Readers survey

Philips has developed dictation and speech technology for over 50 years. The sophistication of today’s machines would surprise the users of early speech equipment, for no one could have imagined their voice recognition abilities – for example the Philips SpeechMike – a USB-microphone directly connected to a PC. As Philips points out: ‘This is wellestablished in the medical sector and geared towards enabling customers to benefit from greater ease of use, ergonomic design and unique functionality. The device seamlessly integrates with workflow systems such as radiology information systems, hospital information systems or legal case management systems, thus ensuring efficient dictation workflows, high documentation accuracy and optimum data security.’ Products also include the new Digital Pocket Memo Series – Philips professional mobile dictation devices – with the world first LAN Docking Station is designed to improve the professional lives of those involved in the documentation process, in the easiest possible manner, Philips adds. ‘The Digital Pocket Memo 9600 Series sets the highest security standards in mobile dictation, focusing in particular on data confidentiality and transcription accuracy. Voice files can be password protected on the device itself. DSS Pro file compression, an enhancement of the industry’s DSS standard, guaranteeing crystal-clear sound quality for highly accurate manual transcription and optimised speech recognition results facilitates real-time file encryption. The DPM 9600 has received the IF Product Design award 2007 for its outstanding ergonomics and innovative functionality.

A streamlined workflow and improved productivity are the key benefits of combing digital dictation with suitable dictation and transcription software.

‘The software provides authors with easy-to-use functionality for organising recordings clearly and efficiently. Transcribers have advanced professional transcription features and accessories at their fingertips, while IT managers benefit from the reduced strain on financial and human resources. Sensitive patient or client data are protected by file encryption, preventing unauthorised users from accessing restricted dictations.’ The firm’s consumer-oriented range for note-taking is covered by the Digital Voice Tracers. ‘This lifestyle product combines note taking with playback of MP3 music files. As a unique feature, the highend Digital Voice Tracer 7890 also allows for direct MP3 stereo recording – even from the integrated FM radio. The sleek and futuristic design makes the Digital Voice Tracer both an extremely handy and highly stylish accessory for the modern user. Space is at a premium when you’re recording interviews, lectures or just personal notes. The expanded storage capacity of up to 576 hours of recording time gives users much greater freedom and flexibility. If connected to a notebook, the USB-powered device requires neither a battery nor any other additional equipment and enables fast file transfer by e-mail.’