alternative keyboards
Posted By: Sharon on 2006-07-17
In Reply to:
Is anybody using an alternative keyboard? I have seen some pretty nifty designs and wonder which one has the most sensitive touch. Any users of the kinesis contoured keyboard?? Please give your comments, as I am currently shopping...
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Anyone know what OEM means? Looking at keyboards to buy & there are some MS 4000 keyboards advertise
anyone have a clue?
These keyboards are designed after the original IBM keyboards that
have the "clicky, audible sound" when pressing the keys - not the hushed, soft, nonexistent touch & feel of the newer keyboards.
Think it depends on what you've learned on & "typed" on as to your preference regarding touch, sound feedback, etc.
When my original IBM keyboard was going on the blitz(1995),I searched far & wide for a company to repair such and/or replace it. This company has repaired such - several times. This company does offer clones of the original IBM that are very comparable to the original. They also have other keyboards available made by their company, but I have no personal knowledge as to their touch, etc.
As a side note, this company will repair most model keyboards for a very nomimal fee if you have a favorite you don't want to part with - ask for Jim Owens - he's a doll-babe !!
I know this company makes several of their own keyboards, but what I believe mdlfcrs is referring to is not known to the newer transcriptionists. In other words, the keyboard she/he and I are talking about is not ergonomic, soft-touch or mushy feeling. It goes back to the days of the typewriter - you heard it, you felt the keys - a totally different feeling compared to most "computer keyboards" -
SM for alternative
It runs up and down with the text sideways on the start menu. Mine says Windows XP Professional.
You can right-click on My Computer, select properties, and a window should pop up that shows your system information.
Here's a better alternative..
Medifast 5 and 1 plan. You eat 5 of their meals a day and then what they call a Lean and Green that you prepare yourself. I've only just started, but have lost 9 pounds in 4 days. Check out the website... Medifast1.com
Read the info and check out the message boards. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.
You can spend 17+ thousand dollars for a band and eat 6 small meals a day or spend a couple of hundred dollars a month and eat 6 small meals a day.
Not OP, but I think this is an alternative to.
Trick or Treat. Instead of going to stranger's house the kids go to the church and people pass out candy from their decorated car trunks.
alternative
My docs just attach the voice file to the email and send it to me. There is no encryption. If you don't want to use email, you could use an FTP site I suppose for a safer transfer...
Another alternative.
Not sure about that but the program, Switch, can change one audio file into any other type of audio file to play on whatever player you want to use. I love it. It has a free demo.
Alternative
I thought it might be an alternative to having to rename WP 5.1 documents with .doc extension if they could be loaded on Google docs. I have not researched it extensively, either.
Unfortunately I have no answers but I have an alternative for others...sm
If your computer is about to bite the dust, if you have ANY computer geek friends who can build you a computer, ask them to do so. My husband always rebuilds and updates my computer. The cost for parts is about the same as the "sale" price on new computers and the advantage is that you can have it custom-built to your specifications.
Even if you have to go to a computer shop to have a computer built, it is still less expensive in the long run. Initially it may cost $100 or more than that "sale" computer, but you won't run into problems like being forced to have Vista as your OS and trying to retrofit everything.
We have had a computer since about 1990 and, besides our very first, DOS-based computer, we have only bought two "brand new" computers. One was when Windows first came out, and the second was when I started working at home and needed my own computer. At that time, Windows 95 had been out for a couple of years and most of the bugs had been worked out, so we took the plunge and bought a new one. Since then, we have simply updated and upgraded, including adding a new hard drive, new motherboard, sound/video cards, flat screen monitor....
Just wanted to show you can get a "new" computer without buying a "brand-new" computer. If you see what I mean.....
Housekeeping as an alternative ...
... has anyone gone from MTing to housekeeping in a hotel? I can't support myself as an IC and can't meet the requirements for employee status. What are the going wages in the South? Do I have a snowball's change of being hired in my 50's??? I'm desperate.
Please email me! I was considering an alternative..
like this one, because at this time I also have a 2yr old that I'm trying to keep at home during the day by starting and ending early in the day. I have some more questions if you don't mind. Thanks so much!
An alternative would be to purchase and download
a product called Phone Tools by BVRP. It functions as both a fax and answering machine. I've been using it for >5 years now and have never had any problems.
