Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Yes, a 64-bit computer can most often run 32-bit software. Where you run into the problem is you may have an older scanner or printer which won't work in the 64-bit computer, so you need to check the manufacturer's site to make sure you can download a 64-bit driver. Also, if you consider a 64-bit Vista machine, you will need to update Jaws to verswion 10 as that is the first version which supports 64-bit operating systems. As for not supporting Office 2003, that may be true. But, depending on your needs, that might be largely irrelevant. There are still a helluva lot of people out there using Office 2000 and even some using Office 97 software. Steve - Original Message - From: Jean Menzies jemenz...@shaw.ca To: jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 8:53 PM Subject: Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Thank you all for your very hehlpful replies re a laptop and Windows 7. I'll know later this week what the school uses, and that will determine what I will look for. One reason why I think I have to give up my much-loved Word-2003 is that Microsoft has or is soon stopping support for it as they move forward. I don't want to be a dinosaur. . So, what about 64-bit versus 32-bit? I know Jaws now supports 64-bit. Can a 64-bit PC or laptop run 32-bit software, or is that how it works? Not sure about that stuff either. - Original Message - From: Steve k...@sbcglobal.net To: jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 6:45 PM Subject: Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Jean, Well, first, any laptop will work. It's a good idea to consider several things when looking for a laptop. Since keyboard layouts vary in terms of where certain less-used keys like backslash, the applications key, insert, end, pgup and pgdn, if they are present are located, it is good if you look at a model you are considering buying first. You can always shop for it on the internet if you are comfortable with its keyboard layout. If you are considering a netbook, which is an underpowered laptop, there are a couple that don't have dedicated function keys. Second, consider the size of the laptop display. Those with 13 inch displays are lighter to carry around. Those with 17-inch displays often have a full keyboard including separate numpad. Third, if you look around on the internet, you can find laptops with Vista or probably even XP Professional. But, if your choice is between Vista and Windows 7, go with Win 7. It is more efficient, more responsive, and just a better operating system than Vista. Fourth, MsOffice 2003 will work with Windows 7 computers. You don't have to upgrade to Office 2007 unless the school requires it. Steve Lansing, MI - Original Message - From: Jean Menzies jemenz...@shaw.ca To: Jaws Users List jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 5:10 PM Subject: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Hello all, I don't have time to read many messages, so apologize if this has been covered or is of common knowledge. I am in the market for a laptop computer. I've never owned a laptop and don't know what to look for or avoid as a blind user. I will have to upgrade Jaws as I'm back on version 8. I'm thinking that most laptops now are sold with Windows 2007 operating system. How does Jaws work with that? Of course, it would be whatever current version Jaws is at, version 11 I think. Also, I would then have to make the leap to Office 2007 from Office 2003. I may have to use Office 2007 including PowerPoint, Excel, IE, and Word in school next fall. I'll know that for sure later this week, but I would expect that they will not be using my favourite 2003 stuff. Anyway, any pointers on upgrading would be appreciated. Thanks. Jean Hear no evil speak no evil and you'll never be invited to a party. --Oscar Wilde For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4980 (20100328) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Thanks for the info. I wish I could keep up with all of this. - Original Message - From: Steve k...@sbcglobal.net To: jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Monday, March 29, 2010 6:36 AM Subject: Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Yes, a 64-bit computer can most often run 32-bit software. Where you run into the problem is you may have an older scanner or printer which won't work in the 64-bit computer, so you need to check the manufacturer's site to make sure you can download a 64-bit driver. Also, if you consider a 64-bit Vista machine, you will need to update Jaws to verswion 10 as that is the first version which supports 64-bit operating systems. As for not supporting Office 2003, that may be true. But, depending on your needs, that might be largely irrelevant. There are still a helluva lot of people out there using Office 2000 and even some using Office 97 software. Steve - Original Message - From: Jean Menzies jemenz...