ChatPC-Silk represents the ultimate in portability without sacrificing capability. Although is boasts the largest screen for any PDA-based communication device, it only weighs 12.5 oz with the protective rubber housing, and 9 oz. without. The ChatPC-Silk can quickly be inserted into the rubber housing to provide extra protection, or removed to reduce size and weight.

ChatPC: Big Performance in a small package
Although ChatPC is available in two hardware platforms, the software and user interface are virtually identical. ChatPC is a full-featured, dynamic screen device that allows hundreds of communication pages to be linked together to meet an individual's communication needs for home, school, work and other situations in his/her life.

One of the many highlights of the ChatPC software is PalmCha t, a word-based vocabulary, created by Nancy Inman, M.A.T., CCC-SLP and Janet S. Lehr, M.S., CCC-SLP, both who are widely known for the their work in developing, implementing and teaching word-based vocabulary programs. PalmChat is the first generative, core word vocabulary available for the ChatPC and is a major advancement for individuals who want a flexible language program without sacrificing device portability.

ChatPC-Silk is now available with a choice of three speech synthesizers. Loquendo has set the standard in the European Telecom community and is now available for the ChatPC. Loquendo provides speech synthesis in a number of different languages. Simply by choosing different voices from a menu, the ChatPC will pronounce words in US English, UK English, French, Spanish, German or Italian. Note: In ChatPC-Silk, Loquendo voices also include Canadian French, American Spanish and Portuguese. NeoSpeech is only available in American English, but has a very natural and easy-to-understand voice. Acapela allows both bilingual speech capabilities and a child's voice.

To compare the speech synthesizers available for the ChatPC-Silk, look at our ChatPC Speech Comparison Chart.

Customizing the ChatPC Devices:
While a variety of vocabulary files, or page sets, are provided with the ChatPC, you will want to make modifications and add additional vocabulary for the specific needs of the person using the device. The size, color, background, symbol, font, label, message and action of each button can be customized for one’s individual needs. You can adjust the number of buttons on a page, the size of the speech display bar, and many other features to meet the unique needs of each individual.

You can easily customize and add vocabulary on the ChatPC unit itself. In addition, software is included which allows editing and customizing on a Windows computer. This program also provides an easy means of importing photos and other graphics to be used as symbols on the ChatPC device. Cables and instructions are included for downloading the vocabulary to the ChatPC.

Three ChatPC Models available:
Both the ChatPC-4 and ChatPC-Silk are available in three models. Models differ from each other in features and capabilities as well as in the warranty period. Here is a description of each model.

ChatPC Software Features

ChatPC software includes many exciting features that increase the flexibility and functionality of the device. Our ChatPC Software Features page will show you a few of those features.

Pre-Loaded Vocabulary:
ChatPC now ships with five default vocabulary files, or page sets. Each vocabulary file was designed to address the communication needs of a particular group of individuals. Read the description of each one to see which program is most appropriate for you. Keep in mind that all vocabulary programs are fully customizable and can be personalized for each individual. The ChatPC Vocabularies Page contains a short description of each vocabulary file.

Mounting Systems for ChatPC-Silk

There are several mounting systems and accessories to help make ChatPC devices easily accessible from a wheelchair, bed, or flat surface. For more information on these systems, check out our ChatPC Mounting Systems page.

General Features

>Color Dynamic Display

>Lightweight and portable

>Software and hardware volume control

>On/off switch and auto power-down

>Several hours of recorded speech

>Holds numerous vocabulary files, each containing hundreds of pages

>3,000 PCS symbols are included on the ChatPC. The included DesktopChat software includes approximately 10,000 PCS symbols and 3000 Imagine symbols.

>NeoSpeech, Acapela or Loquendo synthesized speech

>Accessed by finger touch

>Extended-life rechargeable (Lithium-Ion) battery.

>Screen size: 4.0" (diagonal)

>12 to 36 month warranty

>Size: 3.25" x 5.6" x 1.6" with protective case. 2.95" x 5.25" x 1.4" without case

>Weight: 12.5oz. with protective case. 9 oz. without case

More Information

To learn more about our other ChatPC products, check out the pages for the ChatPC- 4 or ALT-Cha t. Or, look at a chart comparing the features of each hardware platform here.

More Information

For more information about ChatPC products and features, also see the following pages:

ChatPC Software Features

ChatPC Models

ChatPC Symbol Choices

ChatPC Vocabulary Files

ChatPC Speech Synthesizers

ChatPC Mounting Systems