Foot pedal Alternative
is there an alternative to the traditional foot pedal? I know i could probably use the keyboard, but I am wondering about devices.
Need alternative to usual Labor Day cookout
We are having a family get-together on Labor Day. We usually grill hamburgers and hot dogs, but I was trying to think of something different this year. Any suggestions? There will be young kids there, so it would have to be something they could enjoy as well. Thanks!
Has anyone tried the 'shared work' layoff alternative
plan? I know they have this in New York state and actually know someone whose employer does this. The employer must participate but you can always ask about it. There are very specific requirements but it seems if your company does not pay down time, wouldn't it be to their benefit also to keep good MTs this way?
Easy free alternative to FTP for uploading lots of files?
I currently have a temp account that wants to send me a large # of files. I have tried to set them up with a free FTP utility but she is having trouble using it. For some reason she can receive files from me fine but cannot upload them from her computer, and I am stumped as to why this would be. So I am wondering if there is an alternative out there to FTP that is both easy and free (or low-cost). She's willing to FedEx them to me on CD if all else fails but any suggestions would be helpful! Thanks.
slow periods, seek alternative extra cash? sm
Docs, like us, have busy family lives. I found that after Hannukah and Christmas (or sometimes with a break from family stuff) they "catch up" on dictation. Hopefully, this is what still happens. I have a son who is a professional and he likes to go in on Christmas Eve morning because it's so "slow" that he can get a lot of paperwork done. So hang in. Another aspect of today's world is that docs are carrying laptops now as is my family PCP and they are all doing their own notes. I think it's a "wait and see" thing, the world is changing and hopefully there is a survival tool for us somewhere. We are all being replaced by technology, sadly. Only time will tell. I was told several years ago that I should go into "scoping" which is kind of like editing, etc., you go into public stenographers machine gibberish and make sense out of it, kind of like making sense out of what comes back from India. I was offered this but refused to clean up someone else's "mess." Everyone should be thinking of alternative ways to get by, it's never easy. It's sad, as I have put a lot of time and $$$ into a profession that doesn't appreciate my knowledge. From your posts, Blondie, you have a good heart. I hope things get better for you. Try to have a happy holiday. How did you make out with those dogs you took in? Did the owner take them back or at least pay you? This may be an alternative few extra bucks for you. You seem to be an animal lover and a caring person.I don't live near you, but I would rather leave my Golden with you than some kennels around here. Thus, I do not go away if I can't take my dog. Hope things pick up for you work-wise.
Easy backup file transfer alternative for non-tech-savvy client
Hello all,
I have a new client who is not tech-savvy at all. She lost her Transcriptionist and transcriptions are backing up. She is so desperate she is willing to try digital with me. (yay) I hope everything with the FTP setup goes easily for her, but if for some unforseeable reason we cannot get it to work, I was wondering if someone here could recommend an easy alternative, if only to get the first few dictations to me while we work out the FTP. She is incredibly frustrated and on edge at the moment, so anything to ease this transition would be a lifesaver!
Thank you all so much for your help!
keyboards
I am constantaly having trouble with the letters being worn off -- have been through 4 keyboards in the past two years -- any suggestions, though I know where the keys are, it looks funny when they are blank.
Thanks.
Patti
keyboards
Jen, did you call about the keyboards? Anything I found said that Cirque is no longer in business, and when I went to the other site, found only the pads, not the keyboards. The original looks wonderful. If you find where it can be purchased, let us know.
Keyboards
Once upon a time, I used one of those split keyboards. Considering buying one again. Does anyone use one? How does it compare over the longterm?
Keyboards
It didn't take any time at all to get used to the GoldTouch in the tented position. I bought mine off of ebay and am keeping my eyes open for another one, cheap, to have as a back-up.
I have a COuntoured keyboard that I bought off Ebay. I have had it for a month or 2 but just havent had the time to work with it. It seems kind of complicated to get set up. The Goldtouch, I plugged into a USB port and off I went.
I have seen and bid on all kinds of keyboards. They even have one handed one that resemble the top of a job stick. One hand does it all. And there are ones called Bats (I think) that are everything done by one hand. I am trying to buy one of those kinda cheap.
ALso, I have tried Dragon Naturally Speaking but the time to train it took too long. It was quicker to type.