@shaw.ca To: jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 8:53 PM Subject: Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Thank you all for your very hehlpful replies re a laptop and Windows 7. I'll know later this week what the school uses, and that will determine what I will look for. One reason why I think I have to give up my much-loved Word-2003 is that Microsoft has or is soon stopping support for it as they move forward. I don't want to be a dinosaur. . So, what about 64-bit versus 32-bit? I know Jaws now supports 64-bit. Can a 64-bit PC or laptop run 32-bit software, or is that how it works? Not sure about that stuff either. - Original Message - From: Steve k...@sbcglobal.net To: jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 6:45 PM Subject: Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Jean, Well, first, any laptop will work. It's a good idea to consider several things when looking for a laptop. Since keyboard layouts vary in terms of where certain less-used keys like backslash, the applications key, insert, end, pgup and pgdn, if they are present are located, it is good if you look at a model you are considering buying first. You can always shop for it on the internet if you are comfortable with its keyboard layout. If you are considering a netbook, which is an underpowered laptop, there are a couple that don't have dedicated function keys. Second, consider the size of the laptop display. Those with 13 inch displays are lighter to carry around. Those with 17-inch displays often have a full keyboard including separate numpad. Third, if you look around on the internet, you can find laptops with Vista or probably even XP Professional. But, if your choice is between Vista and Windows 7, go with Win 7. It is more efficient, more responsive, and just a better operating system than Vista. Fourth, MsOffice 2003 will work with Windows 7 computers. You don't have to upgrade to Office 2007 unless the school requires it. Steve Lansing, MI - Original Message - From: Jean Menzies jemenz...@shaw.ca To: Jaws Users List jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 5:10 PM Subject: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Hello all, I don't have time to read many messages, so apologize if this has been covered or is of common knowledge. I am in the market for a laptop computer. I've never owned a laptop and don't know what to look for or avoid as a blind user. I will have to upgrade Jaws as I'm back on version 8. I'm thinking that most laptops now are sold with Windows 2007 operating system. How does Jaws work with that? Of course, it would be whatever current version Jaws is at, version 11 I think. Also, I would then have to make the leap to Office 2007 from Office 2003. I may have to use Office 2007 including PowerPoint, Excel, IE, and Word in school next fall. I'll know that for sure later this week, but I would expect that they will not be using my favourite 2003 stuff. Anyway, any pointers on upgrading would be appreciated. Thanks. Jean Hear no evil speak no evil and you'll never be invited to a party. --Oscar Wilde For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4980 (20100328) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4983 (20100329) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http
[JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Hello all, I don't have time to read many messages, so apologize if this has been covered or is of common knowledge. I am in the market for a laptop computer. I've never owned a laptop and don't know what to look for or avoid as a blind user. I will have to upgrade Jaws as I'm back on version 8. I'm thinking that most laptops now are sold with Windows 2007 operating system. How does Jaws work with that? Of course, it would be whatever current version Jaws is at, version 11 I think. Also, I would then have to make the leap to Office 2007 from Office 2003. I may have to use Office 2007 including PowerPoint, Excel, IE, and Word in school next fall. I'll know that for sure later this week, but I would expect that they will not be using my favourite 2003 stuff. Anyway, any pointers on upgrading would be appreciated. Thanks. Jean Hear no evil speak no evil and you'll never be invited to a party. --Oscar Wilde For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Yes, most laptops have office 2007 on a windows seven platform. However, you can still get XP professional if you choose. However, I think you have to order those online or go to a store who builds computers in to get an xp package. I personally would stay away from Dell laptops. Speaking from experience, my school had to replace my hardrive 3 times in a year. My friend had his replaced so many times that they just gave him a new dell for free! Heather For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Good afternoon. I've got several for you, as I am a single mom, and full-time student who has recently been in your shoes. First, you are correct, Windows 7 is pretty much the standard, and while there may be a small learning curve, particularly if you're still comfy with XP, it works magnificently. There are new features that make it much more intuitive, and faster. Secondly, a spacious keyboard is a must. Touch them before buying. Make sure your hands are comfortable and have room to breathe so to speak. Some laptops have this tiny little mouse thingy right in the center of the