Coin-U-lator

The Coin-U-lator is a hand-held, coin-counting calculator that makes counting money fun and easy. This breakthrough invention in counting coins was patented by a special education teacher for students of all ages.

The Coinulater allows individuals of all abilities to add and subtract various denominations of coins while it teaches the different values of each coin. It can add or subtract any combination of coins and bills up to $99.99, and it has two different coin games.

The battery operated device weighs approximately six-tenths of a pound and is specifically designed to fit comfortably into the palms of two hands or sit securely on a table top. A sturdy, high-quality plastic casing features the realistic coin and dollar buttons. An easy-to-read LCD screen clearly displays the status of the counting while unique sounds and an animated voice send immediate auditory feedback to the user. Users benefit significantly through visual, auditory, and tactile stimulation.

Features
The Buttons.
While the Coin-u-lator's appearance resembles a calculator, it functions quite differently. There are twelve buttons on the machine that control all of the activities.

The "On/Reset" button activates the use of the device and allows the user to reset the LCD during use.

The "Off" button completes all activity and turns the machine off.

Four realistic "Coin" buttons and one "Dollar" button depicts realistic money. When the coin buttons are pressed, the value of the coin is displayed on the LCD screen.

The "Dual Display" button, which is denoted with a "$" symbol, changes the way the coin values are displayed on the LCD screen. The values can be shown as a decimal ($ 0.05) or in an alpha-numeric format (0 Dollars and 05 cents). As the coin values are shown on the LCD screen, they are either added or subtracted from the current amount displayed.

A red "Plus/Minus" switch allows the user to easily change the function from addition to subtraction.

The "Game" button changes the add and subtract mode and allows the user to choose between two different coin-counting games. An "Oops" button clears the last entry during the game or counting modes. The "Mute" button turns all auditory sounds and voices off and on.

The LCD Screen.
This large, digital screen displays all of the changes that take place as the user manipulates the various buttons. Visual "+" and "-" symbols, remind the user if the addition or subtraction mode is being used. The screen clearly shows the values of the coins, the title of the game being played, and various responses, "Great," "Too Much," or "Keep Going," as users play the two games.

"Matching" Game.
In this game, a random dollar amount is displayed on the LCD. The user tries to match the given amount by pressing a combination of the realistic coin and dollar buttons. As coin buttons are pressed, the guessed value is displayed. The player is guided by positive verbal rewards and reminders. If the player exceeds the given amount, the auditory reminder will advise the player, "That's Too Much," and the guessed value on the screen will return to the last entry.

"Coin-Count" Game.
The object of this game is for the player to select the right combination of coins to match a target amount. When the game begins, a random dollar amount is displayed on the LCD. Under the given amount, four boxes are lined up. The boxes denote a penny, a nickel, a dime, and a quarter. The player then selects one of the realistic coin buttons. If a penny is selected, a "1" will appear over the box marked "P" for penny. As the player selects different coin buttons, the number of coins chosen will appear over each appropriate box. When a combination of selected coins adds up to equal the amount first shown on the LCD, the player wins. Whenever a coin is selected that exceeds the displayed amount, the player is told, "That's too much. Try again." If a player is uncertain about his or her next choice, the Coin-u-lator will encourage the player by stating, "Keep Going."

Special Features
The automatic shut-off is activated after ten minutes and is an excellent energy-saving feature. The battery storage compartment, located on the back side of the unit, is safely secured and can only be opened with a screwdriver.

The Coin-u-lator can be used in any classroom during instruction, independent work, or in classroom centers. The unit comes complete with easy-to-use operating instructions, game instructions, suggested activities, and 3 AA batteries. It can be purchased independently, in a 3 Pack, a 10 Pack and a 25 Pack.

Product Type: Electronics
Age Appropriate Level: Early Learning, Elementary, Secondary, Adult
Copyright: 1998
Size: 5¾” x 5” x 1½”.

Coin-U-Lator Products:
• Coin-U-Lator
• Coin-U-Lator 3 Pack
• Coin-U-Lator 12 Pack, Worksheets, & Activity Cards
• Coin-U-Lator 24 Pack
• Coin-U-Lator Activity Cards
• Coin-U-Lator Worksheets