SCOLAtalk is designed to provide the maximum benefit in every listening situation in which the SCOLA system can help to improve speech intelligibility. Small and light, SCOLAtalk sits comfortably in the palm of one’s hand. Its modest weight of 75 grams makes it easy to wear clipped onto clothes or using the provided neck cord. SCOLAtalk can be connected to a radio or TV, as well as to an external microphone; for example a boom microphone. The battery drawer of the microphone doubles as a table stand. It can be set to four positions, to ensure optimum directionality when the microphone is placed on a table.
Variable directional characteristics |
SCOLAtalk is equipped with an advanced directional microphone system employing four microphones and one omnidirectional microphone. A switch allows the user to set SCOLAtalk to two different directional modes or an omnidirectional mode, all designed for optimum sound reproduction in different situations and noise levels. One setting enables the user to focus SCOLAtalk directly at the sound source, while background noise is reduced significantly. Another makes it possible to listen to several people simultaneously.
Optimisation to linear frequency response in a directional function |
The signals picked up by the five microphones in SCOLAtalk are processed digitally. Due to this advanced digital signal processing, all signal components – including low-frequency sound components – can be preserved. This results in increased directionality, even in the low frequencies, and a more natural sound quality.
Direct connection to multimedia equipment |
SCOLAtalk can be connected to all kinds of external multimedia equipment, such as TV, stereo or computer. The audio signal is sent directly to the FM receiver. This allows the user to receive a clear and undistorted signal without having to turn the loudspeaker volume up loud. And the user can still communicate with other people in the room. When SCOLAtalk is connected to the stereo, the user can move around freely while listening to the radio or music.
External antenna increases the operating range |
The internal antenna in SCOLAtalk gives an operating range of up to ten metres. An external antenna is also included with the SCOLA system. When the antenna is connected to SCOLAtalk, the operating range increases to 30 metres in ideal transmitting conditions. The increase in range is an advantage, for example, when in a lecture hall.
Several transmitting channels |
SCOLAtalk is preset to the same channel as the receiver, but can be set to other transmitting channels as well. This function makes it possible to use the same SCOLAtalk in a nearby classroom, having selected another FM channel to avoid interference. SCOLAtalk can also be used with other makes of FM receivers.
SCOLAtalk is supplied with two rechargeable AAA batteries. With fully charged batteries, SCOLAtalk can operate continuously for eight hours. In emergency situations, two ordinary AAA batteries can be used instead of the rechargeable batteries. The battery drawer can be provided with a lock so that the batteries can only be removed using a tool (screwdriver).
The display on SCOLAtalk shows the current battery level, transmitting channel and audio input sensitivity.