keyboard,usually around the g and h keys. I have found this to be a terrible thing indeed, because one bumps it inadvertently, and it tends to wreak much havoc on my work, I mean one's work. Office 2007 will soon be replaced by office 2010, and while different, is, like Windows 7, intuitive, and learnable if you give yourself the patience and time to do it without pressure. The biggest thing I can say is that if you're starting school in the fall, give yourself a good 6 weeks to play with the laptop before school starts. That way, by the time you have your first class, you and your laptop are already best friends. I would be glad to answer any spacific questions you may have, on or off list, so please feel free to write. Warmly, Melissa -Original Message- From: jaws-users-list-boun...@jaws-users.com [mailto:jaws-users-list-boun...@jaws-users.com] On Behalf Of Jean Menzies Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 4:11 PM To: Jaws Users List Subject: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Hello all, I don't have time to read many messages, so apologize if this has been covered or is of common knowledge. I am in the market for a laptop computer. I've never owned a laptop and don't know what to look for or avoid as a blind user. I will have to upgrade Jaws as I'm back on version 8. I'm thinking that most laptops now are sold with Windows 2007 operating system. How does Jaws work with that? Of course, it would be whatever current version Jaws is at, version 11 I think. Also, I would then have to make the leap to Office 2007 from Office 2003. I may have to use Office 2007 including PowerPoint, Excel, IE, and Word in school next fall. I'll know that for sure later this week, but I would expect that they will not be using my favourite 2003 stuff. Anyway, any pointers on upgrading would be appreciated. Thanks. Jean Hear no evil speak no evil and you'll never be invited to a party. --Oscar Wilde For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Hi Jean; I recently purchased a Linovo laptop from Tiger Direct that came with XP Pro installed and Windows7 as an alternate operating system. It is an excellent machine. It came with a full number pad, a 15.6 inch wide screen, 3 gig of RAM, built in web cam, and other features that I can't think of off the top of my head. This machine was purchased for my wife so I don't mess with it very much. Tiger Direct's information is below. http://TigerDirect.com Phone; 1-800-800-8300 Hope this helps. Take care. Mike, It's tax time! Remember folks, if you add, IRS to the word, the, you get T H E I R S . That spells THEIRS! - Original Message - From: Jean Menzies To: Jaws Users List Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 2:10 PM Subject: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Hello all, I don't have time to read many messages, so apologize if this has been covered or is of common knowledge. I am in the market for a laptop computer. I've never owned a laptop and don't know what to look for or avoid as a blind user. I will have to upgrade Jaws as I'm back on version 8. I'm thinking that most laptops now are sold with Windows 2007 operating system. How does Jaws work with that? Of course, it would be whatever current version Jaws is at, version 11 I think. Also, I would then have to make the leap to Office 2007 from Office 2003. I may have to use Office 2007 including PowerPoint, Excel, IE, and Word in school next fall. I'll know that for sure later this week, but I would expect that they will not be using my favourite 2003 stuff. Anyway, any pointers on upgrading would be appreciated. Thanks. Jean Hear no evil speak no evil and you'll never be invited to a party. --Oscar Wilde For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Jean, Well, first, any laptop will work. It's a good idea to consider several things when looking for a laptop. Since keyboard layouts vary in terms of where certain less-used keys like backslash, the applications key, insert, end, pgup and pgdn, if they are present are located, it is good if you look at a model you are considering buying first. You can always shop for it on the internet if you are comfortable with its keyboard layout. If you are considering a netbook, which is an underpowered laptop, there are a couple that don't have dedicated function keys. Second, consider the size of the laptop display. Those with 13 inch displays are lighter to carry around. Those with 17-inch displays often have a full keyboard including separate numpad. Third, if you look around on the internet, you can find laptops with Vista or probably even XP Professional. But, if your choice is between Vista and Windows 7, go with Win 7. It is more efficient, more responsive, and just a better operating system than Vista. Fourth, MsOffice 2003 will work with Windows 7 computers. You don't have to upgrade to Office 2007 unless the school requires it. Steve Lansing, MI - Original Message - From: Jean Menzies jemenz...