How to Purchase a Professional Steno Machine
\n\nCongratulations! You’re about to complete your court reporting program and you can’t wait to put all that education to good use – and finally make a paycheck!\n\nAs a student, we understand that you’ve already made some financial sacrifices in order to complete a court reporting program and may be thinking now is not the best time to put more money into your career – especially when steno writers and software (or shall we say – the writers and software that you’ll want in order to be successful) don’t come cheap. A student writer may have been just fine during your education, but your future success depends on having the proper equipment that will make you competitive, successful and satisfied for many years to come. \n\n
What You Need to Know
\n\nWhen entering the real world of professional court reporting, you will be required to have a computer, transcription software, such as CAT Software, and a professional steno machine such as the Diamante. It is my goal in writing this blog to give you the information necessary to make an educated decision about your steno machine purchase and avoid some of the common buying mistakes I have seen people make time and time again. \n\nPerhaps you’ve already begun your search for a steno machine. In that case, may have noticed that there are a wide range of price points from high quality new machines to vintage-looking used writers. Whether you decide to go with a new or used steno machine, I encourage you to read this Used Steno Writers Guide before purchasing a professional steno writer – it might save you some money and a lot of mystery in the long run. \n\nOne thing we didn’t mention in our Used Steno Writers Guide is what to look for when purchasing CAT Software, such as Case Catalyst. For the best value, we recommend purchasing the software package for a one-time fee and using it for as long as you can. Other options allow you to purchase software on a subscription basis for several hundred dollars per year. While this may be less cost upfront, you’ll end up paying a fee every year regardless of whether the software is upgraded or not.\n\nWhen it comes to purchasing a steno machine, a used writer may be a great option for those on a budget – as long as it passes certain requirements. Below are some questions to ask the seller of a used writer before purchasing. If the seller isn’t able to answer these questions, run! You don’t want to put one of the biggest investments of your career in the hands of someone who doesn’t know the product inside and out. \n
- \n\n
- What is the warranty?
- What is the rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
- If the machine is purchased brand new, is there an incentive program for trade-in?
- Did the buyer purchase this machine new or used?
- Are the maintenance records available?
- Was this machine “factory refurbished?”
\n\n
\n\n
\n\n
\n\n
\n\n
\n\n
\n\n\nLike everything else in life, you get what you pay for. View your investment in professional stenographer equipment as an investment in your future. The more prepared you are with a properly refurbished model and the latest software, the more satisfied your clients will be and the more jobs you will land as a result.\n\n
Used Professional Steno Machines 1-800-323-4247
\nIf you’d like to speak with an expert from Stenograph, the industry leader in court reporting technology and supplies, please reach out at 1-800-323-4247 or fill our our online form to request more information. We are happy to answer your questions regarding financial options and recommendations before taking the next step in your court reporting career!\n\n
You May Also Be Interested In…
\nWhat to Consider Before Buying a Used Steno Machine\nNew vs. Used Steno Writers\nCAT Software for Court Reporters and Students \nTypes of Companies Looking for Court Reporters or Real-Time Captioners \n