Advise for dragon naturally speaking

[petros5a]

Hello I am C4-5 and I can use my PC only by my head (speaking ).
I m looking for the best program to control my PC by my own like write,open my internet explorer,open my outlook express etc.:thinking:

[Patonb]

Do you wear glasses? My freind is a C4-5 and uses a head mouse for everything, including typing.

[Cowboys_Place]

I am a C4/5 quad and use Dragon NaturallySpeaking 7.0 on my computer mostly for email filling out online forms and such. I started to train it for browsing the Internet but found it easier just to use my mouse. The program can be trained though to verbally browse the Internet among other things.

[PN]

Lots of different technology (http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?t=12433) out there for using a computer and navigating the Internet. I use Dragon NaturallySpeaking 9.0 Pro. Vista requires DNS 9.5 to work with its OS. For Windows XP I would recommend DNS 9 or DNS 8. Stay away from Dragon NaturallySpeaking Standard Edition.

[orangejello]

xxxxx

[nide44]

Lots of different technology (http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?t=12433) out there for using a computer and navigating the Internet. I use Dragon NaturallySpeaking 9.0 Pro. Vista requires DNS 9.5 to work with its OS. For Windows XP I would recommend DNS 9 or DNS 8. Stay away from Dragon NaturallySpeaking Standard Edition.
Will DNS 8 Preferred - work OK with XP ?

[PN]

Will DNS 8 Preferred - work OK with XP ?
Yes it will.

[jbinny]

9.5??? is that considered a patch or is it a whole new bundle??? vocational rehab just bought me a brand-new laptop for school and I'm having a hell of a time with it because I can't use my 9.0 with Vista.

[petros5a]

hello
can i combine head mouse and dragon naturally speaking?

[PN]

9.5??? is that considered a patch or is it a whole new bundle??? vocational rehab just bought me a brand-new laptop for school and I'm having a hell of a time with it because I can't use my 9.0 with Vista.
Hello jbinny,

You will need to head over to Nuance (http://www.nuance.com/vista/naturallyspeaking/preferred/) for the DNS Preferred 9.5 update for Windows Vista.

[SCI_OTR]

hello
can i combine head mouse and dragon naturally speaking?

Although I don't foresee any compatibility issues, if your voice output is strong enough to use DNS, a head mouse will probably be unecessary since you can use either MouseGrid or DNS mouse commands to control the cursor more easily than with a head mouse. I do not contemplate getting a head mouse for the veterans I work with unless they are on a ventilator and can not reliably use their voice.

[nide44]

9.5??? is that considered a patch or is it a whole new bundle??? vocational rehab just bought me a brand-new laptop for school and I'm having a hell of a time with it because I can't use my 9.0 with Vista.
If you already have 9.0, I don't think there is a charge for 9.5 for Vista
if you go to Nuance and are a registered owner.

[Brian S]

Although I don't foresee any compatibility issues, if your voice output is strong enough to use DNS, a head mouse will probably be unecessary since you can use either MouseGrid or DNS mouse commands to control the cursor more easily than with a head mouse. I do not contemplate getting a head mouse for the veterans I work with unless they are on a ventilator and can not reliably use their voice.
I have to respectfully disagree with you. I used MouseGrid and mouse commands for about a year before I was able to use a mouse. The DNS commands are a lot slower than using some kind of pointing device. I don't see any reason that a head mouse would not be compatible with DNS. I'm not sure how a head mouse would implement a mouse click, but you could just use the mouseclick or mouse double-click command in DNS.

[PN]

If you already have 9.0, I don't think there is a charge for 9.5 for Vista
if you go to Nuance and are a registered owner.
Bob, you are correct! However, Nuance (http://www.nuance.com/vista/naturallyspeaking/preferred/) will provide you with a new CD for $9.95. I would recommend reading the thread in the Voice Recognition Forum (http://www.voicerecognition.com/board/index.php?showtopic=19504) and the KnowBrainer Forum (http://www.knowbrainer.com/PubForum/index.cfm?page=viewForumTopic&topicId=1606) for more information on the DNS 9.5 update.

[jwr18]

Hello I am C4-5 and I can use my PC only by my head (speaking ).
I m looking for the best program to control my PC by my own like write,open my internet explorer,open my outlook express etc.:thinking:


I use a mouth stick and Kensinton trackball. Use the mouthsick to move the ball and mouse clicks.

James

[quadvet]

Brian S -
I have no problem with MouseGrid speed. Fast as I say "MouseGrid 321" for example, the pointer is there. Background noise interferes of course and CPU + page file usage and all that too.

I do have a problem with DNS 9 professional shutting down Outlook Express when I try using HTML, inserting images, etc.. Anybody else? SCI-OTR, Steve?
Thanks In Advance.

Matt

[orangejello]

.

I do have a problem with DNS 9 professional shutting down Outlook Express when I try using HTML, inserting images, etc.. Anybody else? SCI-OTR, Steve?
Thanks In Advance.

