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Assistive Technology, Inc.
333 Elm St.
Dedham, MA 02026
800-793-9227
www.assistivetech.com
customercare@assistivetech.com
$7,356 and up with bundled communication software
The MiniMerc is an AAC device from Assistive Technology Inc that is a snappy little marvel. It is a smaller version of the Mercury (hence the “Mini” in the name), currently the most powerful and sophisticated of ATI’s line of AAC devices. The MiniMerc differs from other high-end AAC devices in that it is more than just a dedicated AAC system, it is a fully-integrated Microsoft Windows XP-based computer. This means that in addition to functioning as an AAC device, the MiniMerc serves as a personal computer, eliminating the need for two separate devices.
MiniMerc comes with a number of options for customizing the device to the specific needs of the user. Because it is a Windows computer, it can run an array of communication software applications including Speaking Dynamically Pro and add-on packages such as Functionally Speaking and Playing Dynamically; Viking Communicator 3 Pro; and Word Power. ATI offers 3 different configurations of the device by bundling the software for beginning communicators who use symbols as well as intermediate/advanced users who are using text or a combination of symbols and text. Regardless of the configuration option chosen, one of the great features of the MiniMerc is that software packages can be added on in the future should the needs of the user change due to the fact that it is a Windows computer.
The MiniMerc Kit comes well equipped and includes a built in microphone, an external keyboard, mouse and an external CD/RW/DVD drive for adding software programs, playing music or running a DVD, an optional cable is required to play DVD's (available separately). An array of straps for carrying by hand and/or over the shoulder are also included. In addition, the MiniMerc has infrared and X-10 capability for built in environmental control. The MiniMerc weighs 3.5 lbs. (4 lbs. with the table top stand) and has an 8.4” color LCD touch screen for direct selecting; the battery will run for about 6 hours when fully charged, usage time will vary with the types of applications that are being used. Considering its size, the memory is impressive at 512 MB RAM and with a 60 GB hard drive there’s plenty of room for storage. The outer casing of the device is made of aluminum and the hard drive is shock mounted for durability. The device can be mounted on a wheelchair using a mounting system making it portable for all users. In addition, switch users can have full accessibility with the built-in switch interfaces. An array of add-ons are available too, and include alternate input devices (switches, joystick, roller tracking, etc.) as well as network cards and adapters for wired and wireless Internet access.
As a school-based practitioner one of the biggest challenges that I face is integrating computer use and AAC use into a student’s program. With the MiniMerc this problem just vanishes since everything that most students could use to access the curriculum can be contained in this small wonder. No more struggling to access computers as a student moves from room to room; no more problems with saving (and losing) documents and files for later use; no more having to give up a voice in order to gain access to the computer. The MiniMerc offers a way for students to increase access to the general education curriculum and participate in extracurricular and social activities while communicating with greater ease and independence. Its all-in-one design will ensure continuity across settings and support persons increasing the likelihood that the user will grow as a competent communicator. The MiniMerc is a gem that can give us all something to talk about.
© 2007 ConnSENSE Bulletin