DynaVox M3 User manual

Copyright © 2007 DynaVox Systems LLC
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in
any form, by any means (electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written
permission of the publisher.
Copyright protection claimed includes all forms and matters of copyrightable material and information
allowed by statutory or judicial law or hereafter granted, including without limitation, material generated from
the software programs which are displayed on the screen such as screen displays, menus, etc.
Although every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher assumes no
responsibility for errors or omissions.
For information, write to:
DynaVox Technologies
2100 Wharton Street, Suite 400
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15203 USA
The European Authorized Representative is:
DynaVox Technologies Ltd.
High Street Wollaston
West Midlands DY8 4PS England
M3®, InterAACT® and MightyMo/MiniMo® are registered trademarks of DynaVox Systems LLC.
All other brand and product names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders.
Part # 400810-A
First Edition
Published October 2007
Printed in the United States of America

DynaVox M3: Quick Start Guide
Part # 400810-A iii
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction
Overview of Resources (How to Get Help)
About this Quick Start Guide
Important Information About Your Device
Emergency Use (Intended Use of this Product)
Please Register Your Purchase
Section 2: Hardware Overview
What’s in the Box?
Hardware Features
Battery Information
Carrying Your Device
Transporting Your Device
Product Care and Handling
Section 3: Software Overview
Terms You Should Know
Selection Methods
Basic Step-by-Steps
Section 4: Page Sets
DynaVox InterAACT Page Sets
DynaVox MightyMo/MiniMo Page Sets
Section 5: Customizing
The Modify Button
The Modify Pages Menu
Making a New Page
Making a Visual Scene
Section 6: Sharing Files
Making a Package to Share Files
Importing a Package
Section 7: Backing Up, Restoring and Upgrading
Backing Up
Restoring
Upgrading
Appendix A: Searchable Help
Appendix B: Introductory Setup
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Section 1: Introduction
Quick Start is the first step in learning to use your M3 device. This manual introduces the features of your
new device, offers step-by-step instructions for basic tasks and illustrates some basic methods for device
customization. Once you have read through the material provided here, you will be ready to start
communicating and customizing with your new device.
To supplement this manual, you also received a Searchable Help program on the CD that was shipped with
your device. The Searchable Help is a comprehensive resource and includes step-by-step instructions for
every feature and operation on the M3 device. In addition, an online Knowledge Base of information is
available on DynaVox Technologies’ website at www.dynavoxtech.com.
Overview of Resources (How to Get Help)
DynaVox Technologies is dedicated to supporting you as you learn to use your new product. We offer many
different learning tools so you can choose the method of support that best meets your needs.
Product Documentation
zAvailable in multiple formats, including Searchable Help on CD and online Knowledge Base
zProvides information and training in a way that best suits diverse learning styles
zAvailable in small pieces that make it easy to fit training into busy schedules
Online Support (www.dynavoxtech.com)
zKnowledge Base
zApplication ideas and page sharing
zVirtual Classroom
Technical Support (www.dynavoxtech.com or 1-800-344-1778)
zHours of Service: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. (EST)
zIf you are not a resident of North America, please call the dealer from whom you purchased
your device.
Your DynaVox Sales Consultant (1-888-697-7332)
zProduct and pricing information
zAssistance with placing orders
zIf you are not a resident of North America, please call the dealer from whom you purchased
your device.
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About this Quick Start Guide
This Quick Start guide contains descriptions and instructions on performing the basic operations of your M3
device. Throughout the text, you will find the following kinds of comments:
Note: This Quick Start guide offers notes on making the most of your communication system.
These notes are designed to point out features that can be used to make the device a better fit
for an individual user, or other important considerations. Notes are marked with a flag to make
them easy to find.
Reference: Many of the topics in this Quick Start guide are explained in more detail in the
Searchable Help on the CD that came with your M3. The notes include a key word or phrase
that can be used to quickly find the topic in the Searchable Help. Reference notes are marked
with a computer mouse.
Caution: You should always be sure to read the notes beside the caution symbol. These notes
contain very important information to help you use your M3 device safely, and to prevent device
damage and loss of information.
Appendix A at the end of this Quick Start guide offers details on how to find more information in the
Searchable Help.
Important Information about Your Device
Your DynaVox M3 device meets all necessary international safety standards and has been tested to meet
IEC601-1 requirements and FCC part 15 class B. The M3 system is a Class II device. The degree of
protection provided by the system is IXPO. The system is considered to be a portable device that is
intended for continuous operation, not intermittent use. This device has electrical input ratings of 18 VDC/3.0
Amps. Fuses in the device are resettable poly-switch fuses. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
The DynaVox M3 generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular situation. If this device does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,
you are encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
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zReorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
zIncrease the separation between the equipment and receiver.
zConnect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
zConsult an experienced radio/TV technician or DynaVox Technical Support for help.
To ensure safe operation of your device, you should take care to note the following cautionary items:
Caution: Your DynaVox M3 device contains a Lithium Ion battery. A safety hazard may develop
when the battery is placed in or near fires or stoves, or in locations with temperatures above
113°F (45°C). These conditions may cause the battery to generate heat, explode or ignite.
Caution: Do not perforate, disassemble or modify the battery. If you must dispose of the battery,
do so according to the local laws that apply to the area where you live.
Caution: For safe and proper operation of your DynaVox M3 device, use only chargers,
batteries and accessories that have been approved by DynaVox Technologies.
Caution: Be sure to disconnect all power before servicing the device. The DynaVox M3 devices
contain no user-serviceable parts.
Caution: This device presents a risk of electrical shock if the plastic casing is opened. Do not
open the plastic casing that surrounds the device.
Caution: The M3 devices are not suitable for use in the presence of flammable anesthetics.
When you are charging your M3 device, remember that the electrical outlet you will use to power the
adapter must be accessible and within 10 feet (3 meters) of the device. There should be no switches or
disconnect devices in the earth conductor. The M3 charger requires no routine maintenance other than a
periodic inspection of the power cords for signs of wear and damage. If the power cords show signs of wear
and damage, they should be replaced.
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Part # 400810-A 3