Matt

I was getting this problem with DNS 9 Pro too whenever I used the insert menu on Outlook Express. I could not find a fix anywhere, or at least not one that would work. I solved the problem by installing the full version of Outlook and using that if something needed to be inserted. It doesn't work one hundred percent of the time and will still occasionally crash but not as frequently as Outlook Express.

[crppled007]

I am having a problem with Dragon 8. Whenever I use the open shortcuts demand, `I'm trying to open up Internet Explorer or any other shortcuts in my start menu or desktop except for like any of the Windows Explorer, my documents, my pictures, etc. etc. but any other link it will not open . It gives me a cannot execute application
anybody else ever had this problem?
Cripp

[Steven11]

:mad: Hello jbinny,

You will need to head over to Nuance (http://www.nuance.com/vista/naturallyspeaking/preferred/) for the DNS Preferred 9.5 update for Windows Vista. I use Dragon naturally speaking 9.0/9.5 (upgrade), I have a lot of trouble with it since I have upgraded from 8.0. Do you know if anybody else is having trouble with their 9.0/9.5? E.g. poor voice recognition, will not select some menus, etc. etc.

[quadvet]

I do have a problem with DNS 9 professional shutting down Outlook Express when I try using HTML, inserting images, etc.. Anybody else?
Thanks In Advance.
MattI was getting this problem with DNS 9 Pro too whenever I used the insert menu on Outlook Express. I could not find a fix anywhere, or at least not one that would work. I solved the problem by installing the full version of Outlook and using that if something needed to be inserted. It doesn't work one hundred percent of the time and will still occasionally crash but not as frequently as Outlook Express. OJ, not sure how I missed this, I don't remember getting an e-mail notice. Anyway, thanks, I reckon it's time I install the full version of Outlook. A very belated thank you, hurry back and get it.
Matt

[Uncle Peter]

Can I use Naturally Speaking with an i-Mac?

[PN]

People are using Apples Boot Camp with Dragon NaturallySpeaking and I am not aware of any issues/problems.

[CapnGimp]

As far as SURFING the internet, OPERA, a free browser www.opera.com works with voice commands. It will even read to you, checkout the help and directions...
http://help.opera.com/Windows/9.23/en/voice.html
http://www.opera.com/support/tutorials/voice/custom/#intro

[Rollin Rick]

Lots of different technology (http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?t=12433) out there for using a computer and navigating the Internet. I use Dragon NaturallySpeaking 9.0 Pro. Vista requires DNS 9.5 to work with its OS. For Windows XP I would recommend DNS 9 or DNS 8. Stay away from Dragon NaturallySpeaking Standard Edition.

I'm looking to buy a new laptop with Vista, would Dragon NaturallySpeaking 8 work okay with Vista?

[PN]

Windows Vista only works with Dragon NaturallySpeaking 9.5. Vista has speech recognition and right now it is about equal to DNS Standard Edition.

[Rollin Rick]

Windows Vista only works with Dragon NaturallySpeaking 9.5. Vista has speech recognition and right now it is about equal to DNS Standard Edition.

PN,

does the Dragon Standard Edition work quite well with Vista? Is there any one in particular that you would suggest? Thanks.

[PN]

The word on the street is that Dragon NaturallySpeaking Standard Edition works about as well as Vista SR (speech recognition). You do not need to spend $100 for DNS Standard Edition. I would recommend Dragon NaturallySpeaking Preferred 9.5 or Professional for Windows Vista.

[Rollin Rick]

PN,

I appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions. Right now I'm just looking around for the right laptop to fit my needs. I have just found one that has the Windows XP Media Center Addition 2005, would Dragon NaturallySpeaking 7.0-8.0 work okay with this type of Windows?

Thanks again,

Rick.

[crppled007]

yes that version of dragon will work on MCE
Cripp

[Acarson]

I have windows XP. I use NaturallySpeaking 8.0 professional. I am thinking about getting 10.0 standard or preferred. I've read that 8.0 has a 70% accuracy rate, and 10.0 has a 95% accuracy rate. All I have seen mentioned on these posts is 9.5. Can someone please give me some assistance?

[PN]

I would recommend that you stay with Dragon NaturallySpeaking 8.0 Pro instead of DNS 10 Standard. 70% accuracy is not acceptable for voice-recognition. Keyes too good voice-recognition is a quality USB headset and microphone placement.

A a few more details about your computer would be helpful.

Pentium 4, 3 GHz
1 GB of RAM
Windows XP SP2
DNS 9.5 Pro

[Lizbv]

PN
are u running Vista and latest version of Dragon
or
are you running XP and latest version of Dragon.

additionally
how much do you use your current configuration, what is your headset? and how much memory

im still thinking about what I talked to you about. and still not sure what I should do!!

Thanks for being so generous to us!! :D

[quadvet]

Can somebody explain the use of macros please? I am trying to make a case to the VA as to why I need DNS Professional versus my current Preferred version. I saw the list of differences at the nuance website but don't completely understand them. Any help greatly appreciated.

