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What is U-SPEAKTM?

U-SPEAKTM is a trademark of NLC CO., LTD for its pen-shaped digital voice/sound playback device using optical identification technology.

タッチ式ボイスリーダーペン【U-SPEAK】の使用シーン

The U-SPEAK system utilizes a specialized pen fitted with an infrared optical sensor that reads microdots - virtually invisible to the naked eye. Each microdot contains a unique code and can be embedded in printed documents and other materials.
Whenever the U-SPEAK pen points at this microdot, the sensor is able to read the embedded code and replay a previously recorded message/sound that has been associated with this code.

This optical identification technology has similar characteristics to that of bar codes such as those used in supermarkets. However U-SPEAK's patented microdot technology has following advantages compared to that of standard bar codes:

  • The size of the microdot containing the unique code is incredibly small, so it does not detract from the images or text in the printed material. The microdots can even be embedded directly within images and text.
  • Since the size of each, individual microdot is so small, the same code can be embedded in hundreds, even thousands of microdots in a limited space. This makes it much simpler for the pen to recognize the code whenever it touches any part of the printed area. In the case of a standard bar code, it is crucial to scan the single, large bar code exactly.
  • Different parts of a single image can contain microdots with different codes so that multiple descriptions can be used within one image.
  • The U-SPEAK pen is compact in size and weight, adding to its ease of use.

Currently, the U-SPEAK system can utilize about 60,000 unique codes. The system also employs a two-level data hierarchy system that enables a virtually unlimited number of combinations of codes to be used in the field. One effective use of this technique has been with multilingual applications such as those in museums and other tourist settings. Users simply point the U-SPEAK pen to the symbol of the language they wish to hear (which contains thousands of microdots for that language), and then they point the pen at the symbol for the description. Once this is done, users will hear a description of the same exhibit in the language of their choice.

Special Features:

  • Easy to operate with only a few buttons
  • Compact size and shape
  • High quality sound
  • Simply powered with two AAA batteries (no charger or cable required)
  • Voice/sound contents are easily stored on replaceable SD memory cards

Industry-leading Flexibility And Customizability

NLC CO., LTD is currently developing and producing various types of U-SPEAK systems as well as offering diverse content serving a wide range of people and needs. We are working with third parties to further enhance the capabilities of U-SPEAK in order to contribute to an enjoyable and fulfilling lifestyle. The U-SPEAK system also can be customized for various, specialized purposes depending on your requirements.

For further information please contact:

  • NLC CO., LTD.
  • TMM Building 2F, 1-10-5 Iwamotocho,
  • Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan ZIP 101-0032
  • Phone: +81-3-5822-2750
  • Fax: +81-3-5820-0565
  • E-mail: info@nlcco.co.jp
  • http://www.nlcco.co.jp