Springboard Lite Communicator

Description and Purpose of Device:

The Springboard Lite Communicator is an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device that is easy portable and ready to use right out of the box.  The device can be used with individuals with learning disabilities, speech and communication challenges or those who are non-verbal to allow them to communicate with others.  Many schools and AAC centers like the ability of the device for it’s easy-to-change access options.

Device Usage and Features:

The Springboard Lite has many features that allow the user to effectively communicate with others.  It can display configurations consisting of 4-, 8-, 15-, and 36-locations using a Unity language system with five integrated versions of pre-stored vocabulary.  It can be accessed by direct selection; single- or dual-switch scanning; USB connectivity allows use of head pointing systems, mouse, USB joystick and mouse emulation access products.  The unit also comes equipped with a built-in media player and serial port for computer access.  It can also control lights, televisions, dvd players through its infrared environmental control functions and is Bluetooth accessible.  Software on the device also allows for targeting and picture recognition as well as activity monitoring of language usage and has introductory therapy exercises preloaded.  It comes with prerecorded male and female voices and has the capacity for more than 500 minutes of digitized speech memory.  Standard and custom keyguards are available so user won’t touch an incorrect key.  The unit is bilingual in English and Spanish which is standard.  It is available in four colors of midnight black, sunset orange, seafoam green, and vineyard grape.

Manufacturer and Cost Information:

The manufacturer is Prentke Romich Company (PRC) located at 1022 Heyl Road Wooster, OH 44691 and can be reached at (800) 262-1933 for sales and at (800) 268-5224 for funding of devices.  The company is employee owned and has been operating for 45 years.  Their approach is client-centered in providing quality assistive technology to its clients to improve their quality of life.  They also provide trials of their products through trial contracts so the client can best suit their needs with the appropriate assistive technology.  The price of the Springboard Lite Communicator is $2595.