Windows XP SP2
Pentium D 2.8 GHz
2.00 GB of RAM
DNS 9 preferred (no SP1 update, leery of changes)

[PN]

Hi Liz,

I am using Vista but I have not installed the latest version of DNS 9.5 on this machine. I really need to spend more time testing and using Vista SR. So for the time being, I am going to hold off on installing DNS 9.5 on my Vista computer.

At the present time I am running XP on two computers with the latest version of Dragon.

I have one desktop with a Pentium 4 processor, 1 GB of RAM, running Windows XP Home. My laptop has a Core Duo, 1 GB of RAM, running windows XP Media Center. My other desktop is a Intel Quad Core, 3 GB of RAM, Windows Vista Home Premium, not yet running DNS.

I am using the Sennheiser ME3 headset microphone along with that Andrea USB sound pod. RadioShack (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2102926&cp=&parentPage=search) sells a Sennheiser knock off for $29.99. I recently purchased the VXI TalkPro Xpress headset (http://www.emicrophones.com/microphones/prod_details.asp?subCatID=4&prodID=136&name=VXI_Talkpro_Xpress) because I need to do VOIP.

Hello quadvet,

I think this thread (http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?t=13080&page=3&highlight=macros) may give you a better understanding of macros. I am not sure if I can make a case for you as to why you need DNS 9.0 Pro over DNS 9.0 Preferred. From the Feature Comparison Matrix Chart (http://www.nuance.com/naturallyspeaking/matrix/professional/) it looks like DNS 9.0 Pro supports Outlook, PowerPoint, import/export vocabularies, and some other programs that DNS 9.0 Preferred does not support.

Good luck with the VA!

[quadvet]

Hello quadvet,

I think this thread (http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?t=13080&page=3&highlight=macros) may give you a better understanding of macros. I am not sure if I can make a case for you as to why you need DNS 9.0 Pro over DNS 9.0 Preferred. From the Feature Comparison Matrix Chart (http://www.nuance.com/naturallyspeaking/matrix/professional/) it looks like DNS 9.0 Pro supports Outlook, PowerPoint, import/export vocabularies, and some other programs that DNS 9.0 Preferred does not support.

Good luck with the VA! Thanks PN. To be honest, they are talking over my head regarding macros.

The biggest problem I have is using HTML in Outlook express. OJ said she got it to work correctly with her DNS 9 Preferred by installing the full version Outlook, but I haven't gotten around to that yet.

Thank you PN, gosh you have a lot of computers.

[Rollin Rick]

PN,

How do you feel about the wireless microphones if you have ever used one?

Thanks again,

Rick.

[PN]

Hi, Rick.

I have never used a wireless microphone or headset for DNS. I have always been a little leery of Bluetooth, but I did recommend the VXI B1000 GTX Bluetooth Wireless Headset (http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?t=73611). Some other wireless headsets that I would consider would be the Plantronics CS50-USB Wireless Headset (http://www.amazon.com/Plantronics-CS50-USB-Wireless-Headset-Softphones/dp/B0006DPT5M), or the Hybrid CS55 Wireless combination telephone and computer headset microphone (http://www.knowbrainer.com/storefront/index.cfm?fuseaction=product.display&Product_ID=31). If you are planning on getting a wireless headset, post questions, do your research, and shop around for the best price.

[Lizbv]

PN, I think you will love the VXI Talkpro. I have nearly 95% to 100% accuracy with it on both my home computers. one computer is 4 yrs old. (replacing that soon) I like the VXI talkpro so much, I really don't even feel like I have the need to search for the "latest n greatest". I guess, my lack of extra time in my schedule figures in too. shrug. i used to be up on every mic but since the VXI I dont feel like I have to. I just plug in the pink mic plug to laptop or speaker. So easy.

I have the Andrea USB pod and dont even use that. no need for usb, with the VXI in my opinion. shrug. one less gadget. just plug in the pink :p

On One computer I have XP home edition (came w laptop) and the other I have XP pro. When I got Dragon 8 , I was provided copy of XP Pro through one of our Federal programs, CAP. The particular vendor said the reccomended running XP pro with Dragon but honestly, I dont notice a difference. The main issues with voice recognition in my opinion are Processor type, memory, microphone used, and overall system stability how its built.

Thanks for your breakdown of system info. So is there issues with Vista and Dragon, other than you cant use 8.0? Does Vista have home and professional edition?

----------------

Quadvet:

Thanks PN. To be honest, they are talking over my head regarding macros.

The biggest problem I have is using HTML in Outlook express. OJ said she got it to work correctly with her DNS 9 Preferred by installing the full version Outlook, but I haven't gotten around to that yet.



Hi. My Dragon trainer I had had me disable HTML at work (office 2003)(If I remember correctly). It will make your comands a lil more recognizable. However I will tell you, that if you want to dictate directly in full version of Excel, Powerpoint, Access, Outlook, I think this is a important reason to get Professional dragon. Preferred does not fully support Outlook, etc. I use the Enterprise Edition of Office w Dragon 8 Professional at home and have no issues with dictating in HTML w outlook. perhaps the issue varies by microsoft version?

as far as Macros in Dagon, you can customize so many shortcuts to speed up or ceate ease to your information through your voice recognition.

examples- 1. I have a form letter that I use frequently, with one word, I can bring that document up.

