Computer Purchasing Suggestions!
Posted By: For Those Who Don't have one. on 2009-02-03
In Reply to:
I have posted this before, but not for a while. To me, one of my biggest hurdles to leave MQ was the computer issue. I had another one of my own, but it was a dinosaur relic. I absolutely had zero money to pay for one in full, and my credit cards were melted. So, you have 2 very viable reliable options. QVC and HSN. QVC specializes in Dell, HSN Gateway. I have desktop PCs from both, and they all were great. I do not recommend laptops from either, though. They both offer easy monthly payments on select computers. Sometimes the selections change daily, other times weekly. If you browse on line and see a computer you like, below the ad it will even say when a show may be running, and on that day there will be lots more choices. You can shop online and see which ones are on Easy Pay with QVC or Flex Pay with HSN. They sell really nice models, and for usually around $600 to $800, you can get a fully-loaded great computer with flat screen monitor, printer/scanner, the works and they divide it into 6 to 8 payments for you. All you need is a debit card. Even a brand new customer qualifies for these payment plans. It saved me, literally, and enabled me to apply and get several IC jobs and get my life and happiness and freedom and money back again! Yet I could never have afforded to buy a computer any other way at that sad time in my life. Just in case some are thinking this is an obstacle, please check this out. With both Dell and Gateway, you get your own personalized service # as well, not the one regular customers get, and the service was great, the rare times I needed help. We've purchased computers for the whole family this way.
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computer suggestions and a ? sm
You have to realize that Dell service is in India unless you pay for local service. they will send you a part you need overnight but they will expect you to load it yourself, etc. and talk to them while they try to help you. I found them very frustrating. I found a local shop that "built" what I needed for about $400 and I can at least "carry" my tower in there if I need a quick fix. I feel for you, it's hard. Also, in my state there is a business resource site which lists equipment people want to get rid of for free, you might want to see if there are any of those in your state. Some have new stuff they just want to get rid of or last year's computer.Google for free business equipment exchange in your state. I am located in New England area. I want to ask you how you "upload" things to your private docs offices as I am thinking of going private docs but haven't a clue how to do this. I have been picking up and delivering work to them. Would I have to hook up to their printer/computer, etc.? I am savvy on the keyboard but have no idea how to "send" files correctly or how they will end up in the docs offices.Their staff is totally computer illiterate as are the docs. You can e-mail me or on board. Gem
If I were you, I'd hold off on purchasing anything sm
until you find a position with a company as many (if not most) companies will supply you with the pedal and software. All you would need to do is plug the pedal into your computer. The companies usually will install the software for you via your phone line or will send you a CD, whatever.
USB is the type of "plug." It's small, about a quarter-inch wide and has a little design on it with a circle, an arrow that points to the plug, and a little square.
The other type of pedal outlet has the little pins inside. You will need to count the little pins to find out what kind you have.
Good luck to you!
When purchasing a used copy...sm
Be sure to have the person that sold it to you notify Textware Solutions that they are no longer using it and that you are now the license owner. This will allow you to take advantage of all the benefits of being the license owner such as discounted upgrades, free tech support, etc.
Don't even THINK about purchasing Speedtype. There are absolutely no
medical words whatsoever and you have to add everything. Why in the world would the AAMT support this product and not any of the others? I spent over 160.00 on this product and my productivity has increased by ZERO.
I emailed for a refund and have heard nothing. I just hope that when I go to "resell" it they allow me with their licensing regulations!
Now I have to spend an extra 200.00 for InstantText which I should have purchased in the beginning - Can you imagine? 500.00 in the hole just to find which expander is best for you??/ I am highly livid right now.
How do you like the program? I am interested in purchasing it. *nm*
x
Purchasing Lanier Equipment
I just purchased a Lanier Transcriber from Transcribe Solutions.
