ConnSENSE Review: Pathfinder with Unity 128

ConnSENSE Review: The Pathfinder with Unity 128*

Reviewer: Tracy Rackensperger
tdoggog@yahoo.com
Prentke Romich Company, 1022 Heyl Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
Price: $7995.00 (Pathfinder Plus package which includes the device and Unity 128
Website: http://www.prentrom.com

The Pathfinder is one of several augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices made by the Prentke Romich Company (PRC). AAC is utilized by those who have difficulty communicating verbally due to their disability. Augmentative communication includes techniques ranging from using hand gestures or American Sign Language (ASL) to picture boards to electronic speech generating devices. Within these domains, there are varying levels of complexity ensuring the comprehensive needs of individuals with different cognitive and/or physical abilities are met.

The Pathfinder is an example of an electronic speech generating device. The device is used by many adults Pathfinder photo (like myself) and children to assist in daily social interactions. Like many similar AAC devices, individuals may choose to access their devices utilizing either a direct selection or a scanning method. Direct selection is when an individual chooses to use a body part (e.g., head, hand, or foot) to directly access their device. This technique may be aided by such adaptive equipment as headpointers or infrared beams attached to a body part. Scanning is when individuals use switches to scroll through sets of options. These sets become smaller and smaller as the individual hits the switch, until the specific target is activated.

Pathfinders also contain a variety of vocabulary programs, most based on Semantic Compaction (or Minspeak), allowing the user to employ shortcuts to words and phrases, rather than having to spell out every word during a conversation. Semantic Compaction is a method of assigning meaning to graphical icons or combination of icons. Individuals can use this method to create and store words or phrases for quick access. Vocabulary programs have been produced so the individual who will use the device does not have to start from the beginning when programming it. In other words, programs have been designed with a large set of key words and phrases pre-stored, saving the person valuable time and effort.

The common vocabulary program using Semantic Compaction found in Pathfinders is Unity. Numbered versions of Unity are based on the number of icons and function keys within an overlay. For example, the product reviewed has 128 keys. Vocabulary programs are made to fit the needs of individuals with different levels of cognitive ability. For example, there is a version of Unity that has 32 keys. The 128 version of Unity fits my communication needs by allowing me to access the fullest array of vocabulary. There are also versions made for individuals who are only cognitively able to learn to hit one button (instead of icon sequencing) for access to vocabulary. The trade-off though is having a limited vocabulary verses hitting multiple buttons. WordPower is another vocabulary program available with the Pathfinder. Based on words instead of strictly Minspeak, this is another option for people who use Pathfinder. More information about these different programs can be found on the PRC website.

All Pathfinders have an array of functions. The Pathfinder with Unity 128 gives me an incredible amount of language potential. With 128 static (non-changeable) keys, of which the majority can be used for icon sequencing, I can literally store thousands of combinations producing the respective number of words and phrases. In addition, Pathfinders have standard word prediction. Word prediction predicts words based on first letters and other pre-determined factors (e.g. frequency of use). Words predicted are shown on a dynamic display (an LCD) that accompanies all Pathfinders. The "Activity Row" can also be displayed on the screen. Different rows contain representations of categorical options. For example, the Greetings row on a Pathfinder contains congenial messages, such as "Hi!", "What's up?", and "How are you?" The individual can modify, add, or delete rows based on their personal preferences.

In addition, Pathfinders are capable of keyboard and mouse emulation, allowing individuals the option of accessing their computers through AAC. This can be achieved by tethering the device to the computer via a cable or using an infrared beam. Pathfinders can also be programmed to control one's environment. For example, devices can be programmed to turn on/off and change options to such items as lights, televisions, radios, and other home electronics. Text files on either the computer or the Pathfinder can be transferred from one to the other via Memory Transfer Interface (MTI) computer software. Finally, Pathfinders are now capable of running Windows CE programs which allows users to have the functions of a personal digital assistant (PDA) within their devices.

Overall, I feel the experience I have had with my Pathfinder has been very positive. I find in my line of work as a researcher, writer, and presenter, the device has fit my needs. For example, I travel often to conduct presentations and meetings. My communication device allows me to download presentations I have written on my computer into the device. My Pathfinder also allows me to communicate "on the fly" with individuals. My natural speech can be partially understood by some individuals, so using my Pathfinder to clarify a message works just as well for me as using it when I'm around individuals who are unable to interpret any of my natural speech.

*Note: Photo from Prentke Romich website.