MACAW™ 5
Far from a simple "introductory" system, the MACAW is a full-function unit which supports operation from as few as 2 Enlarged Keys to Multi-Levels (using any key pattern in each level) and Key-Linked messages. Over 78 minutes of high-quality is standard. Of course, there is no limit to the percentage which may be recorded for each message.

The MACAW is a communication device used by people who do not have functional speech. Pictures or words are used to make an overlay (or a display) which represent the messages stored in each key. A person with speech records the desired messages onto the MACAW. The person using the MACAW selects the message and the MACAW speaks it.

The MACAW is used by people who do not have the ability to spell the messages they wish to communicate. Its design makes it suitable for people who may use just one or many levels, who benefit from concrete visual representation of the messages, or who have changing abilities and needs. The many set-ups of the MACAW can accommodate physical changes affecting accessing, need for different displays over time and so on.

It utilizes both direct selection and scanning (including auditory scanning) and a novel, simple "Morse code" access to all keys and functions.

Its ruggedness, light weight and small size make the MACAW easy to carry by its unique folding handle or neckstrap, and its wedge shape provides a comfortable slope for access to the keyboard from a flat surface.


product details
Jacks Battery charger 5.5 mm OD 2.5 mm diameter pin External microphone Mini-phone jack External speaker Mini-phone jack Earphone Mini-phone jack (with volume control) single-switch input .140" diameter mini-phone jack multi-switch input 8-pin mini-
Individual key size 1.125" square
Keyboard size 11.5 x 7.75 inches
User accessible functions from the keyboard Talk/Repeat Strings Silent Selection of Message Volume Control Levels
Volume control Adjustable
Message retrieval systems Single key String Messages (using silent and/or spoken selections) Dynamic Levels Key Link
No dead spaces
Recording time per message Unlimited
Operating force 4 oz
Battery duration 20 hours continuous sound output (2-8 weeks of normal use)
Batteries rechargeable nickel-metal hydride
Battery recharge time 4 hours average (8 hours maximum) May be used continuously with charger connected
Weight 2.3 lbs
Recording time (high quality) 78 minutes
Number of keys 32 maximum
Levels 63
Key links Up to 80
Enlarged key patterns 4x4, 2x4, 4x2, 2x2 1x4 & 1x2
Scanning Linear, Row/Column, Block/Row/Column, Multi-Switch
Shape Wedge shape, with the front height being 1/2 inch and the back height being 2.5 inches


additional resources

MACAW Video
RealOne Player Format
QuickTime Format


items notes price
MACAW™ 5
$1,695.00

Prices on this website are in US Dollers and are pertaining to US sales only. These prices are subject to change without notice.