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What are the minimum specs for using your own computer? - Kiki

Posted: Jan 25, 2014

Got laid off from company that supplied computers. Have to find another job but not sure if I should go buy a computer or what kind if I do. Apparently not a lot of companies supply a computer. If I have to buy one, I'd rather buy a laptop. Can you work from a laptop? If so, what would the minimum requirements for that laptop be as far as RAM and CPU, operating system, etc. I would think most new laptops would meet most companies' requirements? Any advice would be appreciated so much. Thanks!!!

Just dont get Windows 8 and yes, a laptop will work. - nm

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NewComputer - VistaBaby

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If I were to get a new one today, I would get a windows 7/64 bit. The 64 bit does not work with Word 2010 from what I was told by IT at work. Saw some nice desk top SlimLine HP Pavilion machines with the above OS for pretty cheap on the internet. Lap tops are good too and portable in case you have to travel for some reason.

LOL too late, I just got my computer and it has Windows 8 - Kiki

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I actually like Windows 8. I guess I'm in the minority? Besides the likability factor, can I ask why you say not to get Windows 8--it seems to be the only OS avail with a new laptop. So what would the problem be?

From what I have heard and read here about windows 8 - see message

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Its not compatible with a lot of platforms. If yoy read the hiring ads here, they usually say what their platforms are compatible with and windows 8 is never listed.

I have a windows 8 laptop but I also have an XP desktop. I still prefer XP when doing more business related stuff. I only use my laptop for surfing the web.

I think windows 8 may limit you to the number of places you can apply at.

New Computer - laidoff2

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From all of the job listings I have read, Windows 8 is not compatible with their programs. They require Windows XP or Windows 7 as 8 will not work with their programs. Good luck looking for work, it's a job in itself.

Windows 8 - SM - KC

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You can use a Windows 8 computer and install a "virtual" computer, such as XP, to use for work. That's what I'm currently using. My company installed it remotely on my computer, but I believe there are many free versions you could download yourself. It's extremely easy to switch to the main computer (Windows 8) for searches, e-mail, etc., and back to the XP for working, by simply clicking the taskbar.

Why would you - xx

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not be able to work from a laptop? This question comes up here frequently, but it makes no sense. A laptop is a computer, it's just shaped differently from a desktop. Why would one think a laptop could not be used for transcription? I've used laptops for years for transcription, and the planet still seems to be rotating in the same direction. So, not a problem.

the keyboard would drive me nuts - the mouse too

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but other than that you're right. No problems.

You know you can - xx

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use a regular keyboard and mouse with a laptop, right?

yeah I suppose you could - have never done that nm

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nm

Keyboard and mouse with a laptop - nn

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I have used my own laptop for over 10 years when doing MT and I would NEVER go back to a desktop. I have a full size keyboard, which is USB, as well as a USB mouse and have three USB slots on my computer as well as a USB "hub," which allows me four more slots to plug in anything that is USB. I love the fact that I can travel and still work. As far as having Windows 8, I have been told that if the computer is relatively new, that you might be able to have it "rolled back" to Windows 7 -- this is something that would have to be done either through Microsoft or a computer tech.

Laptop and Windows 7 - Serious MT

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First, I agree that there is no reason why an MT can't use a laptop -- but what I have been doing all this time is using a larger widescreen monitor and separate ergonomic keyboard that both sit on my desk while laptop is stored down below under my desk.

I am also in the process of completing my paperwork for a new MT employee position. I had been using Vista for the past 4 years, and when I started job hunting, I discovered that most companies now want Windows 7 (and definitely NOT Windows 8). I was able to have Dell do a custom install of Windows 7 on the new laptop I purchased, and it was done prior to being shipped to me. So far, this new setup has been working out well for me, and I don't have to get used to a new keyboard or anything since the new laptop just replaces my old one underneath my desk!

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