Emergency Use (Intended Use of This Product)
The M3 device is intended for everyday communication situations. It should not be relied upon as a means
of communicating emergency medical information. We recommend having multiple ways to communicate
information during a medical emergency.
Please Register Your Purchase
Please fill out and return the registration card that was shipped with your M3 device. Without this
information, we cannot know who uses our devices, or who should receive software updates, newsletters or
other product information.
Each M3 device has a serial number sticker on the bottom of the unit. Be sure to write the serial number on
your registration card before you mail it in. Also, take time now to copy the serial number here so that it will
be handy if you must contact someone from DynaVox Technologies, either to check on an order for your
product or to talk to someone in Technical Support. It is especially important to do this if your device will be
mounted onto a wheelchair, since the serial number may not be readily accessible from that position.
Save the Packing Material
You should also be sure to save the box and packing material. If you ever need to send your device back to
DynaVox Technologies for repair, you will need the box and packing material to ship it safely.
DynaVox Technologies4
My Device Serial Number:

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Part # 400810-A 5
Section 2: Hardware Overview
This section describes the physical features of your M3 device, including each of the items included in the
shipping box. It also identifies each part of the device and describes its purpose. This section also provides
information on the device’s battery and on carrying and transporting the device.
What’s in the Box?
When you open the shipping box, carefully remove your M3 device and other items from the box. Your
DynaVox shipping box should contain the following items:
zM3 communication device, with M3 software and DynaVox InterAACT page sets pre-installed
zExternal microphone (wired)
z1 GB USB storage device
zDC power adapter/charger
zShoulder strap
zShort-handle strap
zRegistration card
zThis Quick Start guide
zStylus for making touch screen selections
zCD containing support files, product documentation, Searchable Help, and the page sets used on
the DynaVox MightyMo/MiniMo devices
If any of the items are missing from the box, call DynaVox Customer and Sales Support at 1-800-344-1778.
Note: Be sure to save the box and packing material. If you should ever need to send your
device back to DynaVox Technologies for repair, you will need the box and packing material to
ship it safely.
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Hardware Features
Front of the M3
Start to explore the M3 case by examining the front of the device. You will see the following features:
zPower Indicator - This small, green light-emitting diode (LED) will light up whenever your device is
on.
zMicrophone - The device’s built-in microphone is behind this small opening in the case.
zCharging Indicator - This amber LED will light up while your device’s battery is charging.
zPower Button - This button can be used to turn the device on and off.
Power Indicator
Power Button
Charging Indicator
Microphone

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Front Edge of the M3
Now turn your device so that you are looking at the black plastic on the front edge. There are two features to
note:
zSpeaker Holes - The holes in this section of the case cover the speakers, as well as the fans.
zInfrared Device - The small oval of smooth plastic at the bottom of the front edge covers an infrared
(IR) device. The IR device allows you to use your M3 device as a remote control for electronic
equipment like TVs and stereos.
Speaker Holes
Infrared Device

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Back of the M3
Place your device face down and look for the following features:
zSupport Leg (not shown) - This support leg can be extended to hold your device at a convenient
angle when you want to use your M3 as a tabletop device.
zBattery Door - This panel conceals the M3 internal battery. When necessary, you can remove the
battery door to change the battery.
zDevice Label - This sticker displays DynaVox Technologies’ mailing address, phone number and
website address. It also includes your device’s unique serial number. You will need this number to
email or call DynaVox Technologies’ Technical Support department, or if you need to arrange service
for your device. If you have not already done so, please take a minute to copy this number down on
page 4 of this Quick Start guide.
Battery Door
Mount Attachment
Device Label
Infrared Device

