Transcription equipment has typically been designed for PCs using the Windows Operating System, and not so much for Apple Macintosh computers. This is beginning to change in a couple of ways.
Transcription equipment manufacturers are realizing the need for equipment that is capable of working with both PCs and Mac computers, not just for transcription work, but for health professionals who prefer Mac over PCs.
Aside from the needs of transcriptionists, Apple realized that there are some applications that need to be run using Windows because there is not yet a Mac alternative, so newer Macs are offering users the ability to install Windows XP or Vista using their software, Boot Camp, or a third party software like Parallels or VMWare’s Fusion that integrates the operating systems.
Here is a partial list of transcription equipment that is currently compatible with Mac, without needing to integrate Windows.
Infinity IN-USB-2 USB Foot Pedal
The Infinity IN-USB-2 transcriber foot pedal is able to support Mac OS 10.1 or above. The foot pedal weighs 2.3 pounds, which makes it heavy enough to hold its ground and not shuffle around like other light weight foot pedals.The Infinity IN-USB-2 foot pedal is one of the most compatible foot pedals available, and not just because it works with Mac computers.
It is also compatible with a large number of different software programs, including GearPlayer, Express Scribe, BayScribe, DocQScribe, Start/Stop, Wav Pedal 5 and 7, and many others.
Although, just because this particular foot pedal works with Mac computers, doesn’t mean that the software it works with is compatible with Mac. Many transcription software programs are not currently compatible with Mac, so make sure that you understand a software program’s compatibility before purchasing.
In addition to being compatible with Mac OS 10.1 or above, the Infinity IN-USB-2 foot pedal is fully compatible with Windows Versions: Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Vista.
Olympus AS-5000 Transcription Kit
The AS-5000 combines with the DS-5000 digital voice recorder or other professional digital voice recorder from Olympus to provide a complete, end-to-end business solution. Complete with foot switch, headset, and powerful software, the AS-5000 can easily be integrated into the workflow of any office system and significantly streamline data sharing and distribution of dictations between professionals, departments, and office locations. Special email and FTP functions enable dictation files to be automatically routed to predetermined locations or addresses upon downloading. Citrix and Terminal Service are fully supported. The new features, such as Audio capture function and automatic software upgrade via internet, in the new DSS Player Pro Release 5 improves the usability of the software.
Olympus DS-5000 Digital Voice Recorder
Supported in OS X 10.3.9 and above. The DS-5000 features intuitive controls and single slide switch to simplify operation. The device has a large, back lit, easy-to-read LCD screen that reveals file information, recording time and events on the front of the recorder. Centralized navigation buttons enable easy data input and changes of settings. Users new to digital dictation as well as those on the leading edge will appreciate the DS-5000’s sophisticated feature set that can be customized to provide a seamless dictation solution suitable to their work environment. It is built to meet the needs of an active professional with an extremely durable slide switch mechanism and robust buttons, USB connector and battery door. Power conservation is also central to the DS-5000’s intelligent design, and it can record for up to 28 hours from its rechargeable battery.
Olympus offers a variant of the DS-5000 the DS-5000iD that offers all of the 5000’s features plus Biometric Fingerprint Lock Function to help keep your data safe and secure.
Olympus DS-3400 Digital Voice Recorder
The DS-3400 provides high-quality performance in an easy to use device – perfect for professionals on the go. The sleek, compact recorder provides a simple push-button design, which means many features and customizable options are quickly at your fingertips. Convenient benefits such as removable SD memory (SD and SDHC), PC link capabilities, and intelligent DSS Player Pro Dictation software make the DS-3400 an essential device in professional dictation.
