| The board area for
the overlays is approximately foolscap in size (8.5" x 14"). It has a low
profile and has three indicator lights that light up as data is received. Using
specifically designed cables; it can connect to Apple Macintosh computers (including
PowerBooks) as well as to PC-compatible computers, ranging from 80386 to Pentium models
(including Notebooks). Upon purchase, you receive one cable to suit your computer, with
extra cables available on request (sold separately). IntelliKeys
has a unique bar code reading facility that automatically reads each of the eight overlays
that come packaged with every board. Straight from the box, it is extremely easy to use.
The facility to swap between computer platforms promotes even greater use in schools where
teachers and students have access to multiple computer types. As cost is always a major
consideration, the usefulness of a device relies on its breadth of purpose and ease of
use. Teachers immediately recognise useful, practical solutions that can assist them in
their teaching. Every child can use IntelliKeys across the entire curriculum.
Overlays to Go
Packaged with eight brightly coloured overlays, the 128 cell touch keyboard automatically
reads the bar code on the back of each overlay as it is laid onto the surface. It is then
ready to use in about three seconds. The necessary data is loaded into the IntelliKeys
memory. The data can then be used at any time where it makes sense - in the operating
system, in data handling packages and most importantly, in educational software.
Additional software packages specifically designed for IntelliKeys are also available.
IntelliKeys provides limitless use - it's up to the user's creativity and imagination. As
it requires very little expertise, it caters to a range of users, including children of
all ages, adults, users who have a physically disability and people who have learning
difficulties. It saves valuable time, as it is so easy to connect and set up. The
frustration normally associated with the installation and configuration often attributed
to overlay boards, is not longer an issue.
Built-in Access
Some people have difficulty pressing two keys at once. With IntelliKeys, the user just
needs to press the SHIFT key followed by a letter in order to type a capital letter- two
keys in succession, not two keys at once. Some people cannot use a mouse. They can use the
Arrows Overlay to move the mouse pointer in any direction. The two built-in switch
connectors really make IntelliKeys a powerful flexible switch interface. You can choose
from 11 settings that work with popular switch software.
Using another product, ClickIt, you can make "Hot Spots" and assign switch
scanning to access these areas on the screen. This caters to people who wish to use
resource CD-ROM's, Living Books or other software that is not specifically designed for
switch users.
IntelliKeys does not tap into your computer's memory. It doesn't conflict with your
operating system or your application software. It has its own built-in memory and
remembers your special access settings and keeps custom overlays saved, even when the
computer is turned off. When overlays are sent to IntelliKeys, the lights flash and an
auditory "beep" sound is made. There is no guesswork, no fuss.
Additional Support Products
A clear overlay made of durable plastic is included. You can use this to protect all of
your custom paper overlays, or to avoid dirty hands and accidental spills. There are
IntelliKeys Snap-In Keyguards that simply snap into IntelliKeys on top of an overlay.
Keyguards help people make accurate choices by providing spatial separation and preventing
unintentional keystrokes. They are made of durable acrylic with precision-laser-cut holes
that isolate each key on IntelliKeys.
Ready Made Packs
A range of ready-made overlay curriculum packs can be purchased. Learning to Tell the Time
(analogue and digital time activities), Colouring Books (catering to K-3), Exploring
Patterns (problem solving with patterns from P-4), MathPad (an innovative four operations
maths blackline master generator and on screen interactive program for P-6), Instant
Access to Edmark Software (including Sammy's Science House, Strategy Challenges, Thinkin'
Things Collection), Instant Access to Living Books (Arthur's Birthday, Little Monster at
School), Laureate Learning Systems (Talking Nouns I, Nouns II and Talking Verbs) and
especially Hands On Concept kits, designed in Australia (Animal Habitats and Hands On
Concepts packs).
For more information about this product, please contact the author of this review:
Gerry Kennedy: Computer Consultant in
Education - SPECTRONICS (Vic)
Back to Gerry Kennedy's Corner
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