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Part # 400810-A 9
zInfrared Device - The small rectangle of smooth, dark plastic on the back of the device covers an
infrared (IR) device. The IR device allows you to use your M3 device as a remote control for
electronic equipment that is equipped with infrared or X-10 control modules.
zMount Attachment - This feature can be used to attach the M3 device to a wheelchair mounting
system.
Right Side of the M3
The remaining two sides of your device have all the various M3 connector ports. Turn your device to the
right side and look for the following features:
zStrap Attachment Point - Use this small bar to attach one end of the carrying strap/handle that was
shipped with your M3 device. The other strap attachment point can be found on the opposite side of
the device.
zCompactFlash Card Slot - You have the option to use a CompactFlash data storage card
(available at most computer electronics retail stores) to create additional file storage space or share
information with other M3 devices.
Note: For step-by-step instructions on attaching the provided carrying strap/handle, refer to the
Carrying the Device section.
CompactFlash Card Slot
Strap Attachment Point
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Left Side of the M3
Now turn your device so that you are looking at the left side. This side of the M3 device offers a variety of
different ports:
zSpeaker Jack - The port with the green speaker logo is a 1/8-inch stereo speaker jack. This port
can be used to connect an auditory scanning speaker or headset, or for an extra speaker that can
be used to enhance the output of the device’s built-in speakers.
zMicrophone Port - The port with the red microphone logo is a microphone port that can be used to
connect the external microphone that was shipped with your device.
zDual USB Host Port - This square port has two individual USB connectors. These ports enable
your M3 device to host accessory equipment like the USB storage device (also called a “USB flash
drive” or “jump drive”) that was shipped with your device. This port could also be used to connect a
computer mouse, keyboard or printer (not included).
zEthernet Port - This square port resembles a standard phone jack. You can use this port to connect
your M3 device to your Internet service, for upgrading your M3 software (refer to the Upgrading
section of this Quick Start guide).
Speaker Jack
Dual USB Host Port
Switch Jacks
Ethernet Port
Charger Port
Microphone Port
Strap Attachment
Point

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Part # 400810-A 11
zSwitch Jacks - Each of the two round switch jacks can be used to plug in a single switch for
scanning access.
zCharger Port - This port can be used to plug in the DC adapter/charger that was shipped with your
M3 device.
Caution: Never connect any other power adapter to your M3 as it could cause serious damage
to your device.
zStrap Attachment Point - Use this small bar to attach one end of the carrying strap/handle that was
shipped with your M3 device. The other strap attachment point can be found on the opposite side of
the device.
Note: For step-by-step instructions on attaching the provided carrying strap/handle, refer to the
Carrying the Device section.
Reference: More information on all hardware features is available in the DynaVox M3
Searchable Help on the CD that shipped with your M3 device. Refer to Chapter 2: Hardware
Overview of the Searchable Help for more information.
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Battery Information
The M3 device has a 11.1 V Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack. After fully charging the battery pack, you
should be able to continuously run your M3 device at full brightness for approximately 5.5 hours (this time
may vary for actual use).
Installing the Battery
Your M3 device and its battery pack were shipped separately. Before you can turn on your new device, you
must install the battery. To do this, please follow these steps:
1. Lay your M3 device face down on top of a soft cloth on a flat surface. You should be looking at
the support leg and the battery door on the back of the device.
2. Extend the support leg to uncover the battery door.
3. Using a screwdriver (or a quarter), loosen the two screws in the battery door by turning them
counter-clockwise. The screws cannot be removed completely; when they are loose, they will
spring up slightly from the battery door.
4. Lift the battery door away from the device’s case and set it aside.
5. Locate the connector slots on the bottom of the battery and the connector in the battery well on
the device case. Then, place the battery into the device case so that the connectors fit together.
The battery should lie flat in the battery well.
6. Replace the battery door and tighten the screws by turning them clockwise.
Battery Door
Screw Battery Door
Screw

