Talking Up Computing

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The product, which shipped July 18, offers a quick-start option that eliminates the need for "training" the software. In the past, voice-recognition software required users to read through sample documents to train and program the voice-recognition engine. This proved to be a tedious and time-consuming process, and many users found that even after initial training, the software required further tweaking to improve accuracy.

DNS9 changes all of that by eliminating initial training, as the product constantly learns and adapts as users dictate. Simply put, if the software misinterprets a word, the user just types the correct word and the software will automatically associate the recognized speech with the new, corrected word. So the product becomes more accurate with each use.

DNS9 can be used for much more than simple dictation. The product offers command-based compatibility with several major software packages, and users can rely on DNS9 to replace many of their software menu commands. The product allows users to activate menu selections, make choices and execute programs by verbal commands. This makes computer use easier for most people and also brings high-level system functionality to the physically challenged, allowing those unable to use traditional input devices to have complete control of a system.

DNS9 also can be used to help prevent repetitive stress-related injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. That functionality alone can help reduce disability costs.

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Installation of the product is straightforward, requiring two CD ROMs and auxiliary files. After installation, the product must be activated and registered for continued use.

Although the product does not require voice training to operate, users will find that the product defaults to a training mode when a new user profile is created. (A small box on the enrollment form must be checked to skip the voice-training portion of enrollment.)

Speaking of voice recognition, users can select particular vocabularies and, in some cases, accents for the software to recognize. Nuance Software offers the product in four versions: a basic version, a network version, a medical and a legal version. Each version contains recognition parameters and vocabularies geared toward a particular professional field.

Test Center engineers found the product easy to use, and the voice-recognition capabilities—even without training—were quite impressive. The product can be set up and put to use in a matter of minutes. Although the product can be used to control a PC and its applicable programs, Test Center engineers found the transition to voice control a little difficult, often returning to traditional keyboard commands and mouse actions instead of using the equivalent voice commands. This was perhaps due more to habit than to DNS9's capabilities.

Many users may find being tethered to a computer annoying. Luckily, the product supports Bluetooth headphones and microphones, allowing some untethered connectivity. The ultimate elimination of the keyboard comes by utilizing a digital recording device. In that instance, a user could use a handy MP3 recorder or digital recorder to capture dictation and then feed those dictation files directly into the computer. The product recognizes several audio file types and provides an easy import wizard to make dictation from an alternative device a snap.

The company bundles a noise-canceling headset with the product, which works quite well in most situations. Test Center engineers did experience higher recognition accuracy when using the product in a quiet environment. Accuracy dwindled once the environment was changed to the noisy Test Center lab facilities. If a user were to train the product in a noisy environment, however, perhaps recognition accuracy would increase. The product is full of other features, ranging from transportable voice files (over a network, the Internet or a USB Key) to several wizards. Users should find everything to quickly get started with the software.

Nuance does an admirable job with DNS9 and successfully removes the "fiction" from "science fiction" by delivering a product that was once only a figment of the imagination.