We will list all the hardware and software a transcriber will need. We are going to explain what you will need to get started, and potentially need to get at a later time as well as optional equipment, guides, and software that can increase your level.

Hardware and Software Needed:

Computer/Mouse/Keyboard – If you are doing this program, then you obviously have this already. You don’t need to have a state-of-the-art computer, as long as it has enough hard drive space and memory to handle a small work load.

Headphones or Speakers – If you don’t have headphones that is okay as long as you have speakers on your computer. If you don’t have speakers then you will need headphones. I don’t think we need to explain why you need some kind of listening device to do audio transcribing. It is ideal to use headphones if possible.

If you would like to see headsets commonly used by transcribers Go Here

Operating System (OS) – We suggest you use Windows XP or higher, which of course would include Widows Vista, Widow 7 or Windows 8.  You can use any MAC OS X version or Linux as well. We provide the transcription software for any of the mentioned operating systems.

Internet Connection – It is not written in stone that you need high-speed Internet; you can get by with dial up. However, some of the companies will require high speed Internet for connecting to their servers to upload/download files for transcription.

Transcribing Software – Don’t worry we have you covered on this. We will give you a 100% free transcription software you will be able to use to get started.

Word Processing Software (Window Microsoft Office, Corel, Lotus etc.) – We suggest you use an advanced Word Processor such as Microsoft Office, Corel Office, Lotus or Open Office.  Again! we have you covered as you can download the free Open Office Word Processor we provide in the “Resources” section.

A Good Idea to Have, But Not Required:

CD Player – This may not come into play so much, but might be something you may need if the audio for transcribing is mailed to you on CD. You can use any CD player whether it is on your computer or an external unit. If you don’t have a CD player no worries as most audio transcribing has already been formatted into digital files for transcribing.

Printer – The use of printers are now being fazed out because most of the transcribed documents will be uploaded directly to the client or company you do the jobs for. If you have one then great, if you don’t you are okay and you won’t need to rush out and buy one.

DVD Player – A DVD player is required, however, some video transcription assignments may come DVD in the mail. This falls into the same category as a CD player because most video is now transferred by MP3, MP4 and AVI file to name a few of the digital formats.

Hardware and Software to Consider in the Future:

Advanced Transcribing Software – The transcribing software we will give you for free is very good but there are some really good advanced transcribing software that can really accelerate your transcribing. We would suggest to look to a more advanced software when you start doing many assignments.

Pedal Foot Controller – The transcribing pedal foot controller will allow you to start/stop the audio while you are typing with out interrupting your type flow. The pedal foot controllers are not too expensive and will pay for itself in no time with the amount of time it will save you.

Here are some options for a Pedal Foot Controller:

Option 1 Professional Three Pedal Foot Controller

NCH Swift Sound offers two pedals that you can purchase online and they are available for both serial and USB ports. Both USB foot pedals are compatible with Windows and Mac OS X. These are high quality 3 pedal controllers made for professional transcription work that cost around $US70 and can be shipped worldwide. The VEC foot pedal is also a suitable alternative for other transcription players.
More Information

Option 2 Game Controller Pedal

These are pedals made for games. The advantage is that they are common and available at most computer stores so if you really need a foot control today, this may be your only option. They should cost around $US 70. The disadvantages are that they are only 2 pedal controllers and that you may need to keep a steering wheel or joystick under your desk that is wired to the foot pedals!

What we have just mentioned will give you a good idea of what will be needed now and in the future to do transcription.