To get info regarding purchasing Lanier equipment
This was on the Classified board
Ranzy Luster ranzy@grandecom.net
purchasing computers with customer service in US?
okay.here it goes. I thought it might be worth asking if anyone know of any companies that sell computers where you don't have to go through customer service outside of the US? TIA.
They should provide software. I can see purchasing pedals that
s
purchasing mt equipment/filing taxes...& getting started, Help?
Thank you; I live somewhat remote so I appreciate your help! I am excited at the opportunity to get started in this business. I am just a bit concerned that I would make this huge financial investment up front, but its a risk I guess worth taking, because I want to do this. Can I ask, what tax form do you file, and do you find that the business balances itself out; in other words, do you have to end up paying a lot in taxes, or do the expenses balance it out? Also, anyone: advice for a newbie: how do you recommend starting out, when it is so slow in the beginning due to programming macros, auto texting, and looking up every other word when you're first starting out??
Is it their computer? Why are they installing a firewall and autocorrect on your computer? That sm
is usually the responsibility of the transcriptionist, especially if an IC or SE. Which company?
Question about transfering computer into to another computer.. sm
I have a dumb question - Just bought a new computer and someone told me to get a flash drive to transfer all my info. But I'm assuming that ExText that I work off of and Escription will have to be downloaded again by the tech people onto my new computer. I can tranfer these can I?
Thanks
How does one find out the computer specs on my computer?
I should know this, but I just don't remember how to do this. I am hoping I have enough RAM, or whatever, to load work platform on my own computer and begin working on it, rather than paying *rent* on the company-furnished computer. Thanks so much.
A computer is a computer, whether it be laptop or desktop.
I have both and use both and I bought both of mine...most companies do not provide computers...
Computer Generated Image or Computer graphic image
thanks to both for suggestions
don't know why i didn't think of this one...it just might work.
Thanks for all the suggestions. sm
I'm not very adventurous so I don't know how I'd like stripes or room themes, but I'm looking for a splash of color here and there. I did like the idea of the pale blue sponge roller over white walls for the living room and a tan color for the dining room to make it a little more formal. I think we're going to give that a try. The sponge roller will give a little hint of color without making me feel anxious with the too busy or loud.
Thanks again, all
Thanks for your suggestions
I appreciate your suggestions. I have no typos in my resume or cover letter, I have contacted the phone company and let them know that I need DSL for a job, and I have received feedback from my online tests. I did have a position offered to me recently but I didn't have DSL and had to turn it down. I'm sure something will come along eventually. It is just discouraging to be so excited about entering a new career only to find so many hurdles. I guess it will only make me stronger. Your encouragement helps.
suggestions, please!
I need to order a .wav pedal, player and a word expander. Anyone with info on a good pedal/player reasonably priced? Files will be sent to me as dss files. Is there a good web site for new/preowned MT software?
TIA,
sunnyMT
Thanks for all the suggestions.
The IRS check came through in the mail today, so my backside got saved big time. I also got a second job offer today, so I'm going to work two jobs for a while. At least until Christmas. Then I'll decide which job is better or if I can handle both on a permanent basis. I do have some stuff to sell on ebay, so that'll be some quick cash.
Suggestions
Here's my 2 cents for whatever it is or isn't worth. Bear in mind that I'm my own worst critic. The hours worked and dependability aside, the first thing I would do is honestly evaluate my own work. In other words, what criteria did I use to determine that all the work, or at least that not QA'd by myself, was crappy work? Was the work really crappy or am I a "comma freak" or did I send QA feedback in a constructive rather than a critical way.? Sh*t runs both way, QA people can kill even a good MT; MTs can also kill a good QA person.
As for the other QA person, I personally wouldn't give jealousy the time of day unless that QA person was in a position to QA my QA, in which case; yes, she could give you serious problems since many company's management do not have a clue about the work an MT does and wouldn't know quality from crap. Thus, they listen to the employees they trust and jealousy just doesn't factor in. The only thing one can do about that is hope they don't get cross-ways of a jealous type person.
