In the past, the only way to input data into our computers was through the usage of a mouse and keyboard. As technology progresses and the need for people who have difficulties with repetitive motion using said devices, as well as people who simply wish to increase their work productivity rate have emerged, the use of speech recognition software have become a popular practice among both professional and home computer users.
Some of us may have heard of more popular speech recognition software programs such as Dragon Naturally Speaking or Text Aloud. But did you realize that you may be even closer to having access to voice recognition software than you might think? With Windows XP and the more currently released Microsoft operating system, Windows Vista, we have the ability to turn our computers into little speech recognition machines by allowing people to dictate documents and emails, use voice commands to start and stop applications, fill out online forms, and even control the operating system.
Windows XP – Speech Recognition
For Windows XP, all you need for speech recognition to work is the following:
• Windows XP with Service Pack 1 (or later)
• Microsoft Speech Recognition Engine (SRE) 5.0
• Software that supports speech recognition (Microsoft Office 2003, Internet Explorer, Notepad, etc.)
• Microphone
The SRE 5 is not included with Windows XP but comes with MS Office 2003. The other requirement is to enable support of “advanced text services” in the Regional and Language Options applet in the operating system.
Windows Vista – Speech Recognition
Windows Vista offers a speech recognition program built right into the operating system and does not require additional software to run. A user can access the voice recognition program from the Accessories’ Ease of Access menu items. As with most voice recognition program, the user is expected to train the program to recognize her voice. Microsoft enhanced its speech recognition software by giving users hands-free computing experience in the Vista version. This is a great benefit to users with disabilities as the use of keyboards and mice may not be within easy reach for some people.
Vista’s version of speech recognition software is available in a variety of languages: English (U.S), English (U.K.), German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese (Traditional), and Chinese (Simplified).
A demonstration video of how the program works can be viewed by clicking here.
The following chart highlights a few alternative choices in speech recognition software.
| Software | OS Platform | Feature- Functionality |
Advantage | Drawback | Cost- License |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Recognition | At least Windows XP Service Pack 1 | Dictation, Voice commands | Good voice recognition but not perfect; limited language engine available | Some use of mouse/keyboard required Additional installation of SRE and configurations | SRE Additional cost or included in MS Office 2003 |
| Speech Recognition | Windows Vista built-in | Hands-free, Dictation, Voice commands | Hands-free; Better voice recognition and user friendly than Win XP version; Built-in | Windows Vista is not yet widely used because it’s buggy and also requires much system resources, oftentimes a hardware upgrade is needed | Included in Windows Vista |
| Dragon Naturally Speaking 9 Preferred | Win 2K Win XP Home Win XP Pro Win Vista |
Is the premiere tool for dictating text and commanding a Web browser by voice | Is the premiere tool for dictating text and commanding a Web browser by voice | Expensive and requires a robust computer. Runs on Windows only | I$170-$199 |
| E-Speaking Voice and Speech Recognition 3.8.12 | Win 2K/XP | Dictation, Voice commands, Read aloud text in emails, documents | Multi-purpose: Performs voice recognition and reads text aloud | Inexpensive | 30-day free trial $14 purchase |
| Audiomatic 1.30.07362 | Win 2K/XP Win 2003 Server |
Create system-wide macros and launch with voice command or keyboard shortcuts. Enables launching of programs, files, Web sites, play sounds, speak text, run scripts | Not yet rated | Not yet rated | 14-day free trial $9.95 purchase |
Sources
- Windows Vista Video Tutorial
http://www.cnettv.com/9742-1_53-25996.html - SolutionBase: Using speech recognition in Windows XP
http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-6346_11-5928530.html - Listening to Users is the Key to Speech Recognition at Microsoft
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/microsoft/chambers.aspx - Dragon NaturallySpeaking Preferred 9
http://reviews.cnet.com/voice-recognition/dragon-naturallyspeaking-preferred-9/
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