@shaw.ca To: Jaws Users List jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 5:10 PM Subject: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Hello all, I don't have time to read many messages, so apologize if this has been covered or is of common knowledge. I am in the market for a laptop computer. I've never owned a laptop and don't know what to look for or avoid as a blind user. I will have to upgrade Jaws as I'm back on version 8. I'm thinking that most laptops now are sold with Windows 2007 operating system. How does Jaws work with that? Of course, it would be whatever current version Jaws is at, version 11 I think. Also, I would then have to make the leap to Office 2007 from Office 2003. I may have to use Office 2007 including PowerPoint, Excel, IE, and Word in school next fall. I'll know that for sure later this week, but I would expect that they will not be using my favourite 2003 stuff. Anyway, any pointers on upgrading would be appreciated. Thanks. Jean Hear no evil speak no evil and you'll never be invited to a party. --Oscar Wilde For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Dells are quite reliable. The problem with laptops is they aren't as rugged, and yes, there could have been a lemon. But, Dell has consistently ranked above-average and their customer service used to be first-rate. A few years ago, my wife broke the snap on her laptop screen, they had a tech out the next day to replace it. - Original Message - From: sister Heather Albright kd5...@gmail.com To: jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 5:41 PM Subject: Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Yes, most laptops have office 2007 on a windows seven platform. However, you can still get XP professional if you choose. However, I think you have to order those online or go to a store who builds computers in to get an xp package. I personally would stay away from Dell laptops. Speaking from experience, my school had to replace my hardrive 3 times in a year. My friend had his replaced so many times that they just gave him a new dell for free! Heather For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS
Thank you all for your very hehlpful replies re a laptop and Windows 7. I'll know later this week what the school uses, and that will determine what I will look for. One reason why I think I have to give up my much-loved Word-2003 is that Microsoft has or is soon stopping support for it as they move forward. I don't want to be a dinosaur. . So, what about 64-bit versus 32-bit? I know Jaws now supports 64-bit. Can a 64-bit PC or laptop run 32-bit software, or is that how it works? Not sure about that stuff either. - Original Message - From: Steve k...@sbcglobal.net To: jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 6:45 PM Subject: Re: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Jean, Well, first, any laptop will work. It's a good idea to consider several things when looking for a laptop. Since keyboard layouts vary in terms of where certain less-used keys like backslash, the applications key, insert, end, pgup and pgdn, if they are present are located, it is good if you look at a model you are considering buying first. You can always shop for it on the internet if you are comfortable with its keyboard layout. If you are considering a netbook, which is an underpowered laptop, there are a couple that don't have dedicated function keys. Second, consider the size of the laptop display. Those with 13 inch displays are lighter to carry around. Those with 17-inch displays often have a full keyboard including separate numpad. Third, if you look around on the internet, you can find laptops with Vista or probably even XP Professional. But, if your choice is between Vista and Windows 7, go with Win 7. It is more efficient, more responsive, and just a better operating system than Vista. Fourth, MsOffice 2003 will work with Windows 7 computers. You don't have to upgrade to Office 2007 unless the school requires it. Steve Lansing, MI - Original Message - From: Jean Menzies jemenz...@shaw.ca To: Jaws Users List jaws-users-list@jaws-users.com Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 5:10 PM Subject: [JAWS-Users] laptops and OS Hello all, I don't have time to read many messages, so apologize if this has been covered or is of common knowledge. I am in the market for a laptop computer. I've never owned a laptop and don't know what to look for or avoid as a blind user. I will have to upgrade Jaws as I'm back on version 8. I'm thinking that most laptops now are sold with Windows 2007 operating system. How does Jaws work with that? Of course, it would be whatever current version Jaws is at, version 11 I think. Also, I would then have to make the leap to Office 2007 from Office 2003. I may have to use Office 2007 including PowerPoint, Excel, IE, and Word in school next fall. I'll know that for sure later this week, but I would expect that they will not be using my favourite 2003 stuff. Anyway, any pointers on upgrading would be appreciated. Thanks. Jean Hear no evil speak no evil and you'll never be invited to a party. --Oscar Wilde For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/ __ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4980 (20100328) __ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com For answers to frequently asked questions about this list visit: http://www.jaws-users.com/help/
