Another wheel re-invented

An aggravating RSI compelled me to revive and reinstate my ancient speech recognition software (1). For even in my translation software, also referred to as "CAT-tools" (2) there is still a lot of typing to be done - not to mention the daily E-mail correspondence. However, after a few weeks the little cable that connects the headset with the PC started to irritate me terribly. It hung over my keyboard, also when I first led it around the copyholder. Also under the keyboard it was in my way: the little volume button that was integrated in the cable was exactly there where the keyboard rests on the table top. It had to be possible to find a solution to this problem. Wireless. My experiences with bluetooth solutions made me search in that direction. I already owned a bluetooth adaptor (to be able to use the Internet along the way using my laptop and the mobile phone) and purchased a wireless headset (3) that was PC-compatible according to the description.

But to get the new set to start, however, was quite a different story. Downloading a software update for the adaptor and an extensive and especially long-lasting exchange of E-mail messages with the helpdesk of the manufacturer of the adaptor did not lead to the desired result, the headset was and remained invisible on the pc. I doubted about the compatibility of the adaptor, nowhere could exact information be found about which devices were supported and which weren't.

I found an adaptor that supported headsets according to the specifications. So I bought it. This configuration could not be installed without a struggle either, but this time only one E-mail message from the helpdesk of this - other - manufacturer (4) was sufficient to tell WindowsXPSP2 that it must not interfere with everything and behold, the miracle has been done. My speech recognition software took quite some training to get used to the new gadget, but after doing this in my two languages my old friend almost entirely recognised my voice again. And, since I actively use the "little ear" almost the entire day, making telephone calls via the Internet has been arranged at the same time.

I should wish that especially the translators with whom I work (together) at regular intervals would all take (free of charge) Skype (5), for conferring is more quickly and easily done when I can see on my screen who are and who aren't behind their pc's. Just like with MSN (in which I always use my dictation software) you can indicate in this program who can and who can't see whether you are on-line and who may call you; alternatively, you can simply switch the software off when you do not wish to be disturbed when dictating your translations.