DECtalk Express speech Synthesizer

Digital's high quality DECtalk text-to-speech synthesis technology
is now available in an external and portable product.  The DECtalk
Express Speech Synthesizer can be used with a variety of "screen
access" software applications designed for use by individuals who
are blind or have low vision, or individuals who have learning
disabilities.  When used in conjunction with an application of this
type, it allows users to hear both keyed input as well as other
material displayed on the monitor screen by converting ASCII text
to natural-sounding speech output.  The serial port allows for use
with a personal computer (IBM or compatible), laptop, notebook,
palmtop, workstation and Apple or Macintosh computer.

Major features of the DECtalk Express Speech Synthesizer include:

- Portable - Small, lightweight and battery-powered for enhanced
mobility, with carrying case and other accessories that facilitate
transportation.

- Compatible - Supported by a range of software applications
designed for use by people with disabilities.  Serial communication
port interface allows connection to a wide range of desktop and
portable personal computers (PCs) as well as PDAs, Apple and
Macintosh computers and workstations.

- Personal - Headphones included for private listening.

- Accessible - Braille labeling, audiotape and braille user
information, along with jack differentiation allow for easy
orientation and access for users who are blind or have low vision.

- User Control - Combined On/Off and Volume controls allow the user
to select volume of choice.

Supporting software applications can take advantage of the major
features of the DECtalk speech synthesis technology, including:

- Nine Pre-defined Voices - Four male, four female and one child
voice offer a wide selection.

- Speaking Rates of 75 to 650 Words per Minute - Allows for use
from slow spelling to fast scanning.

- Comprehensive Pronunciation Rules and Controls for Pauses, Pitch
and Stress - Provides for enhanced naturalness and accuracy of
spoken text, including proper names and words that are spelled
alike but spoken differently.

- Speech Options - Users can elect to have text spoken by letter,
word or phrase and to have "some," "none" or "all" punctuation
pronounced.

- Unlimited Vocabulary - Comprehensive pronunciation rules allow
for pronunciation of any text.

- Word-by-Word Indexing - Allows for a direct match between screen
viewing and spoken text.

DECtalk Express Speech Synthesizer - Specifications:

Programming Interface:
 a) DOS Terminate and Stay Resident (TSR) driver (DECtalk PC Speech
Synthesizer compatibility mode.)
 b) Direct applications control via a communications port.

System Interface:  RS232/423 serial (no Telephone Line Interface).

System Requirements:  25KB memory (TSR) for DOS

Communication Setup:  9600 baud, 8 bits per character, no parity,
1 stop bit

Speaker:  Internal, 2" diameter.

Inputs:  Text, phonemes and speech control commands.

Audio Output:  1/8" stereo headphone jack, > 16 ohms impedance,
300mW maximum.

Controls:  Combined On/Off and Volume.

Power:  Integral battery pack and a 115VAC 60Hz external power wall
cube

Charge Time:  4 hour maximum

Speaking Time:  4 hour minimum (continuous speech)

Physical Dimensions:  3.6" wide x 7.6" long x 1.3" high; weight 15
ounces.

Accessories Include:  Carrying case, detachable accessory pouch,
headphones, 9-pin RS232 connector, 2' cable, external power wall
cube.

Warranty:  One year return-to-factory.

Ordering Information:

Call or Write:

GW Micro, Inc.
725 Airport North Office Park
Fort Wayne, IN  46825

voice: 219/489-3671
fax: 219/489-2608
BBS: 219/489-5281
email: support@gwmicro.com
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