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Are you searching for a portable computer for school or work that provides economy, convenience and functionality? The Laser PC6 is an inexpensive and compact alternative to a laptop computer that comes with nine built-in software programs and a selection of optional features.
Hardware Features
The hardware features of the 2 lb. Laser PC6 include a 9 x 1.5 inch liquid crystal display (LCD) providing a view of 8 lines by 80 characters. However, the "40/80" key on the bottom row of this product's 66 key QWERTY keyboard offers quick access to enlarged type in the word processor for users who prefer the larger 4 by 40 display. There is also a display adjustment knob on the side of the PC6 providing the user with text and background contrast control.
The back panel of the PC6 is equipped with features that extend the capabilities of this computer. The input / output port supports both file transfer and printer cable connectivity. There is an external power port for the specialized AC adapter that comes with the PC6. The PC6 can also be powered on 4 AA alkaline batteries or a rechargeable nickel metal-hydride battery, which must be ordered. Three additional back-up batteries are included inside the PC6 to prevent the loss of data in memory when there is no power to the device. The auto shutdown feature is designed to conserve power without losing data. The default setting ensures the PC6 will shut down after 2 minutes without use. All data is automatically saved and the shut down time can be adjusted or disabled.
The infrared (IR) port provides a fast and easy method to transfer text data from the PC6 word processor to an open word processing document on another computer. Infrared transfer can be configured for Macintosh or IBM-compatible desktop or laptop computers. This sentence was "beamed" accurately into this Word document on my Sony Vaio laptop after being typed on the Laser PC6. This IR transfer feature provides attractive flexibility for an individual or institution in need of a cost-effective computer access solution.
The PC6 has an additional port for optional add-on cartridges such as Roget's Electronic Thesaurus, Flash RAM w/ Passwords and Text-to-Speech. The Laser PC6 ships with its own carrying case, AC adapter, and printer cable as well as three reference guides – a detailed user's manual, ten minute tour booklet and a quick reference card.
Built-in Software Programs
The main menu of the PC6 is displayed shortly after the computer is turned on. The user types the corresponding letter in order to access any of the available programs.
Word Processor
The PC6 word processor allows users to create up to 45 named documents, which are automatically saved and easily edited, deleted or printed when convenient. The black keys on the PC6 keyboard apply only to the word processor. These include the home and end keys, document spell checking feature, TTS (text-to-speech), IR Send and 40/80 keys. The home and end keys allow the user to quickly move the cursor to the top or bottom of the document. There are also special key commands allowing greater flexibility when working with documents on the PC6. For example, key commands for functions such as cutting and pasting text and spell checking individual words within a document are available.
As well, foreign language accents can be enabled for the word processor from the utilities selection on the main menu. Individuals who have a disability that makes it hard to depress more than one key at the same time can enable the sticky shift and control feature. When this feature is activated, the shift or control key doesn't have to be held down at the same time as another key to execute the desired command. Word prediction is a new feature that may be activated while word processing by pressing Ctrl-Z. This can assist users with spelling difficulties and increase typing speed by reducing the keystrokes needed to complete a word.
Organizational and Instructional Features
The additional software bundled with the Laser PC6 gives it an edge over some low-cost portable computers that primarily feature word processing capabilities. While the PC6 can be used exclusively as a word processor, its other built-in programs make it a good choice when seeking a device that can support an individual over time or adapt to multi-user needs.
The built-in typing tutor exercises help users to develop keyboarding skills. This feature promotes independent practice through engaging activities and performance feedback and is designed to teach keyboarding in only three weeks. The built-in calculator, spell checker, telephone directory and homework calendar eliminate the need for some users to carry additional devices and supports.
The database and Lotus-compatible spreadsheet programs are valuable for collecting and organizing personal, project, school or work-related information. These programs may be used infrequently by elementary school students, but can be very useful for advanced users. From an education perspective, the inexpensive PC6 provides a customizable range of productivity features to fit diverse needs at the elementary to postsecondary levels.
Overall Benefits
The Laser PC6 has an "all-in-one" character to its design. The external simplicity of the PC6 is deceptive in that it could easily be assumed that its functionality would be very limited. The more I worked with the PC6, the more I appreciated its range of capabilities and the value of its design. Users will quickly learn to work with the most intuitive features of the PC6. Explanation of the more complex features can be located in the user's manual. These functions may be explored in accordance with each user's needs or incrementally as the user progresses. The portability of the PC6 adds to its overall appeal as a manageable easy-to-transport device for inside and outside use. Useful add-on utilities are available such as the text-to-speech cartridge, which supplies auditory feedback via a headset for enhanced literacy support for early literacy, ESL and learning disabled students. The text-to-speech option is a very unique feature for a device of this type. The Laser!
PC6 offers affordable computer access, flexibility and convenience for home, workplace and learning environments. To learn more about the Laser PC6 visit the Perfect Solutions website at www.perfectsolutions.com
Copyright © Janet Hopkins, 2002, may only be used or duplicated with permission.
Janet Hopkins is an educator and RESNA certified Assistive Technology Practitioner. Janet is the moderator of the Assistive Technology Canada Listserv, a discussion group to support educators and members of the public who want to share information about special needs technology.
Assistive Tech Educational Consulting
2265 MacIntyre Place
Kamloops, British Columbia
V1S 1H7
Canada
250-828-1444 Phone
250-828-1452 Fax
http://ca.geocities.com/janethopkinsbc/
Email: at_consulting@canada.com
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