Keyboards
I have no idea when I will be trying that out but can let you know. If I lose your email I will post that I have tried it. It looks to me like it is going to be like when you spell something out on the telephone. So many clicks per number to get a certain letter.
I have never had trouble buying anything off ebay. I have seen new and used keyboards. Mine have all been used but I always check the stats on the seller to see that history. Also pay with PayPal so would have that as a recouse also if had problems. And of course, I save all correspondence, etc, not just for ebay but any kind of cyber transcactions.
Keyboards
Hi Anna, check out this website. http://office-ergo.com/12things2.htm I searched for Ergonomics on google, and came up with a ton of sites. Hope this helps.
Keyboards - sm
I am a keyboard snob. I only use mechanical keyboards (which are usually older keyboards). They have the "click" that comes from the spring action making connection. My preferences are Magitronic, Keytronic, or (best) NMB. These keyboards have "sliders" that make typing a joy. The older IBM M keyboard is also mechanical action, but I find the keys rather harder to type on. I like a clicky, soft touch mechanical-action keyboard. I usually buy them on ebay - some are rather expensive, some are cheap - all are old and all are mechanical action! 
keyboards
I had a Kensington keyboard that I bought I think at Comp USA, somewhere more than 3 years ago. It was not really expensive, and didn't have a split keyboard, but had slanted keys, which I thought were quite a bit easier to use and I really liked it. The letters didn't wear off, and it was working fine until I dumped a whole glass of diet orange pop on it about a month ago. A whole glass, that is, except what went all over my desk and the wall. I took it all apart, rinsed everything out, set it out in the sun to dry well, put all the little rubber dothingies back in place on each key, and have a keyboard that doesn't work anymore. Sigh. I would buy another one just like it, and hope to find one as soon as I can stop putting money in other things, like furnace repairs.
Keyboards
I have bought some of the best and the longest they last is 6 to 8 months witout starting to come off. So I buy a new keyboard about every 12 to 15 months as it also looses its bounce. Guess that comes with doing 45,000 to 50,000 lines per month but you would think that they would make them so that they last a little longer.
Keyboards
 I have this problem as well and was told by Dell tech support that it is the grease on the fingers, i.e, lotion, eating while working etc that makes the letters wear off. I have gone through 6 keyboards in 2 years and now I put clear finger nail polish on the keys and this has worked thus far. You must do this prior to using the new keyboard first, as in no greasy fingers.
RE: Keyboards
I use the Microsoft Wireless Natural Multimedia Keyboard and it is wonderful. Love it. I don't use the shift key on the right either apparently.
Keyboards - sm
I have tried all three, and always go back to the Maxium. The Goldtouch was too loud and cumbersome. I could not get use to the Freestyle, but love the Maxium. If you decide on one, and I have the Goldtouch in my computer closet I would sell you...email if interested.
KEYBOARDS
I agree about what a difference the keyboard can make!!
I looked at the split keyboards, but my hands are kind of small so I went with a WAVE keyboard.
It is made by Logitech and you can find it at Office Max and Staples. It is wireles and came in a combo with a wirless mouse for about $75. It has well paid for itself!! for me!
About trying out keyboards
About the keyboard advice previously given, when you try them out, can you tell you like them right away or do they all feel a bit awkward? I'm just wondering how to know what I'll like best when picking one out.
Thanks for your ongoing help! 
Keyboards I tried out
I looked at keyboards yesterday and tried them (pretended to type) in the store. The ones they had with each hand's keys father apart (which is what I thought would be best) were big, bulky, with keys that stuck up too high and just felt awkward. The one that felt best was smaller ... more in order of a normal keyboard but curved a bit to accommodate more natural hand position.
Do you think this is an accurate assessment of what would work best for me, or would one get more used to the other type? Are there split keyboards that don't seem so bulky and awkward from the start?
Thanks. I really want a new keyboard, but I'm afraid I'll buy something I regret. Just not sure how to tell what's best. 
keyboards
I've been an MT for over 20 years and my shoulders and arms are feeling starting to feel it. I've been using a MS ergo keyboard for years now, but would like to invest is a super good keyboard. Anyone have one you particularly like? Anyone try one of those keyboards where you type sideways? TIA
keyboards
I have narrowed my selection of new keyboards down to the Microoft Natural Wireless 7000 and the Logitech cordless. I need speed and comfort. I will test drive each but until I do does anyone have any comments on either of these keyboards? TIA
i own like 5 keyboards
--for some reason, I don't know! I only use one for work. I must be a pack rat. I don't know about the locked keys, my idea was that one key was stuck, but she said the number keys work. I don't know whats up with that unless you have another keyboard hooked up with something pressing down on those keys.
