Integration Kit for Saltillo ChatBox 40 XT

You can use Saltillo's ChatBox 40 XT to create text messages for Point-and-Chat, when Point-and-Chat is running on a nearby computer.

This is called using the ChatBox 40 XT as a keyboard emulator. However, the user will still have to use the computer mouse or computer keyboard to operate Point-and-Chat commands and make it send messages, etc.

To use the ChatBox 40 XT with Point-and-Chat you need two things:

1. A valid copy of Point-and-Chat, installed on the nearby computer.
2. A serial cable to connect the ChatBox 40 with the computer.

To use the ChatBox 40 XT with Point-and-Chat, there are also two things you have to do:

1. Attach the Serial Cable: You first have to use a serial cable to connect the ChatBox 40 XT to the computer that is running Point-and-Chat. Your ChatBox 40 user manual has information on how to do that.

Many Windows XP computers have a serial cable connector. Many Windows Vista computers do not. If the computer does not have a connection place for a serial cable, see if it has a USB connector. Then you have to purchase a serial-to-USB converter. A number of manufacturers make them - and they are sold at some consumer electronics stores. You may have to bring your serial cable, or ChatBox 40 XT to the store, to show the salesperson what kind of connector you need.

2. Change the Settings in Point-and-Chat:

A. Disable input from DesktopChat. In the Point-and-Chat menu heading labeled "Settings", you must (a) "uncheck" Settings>Using DesktopChat>Use DesktopChat, (b) "uncheck" Settings>Using DesktopChat>Keep PnC in focus when using DesktopChat, and (c) in the Settings>Accept keystroke commands please check either (i) From keyboard emulators including DesktopChat or (ii) Both. You must set these three Point-and-Chat settings whenever you are using a ChatBox 40 XT as a keyboard emulator for Point-and-Chat.

B. Run special emulator program. In addition, the computer that is running Point-and-Chat must also be running a program that translates the information that is sent over the serial cable from the ChatBox 40 XT. You can choose to use either one of two programs: SerialKeys or AAC Keys.

Serial Keys is included as part of the Windows XP operating system. It is not included in the Windows Vista operating system, but might be found on the Internet. Whether the computer is using Windows XP or Windows Vista, AAC Keys can be downloaded for free from the AAC Institute (www.aacinstitute.org).

If you are using Windows XP you can try SerialKeys. But we recommend using AAC Keys because SerialKeys does not always work correctly with Point-and-Chat commands on all computers.

Starting the emulator program. If the computer running Point-and-Chat uses the Windows XP operating system, one way that SerialKeys can be started is by opening the Control Panel, then opening the Accessibility features, then turning on Serial Keys. If you run SerialKeys this way, these steps have to be followed every time the computer running Point-and-Chat is started.

HOWEVER, Point-and-Chat can start SerialKeys or AAC Keys automatically for you. If you are using a Window Vista computer, Point-and-Chat can also help you download AAC Keys.

In either case, just open the menu heading "Settings". Then select AAC serial cable connection. A pop-up window will display choices and then show set-up instructions.