2. if there is a paragraph of text I need to use, instead of dictating the paragraph word by word, I can dictate one word, and theres the whole paragraph.

these are just simple text, and application examples-

with professional, u can also change the meaning of a command.


For my example 1. You Use the macro recorder to record a series of mouse movements that you want, clicks, and/or keystrokes and recall the actions using single voice command.

you can also creat toolbar macros in word too, but for those u click the icon. with dragon, u speak.

In Professional, you can also ceate multiple users. this is good, because sometimes your speech is recognized differently if you use (or will in the future have) two different types of microphones. also, your speaking can change if yu have a cold, etc. you can integrate your custom commands in each user also.

it is late- I am likely rambling. and I dont have Dragon on. ha!

[PN]

Hi Liz:

I think you are starting to build a good case for QuadVet and why he needs DNS 9.0 Pro instead of DNS 9.0 Preferred.

Vista comes in four different versions: Vista Basic, Home Premium, Business, and Ultimate. I would strongly advise against purchasing Vista Basic and I cannot think of a compelling reason to pay more for Vista Ultimate Edition. At the present time I am hearing that Windows XP is preferable to Windows Vista when using Dragon NaturallySpeaking. I am not aware of any issues between Windows Vista and DNS.
The main issues with voice recognition in my opinion are Processor type, memory, microphone used, and overall system stability how its built.

I strongly agree with your assessment. My VR accuracy is better on my Core Duo laptop compared to my Intel Pentium 4, desktop. The Pentium 4 was not Intel's finest hour.

Thanks for the positive feedback regarding VXI Talkpro.

[quadvet]

Thanks for the discussion Liz and PN...understood and just what I needed to know (including microphones).

My Dragon trainer I had had me disable HTML at work (office 2003)(If I remember correctly). It will make your comands a lil more recognizable. Haven't had a problem with recognition/HTML, just that when I try to insert an image in the body of an e-mail or use other HTML functions, Outlook Express shuts down. Should be OK with DNS 9.0 Professional.

Thanks. :thumb:
.

[Lizbv]

Thanks for the discussion Liz and PN...understood and just what I needed to know (including microphones).

Haven't had a problem with recognition/HTML, just that when I try to insert an image in the body of an e-mail or use other HTML functions, Outlook Express shuts down. Should be OK with DNS 9.0 Professional.

Thanks. :thumb:
.

Which microphone/headset are you going with? what version of vista is this person telling you you need?

[DOREEN]

PN,

Do you think that a 1.66 GHz Duo Core processor is sufficient to run Dragon 9.5? Do you think Dragon 9.0 Preferred or Professional is better? Can you tell me the difference between the cheaper routers and the more expensive? Is it just the strength of the signal?

Thanks,

Doreen

[Lizbv]

PN,

How do you feel about the wireless microphones if you have ever used one?

Thanks again,

Rick.

I hear the 9.0 version has "increased" support recognition for wireless microphones? my dragon trainer reported this is little to hardly recognized improvement in her opinion. If you go wireless, can you let us know your thoughts?

I have a GN netcom wireless set I got in........hmmm, 04 I think? which I use with version 8 at work. pretty good recognition but the vxi talkpro (not wireless) beats all. i think vxi has a new wireless setup I'd be interested in learning more if anyone uses it.

edit- I see (and am reminded) BrianS uses the vxi wireless. in 2006 he reported good things.

[PN]

There may or may not be an issue with Bluetooth headsets/microphones and DNS. I would wait for the dust to settle.
'KnowBrainer 'Sep 9 2007
Do not sell yourself short by convincing yourself that you need to use the Bluetooth option just because Nuance made it available.

Unless you have an absolute Bluetooth necessity, we recommend avoiding it. Many licensed/certified vendors of NaturallySpeaking now recommend against Bluetooth microphones and we only recommend them to clients with tablet computers who need to be completely wireless.
Hmm??? The return rate to eMicrophones for the VXI Bluetooth is less than 3%. Perhaps it is because eMicrophones are microphone specialists and provide detailed instructions, a vivid description based on extensive testing and usage, and after sale product support.
Voice-Recognition Forum (http://www.voicerecognition.com/board/index.php?showtopic=19707)

[quadvet]

Which microphone/headset are you going with? what version of vista is this person telling you you need? I use the microphone that came with the program, Dragon's own. I think I'll try the VXI TalkPro Xpress you all are talking about.
I don't use vista, because I thought I read somewhere it is resource hungry, slows the computer down. And that there are compatibility issues. I tried IE 7 but found DNS 9.0 didn't work right. I never had a trainer, and experimenting is resource hungry, far as help goes.