After evaluating myself and finding I had done my best and that every aspect of my job had been above reproach; then I would tell this company to take their job and stick it where the sun doesn't shine and I'd move on down the road until I found a company that would appreciate my dedication and hard work.
Good luck to you and don't let this get you down. While they're hard to find, there are still companies out there who appreciate hard work and dedication and whose management understands MTs because they have been there, done that themselves.
suggestions...
I don't know what Harry & David is, but.. over the years I have given/received flavored coffee, Godiva chocolate, gift cert for lunch at local restaurant, book of car washes, package of CDs, certificate for massage at local health club (my favorite!), manicure certificates.
Wow! THanks for these suggestions!
I am going to try the "propping" of the keyboard and see if that helps. I think I will also order the Smartgloves and Handeze and give them a try. I used to take glucosamine and chondroitin and I seemed to develop hip pain when I did. When I stopped it, the pain went away. Tried it again, the pain returned. I can't imagine why that would happen. Maybe I should give that another shot just in case!
I have been tested for thyroid in the last year, and many years before that, and it is always negative. I have so many of the low thyroid symptoms. Oh well...
Thanks everyone so much!
Here's some suggestions for you...
First off go to the local library and look at the April 2005 issue of Consumer Reports. Each year they rate new/used cars for reliability and it's a great way to see what vehicles have shown to be reliable in your price range and which ones you should run from.
Once you've narrowed down a car regardless of where it comes from you should pay to have a CarFax report run. This report will tell you if the car has been in any accidents.
After CarFax clears the vehicle then you'll want to hire an independent mechanic to check out the vehicle. While this will cost you around $100-150 it would be well worth it as they'll tell you if the vehicle is truly in the state the owner says. Even if you get a car from a dealership with a supposed warranty always pay someone else to review the vehicle because you don't know for sure that the dealer's "checking people" will be honest in their claims on the quality of the vehicle.
Good luck on the search and let us know what you end up with!
More suggestions
If you're into sports how about giving yourself a Christmas present of some golf lessons? That's one sport you can actually play alone or just go to the driving range...subtle advertising of your availability.
Loew's and Home Depot sound good in theory but I wouldn't recommend it, more likely to meet someone else's honey-doer. If you're interested in handy men, maybe volunteer with Habitat for Humanity?
If you are at or near senior status, either join or volunteer at, or join, your local Senior Center. Lots of single, lonely old geezers there. Membership starts at age 50 I believe, volunteering at any age.
If you like bingo, try your local American Legion, many of them around the country have weekly bingo games. Lots of middle age singles go there.
Get active in joining and/or volunteering. You need to be around people.
My Christmas wish for you is that Santa will bring you your soul mate.
suggestions
With accommodations for an extra dog being an issue for you, and since you have done everything within reason to try to locate the owner, I would say a week would be long enough. You said yourself you have all fallen in love, and the longer you wait the harder it will be on her as well because she will start to think of you as her family. I know most of us can’t help but have fears about taking a dog to the pound, but most of them really do excellent work in placing as many animals as possible, and making sure they are spayed/neutered and up to date on shots. If you have to take her there, you many want to consider a donation towards her adoption fee, as having part of the fee prepaid will go a long way in helping someone choose to adopt her. Another option you may consider is contacting a lab rescue group, they will place them in foster homes and thoroughly screen potential new owners to try to find the best home possible. You may want to visit someplace like petfinder.com to find a rescue group near you.
Thanks everyone for all your suggestions! :) NM
Thanks for all the suggestions.
Maybe I can save my furniture and my sanity. LOL
Other suggestions for FTP
www.YouSendIt.com is another solution for e-delivery of large files, for low-volume users.
If you are looking for free FTP -client software, though, check out this link:
http://www.thefreesite.com/Free_Software/FTP_freeware/
My suggestions
The poster above is right on it, for one. Slowly start adjusting the speed of your dictation and push yourself a bit, just so you have to work a little harder to keep up.
