from Frank S

Text To Speech (TTS) and Speech Recognition (SR)

If you’re already using MS Office 2003, you have both TTS and SR built in. You can’t control your computer like using Dragon Naturally Speaking ($200US), but you can dictate and format within Word. You can also use TTS in Excel.

From the Help File

1. Open Microsoft Word.

2. On the Tools menu, click Speech. You're asked if you want to install the feature. Click Yes. (Might require the Office installation CD)

3. After the installation is complete, click Next to train speech recognition. Training begins with help in adjusting your microphone.

I wasn’t aware of deskbot, but other free TTS programs include:

Natural Reader http://www.naturalreaders.com

ReadPlease http://www.readplease.com

E-Text Reader http://www.premier-programming.com/download/free_trials.htm

These are all free and work slightly differently. In most cases, the paid version adds the ability to convert the speech to an audio file, such as an MP3.

If you want more detailed reviews, let me know. Students with learning disabilities rely heavily on TTS programs to not only read their own work back to them but also to read eBooks..

Frank S

from John W

I use Ultra Hal Text-to-Speech Reader Free edition and its good for my needs.

It can be found here...

http://www.zabaware.com/reader/