Ergonomics/keyboards
I started using a split keyboard years ago. I love them. The first one I had was PC Concepts, I believe. When I finally wore that one out and went to get another, I couldn't find that brand. I got Microsoft's keyboard next. It's okay, although the #6 key is on the left, which I found to be true of all the split keyboards. My PC Concepts KB had the #6 on the right, which made more sense to me. I was never able to adjust to this, so I constructed a "bridge" for the #6 key. I have never been able to find a split keyboard with the #6 on the right. Does anyone know of one?
Also, I use my mouse too much and I'm starting to get pains. Yea!! So, I'm wondering, does anyone use a split keyboard with a built-in mousepad-thingy on the bottom of the keyboard? I was thinking about trying one of these next, but I hate to spend the $ w/o getting some opinions first. If you use one, what brand; do you like it; does it really work; any suggestions?
Thanks!!
ergonomic keyboards
Not only is it impossible to use, the salesperson was rude and difficult when I called for return instructions. Also, there was a money back guarantee on the website, but in small print "if refurbished, we cannot refund your money." And guess what, you don't know its refurbished until it arrives on your doorstep!! Needless to say, 350 bucks flushed down the toilet.
I recently ordered the "ergoflex" keyboard, and was wondering if anyone has tried this? It lets you rest each arm as far away as possible, which is what I need. I've been typing on two keyboards, one for the left, one for the right, and it just takes up too much space. I'm hoping this will help. To the poster below about keyboard testimonials, these could probably be secured to the end of your arm rests, and also on the web site they have separate arm rests that look real comfy you can adjust to your table top.
http://www.ergonomicresource.com/ergoflex.html
This does not work on all keyboards, someone tried it and
x
goldtouch keyboards anyone?
I did a search but came up empty handed, which I do not understand as I recall seeing Goldtouch mentioned before.
Are people generally happy with this keyboard?
Where can I get one of the split keyboards
I would love to have one, but the only ones I've seen are very expensive.
How do you all clean your keyboards? SM
I eat and drink at my desk, as I'm sure most of us do. And of course, crumbs fall, drinks drip, and there's the dust. I was just wondering what everybody else uses to clean their keyboards. I have tried canned air to blow out the crumbs and then use alcohol on the surface and stick Q-Tips down in all the crevices and between the keys. Just wondered if there was some miracle solution that would make it easier and less time consuming?
Thanks to all who responded. I will look into these keyboards. nm
x
A4 Tech keyboards
Hi, I just ordered one of these keyboards. Supposedly they will increase your production and had really great reviews. I ordered the 2680RP model which is wireless keyboard and mouse. Just wondering if anyone else has used these and what they thought. Mine is supposed to be here today. Can't wait to try it out. Any info about them would be really appreciated.
This key is on all windows keyboards.
xx
CORDLESS KEYBOARDS
does anyone know of a good cordless keyboard, one where i could put in page inserts and do everything w/o the mouse. I have a Logitech which I am not happy with.
thanks
ergo keyboards
Is Goldtouch the name of company or the product...where can I get one online? thanks...sfm
Ergo keyboards sm
I know this has been discussed before, but I need opinions on the ergo keyboards, best, cost, why you like them. I'm considering going with the Kinesis but would like input on the other kinds out there as well. How is the Microsoft one? It's reasonably priced but when I looked at it at Staples, it didn't seem much different than the regular Dell I have now.
Favorite keyboards?
Need to get a new one...looking for suggestions....
About 1 to 1-1/2 years. I buy the $19.99 keyboards. sm
Can't see spending a lot of money on a keyboard.
Looking for opinions on keyboards sm
I like the keys on my keyboard to be easy to touch, not feeling like you have to bang them down to get a letter to appear. I've been reading about the ergonomic keyboards. What do you find comfortable? I looked on Amazon.com about the Microsoft 4000 Ergonomic keyboard and there were a lot of reviews, some of them saying that the keys were hard to press, especially the spacebar.
thanks 
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