Zyteq Allora 2 User manual

Allora
manual

Allora 2
Table of contents
1 - Introduction 5
1.1 Cleaning instructions .............................................................................. 5
1.2 The carrying bag..................................................................................... 5
2 - Safety precautions 7
3 - How to switch on/off the Allora 9
3.1 Reset...................................................................................................... 9
4 - 1st and 2nd display 11
5 - The keyboard 15
5.1 Function key........................................................................................ 16
5.2 Sound key .......................................................................................... 17
5.3 Message key ....................................................................................... 17
5.4 Sound key .......................................................................................... 17
5.5 Arrow key (up) .................................................................................... 17
5.6 Arrow key (down)................................................................................ 17
5.7 Arrow key (left) ................................................................................... 18
5.8 Arrow key (right)................................................................................. 18
5.9 Validation key ...................................................................................... 18
5.10 Clear of ignore key............................................................................ 18
5.11 Application key .................................................................................. 18
5.12 Favorite key....................................................................................... 18
5.13 On/Off key ......................................................................................... 18
5.14 Correction key ................................................................................... 18
5.15 Enter key ........................................................................................... 19
5.16 Shift key ........................................................................................... 19
6 - Connectors and indicators 21
6.1 Front ..................................................................................................... 21
6.1.1 Microphone................................................................................................. 21
6.1.2 Battery charge indicator .............................................................................. 21
6.1.3 On/off indicator........................................................................................... 21
6.1.4 Infrared window......................................................................................... 22
6.2 Side...................................................................................................... 22
6.2.1 Switch 1 ..................................................................................................... 22
6.2.2 Switch 2 ..................................................................................................... 22
6.2.3 USB port ..................................................................................................... 22
6.2.4 Headphone ................................................................................................. 22
6.2.5 Adapter input .............................................................................................. 22
6.3 Back ..................................................................................................... 22
6.4 The 2nd display .................................................................................... 23
6.4.1 On/off ......................................................................................................... 24
6.4.2 Reset .......................................................................................................... 24
6.4.3 Volume up .................................................................................................. 24
6.4.4 Volume down.............................................................................................. 24
7 - Batteries 25
7.1 Replace the battery of the Allora ........................................................... 25
7.2 Replacement of the battery of the 2nd display ...................................... 26
8 - Allora applications 27
8.1 Communication .................................................................................... 27
8.1.1 How to save messages ............................................................................... 28
8.2 Making recordings................................................................................ 29
8.3 Making notes ........................................................................................ 29
8.3.1 Making notes .............................................................................................. 29
8.3.2 Save note.................................................................................................... 30
8.3.3 Open note................................................................................................... 30
8.3.4 Save note (USB) .......................................................................................... 30
8.3.5 Open note (USB).......................................................................................... 30