Windows XP SP2
Pentium D 2.8 GHz
2.00 GB RAM
DNS 9 Preferred

[Rollin Rick]

BUMP for post #42

[PN]

PN,
Do you think that a 1.66 GHz Duo Core processor is sufficient to run Dragon 9.5? Do you think Dragon 9.0 Preferred or Professional is better? Can you tell me the difference between the cheaper routers and the more expensive? Is it just the strength of the signal?

Hi Doreen,

I think a Core Duo 1.66 GHz is sufficient to run Dragon 9.5. At a minimum, I would recommend 1 GB of RAM for Windows XP and 2 GB of RAM for Windows Vista. I believe Dragon 9.0 Preferred is good enough for most users to get the job done. Take a look at the Feature Comparison Matrix Chart (http://www.nuance.com/naturallyspeaking/matrix/professional/) on the Nuance website. If the price is the same for both versions, get DNS 9.0 Pro.

A good router should sell for around $50. Take a look at Linksys (http://www.amazon.com/Linksys-WRT54G-Wireless-G-Router/dp/B00007KDVI) or Netgear (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp;jsessionid=AQIU4Z1EAJFMJKC4D3JVAGA?sku Id=5507043&st=Netgear+router&lp=1&type=product&cp=1&id=1051826245223) router. OTOH, 802.11n is a little more expensive, it is still in draft but I think it will be ratified in the first quarter of 2008. An 802.11n router, such as Belkin (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp;jsessionid=AQIU4Z1EAJFMJKC4D3JVAGA?sku Id=8374476&st=Belkin+wireless+router&lp=2&type=product&cp=1&id=1178925992300) is worth serious consideration because you will get greater transfer rates and greater range. Also, 802.11n will stream video better than its predecessor. If you decide to purchase the 802.11n router, make sure your wireless card inside your laptop is 802.11g/n.

Intel Core Duo 1.66 GHz
1 GB of RAM
Windows XP Media Center SP2
DNS 9.0 Pro

[PN]

Hello Quadvet,

Everything Liz states about the VXI TalkPro Xpress seems to pan out.

Good luck!

[quadvet]

Thanks PN, got one on the way, can't wait! :)

[Lizbv]

I use the microphone that came with the program, Dragon's own. I think I'll try the VXI TalkPro Xpress you all are talking about.
I don't use vista, because I thought I read somewhere it is resource hungry, slows the computer down. And that there are compatibility issues. I tried IE 7 but found DNS 9.0 didn't work right. I never had a trainer, and experimenting is resource hungry, far as help goes.

Windows XP SP2
Pentium D 2.8 GHz
2.00 GB RAM
DNS 9 Preferred

You should be good to go. Best wishes. let us know how you like things.

PN, r u liking the vxi talkpro?

[DOREEN]

PN,

Thank you so much for your help.

Doreen

[quadvet]

You should be good to go. Best wishes. let us know how you like things. Will do, Liz, thanks for your help and informative posts.

[PN]

PN, r u liking the vxi talkpro?
Hi Liz,

I'm liking it. It is comfortable along with being rather easy to position the microphone in the correct position for accurate voice rec. I also needed a headset that could do two jobs, work well with Dragon NaturallySpeaking along with VOIP.

Quadvet & Doreen,

Good luck and keep us posted!

[quadvet]

Hi Liz and PN,

I am looking at eMicrophones USB microphone comparisons here (http://www.emicrophones.com/comparisons.asp). I want the highest accuracy and best noise cancellation, who doesn't, so I'm thinking of ordering one of those rated highest in that comparison. Well, more than just thinking about it...

[PN]

Hello Quadvet,

If you want the best, going by the chart it looks like the Sennheiser ME3, or the theBoom Earhook. Keep in mind, you will have to purchase a USB pod if you do not already have one. I need full-duplex, so I would go with the theBoom Earhook. I have used the Andrea 600 headset and it has excellent noise cancellation coupled with the Andrea USB pod. My nephew uses the RadioShack (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2102926&cp=&parentPage=search) Sennheiser knock off, for college and the noise cancellation is quite good along with the accuracy.

If the Sennheiser or theBoom Earhook are Too Rich for Your Blood, I would recommend the VXI TalkPro Xpress, Andrea ANC-700, or the RadioShack Sennheiser Knockoff.

What headset are you currently using? Your computer has very good specs.

Good luck!

[quadvet]

Hi PN,

I ordered the Sennheiser ME3 with the USB pod.
I currently use the mic that came with the DNS program. I don't use it as a headset. It's mounted on a boom that I can swing away from my face when I'm not talking.

Yes, I have no problems with this computer. No hesitation and better accuracy than my first.

Thanks for the help, will report back asap!

[PN]

Hello Quadvet,

I would have replaced the headset that came packaged with DNS. The Sennheiser ME3 headset is a good choice. I believe it comes with a 2 year warranty. If you are having any problems I think you can return within the first 2 weeks or 30 days but you may have to pay a restocking fee, depending on the vendor. Anyway, let's think positive.

I look forward to your feedback.

Good luck!