Once you have installed the battery, you should be sure to charge the M3 device for at least 4 hours before
turning it on. To do this, follow the steps in the Charging the Battery section.
Charging the Battery
When the battery begins to run out of power, a small “low battery charge” icon will appear in the title bar
(refer to the picture under Menus and the Title Bar in Section 3: Software Overview). This icon indicates
that you should plug in your device and recharge the battery as soon as possible to avoid running out of
power. You can charge the battery by following these steps:
1. Connect the power cord to the DC adapter charger.
2. With your device turned off, plug the charger jack into the charger port on the left side of your
device.
3. Plug the adapter into an electrical outlet.
The amber charging indicator LED above the device’s touch screen will light up to indicate that the battery is
being charged. It will take approximately 4 hours to fully charge the battery in a M3 device if the battery is
completely empty. It may take less time to charge the battery if it is not completely empty. When the battery
is fully charged, the charging indicator LED will go out.
Caution: Because batteries use a chemical reaction, battery performance will deteriorate over
time even if stored for a long period of time without being used. In addition, if various usage
conditions such as charge, discharge, ambient temperature, etc. are not maintained within the
specified ranges, the life expectancy of the battery may be shortened or the device in which the
battery is being used may be damaged by electrolyte leakage. If the battery cannot maintain a
charge for long periods of time, even when it is charged correctly, this may indicate that it is time
to replace the battery.
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Part # 400810-A 13
Charger Port

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Extending Battery Life
You can extend the daily run time of the battery pack by making some simple adjustments to your device.
Setting the device to maintain a lower screen brightness will use less power. You can also conserve battery
power by using the backlight timeout feature, which puts your device into a low-power state by dimming the
screen’s backlight automatically if it is inactive for a specified period of time. Step-by-step instructions for
performing these simple adjustments are provided in Section 3: Software Overview.
Another way to conserve power is to use the DC adapter/charger that was shipped with your device. If you
are near an electrical outlet, plug the device in while you are using it. Simply follow the steps outlined in the
Charging the Battery section.
Whenever the DC power adapter/charger is plugged in and connected to the device, the battery is being
charged. The amber charging indicator will light up to indicate that charging is occurring. When the battery is
completely charged, the charging indicator will go out. You cannot overcharge the battery, so do not be
concerned about leaving the device plugged in overnight.
Replacing the Battery
If your battery will not maintain a charge, even after being charged correctly, you may need to replace the
battery.
zIf your M3 device is still under warranty, call DynaVox Technical Support at 1-800-344-1778 to
exchange the battery.
zIf your M3 device is no longer under warranty, call DynaVox Customer and Sales Support at
1-800-344-1778 for information on purchasing a new battery.

Carrying Your Device
Your M3 device was shipped with an adjustable carrying strap/handle. The strap attachment points are at
the bottom of the left and right sides of your device (see below). To attach the strap to the device, please
follow these steps:
1. There is a plastic clip a few inches from each end of the carrying strap/handle (the clip on one
end is covered by a padded hand grip that closes with velcro). Detach one of these ends from
the strap. The strap is now in two pieces, each with a loop of cording at one end.
2. Thread the cording on one piece of the strap under the bar on one of the two strap attachment
points on your device.
3. Tuck the other end of the same piece of strap through the loop of cording and pull it completely
through. One end of the strap is now attached to the device.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to connect the second piece of strap to the other strap attachment point.
5. Once both pieces of strap are attached to the device, clip both pieces together again.
If you want to use a short handle strap instead of a long shoulder strap, follow these steps:
1. Open the padded hand grip that covers the clip.
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Part # 400810-A 15
Strap Attachment Point
Strap Attachment Point

2. Detach the long, center piece of the strap from the clip at both ends.
3. Clip the two short ends of the strap together.
4. Fold the padded hand grip around the clip and press the velcro to close it.
Transporting Your Device
If you use your M3 device while in a wheelchair, you should have it properly mounted for both
communication and transportation purposes. Wheelchair mounting systems are available through DynaVox
Technologies.
Protective and accessible carrying cases are also available for your device and its accessories. Consult the
DynaVox website (www.dynavoxtech.com) or your DynaVox sales consultant for more information.
Product Care and Handling
To clean your M3 device, first turn off the unit and then wipe it gently with a damp cloth or soft paper towel.
You may dampen the towel with a mild window cleaner to remove fingerprints, food particles and dust.
Do not use tape or stickers on either the touch screen or the metal case, as they are difficult to remove and
may damage the device surface. Tape, stickers and other sticky materials can damage the touch screen and
interfere with the operation of the device.
Be sure to avoid getting your M3 device wet. Never submerge it in water (e.g., dishwasher). If your unit
accidentally gets wet, be sure to shut it down and allow it dry thoroughly. If after 24 hours you find that the
device seems to function normally, there is probably no damage. If the device fails to function or behaves
abnormally, contact DynaVox Technologies Technical Support at 1-800-344-1778 for instructions. You may
need to ship the device to DynaVox Technologies for repairs.
Be careful not to drop the unit. Such treatment is not recommended and can shorten the life of your device.
Do not use a sharp object to make selections on the touch panel, as this can cause damage. If you need to
use a pointer to make selections, be sure that it has a cushioned tip.
Caution: Never, under any circumstances, disassemble your M3 communication device. Doing
so for any reason will void the warranty, and you will be responsible for the cost of any required
repairs.
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