The iCommunicator™ software program, Version 4.0, developed by Interactive Solutions, Inc. and now owned by PPR, Inc., is a leading edge communication access technology. This very powerful tool provides a multisensory, interactive communication solution for persons who are deaf or hard of hearing and other persons who experience unique communication challenges. While the iCommunicator™ promotes independent communication for persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, it is offered as an alternative, rather than a replacement, for sign language interpreters.

We are immediately expanding the benefits of iCommunicator on all orders dated on or after May 1, 2005 by including the following: 

• Dragon NaturallySpeaking v8 Wireless Keyboard with an Enhanced Visibility Lettering System 
• Phone support for one year (previously 90 days). 
• Free software upgrades thru v4.9 for one year (previously not offered). 
• Free dictionary upgrades for one year (previously not offered).

Real-time Translation
This advanced speech-to-text technology is the first of its kind to enter the marketplace. It allows effective communication to occur in most natural environments. Dragon NaturallySpeaking Professional, Version 7.0, the underlying speech recognition engine, offers many features to personalize a speaker’s speech and voice recognition file and enhance translation accuracy. The iCommunicator™ system efficiently converts in real-time:

• Speech to text
• Speech to video sign language
• Speech to computer-generated voice
• Text to computer-generated voice or video sign language
  

End User Benefits
The iCommunicator™’s unique technological features provide end users with unparalleled opportunities to achieve efficient, effective communi-cation in most natural environments. End users have the chance to:

• increase spoken language comprehension
• achieve two-way communication
• improve reading and language skills
• increase independence and self-confidence and improve quality of life
• increase opportunities for advancement and success in education,
• employment, personal relationships, and public access venues
  

iCommunicator™, Version 4.0
Software and Peripheral Kit
The iCommunicator™ software program, Version 4.0, runs on a high-end notebook or desktop computer. (Refer to the minimum hardware requirements for specifications.) Version 4.0 offers an enhanced sign language presentation, easy autoload self installation, and major code changes to ensure a more reliable and efficient program. Owners can easily install the software on their own computer using the autoload installation guide.

The 4.0 software and peripheral kit includes:

• iCommunicator™ Software Kit V 4.0
• Dragon NaturallySpeaking 8.0 Professional
• iCommunicator™ User Guide, Training Manual, and Tutorial CD
• Audio Cables (connector cable, Y-cable)
• Microphone options - wireless
  
  • Professional - Professional version microphone system (LightSPEED LES-370 FM wireless system includes: 370R receiver, 370T transmitter, BC-370 battery charger, CA-MMC2535 audio connector cable, BA-NH1 - AA NiMH rechargeable battery) - 
    

PPR, Inc. has qualified the LightSPEED and Parrott units as the only high quality microphones that are compatible with the iCommunicator™ software in order to achieve maximum translation accuracy. Prior to shipping, the LightSPEED system is professionally calibrated to optimal settings to support maximum performance and translation accuracy. The iCommunicator™ also may be coupled with peripheral assistive hearing devices such as personal FM systems, hearing aids, and cochlear implant speech processors. When used on a notebook computer, iCommunicator™ becomes a portable, interactive solution to communication accessibility challenges in multiple communication environments ? educational, workplace, and public venues. Warranty software support is available for 90 days.

(Refer to iCommunicator™ Features and Benefits for more information.)

Minimum Hardware Specifications
PPR, Inc. recommends that the iCommunicator™, Version 4.0 software, be used on a high-end Tier One brand notebook or desktop computer (i.e., Compaq, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Dell) that meets the minimum computer hardware specifications listed below.

Processor	Pentium 4 @ 1.7GHz
Memory	512 MB RAM
Hard Drive	Must have 3GB of available space on Drive C
Video	32MB
Display Resolution	800x600 screen area capability; high quality
I/O Connection	Parallel Port for Security Dongle (Until a USB Dongle is release TBA)
Sound/Speakers	SoundBlaster Pro Compatible
CD-ROM	24X (or DVD-ROM)
Software	Word Processing Program
Operating System	Microsoft Windows XP Professional Recommended

Focus on Literacy Development
Concern about the literacy levels of many persons who are deaf and hard of hearing was the inspiration for the development of this breakthrough technology. The iCommunicator™ program delivers American Sign Language (ASL) signs in English word order (subject+verb+object) to improve the association between spoken, written, and signed words, and promote literacy development. The video sign language library contains more than 9,000 individual video clips. Careful evaluation of potential end user needs and the iCommunicator™ system features is encouraged to ensure that this software technology application is a viable solution.

(Refer to Candidacy Criteria Considerations for more information.)

Training to Ensure Positive Outcomes
The iCommunicator™ uses continuous speech recognition (CSR) to translate speech to text and/or sign language in real time. Systematic professional training is strongly encouraged to maximize use of the unique features and capabilities of the program. The end user must be completely trained in the operation of the iCommunicator™ system to achieve positive outcomes, and adequate supports will need to be available for the end user for technical assistance and support. Managers of the iCommunicator™ system should possess computer literacy skills necessary to use and maintain the system and provide training for both end users and speakers in the unique features of this communication access technology. Speech and voice recognition enhancements available in iCommunicator™, V 4.0, allow most speakers to easily achieve 90% or better translation accuracy with approximately one hour of speech and voice recognition (SVR) training. Additional time is required to customize the speaker’s SVR file by adding unique vocabulary specific to the speaker’s profession or worksite application. Contact Interactive Solutions, Inc. for information about online professional training opportunities.

Section 508 Compatibility
Interactive Solutions, Inc. is committed to helping the government, as well as private and public sector businesses, provide improved accessibility of information and technology through its products, information, services, and programs. As such, the iCommunicator™ website and software application meet Section 508 requirements for electronic and information technology accessibility.

Pricing