[jime]

PN<
Why do you say avoid the Standard edition? The voice rec engine is the same on all editions per DNS.

[PN]

One reason to avoid the Standard edition is because of its limitations. Also, you can probably purchase DNS Preferred for the same price if you shop around.

Dragon NaturallySpeaking Professional allows the user to import/export vocabularies files, import/export User Files, import/export macros, support for Cordless or Array Microphones, Bluetooth microphones, along with some other features.

[quadvet]

Hello Quadvet,

I would have replaced the headset that came packaged with DNS. The Sennheiser ME3 headset is a good choice. I believe it comes with a 2 year warranty. If you are having any problems I think you can return within the first 2 weeks or 30 days but you may have to pay a restocking fee, depending on the vendor. Anyway, let's think positive.

I look forward to your feedback.

Good luck! Hi PN,


When I go through the USB pod, I can make a Windows Sound Recorder Recording (http://www.emicrophones.com/docDetails.asp?DocumentID=30), but my microphone won't operate DNS. Help!, KnowBrainer et al is a nightmare!

Thanks!

[PN]

Hello Quadvet,

Will your microphone headset work with DNS when you do not use the USB pod? Are you creating a new user? If so, you have to choose your sound system. Is your new microphone headset able to pass the Volume Check? After that are you able to pass the Microphone Quality Check? What happens when you use your old headset with the USB pod? Did you purchase the Sennheiser ME3 Headset Microphone from eMicrophones (http://www.emicrophones.com/microphones/prod_details.asp?prodID=085&name=Sennheiser_ME3) or from KnowBrainer (https://www.knowbrainer.com/storefront/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=5&CFID=1645405&CFTOKEN=11111270&jsessionid=a0302555201194570413496)?

Even though the headset with the USB pod worked with the Windows Sound Recorder Recording, doesn't mean that it will always work with Dragon.

This is process of elimination: you do the easy stuff first and then move on to the next probable cause. If your old headset works with the USB pod, then I think the problem is with the new headset.

It sounds to me like you are doing everything correctly but we need to cover all the bases before you ship back the new headset. Let me know if I am missing anything.

[quadvet]

...you have to choose your sound system. That's what I couldn't figure out, where to choose the sound system for the DNS. Had to go to the Accuracy Center > Check Audio Settings. It's the first step of the Audio Setup Wizard... but only if there is more than one choice. I wasn't used to that. :doh:

What about this USB pod, seems like it's an amplifier. The setup, with new microphone, works awesome. I've been YELLING for the almost 4 years I've been using it. Now it's like having power steering. Noise cancellation is great, I can rock out to my music now!
Extremely happy. Somewhat, well, extremely disturbed that the DNS trainer who evaluated me three times just blew me off, saying I do great, for teaching myself. Saw how poorly my microphone was working, yet made no recommendations. Ugh, it's difficult, flying solo... learning a lot though!

Thanks PN. :thumb:

[PN]

Hello Matt,

Glad to read that everything is A-OK! The USB pod are better for Dragon NaturallySpeaking because the analog sound is converted to digital outside the computer enclosure.

Good luck!

[quadvet]

Thanks PN,

Please clarify this, if you will: The USB pod are better... because the analog sound is converted to digital outside the computer enclosure. Internal shielding is so poor as to cause interference? Can the USB pod be affected by external EMF, also? I mean, should it be placed away from other electronics?

Thanks!

[PN]

Hello Quadvet,

The internal shielding is a problem and that is why it is recommended that you do the audio conversion outside the computer. Soundcards that are of good quality may be okay for VR, but I still prefer the USB pods. When you use the USB pod the sound gets converted (analog to digital) to binary, which is not affected from the electronic noises inside the box. It is simply a much better way to do voice-recognition. I don't think there is a cause for concern or that you need to move the USB pod because of external EMF or other electronics noises in the home environment.

Good luck!

[doingtimeonmyass]

Quadvet,
I use a swing away boom as well along with the Sennheiser MD-431 II handheld microphone and USB pod. I've been through plenty of microphones throughout the years and it is the best for noise cancellation and accuracy. I've never liked using a headset microphone unless absolutely necessary.

[quadvet]

Thanks PN, regarding interference and use of USB pod. I should have done this on my own long ago instead of taking the trainer's word that it couldn't be better (DNS microphone).

Doingtime, I might have gotten the handheld mic, except that on a boom it would be right in my line of sight to the monitor. Yeah, I prefer using a boom over headset anyday. I am waiting for a theBoom earHook (http://www.emicrophones.com/microphones/prod_details.asp?prodID=146&name=theBoom) mic for use with my laptop when I need to be mobile.

[Lizbv]

Here's what I've learned over the years-

USB pods are another unessesary accessory- pitch it.
Knowbrainer is a lot of extra crap- pitch it

;) KISS
"Keep It Simple, Stupid"

[quadvet]

I use a Sigmatel sound card on this computer. Without the USB pod, microphone input is very quiet- I have to yell. For example, if I say "play that back" - my voice - the sound is much quieter and noisy than if I say "read that" (text to speech voice). With USB pod, playback is much louder, less noisy and has better cancellation.


