Communication aid for the speech-handicapped

Featuring an 'ahead of its time' pc-sensitive headline, New Electronics introduced the world to the wonderfully named Splink system. It consisted of a keyboard, a microprocessor and 1024 pressure sensitive keys, printed alphabetically - alongside 950 words, letters from the alphabet and basic phrases. The keyboard was connected directly to the microprocessor by a cable – alternatively, the keyboard could interface with the processor by sending infrared signals. This enabled a multi user system with several word boards and one processor. When a location on the keyboard was touched an audible bleep emitted from the loudspeaker of the television set and the selected word appeared on the screen. The screen was capable of holding 16 lines of 32 characters at one time (around 100 words). Editing facilities were also provided to allow amendment or correction of the last entry on the screen. Therefore, common phrases could be produced with one touch - such as 'How are you?', 'Thank you for buying me my very own Splink' and 'Did you keep the receipt?'. Following poor sales, the Splink was discontinued and the company no longer sells assistive products.