programmer’s and a User’s overlay

for each layout.

❑ There are two styles of letter keyboards: ABCD

and QWERTY keyboards. Refer to the table in Chapter One which summarizes the different overlay types.

2–30

4X8 ABCDE

COMMAND

CANCEL

SET UP

HELPFUL HINT:

The overlays are marked in the upper right hand corner indicating the Keyboard Layout you should select. It’s important to mark the message keys as you record onto them so you recall where you recorded your specific messages. An easy way to keep your overlays organized is to put a programmer’s overlay in the DigiCom and, while you are programming, write down the messages on a matching user’s overlay you keep by your side.

Overlays can be customized to suit the individual needs of the user. You may want to draw or paste on small pictures of things to represent vocabulary you include in the user’s communication messages. If you find you use many overlays of a certain type, you can order extra overlays using the order form included with the overlays or in this manual.

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 31

Scanning

Using the scanning mode, a switch or a joystick can be used to play back messages rather than the touchpanel. See Chapter Six, Scanning, for set up and use of scanning.

Programming Exercise 1

Now that you have learned about the equipment and some fundamentals about programming the DigiCom, see if you can follow the exercise below to record your name into the unit. And, as you do this exercise, think through what you are doing so you can learn additional skills more easily as you progress in this manual.

1.) Place a 4x8 programmers overlay on the

DigiCom touch panel.

2.) Plug the unit in if the battery is low.

3.) Turn the DigiCom “on”.

4.) Check to see you are in Group A: System

Mode: Program

5.) Check to be certain the Keyboard Layout

matches the current overlay on DigiCom.

6.) Press [Record] (notice this is a white key so

you do not need to press any other key in sequence.)

7.) The LCD displays the message:

2–31

Press and Hold a Key to Rec. Upon

*rec. is an abbreviation for “record”

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 32

Programming Exercise 1

(cont.)

8.) Press any message key on the display and

hold it while you speak the message into the internal/external microphone. When you are done speaking, release your finger from the key. You will hear two beeps.

9.) When you are done recording, press the key

into which you recorded. Your message will speak back to you. (The quality of your recording will improve as you learn and record more. Do not become alarmed if it is cut off or not clear— just read on!)

10.) If you make a mistake when you press

[record] you can press it again to cancel the selection. If you make a mistake while you are recording, repeat the steps and try again.

2–32

;

COMING UP NEXT:

Now you have learned about the equipment and battery charging, and know many things about the Overlays, Function Keys, Groups, Levels, Keyboard Layouts and other important fundamentals to programming. You have even gotten an opportunity to record your first message. Your recordings will improve and you will learn even more in the next chapter.

The next Chapter, Set Up and Basic Programming of DigiCom: Areas, will teach you how to setup the DigiCom in the most common communication mode using basic functions that provide powerful communication for the AAC communicator. Here is where you will appreciate more power with easier programming than you will find with other digitized products!

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 33

2–33

CHAPTER_.2A_ 4/8/00 11:19 PM Page 34

Digicom 2000 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual