BIGmack

You can find detailed support information for the BIGmack on the manufacturer's website, here:

https://support.ablenetinc.com/category/assistive-technology/speech-devices/bigmack/

Warranty

This product is supplied with a 2 year manufacturer's warranty.

Battery Advice

Ablenet recommend using disposable (non-rechargeable) alkaline batteries in their communication aids.

A new PP3 battery provides approximately 9 volts, which decreases over time. When the output drops to 6.8v the device will start to misbehave.

The symptoms of a failing battery include:

• Record light flashing yellow when the top switch is pressed (with no sound output)
• Messages cutting out part way through playback

The device will continue to behave in this way until the voltage drops below 6v (at which point it will shut down completely).

Using a BIGmack as a switch

The BIGmack is primarily designed as a communication aid, but it can also function as a switch in specific situations. Before using it this way, it's important to understand how it works and what its limitations are.

To set it up for switch use, connect the included 3.5mm jack cable to the TOY/APP socket on the back of the BIGmack, then plug the other end into the switch-adapted toy or appliance you want to control.

When the BIGmack is pressed, it sends a signal through the TOY/APP socket for the duration of the recorded message. For example, a switch-adapted light or fan will stay on only while the message plays, then turn off.

This setup works well for devices that require the switch to be held down to stay on. However, for toys that require a press-release-press sequence to function, the BIGmack is less effective (unless you record a very short recorded message).

Another important consideration is battery life. If the battery voltage drops below a certain point, the BIGmack will stop working and won't be able to activate connected devices.

For predictable and reliable operation (especially with switch-adapted software that can require precise timing) we recommend using a standard switch like the Jelly Bean, Buddy Button, or Smoothie Switch.