Setup - Software, Hardware, Ergonomics

Ideal Setup -- Hands-free

Note: Last updated in 2014, with addendum at bottom

Inbox (to process)

Dactyl Manuform keyboard

Voice Recognition

Dragon NaturallySpeaking 10.1 Professional -- Dictation engine with Boston accent training support

Utter Command -- Vocal control software built on Dragon, providing computer control with "structured, regular grammar" for speech input. Developed by Kim Patch, who wrote about RSI recovery experiences.

Custom Macros -- Available for upload

Logitech Premium Notebook Headset -- Recommended microphone option, though USB mics are superior

WorkRave -- Stretch break reminder software that helps overcome the challenge of breaking focus during work sessions

Footime Foot Mouse -- Alternative input device

Keyboards (Updated July 2018)

Vertical split keyboards recommended by users: "Ergodox EZ" praised as excellent despite higher cost

Notes on one-handed typing: No actual keyboard required; software layouts available

Overview

Dictation, Software, and Accessories
General Ergonomics
Ergonomic keyboards as of May 2019

Dictation, Software, and Accessories

J's Tech Stack

Dictation

Speech Recognition (Dragon Dictate on Mac)
iPhone dictation with AirPods
Wired Apple headphones with carrying cases

Prism Glasses -- For better posture while dictating; kept in three locations (car, backpack, desk)

iPad Air -- For hand breaks, used with Prism Glasses and rotating stand

Software Tools

Keyboard Maestro: Remaps caps lock to enter and backtick to backspace for one-hand typing
TextExpander: Text expansion utility
SimpleNote: "Blurbs" note for repeatedly-needed text

General Ergonomics

Position keyboard "way lower than you expect," with "top quadrant of screen at eye level." Separate keyboard should sit "just below elbow level" with negative tilt.

Create improvised standing desks while traveling.

Ergonomic Keyboards (May 2019)

Recommended Setup: Ergodox-EZ mounted vertically using rubber bands to the "Ascent Accessory for Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard." Include Tilt/Tent Kit for portability.

One-Handed Option: Use mirrored keyboard layout via software rather than purchasing one-handed hardware. Resources available at onehandkeyboard.org.

Jacob's Ergodox Layouts:

Version 0.3.5 (May 20, 2019) -- Includes left-hand one-handed features
Version 0.2.7 -- Previous iteration

Additional Equipment:

Gooseneck microphone ($17) for easier mobility during work
Evoluent VerticalMouse 4 -- Ergonomic mouse option

Learning Strategy: Print layouts and post on wall, or use Chrome's "Create shortcut" feature to display layouts as separate application windows for easy reference via cmd+tab.