Learn as many keystroke combinations/shortcuts as possible -- avoid the mouse as much as possible.
Use your word expander: Put words, phrases, chunks of text in it. You should just be gliding along, rarely typing an entire word.
Don't eat/drink/smoke while you are typing - it takes your hands off the keyboard. Only do that during a break.
Most importantly for me is to set a specific goal for that 1 or 2-hour block and concentrate VERY hard on getting it. Push. Reward yourself with a short break when you're done. Then start again. Don't view your day as "8 hours" or "10 hours" ... look at it in 2-hour chunks of time.
Be well rested and eat lightly before you start typing.
Make sure you are comfortable and well supported in your desk and chair situation, lighting, even perhaps a little light music in the background.
Believe that you can do it. YOU CAN!!!
I need suggestions, please (sm)
ham, potato salad - used to always go with a hot dinner, but a few years ago started making potato salad instead and like this idea better - BUT - can't think of a vegetable. Okay to have a hot vegetable with potato salad?? If so, what? Green beans seem like Christmas, corn, no. Can't decide. Any suggestions would be appreciated. thanks
Any suggestions . . .
for reasonably priced DSL? Suggestions would be appreciated. Verizon charged me 62.17 this month as my introductory offer is over. Does this sound like too much? With the price of gas I need to cut corners somewhere. Thanks in advance.
Thanks for your suggestions . . .
I am going to call them. I thought my introductory offer ended the first 3 months. Now I reached the 6 month mark and it went up again. I think my bill should be the same every month by now.
Can anyone help with suggestions? sm
Hi! I just began working for an online company this week full-time, which I *LOVE*, especially after coming from a prior management position that was very stressful. My main problem, though, is with productivity. I used to type 120 wpm and could roll through 1200 lines a day with no problem whatsoever, and now I'm really struggling to get this minimum line count in. This company has a tremendous platform, lots of training help, etc., and it's not that - I think it's primarily due to my physical issues, so I'm hoping for advice here.
I have RA/mixed connective tissue disease and just started seeing an occupational therapist this week, who is going to work on increasing my strength in my arms, which she says have gotten extremely weak, and has also given me some compressive gloves to wear at night to reduce my hand swelling. I look forward to seeing the changes there, but primarily now need help with some things that I thought my fellow MTs could help with:
1.) Ergonomically, I've got a decent desk and chair, but am going to get something better in the future, after I move into a larger home. Any suggestions on where to look for the best desk ergonomically? My OT even suggested the articulating arms, but I like resting my arms on a desk - so perhaps an executive desk would be best for me.
2.) Chairs. This is always an issue with me. I have a nice chair with massage, but still not very comfortable. I also need a way to elevate my legs, as they are severely swollen and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, I don't think there is a way to use a reclining chair with a foot rest - but wonder if you have any ideas here, too?
Thanks so much for any help you can offer. I know it will get easier as time goes on, but for now I'm really struggling so am having a hard time getting going in the mornings b/c I'm up late the night before getting my minutes in, etc., so it's just a viscious cycle. Thanks so much for any suggestions!
Any suggestions for
My feet tend to swell while I'm working. I alternate feet while I'm working and try to alternate propping them up, but they still tend to feel swollen, especially by the middle/end of the day. I was thinking support hose, but I don't know, any suggestions?
Suggestions
What about Italian sausage subs with onions and peppers? Or a "sub" night with all sorts of assorted deli meats and cheeses, with all the fixings?
What about making slow-cooked BBQ pork ribs in the crockpot?
What about a "breakfast" dinner with eggs and smoked sausage?
A salad night with chicken, tuna, potato, macaroni, and green salads? My husband loves those during the summer. Then we have leftover salads for lunches the next day.
What about shepherd's pie with ground meat, mashed potatoes, and some type of vegetable (peas, or green beans, or corn) layered?