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8.3.6 Delete note.................................................................................................. 30
8.4 Environmental control (optional)............................................................ 31
8.4.1 How to record the infrared codes................................................................. 31
8.4.2 Transmitting infrared codes......................................................................... 32
8.5 Send and receive text messages........................................................... 32
8.5.1 Installing the SIM card ................................................................................. 32
8.5.2 Enter the PIN code 33
8.5.3 Making connection with a telecom provider ................................................. 33
8.5.4 How to send a text message........................................................................ 34
8.5.5 Receiving text messages ............................................................................. 35
9 - How to operate the Allora with switches. 37
9.1 Using one switch. ................................................................................. 37
9.2 Two switch access .............................................................................. . 38
10 - Overview of the menu and different settings 41
10.1 Speech ............................................................................................... 42
10.1.1 Language .................................................................................................. 42
10.1.2 Voice ......................................................................................................... 42
10.1.3 Speed........................................................................................................ 42
10.1.4 Voice volume............................................................................................. 42
10.1.5 General Volume ......................................................................................... 43
10.1.6 Character echo .......................................................................................... 43
10.1.7 Word echo................................................................................................. 43
10.1.8 Enter echo................................................................................................. 43
10.1.9 Add pronunciation ..................................................................................... 43
10.1.10 Remove pronunciation............................................................................. 44
10.2 Keyboard ............................................................................................ 44
10.2.1 Type.......................................................................................................... 44
10.2.2 Sound........................................................................................................ 44
10.2.3 Hold time for numbers ............................................................................... 44
10.2.4 Post selection delay................................................................................... 44
10.2.5 Acceptance delay ...................................................................................... 45
10.3 Scanning ............................................................................................ 45
10.3.1 Algorithm................................................................................................... 45
10.3.2 Advance ....................................................................................................45
10.3.3 Select........................................................................................................ 45
10.3.4 Step time.................................................................................................. 46
10.3.5 Leave row................................................................................................. 46
10.3.6 Pause scanning ........................................................................................ 46
10.3.7 Delay after selection ................................................................................. 46
10.3.8 Sound ....................................................................................................... 46
10.4 Display ............................................................................................... 46
10.4.1 Brightness ................................................................................................ 46
10.4.2 Capitals only ............................................................................................. 47
10.4.3 Text font ................................................................................................... 47
10.4.4 Prediction font .......................................................................................... 47
10.5 Second display ................................................................................... 47
10.5.1 Text .......................................................................................................... 47
10.5.2 Text while typing....................................................................................... 47
10.5.3 Capitals only ............................................................................................. 47
10.5.4 Lines......................................................................................................... 48
10.5.5 Audio ........................................................................................................ 48
10.5.6 Scroll type................................................................................................. 48
10.6 Prediction ........................................................................................... 48
10.6.1 Prediction ................................................................................................. 48
10.6.2 Add word .................................................................................................. 49
10.6.3 Remove word............................................................................................ 49
10.6.4 Auto learn ................................................................................................. 49
10.6.5 Case sensitive........................................................................................... 49
10.6.6 Maximum repetitions ................................................................................ 49
10.6.7 Punctuation adjustment ............................................................................ 50
10.7 Date/time............................................................................................ 50
10.7.1 Change date ............................................................................................. 50
10.7.2 Change time ............................................................................................. 50
10.8 Mobile phone...................................................................................... 51
10.8.1 Mobile Phone............................................................................................ 51
10.8.2 SMS sound ............................................................................................... 51
10.8.3 Pin Code ................................................................................................... 51
10.8.4 (Re)connect .............................................................................................. 51
10.9 General............................................................................................... 52
10.9.1 Menu language......................................................................................... 52
10.9.2 Specify menu password............................................................................ 52
10.9.3 Standby after ............................................................................................ 53

Allora 2
10.9.4 Shutdown after.......................................................................................... 53
10.9.5 Status bar.................................................................................................. 53
10.9.6 Abbreviations .............................................................................................53
10.9.7 Recording with noise filter ......................................................................... 53
10.9.8 Read Stored msg....................................................................................... 53
10.9.9 Star ........................................................................................................... 53
10.9.10 Shift Star ................................................................................................. 54
10.9.11 Fn+Star................................................................................................... 54
10.10 Tools Menu....................................................................................... 54
10.11 Backup/restore ................................................................................. 54
10.11.1 Create full backup ................................................................................... 55
10.11.2 Restore backup ....................................................................................... 55
10.11.3 Install update........................................................................................... 55
10.11.4 Create data backup ................................................................................. 55
10.11.5 Restore data backup................................................................................ 55
10.11.6 Restore factory defaults........................................................................... 55