This applies to Windows Sound Recorder, also. Without the USB pod, the recorder is very quiet.

[PN]

I concur about theBoom but $200 is a bit steep. I can understand why you would want to use theBoom with your laptop. I have been using the VXI TalkPro Xpress with Dragon and Skype for VOIP, and I am told that the phone calls are better than the landlines.

I read what Liz wrote and I think that beneath the surface there is more going on than the USB pod, but I could be wrong. Anyway, here is a story where the USB pod (http://www.voicerecognition.com/board/index.php?showtopic=19757) saved the day!

[Lizbv]

hi quadvet.

http://support.nuance.com/compatibility/default.asp i see your sound card is certified.

not finding 'the boom' headset on dragon microphone list. the usb pod helps to amplify the sound, right?

what do you see as the possible issue, pn?

thx all.

[quadvet]

Hi Liz and PN,

My soundcard is certified, yeah, but the USB pod amplifies the signal significantly and makes it much less noisy. For example, when I say "play that back", the volume of my voice should be as loud as when I say "read that", and the default voice reads it to me. With the USB pod, the two volume levels through the speakers are the same. Hope that makes sense.

Liz, theBoom headset is on the list, at the bottom, here's the link: http://www.theboom.com/

Pretty impressive demo, inside a Blackhawk helicopter with background noise of 110 dB! ETA: In comparison, that's about the same as my stereo cruising along at 100W - I can hardly hear my own voice.

PN, I've been on voicerecognition.com, pretty complicated. The site seems to be down lately when I am online, so I'll get back on that later. ETA: How do they arrive at a "% accuracy" at that site??

Thanks!


.

[PN]

PN, I've been on voicerecognition.com, pretty complicated. The site seems to be down lately when I am online, so I'll get back on that later. ETA: How do they arrive at a "% accuracy" at that site??

Hello Quadvet:

The VoiceRecognition Forum has been experiencing a lot of down time over the past six months or more. Also, I am looking at the site and I don't know where you are referring to about the "% accuracy"? Nuance makes the claim that Dragon NaturallySpeaking is 99% accurate. In other words, Dragon gets 99 words right out of 100. I think this testing is done with the latest and greatest computers, along with the best headsets money can buy.

[quadvet]

Hi PN,

The VRF links to here, where they talk about % accuracy:

http://www.emicrophones.com/docdetails.asp?documentid=38

When we talk about 99 percent accuracy ... it means dictating from text.
That's not really that difficult, even with a cheap microphone/no USB pod. Dictating from text, and doing what I'm doing here is much different, as you know. For me, normal dictating of 2-5 single syllable, soft words usually requires correcting of at least one. Of course it takes lots of practice..I've been at it awhile totally on my own (too busy messing around to ask questions or research :D).

They also say, and like I was saying:
Use the playback feature to hear how you sound. (This tests the microphone system)


And:

Run audio set up each day.
No way! In fact, I train one time, usually Mark Twain's speech. After that initial training, I never save my speech files when I shut DNS down. My reasoning here is that I don't always say words correctly, and the inevitable changing or unexpected background noises. Under these conditions, I find that trying to save speech files and train DNS to be detrimental. Basically, I use the initial training as a default. Saying this usually gets me in trouble, but that's my experience.

[PN]

No way! In fact, I train one time, usually Mark Twain's speech. After that initial training, I never save my speech files when I shut DNS down. My reasoning here is that I don't always say words correctly, and the inevitable changing or unexpected background noises. Under these conditions, I find that trying to save speech files and train DNS to be detrimental. Basically, I use the initial training as a default. Saying this usually gets me in trouble, but that's my experience.
Hello Quadvet:

Okay, the link is for eMicrophones website but the information is posted under Martin's name on the VoiceRecognition Forum. I agree, I don't think that you need to always save your speech files. Unwanted background noises can be an issue. It appears you are doing everything correctly with Dragon NaturallySpeaking, but sometimes problems occur that are not your fault. DNS has tools to improve your acoustics and improve your vocabulary for better accuracy.

Finally, I don't believe you need to run the audio setup each day!

Good luck!

[PN]

Under "Tools" you will find "Options." Click on "Options" and under that, go to "Miscellaneous." When you open the "Miscellaneous" tab, you will find a slider for "Speed vs. Accuracy." By the way, I save my User Files about 20% of the time. Last Saturday I was working with DNS in the living room and the cleaning lady was turning the vacuum cleaner on and off. Not an ideal time to save your User Files.

[quadvet]

Under "Tools" you will find "Options." Click on "Options" and under that, go to "Miscellaneous." When you open the "Miscellaneous" tab, you will find a slider for "Speed vs. Accuracy." By the way, I save my User Files about 20% of the time. Last Saturday I was working with DNS in the living room and the cleaning lady was turning the vacuum cleaner on and off. Not an ideal time to save your User Files. haha, top speed works just fine for me. I save my user files to train odd, or unconventional words, but that's about it, after initial training. I do train it something I've written sometimes, too, and that seems to help.

