How to use Stenoram II

[randolphsonya]

Do I need to have a software to start realtime practice, meaning
trascribe notes from my machine to my computer.

[Michael Smith]

Hello randolphsonya,

In order to do "realtime" you do indeed need a software commonly referred to as CAT software. CAT software or Computer-Aided-Translation software allows you to manage a personal "Dictionary" in which you have your shorthand entries defined as English. The software then can hook up for "Realtime" with your StenoRam II (via a cable) which allows instant translation of your steno strokes to English words.

Here are some of the popular software's available in no particular order (although you may check with a local school to see what software they are using):

SmartCat - www.cheetahinternational.com
Winner - www.procat.com
DigitalCAT - www.stenovations.com
Eclipse - www.eclipsecat.com
StenoCAT32 - www.gsclion.com
AristoCAT - www.aristocat.com
Case CATalyst - www.stenograph.com

Unfortunately the StenoRam II is not compatible with all of these Windows-based software titles. Check with the vendor for compatibility. The StenoRam II is compatible with much older DOS-based software programs (which in turn would also require an old computer to run). This would be taking a step backwards in the court reporting industry and I recommend sticking to newer equipment.

For input on these software's, I recommend getting the opinion of other reporters. A good source for this is the NCRA Online Forum which can be found on their website www.ncraonline.org.

Please let us know if there is anything else we can help you with.