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1 - Introduction
The Allora is a very easy to use text input based communication aid. Any
message written on Allora’s keyboard will be pronounced with a high quality
natural sounding voice. Intelligent word or sentence prediction, prestored
messages and abbreviation expansion will increase the communication speed
significantly.
A detachable, high contrast second display allows the communication partner(s)
to visually follow the message that is written.
The Allora has an internal microphone to allow voice recording. These
recordings can be linked to individual keys on the keyboard.
The Allora can be equipped with an optional GSM module to allow the sending
and receiving of SMS text messages.
The Allora has a communication-support function and is intended for people
with communicative disabilities for general use in their daily life provided they
have adequate motor and mental capacities to use the device. The device is not
be used for clinical, therapeutic or diagnostic purposes.
The Allora can optionally be equipped with an infrared (IR) environmental control
unit (ECU) module that can learn and transmit IR codes in order to get other
devices to operate. This is designed for general purpose usage such as
appliances for audio-visual and home automation applications. This ECU
extension should not be used for clinical, therapeutic or diagnostic applications.
The Allora is portable but can also be fixed on a wheelchair. To facilitate the
portability you can use a carrying case.
The Allora is easy to operate but with extended features to support the
communication. To gain optimum use of the Allora it is advised to read this
guide before using the unit.
1.1 Cleaning instructions
It is advisable to clean the Allora regularly to minimize the spread of germs. The
keyboard in particular needs the most attention, as this is a gathering place for
germs.
It is recommended that cleaning agents specifically designed for ICT equipment
are used to clean the device eg. Cyber Clean or an antiseptic disinfectant like
Neo-Sabenyl (read instructions for use). Always use a damp cloth.
Use a dry, soft cloth to remove dust. For localised spots on the enclosure you
can use a damp cloth. Avoid moisture penetrating into the speaker openings, the
microphone opening and the connectors. Dirt at the height of the connectors can
be removed with a cotton swab
Use a dry cloth to clean the screen. Do not use paper towels as these can cause
small scratches on the screen. For removing grease or spots on the screen you
can use cleaning agents specifically designed for cleaning screens (spray or
wipes) or an antiseptic disinfectant. Do not press hard on the screen during
cleaning.
1.2 The carrying bag
The Allora has a carrying bag in which you can use the device safely. During
mobile use, place the unit in its carrying bag and use the carrying strap so that
the device cannot fall to the ground. If you attach the carrying strap to opposite

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corners of the bag you can carry the unit while it remains well positioned.
Always ensure that the carrying bag is closed so that the Allora cannot fall out of
its carrying bag.
Use a dry or slightly moistened cloth to clean the carrying case. You can also use
a soft hand brush.

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2 - Safety precautions
Due to its light weight, the Allora is portable and appropriate for mobile use.
However, we advise that the Allora is always carried using both the case and the
carrying strap.That way, you avoid the unit from falling to the ground and
possibly get damaged.
When using the Allora on a wheelchair, make sure that the unit is properly
mounted and locked.
The unit uses a Li-ion battery. When replacing the battery, do not throw the old
battery away, but follow the waste regulations that apply in your area. You can
also return the battery to the supplier of the Allora.
If you are not using the device for an extended period of time, store the Allora
with a charged battery, ensuring that the unit is switched off. (press on the on/
off button for 5 seconds).
Avoid storing the unit near heat sources or areas in which it can be particularly
hot. For instance, in the summer it can be very hot in a car. High temperatures
may adversely affect the operation and battery life of the Allora.
The Allora is not waterproof but the unit is designed to be splash proof on the
keyboard side. The speaker openings, through which moisture or dirt can
penetrate, are situated on the underside of the device. Should water get into the
speaker cavities, this can affect the function of the speakers and reduce the
sound quality. Take precautions when cleaning the Allora and follow the
cleaning instructions.

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3 - How to switch on/off the Allora
Press the on/off key briefly to turn on the Allora. This key can be found
in the top right corner of the keyboard. It will take approximately 25 seconds to
boot up. During start up the on/off indicator will slowly flash. When the power
indicator remains green the unit has completely booted and is ready to use as
soon as the cursor appears on the screen.
You can now type a message on the keyboard. Press the Enter key to
hear the message.
Briefly pressing the on/off key again will put the Allora in standby mode. The on/
off indicator now lights up every 4 seconds. In this state the power consumption
of the Allora is minimal. Briefly press any key to wake up the Allora from its
standby mode.
Press the on/off key for about 5 seconds to completely switch off the Allora.
3.1 Reset
If the Allora becomes inactive (e.g. because of an electro static discharge on a
connector), you can reset the unit by pressing the Reset button. The unit will be
forced to turn off, press the on/off button again to restart the Allora.
You can find the Reset button on the underside of your device.