[brocko]

Hello, has anyone out there tested the speech recognition in Windows Vista? I appreciate PN's comments that it is roughly the equivalent of version 9.0 standard but would love to hear from anyone who has had a hands on experience.

I am currently in the process of choosing a new computer and because I am actually buying a version of Windows this time I need to make sure, 32-bit XP pro or the Vista 64 bit flavour?

If that Vista voice recognition works well enough then I am happy to go the Vita 64 bit option however as I only own a Dragon version 8 standard I would prefer to spend the money it would take to upgrade my version on hardware and this would mean sticking with XP pro.

I hope this hasn't already been covered.

Regards
Brock

[PN]

Hello Brocko:

Below is my review from 10-11-07:

I recently purchased a USB headset (http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/showthread.php?p=732549#post732549) and so far it seems to work well with Vista's speech engine. I am impressed with the way Vista's SR works with the OS. It can do your basic speech to text but it will require more training if you need to rely on voice rec. Vista's SR, from my experience, is not demanding on system resources. You definitely want to have a minimum of 2 GB of RAM. Vista's SR works very well with Internet Explorer 7.

OTOH, I could not dictate while using Firefox, which only leaves me the option of using IE 7. I prefer to use Firefox so this is a minor problem. I also was not able to dictate into Microsoft Word 2000. I had to use Notepad or Wordpad. Also I really don't want to purchase Office 2007 in order to use Vista's SR or DNS, but I will take it under consideration.

I think Vista's SR has the potential to be very good, but I don't think Microsoft will follow through to make this search engine better in any of its updates. That means I will probably be using Dragon with Vista.

Update: I am currently using DNS 9.5 with my Vista machine. When I have more time, I will do some more trials with Vista's SR. If you just need to do some basic voice recognition, you should be ok with Vista's built-in speech engine.

[brocko]

thanks for addressing my query PN.

I currently use NaturallySpeaking version 8 with an Andrea sound Max superbeam into a pod and am more than happy with the results. I guess the accuracy is somewhere around 85 to 90%, maybe even a little higher when the planets align, and that is fine.

I'm going to have to sell off bits of this machine to pay for the new one so I am going to need a voice recognition package that will be at least as good as the one I am currently using and I don't want to take chances, another $300 for a version of Dragon that is vista compatible plus limiting me to the 32-bit system seems to costly and relying solely on Windows speech recognition in the 64-bit variety seems abit too much of a gamble. that being the case I think I will stick with XP pro so that I can load my current version of Dragon onto it, is will probably be able to save some money on the operating system as well .:)

I was hoping to go 64-bit to get the most out of all the new hardware, I guess it'll just require some more patience.

thanks again for helping me in the decision-making process.

Regards
Brock

[PN]

Can somebody explain the use of macros please? I am trying to make a case to the VA as to why I need DNS Professional versus my current Preferred version. I saw the list of differences at the nuance website but don't completely understand them. Any help greatly appreciated.

5kTedkhGdi8

[quadvet]

Paul, I know about that, but haven't been able to figure out how to do it on my DNS 9.0 Preferred. :confused: :thinking:

[PN]

Hi Matt:

I don't think you can (source (http://www.speechcomputing.com/node/1263)) create macros using DNS 9.0 Preferred.

With Web 2.0, I thought I would be able to find an instructional video on voice recognition, and how to create macros. The closest I got was David Pogue, but what he demonstrated could also be accomplished by using the Vocabulary Editor.

I thought Liz and Lewis started to do a good explanation about macros. I also liked what Lewis did with the screenshots along with the instructions/explanations. This to me looks like a better way to provide you with an instructional tutorial.

I think at one time you needed to make a case to the VA about having them pay for DNS 9.5 Pro, instead of DNS 9.5 Preferred. I have spent a lot of time (not recently) at the Long Beach VA, but I am not too familiar with their method for getting you the equipment that you are requesting. I know with the school system in California, including college, you have to go through a lot of hoops to get computers, software, if you have a learning disability. I was asked by my sister who is a teacher to help with getting a laptop along with Dragon for a student with special needs. A case had to be built for this equipment, which I was not a part of, but I did recommend three different bids for laptops, along with requesting DNS 9.5 Pro. Everything was honored but the student ended up with DNS 9.5 Preferred.

Maybe one of our members will chime in with an explanation on how to create macros.

[Lewis]

I do not have any experience with preferred but you cannot create macros. Take a look at the feature comparisons between professional and preferred (http://nuance.com/naturallyspeaking/matrix/professional/), might be helpful in creating a case for professional.

[quadvet]

Hi Paul and Lewis, thanks for this, sorry for my delayed response. Got 9.0 Professional in the works, just takes time, hopefully.

[PN]

Matt:

Keep us posted, and good luck.

[quadvet]

Will do Paul, thanks, Matt.

[Lizbv]

In the meantime .........you can create Macros in Word. I have found this helpful.