Interpretype

Description and Purpose of Device:

Intertype, also known as an ITY, provides a way for people who have difficulty hearing, are deaf, or non-verbal to speech impairments to communicate without using speech by typing messages back and forth through this interactive augmentative and alternative communication system as an alternative to sign language.  It is used by organizations to provide customer friendly communication exchange to provide better customer service and provide employees ways to continue working.  The individual needs to be cognitively aware, ability to read, view words on a monitor, and have fine motor skills to be able to the use this device.

Device Usage and Features:

The Intertype is a pre-programmed laptop type computer that has many features.  The user can type messages and send them to other devices or a computer and view typed messages from others.  The units are like a small computer with a full-sized keyboard that can communicate with other Windows based computers using the Intertype software and because of this it is considered a peripheral device for interoffice communication.  People can have conversations by reading and typing, print conversations, and allow for real-time interpreting services via the internet.  The Interpretype is has video cameras and sound cards which allows for interpreting services for foreign languages and can communicate from English to over 240 languages and is Wi-Fi, Ethernet and USB capable.  It comes with a user’s manual, cables and a carrying case and uses rechargeable batteries or an adapter for power source.  It has a Spanish or French translation module.  It has been used in many settings with emergency responder agencies, hospitals, schools, restaurants, and court offices to name a few.

Manufacturer and Cost Information:

The manufacturer is Interpretype, LLC and was developed in 2002 by Ken Gan to improve customer service in his auto repair shop and blossomed into a corporation providing solutions for face-to-face conversations for individuals with speech disabilities and hearing disabilities.  The company is located at 3301 Brighton-Henrietta Townline Road, Suite 200, Rochester, New York 14623 and can be contacted at 877-345-3182 or 585-272-1155.  The price for the Interpretype ranges from $1395 to $2900 depending on the device type and accessories desired.  Distributors for this product are available at www.enablemart.com.