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4 - 1st and 2nd display
The Allora has two graphic displays allowing the display of different sized
characters.
The first and largest display, above the keyboard, displays the messages that
you are typing. This screen also shows you the word or sentence prediction. To
the right of the screen the state parameters are shown. On the front of the Allora
there is a second and smaller screen showing the message that you are typing.
The first screen is divided into three parts. The largest part is used to write the
messages. One message can contain multiple lines. If you press the Enter key,
the message will be pronounced. You do not have to remove the message to
write a new message, which means that you can easily return to your previous
messages. Use the arrow keys or to navigate to the message you
want to use again and press the 'validation' key to speak out the chosen
message.
The second part of the screen at the bottom of the display is separated from the
first part by means of a horizontal line. In this part of the of the screen the word
or sentence predictions are displayed. You can also choose to have no
predictions and use the whole screen for writing messages. Switch between
word prediction, sentence prediction or no predictions by pressing the key
combination .
The third part of the screen, on the right hand side, shows the main state
parameters of the Allora.
Battery status
Mute/unmute
Fn or Shift key status
new text message
GSM reception
SMS mode

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The second and smaller display on the front side of the Allora, displays the
message that you are writing. However, you can choose to only to show the
complete message when the message is pronounced.
On this screen you have the option to show 1, 2 or 3 text lines. This will also
determine the size of the characters. Choosing 1 text line results in bigger
characters, but fewer characters will be shown at one time. More text lines will
result in smaller characters.
The 2nd display is normally attached to the Allora however you can detach it
from the device allowing you to position it better so that more people can see
the display.
You can also wear the 2nd display or give it to your communication partner.
This is particularly useful if you are in a noisy environment or if you wish to have
a private conversation.
To disconnect the 2nd display from the Allora, push the lever behind the display
away from the display and take the display it out of its compartment.
It is not recommended to detach the 2nd display from the Allora or to attach the
2nd screen to the Allora during the start up procedure. You should wait to do this
until the device is completely started up.
As soon as the 2nd display is separated from the Allora, a wireless connection
will be established between the Allora and the 2nd display. You will hear a short
beep as soon as the connection is successful and ready to use. Both text and
sound will be carried by the 2nd screen.

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The second screen can be carried with a lanyard or it can be placed on a table
standing up on its two feet. These feet will also make sure that the second
screen is slightly sloping back and that the sound easily projects to the listener.
In order to have a reliable wireless connection you should maintain a distance of
about 10 feet between the 2nd display and the Allora.
To put the 2nd display back in the Allora: Take the display and push it with its
feet up into the compartment of the Allora as shown in the following picture. The
connection with the Allora is only complete when you hear a click

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5 - The keyboard
The Allora has a waterproof rubber keypad with keys which are the same size as on a normal keyboard. The keyboard contains the full alphabet, the numbers,
frequently used special characters (shown in blue), a function key Fn, one Shift key, an Enter key and a number of control keys.
To enter a character on the display just hit the corresponding key. The keystroke acceptance and delay times are adjustable to avoid unwanted repeat or accidental
keystrokes. Note that the use of acceptance and/or delay times are set with the needs of the user in mind. If the device is placed with a new user, it is important to
ensure that the settings are readjusted to meet the users’ needs otherwise it may appear that the keyboard is slower or not working properly.
To select a number you need to press the number key slightly longer until the number appears on the screen. Briefly press the number keys 1 to 5 to select the
corresponding word from the word prediction list that appears at the bottom of the screen.
The characters beside the figures 6, 7, 8, 9, 0 can be formed by briefly pressing the corresponding keys, just like all other characters on the keyboard.
The following is the description of a number of important keys on the keyboard of the Allora.

