Joan Lichterman: technology blues

[Joan Lichterman <http://www.uclink4.berkeley.edu/~joanl>]

Robert, be careful about the foot mouse. I know people who have developed
repetitive ankle problems! I've eye problems for the past three 1/2 years
that are getting intolerable; they're partly age- and partly
allergy-related, and I think very much computer-related as well.

I've been reading about Linux and dreaming of the day when I won't need MS!

RE Dragon, for NatSpeak a local vendor (Dan Newman) is now recommending a
350 MHz processor (bettter with more, as always) and at least 128 MG RAM. I
haven't been using the beast for a while and teetering on the edge of the
abyss, and plan to return to using DNS as soon as our new computer arrives.
(Coincidentally, the day I picked up the DNS CDs I learned my office was
about to order a new computer for a not-yet-hired analyst, so I intercepted
the order, upped it to 400 MHz, and will be switching systems. This is why,
when I finally get a home computer (as soon as I clear out the RSI debris
from my home office) I'm going to lease one instead of buying it!

By the way, I learned a couple of years ago that the microphone I had was
NOT compatible with DD after all--so despite all the upgrades I got, the
system was barely recognizing me. One of the DS techies who is also an
amateur musician (and knew the mike I was using) figured that out; he was
amazed I was able to work with it at all. Talk about frustration! (I had
gotten a different mike because I have a small head from ear-to-ear, and
most mikes can't be made small enough to stay on my head.) Their chief
engineer had OK'd it, and he was wrong. And so it goes. I've been
frustrated for years. If it doesn't work well this time, I think I need to
figure out some new line of work that only requires talking, and not
sitting or working at a computer! (If I can tear myself away.)

Take care. I'm glad you're surviving the winter.

Cheers!
           joan