Votrax Model 100, Type 'N Talk Text to Speech Synthesizer, 1981

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THF156826 / Votrax Model 100, Type 'N Talk Text to Speech Synthesizer, 1981
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Artifact Overview

This text-to-speech synthesizer recreates the sounds of the human voice. Inventor Richard T. Gagnon created the Votrax to support his own failing vision. It could be used by the blind as a computer screen reader, or a speaking device for people with vocal cord paralysis. The Votrax shaped individual units of speech, allowing unlimited range and smoothness capable of conveying emotion.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Synthesizer

Date Made

1981

Creators

Place of Creation

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2014.39.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Paper (Fiber product)
Plastic
Rubber (Material)

Dimensions

Height: 2.75 in
Width: 5 in
Length: 7.5 in

Inscriptions

synthesizer, label, underside: Manufactured by Votrax Division of Federal Screw Works 500 Stephenson Highway, Troy, Michigan 48084 Manufactured under U.S. Patent Numbers 4,128,737 and 4,130,730 Other Patents Pending software [copyright] 1980 Votrax Model 100 - Type'N Talk Serial 04-1-04923 . . . manual, cover: Type 'N Talk User's Manual Votrax Now You're Talking inside: copyright 1981 by Votrax power supply, top: Votrax Type 'N Talk TM Text to Speech Synthesizer Power Supply power supply, underside: Tamradio Power Suppy 12 OV 60 Hz 50 W . . .
Keywords
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