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5.1 Function key
The function key Fn is always used in combination with another key. For
example, press the function key and then press the digit key 1 to display the
exclamation mark. You do not have to hold the function key to make a
combination, you can press Fn first, release it and then press 1 to form the
exclamation mark. Similarly, you can select all special characters from those in
blue in the upper left corner of the number keys.
The blue symbols on some of the keys refer to a function which can be activated
when the key is used in combination with the function key Fn. However,
combinations with other keys that don’t have the additional blue symbol on it are
also possible.
The following list gives you an overview of the other function key combinations:
Table 1: Function Key Combination
Increase the volume.
Decrease the volume.
Go to the Allora settings menu.
Mute/unmute the sound.
Add the message to the sentence prediction
list.
Delete the predicted sentence that is
displayed from the sentence prediction list
Pronounce date.
Pronounce time.
Increase the character size. Once maximum
size is reached, the next step will start from
the minimum size and then continues
increasing again.
Decrease the character size. Once
minimum size is reached, the next step will
start from the maximum size and then
continues decreasing again.
Switch the 2nd display on or off. This
setting is stored until it is changed again.
Switch between sound from the 2nd display
or from the Allora (only when 2nd display is
disconnected). This setting is stored until it
is changed again.
Table 1: Function Key Combination

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5.2 Sound key
Stop any sound from playing. This is helpful if you make a mistake.
5.3 Message key
The 'message' key is used to recall a stored message. Press the ‘message’ key
first and then press a figure or a letter. The message that is associated with this
key will then be called. This also applies to the combination:
• message key + Fn + figure or character,
• message key + Shift + figure or character,
• message key + Fn + Shift + figure or character.
To save a message under a key, first type the message, then press the
'message' key twice followed by the figure or the letter under which you
want to save the message. Then press 'confirm' or 'ignore' . You
can also use the following combinations as locations to save a message:
• Fn + figure or character,
• Shift + figure or character,
• Fn + Shift + figure or character.
5.4 Sound key
The 'sound' key is used to play stored sounds or recordings. Press the ‘sound’
key first, and then press a figure or a letter to the play the associated recording.
This also applies to the combination:
• sound key + Fn + figure or character,
• sound key + Shift + figure or character,
• sound key + Fn + Shift + figure or character.
Pressing the sound key twice will make the ‘attention’ sound.
For more information on how to make recordings see“Making recordings” on
page 29.
5.5 Arrow key (up)
Move the cursor one line up, or in combination with the Fn key: increase the
volume.
5.6 Arrow key (down)
Move the cursor one line down, or in combination with the Fn key: decrease the
volume.
Switch between word prediction, sentence
prediction and no prediction. This setting is stored
until it is changed again
Show the Allora battery status, the 2nd display
status and the version of the firmware.
Show the telecom provider, the signal strength of
the phone operator (texting only) and the free
memory for text messages.
Table 1: Function Key Combination

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5.7 Arrow key (left)
Move the cursor one position to the left.
5.8 Arrow key (right)
Move the cursor one position to the right.
5.9 Validation key
Press the 'validation' key to pronounce or to repeat the message where the
cursor is on. Or validate a choice (in the settings or in the applications).
Press Shift + to pronounce all messages produced since the last ‘clear
screen’.
5.10 Clear of ignore key
Clear screen or ignore an action or a choice (in the settings or in the
applications).
5.11 Application key
Press the 'application' key to show a list the available applications of the Allora.
Depending on the provided options and user rights the applications can be:
• New Message (option): to write a new text message
• Read Message (option): to read a text message
• Recording: to make a sound recording
• IR environmental control
• Address book (option)
• Notes: to make notes
• Communication: basic application
When you are not in the communication favorite application (you are using
another application or you are altering the settings), the key will always
bring you back to the Communication application. (see “Star” on page 53.)
Press Fn + to bring you to the settings menu of the Allora.
5.12 Favorite key
Press the 'favorite' key to immediately start your application. This key can also
be combined with the function key Fn and with the Shift key to launch two other
favorite applications.
5.13 On/Off key
For more information on how to switch the Allora on or off see “How to switch
on/off the Allora” on page 9.
5.14 Correction key
Press the 'correction' key to erase the last entry.