V-tech Artificial Intelligence DeskPro User manual

User’s Manual
Deskpro
Printed in China
91-01593-005
2003 © VTech

Dear Parent,
At VTech® we know that every child has a unique set of strengths and interests.
That’s why we created the Artificial Intelligence Learning™ Series - a sophisticated
set of learning tools that track your child’s activity and respond by tailoring the learning
experience specifically to your child’s needs.
Every product in the
Artificial Intelligence Learning™ Series actually keeps a
record of your child’s performance, and adjusts the subjects and skill levels
accordingly. The programs will accelerate the skill level in a strong subject, and
focus on subject areas that require more work. All the while, your child is learning
through engaging, arcade-style games in which fun and learning are seamlessly
joined.
All the Artificial Intelligence Learning™ Series products feature hi-tech, ergonomic
designs, stereo sound, large LCD screens and a plug-in mouse or touch screen -
features that add a new level of sophistication to your child’s learning experience.
Also, all the products were designed with portability in mind, so that kids can bring
the learning fun anywhere, anytime.
At
VTech® we are committed to creating fun learning toys that foster a child’s
intellectual and social development. We thank you for trusting VTech® with the
important job of helping your child learn and succeed!
Sincerely,
Your Friends at
VTech®
To learn more about the Artificial Intelligence Learning™ Series and other VTech®
toys, visit www.vtechkids.com

1
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the VTech®Deskpro learning aid.
Your Deskpro is an electronic learning aid that challenges young minds with 100 activities
in categories as diverse as English, math, languages, science, geography and history.
As a member of the VTech®Artificial Intelligence Learning™ family of products, the
Deskpro is equipped with the Intelli-System, a unique feature that keeps track of your
child’s progress and tailors the learning accordingly.
INTRODUCTION
Interactive
Light-Up Mouse
Mouse Pad
Reset Button
Keyboard
On/Off
Button
Intelli-Challenge
Button
Volume/
Contrast
Button
Progress Report Button
LCD Screen
Utilities Button
Adventure Button
Main Menu Button
CD-ROM
Eject Button
CD-ROM Drive
Caps Lock Light

2
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES
INCLUDED IN THIS PACKAGE
- Deskpro learning product
- Interactive light-up mouse
- Mouse pad
- 3 CDs
- 4 “AA” sized batteries
- Instruction manual
WARNING:
All packing materials such as tape, plastic sheets, wire ties and tabs are not part of this
toy and should be discarded for your child’s safety.
GETTING STARTED
Before playing for the first time, be sure you have 2 “AA” sized backup batteries, in addition
to the 4 “AA” sized batteries included with the unit. These backup batteries enable you to
save information onto the unit.
Before playing, please make sure the plastic strip is removed from the bottom of
the unit.
USING THE MOUSE
Please take the mouse out of the storage compartment in the back of
the unit before using the mouse.
1. Move the mouse in the direction you want the cursor to move.
2. Click the mouse button to make a selection.
CLEANING THE MOUSE
1. Following the arrows, use a screwdriver to open the cover on the
bottom of the mouse.
2. Take the ball out of the mouse and use a dry cloth to clean the
mouse and the ball.
3. Place the ball back in the mouse, replace the mouse cover and
screw the cover closed.
BATTERY INSTALLATION
The Deskpro operates on 4 “AA” size batteries (UM-3/LR6)
or a VTech®9V adaptor (sold separately).
1. Make sure the unit is turned OFF.
2. Locate the battery cover on the bottom of the unit and
open it.
3. Insert 4 new “AA” batteries (UM-3/LR6) as illustrated.
4. Close the battery cover.
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES

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NOTE: Replace with new, alkaline batteries.
RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES ARE NOT RECOMMENDED.
BATTERY NOTICE
• Do not try to recharge non-rechargeable batteries;
• Rechargeable batteries are to be removed from the toy before being charged;
• Rechargeable batteries are only to be charged under adult supervision;
• Do not mix different types of batteries; Do not mix new and used batteries;
• Only use batteries of the recommended or equivalent type;
• Always insert batteries properly matching the plus (+) and minus (-) signs;
• Batteries that have run out of energy must be removed from the toy;
• Do not short circuit the supply terminals;
• Do not use more batteries than recommended;
• Remove batteries from the toy if it will not be used for an extended period of time.
AC-DC ADAPTOR
Use a VTech®adaptor or any other standard adaptor that complies with EN61558 DC 9V
300mA center-positive adaptor.
CONNECTION
1. Make sure the unit is OFF.
2. Locate the adaptor jack on the back of the unit.
3. Insert the adaptor plug into the unit’s adaptor jack.
4. Plug the adaptor into a wall outlet.
5. Turn the unit ON.
NOTE: If the unit stops working or the sound becomes weak, it may be the result of the
adaptor connection. Turn the unit OFF and unplug the adaptor for 15 seconds.
Next, plug the adaptor back in and turn the unit ON. If the problem persists, it
may be the result of the adaptor’s wiring.
ADAPTOR NOTICE
• The toy is not intended for use by children under 3 years old;
• Only use the recommended adaptor with the toy;
• The adaptor is not a toy;
• Never clean a plugged-in toy with liquid;
• Never use more than 1 adaptor;
• Do not leave plugged-in for extended periods of time.
NOTICE TO PARENTS
Regularly examine the adaptor, checking for damage to the cord, plug, transformer or
other parts. Do not use the adaptor if there is any damage to it.
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES

4
BACKUP BATTERY INSTALLATION
The Deskpro uses 2 additional “AA” sized batteries (not
included) to save information you input. To avoid damage from
leaky batteries, replace the batteries at least once a year.
To replace the backup batteries:
1. Make sure the unit is OFF.
2. Locate the backup battery cover on the bottom of the unit.
3. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screw on the battery cover.
4. Insert 2 “AA” sized batteries as illustrated.
5. Close the battery cover and tighten the screw to secure it.
Important: While replacing the backup batteries, the 4 “AA” batteries must be kept in
the unit or the unit must be plugged into the wall outlet with the adaptor.
Otherwise you will lose any information saved on the unit.
PRODUCT FEATURES
1. THE INTELLI-SYSTEM
All of our Artificial Intelligence Learning™ Series units have a unique feature called
the Intelli-System, which helps you learn as much as possible in a way that fits you best.
How does the system work? As you play, the Intelli-System is always running, and keeping
track of how you do in every subject. When you have played enough activities, the Intelli-
System has enough information to guide your learning: it knows when you should switch
to another subject, which level of an activity is best for you, and which subjects you could
use more work on. Simply put, the Intelli-System teaches you what you need to learn.
These are two ways in which the Intelli-System helps you:
1. When you choose an activity in a certain subject from the Main Menu, the Intelli-
System checks to see how you’re doing in each curriculum of that subject. Then it
automatically chooses a curriculum that you need more practice in.
2. When you press the Intelli-Challenge button or choose Intelli-Challenge from the Main
Menu, the Intelli-System picks activities for you based on how you’ve done in the past.
In Fun Mode, the Intelli-System picks activities that you play often, or do very well in.
In Challenge Mode, the Intelli-System picks activities that are more challenging for
you.
2. PLAY MODES
In the Deskpro, you can choose from 3 different modes of play and learning:
• Menu Mode
• Adventure
• Intelli-Challenge
MENU MODE
Pick the games and subjects you want to explore! How about Word games? Math games?
Or would you like Social Studies or Science? Check out the Main Menu to get started.
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES

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ADVENTURE - EXPLORER QUEST
Help our daring explorer find the treasure in the Room of the Scarab! The treasure is
hidden deep underground in a cleverly designed tomb. Can you open the four locks and
get into the Room of the Scarab?
Enter the Explorer Quest by selecting it from the Main Menu, or by pressing the Adventure
button on the keyboard. After you get 4 keys and open the lock, you must help our explorer
make her way through the path by dodging a flood of creepy bugs! Will our hero find the
treasure? That depends on you!
INTELLI-CHALLENGE
In this mode, the Intelli-System takes over and challenges you with all kinds of different
subjects and questions. You can choose from Fun Mode and Challenge Mode.
Fun Mode
This mode is best when you want to relax and have some fun. The Intelli-System will
choose questions for you from subjects you’ve done particularly well in, or from games
that you have played often and enjoy most.
Challenge Mode
Now you’re in for a real challenge! The Intelli-System will test you with questions from
subject areas that may not be as familiar to you, and in which you could use a little
practice.
3. GENERAL BUTTONS
ON/OFF BUTTON
Press the On/Off Button to turn the unit ON. Press it again to turn the unit OFF.
VOLUME/CONTRAST BUTTON
Press this button once to change the sound level of the speaker. Use the “+” or “-” buttons
on the keyboard, or click the left/right arrow on the screen by using the mouse.
Press this button twice to change the darkness or lightness of the screen. Use the “+” or
“-” buttons on the keyboard, or click the left/right arrow on the screen by using the mouse.
Press this button a third time to turn the background music ON or OFF.
Press this button a fourth time to exit. You can also press the Esc key to exit.
MAIN MENU BUTTON
Press this button to return to the Main Menu at any time.
ADVENTURE
Press this button to enter the Adventure mode.
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES

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UTILITIES
Press this button to select a utility from the Utilities menu.
PROGRESS REPORT
Press this key to see how you’re doing in every subject.
INTELLI-CHALLENGE
Press this button to enter the Intelli-Challenge Mode. Our Intelli-System, which keeps
track of your progress in every subject, will pick activities for you, based on how you’ve
done in the past. Choosing Fun Mode will give you activities you’ve done particularly well
in, or have played most often. Choosing Challenge Mode will give you activities in which
you need the most work.
4. CD-ROM
Your Deskpro comes with three bonus CDs with three extra activities: Number Maze,
Music Mixer and Think Fast. Once you insert the CD, the activity on it will automatically
download to the unit.
CD Storage:
The three CDs can be stored in a compartment on the
back of the unit.
How to insert a CD:
1. Press the EJECT button on the left side of the unit.
2. Insert a CD, with the label facing up, into the CD-ROM
drive.
3. Push the CD-ROM drive back into the unit.
5. KEYBOARD LAYOUT
The keyboard can be hung on the back of the unit when it is not in use.
Your Deskpro has a full alphanumerical keyboard that doubles as a music keyboard. You
will also find the function keys described below:
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES
EJECT Button

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FUNCTION KEYS
Esc Key: Press this key to exit the current activity.
Level Key: Press this key to select an activity’s level of difficulty (easy, medium
or hard).
Caps Lock Key: Press this key to type capital letters. Press it again to type lowercase
letters.
Shift Key: Press this key to capitalize letters. This key can also access the alternate
function of another key, when both are pressed at the same time.
Status Key: Press Shift and Status to get the status of the current game.
Help Key: Press this key to see instructions for an activity.
Repeat Key: Press this key to repeat an instruction or a question.
Hint Key: Press this key to get helpful hints about the activity you’re playing.
Your score will be reduced if this key is pressed.
Answer Key: Press this key to see the correct answer to a question. You will not
receive points if this key is pressed.
Symbol Key: Press this key to access the symbol menu. Use the mouse to select
and input a symbol.
Space Bar: When typing, use this key to insert a space between words or numbers.
Save Key: Press this key to save information in the activities Word Processor,
Artwork Studio, Phone Book, and Music Composer.
Player Key: Press this key to choose One or Two Player mode.
Directional Keys: Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, left or right.
Press these keys and the Shift key to access the Page Up, Page
Down, Home and End functions.
Enter Key: Press this key after choosing your answer, to enter your selection.
Delete Key: Press this key to delete the character highlighted by the cursor.
Backspace Key: Press this key to erase the character to the left of the cursor.
6. AUTOMATIC SHUT-OFF
To save power, the Deskpro automatically shuts down if it does not receive any input
after several minutes. Press the On/Off button to wake your unit. We recommend that
you turn off the unit when finished playing. Remove the batteries and unplug the adaptor
if your Deskpro will not be used for an extended period of time.
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES

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ACTIVITIES
The Deskpro includes a total of 100 activities.
Index Main Menu Sub-Menu Curriculum
1. Word Clever Clues Vocabulary
2. Meaning Match Vocabulary
3. Secret Word Vocabulary
4. Grammar
5. Word Memory Vocabulary
6. Grammar
7. Spelling
8. Pixellation Vocabulary
9. Grammar
10. Spelling Snake Spelling
11. Word Quiz Vocabulary
12. Grammar
13. Word Whack-O Spelling
14. What’s Missing? Spelling
15. Word Scramble Vocabulary
16. Math & Logic Dial-a-Sign Basic Math
17. Which Sign? Basic Math
18. Math Snake Basic Math
19. Math Whack-O Basic Math
20. Math Memory Basic Math
21. Logic Sequences Logic and Reasoning Skills
22. Number Battle Logic and Reasoning Skills
23. Dots & Boxes Logic and Reasoning Skills
24. Balloon Blow Out Logic and Reasoning Skills
25. Social Studies Secret Spaces World History
26. U.S. History
27. World Geography
28. U.S. Geography
29. World Trivia World History
30. U.S. History
31. World Geography
INSTRUCTIONS & ACTIVITIES