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What is speech recognition and what is the purpose of it for voice writers?

What is CAT software and why do voice writers need it?

Which speech recognition engines are compatible with Eclipse™?

Exactly what are the features and benefits of Eclipse™?

Tell me everything I need to purchase in order to do realtime voice writing and how much it will cost.

I'm ambivalent about investing in a complete CAT system right now because it's a lot of money and I don't even know if my dictation will be good enough for realtime. How do I know I'm making the right decision to buy?

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Purchasing a CAT system is one of the most important

investments you will make into your voice writing career. Please, take just a few minutes to complete a special questionnaire that will help your consultant (a nationally-certified realtime voice writer) tailor a live demonstration to your specific needs.

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Speech recognition (now synonymously being used with the term "voice recognition") is a software technology designed to recognize and respond to human speech and spoken commands, through digitization and algorithm-based programming, for text production and performing various computer-related actions by voice. Voice writers use speech recognition to produce text from their dictation in realtime so that manual typing is not required.

CAT stands for "computer-aided transcription" (or "computer-assisted transcription"). CAT software has special advanced features that, when used in conjuntion with speech recognition, allow voice writers to work professionally as court reporters, CART providers, or captioners. Some of the features include the ability to: 1.) Resolve language conflicts presented by speech recognition engines, 2.) Send realtime feeds of text to other computer screens, via the Internet, or to a video picture, 3.) Digitally record proceedings and provide audiosynchronization with text for easy readbacks and editing, and 4.) Streamline the transcript production process by providing a faster method of editing with shortcuts, automating title and certificate page preparation, and a convenient way to keep work files organized through an easy-to-use file management system.

Eclipse™ is compatible with current versions of both the Professional and Preferred editions of Dragon NaturallySpeaking® as well as IBM ViaVoice®. As developments continue and competitive advantages between different speech recognition products are made known, EclipseVox™ users have the unique benefit of immediately switching to the speech engine of their preference. We work hard to keep abreast of technological advancements with speech recognition so you are never limited with compatibility issues!

Whew, that's a loaded question... Click here for answers.

1) A speech silencer ("mask") or open-mic headset for dictation, USB soundcard to process your recorded speech, speech recognition software (NaturallySpeaking® or IBM ViaVoice®) to produce realtime text, Eclipse™ for providing professional realtime services, and a powerful, specially-configured computer for optimal voice writing performance. A high-gain microphone (for digitally recording court reporting proceedings) and a foot pedal for audio playback is optional. Top-notch training by a certified Eclipse™ trainer who specializes in realtime voice writing is recommended. You can get everything you need at a much lower price from us than anywhere else! 2) A complete CAT package from other companies usually costs in excess of $10,000; if you purchase a bundled software/hardware/training package from us, you will only spend $7,295, and financing is available with payments as low as $173! See our special package offer. 3). To ensure that you will get the right combination of products and training services, schedule a consultation.

Your first step is to make an exploratory investment of under $200 in speech recognition software before you consider buying CAT software. Install it on any computer and practice dictating with it for a couple of days to get the hang of it and see what your accuracy is like. Once you're satisfied with the results, investing in CAT software is the logical next step. The best thing to do is to read this article, Having ¢ense & Going Realtime, for a commonsense approach to getting started.