What about an "assemble yourself" chef's salad with all the fixings including pieces of grilled chicken and assorted cheeses and dressings?
Hope these suggestions spark some new ideas for you. :)
Thanks for the suggestions....sm
Thanks everyone..there are some really good ideas on there..
Most of all, "thanks, KB" for sticking up for me! I agreed with everything you had to say and appreciate you!
My suggestions are...sm
I love exercise videos and have just about everything you can think of.
Some good beginner videos are Leslie Sansone's Walk Away the Pounds, Tamilee Webb's I Want That Body, Kathy Smith's Lift Weights to Lose Weight II, and Iron Yoga.
Also, beachbody.com has great videos. I have done Slim in 6, Slim Series, P90, and I'm currently working on P90X. For your situation, Slim in 6 and Slim Series would be great.
I buy most of my videos on Ebay. You might want to check there first before buying new.
My local library also has exercise videos. In fact, that's what got me interested in them. I tried almost all of their videos and I purchased the ones that I loved. Try checking with your library to see if you can get them there.
Thank you for the suggestions!
I appreciate all of your feedback and I look forward to trying out all of the new ideas!!! Thanks!
I don't have any suggestions...sm
because I have thankfully never had to go through anything like this, but I will keep your friend in my prayers.
I need suggestions please (sm)
I have been using an Expander for years now, and I am still typing out "thrombocytopenia." Every time I make up a short form, I forget what it is, and waste time looking for it, so then I just type it out, but I am getting sick of it. Any suggestions?
suggestions
Believe it or not, use lop for thrombocytopenia...you know, lack of platelets. I know, I know, I'm different but it works for me!
2 but below were suggestions about how to maybe use on more than that.
;p
Thanks for the suggestions. NM
Thanks
Just some suggestions...
I would take a refresher course and study the AAMT book and then apply to lots of places. If they are worried about the amount of time you have been away, then asked to be tested... Good luck!
Looking for suggestions!! sm
I have had a small acount for the past 6 years. They are very happy with my service, but they are really needing to scale back on cost. They thought they were going to go with EMR, bought the computers, software, monthly fees etc. Now, it has been 3 months since the original date they were supposed to start office training because this company has yet to have an "interface" for them to use. Anyway, the OM called me today "pulling out her hair" and sick of the "jerking around" this other company is giving them. She told me she wanted me to put in an offer or any ideas so that they could possibly keep my service, but they really need to cut cost.
My only cost is a monthly FTP site of $55 and $10/monthly for Efax. I type it and send it back via PcAnywhere. Their billing averages between $1400 and $2000 every two weeks. I charge them 12 cents per gross line. I pay my one TX (my mom) 10 cents per 65 character.
Does anyone have any suggestions on what I could do here or offer?
THANKS SO MUCH!
Suggestions
I was looking into a FTP site and Bulletproof is one. The fee for the server-on your side would be around 39.00 and they would use the Client-Dr. office on their end, fee, I think is around the same. This is a one-time fee. Check is out.
http://www.bpftp.com
suggestions anyone
Okay, so I may be silly here, but just wondering other opinions on this. If there is a mistake made on a note, for example an added dictated by at the bottom that was wrong, is this really a considered a critical error with all companies out there?
I could be wrong, but I feel as though since the body of the report had no errors that this really would not be something critical and cause the company to lose this doctor's work. Doesn't it seem like there would be other things going on here? Let me know how you all feel!
No, but thanks for the suggestions
There were 12 core specimens sent in 6 bottles, so maybe the words I'm looking for have to do with pair. I listened again, and it just really sounds like pair lies or paralyze. Arghhh!!!!
Any suggestions....
I have a friend, who would like to start doing some data entry from home. She is looking for a part-time job. Does anyone know of any reputable companies where she can apply. I am at a loss. Thanks so much!
Suggestions...sm
You have to convert the tapes to a digital format before you will be able to send them to an FTP site. If you would like to have further info on how to do that, please contact me via email.
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