The CaseViewNet (CVNet) APP is
in development and close to being released.
Stenograph has also reduced the software license for CVNet from $595 to
$295 so entry into the wireless realtime market for reporters is more
affordable. Additionally, STAR member receive
a discount. If you have upgraded to
e-key, the license is now tied to the e-key and not the computer. Now I’m getting really excited.
Years ago when Stenograph first offered CVNet, a
software license came with a Linksys or Cradlepoint WiFi router. This allowed you to send realtime wirelessly
in a secured, controlled WiFi environment.
The biggest benefit to offering CVNet wirelessly versus a serial
connection is that it gave you RapidRefresh.
For example, say you’ve been writing for a half hour and you finally get
a spelling for something that happened on Page 5. Make the correction in CaseCatalyst and counsel will get the benefit
of that change on his computer. Another
benefit is if counsel arrives to the deposition late, he can hook up and
receive the entire transcript as soon as he makes a connection. In addition, you are no longer reliant on an Internet
connection at counsel’s office and you have no unsightly wires crisscrossing
the table like you would with traditional serial connections. Carrying the router is additional equipment
but at least you know you’ll always be able to make a CVNet connection. Plus it’s simple and easy to use.
Of course, if a law firm has
WiFi/network that you can log onto, you have the same functionality as
mentioned above.
As time has passed, advancements have been made in wireless
technology. We can now connect to
counsel using Connectify. When using
Connectify, your computer is now a virtual router or “hotspot.” No more carrying around the router. You need Windows 7 and a specific WiFi card
chipset in your computer to make it work.
To find out if you have it or not, download the FREE version of
Connectify and give it a try. If you
don’t have it, a simple purchase of an Intellinet® Wireless 150N USB mini adapter is needed.
But what about Internet access? If I am using a router, Cradlepoint or
Connectify, do I automatically have access to the Internet? The answer is no! In order to have access to the Internet, you
need an Internet source. If you are in a
location that has an Ethernet cable and you are allowed to plug the Ethernet
cable into your router or Cradlepoint or even your
computer, you and your clients have access to the Internet.
Another solution is MiFi a/k/a “My WiFi.” MiFi is a personal network that gives you
access to the Internet and allows you to share it with other people. It’s about the size of a credit card that
combines functions of a modem, router, and access point. The MiFi is sold with a monthly service
contract from your telephone provider.
Why use MiFi?
Say that you’re at a client’s office and they don’t have Internet access.
Hook up
your MiFi. How is this secure? As with the Linksys and Cradlepoint routers,
you need to name your MiFi network and create a password. Only those with your password have access to
your MiFi. By sharing the connection,
you are giving counsel access to the Internet and making it possible for them
to connect with CVNet.
STAR is going to have a
seminar on this technology at its October 4-6 convention in New Orleans. Learn more about CaseCatalyst and court reporter
technology/marketing and earn CEU credits at the same time.
Special thanks to Vickie Main
from Stenograph for her patience with me in explaining this technology.
By Linda S. Fifield, Doris O. Wong Associates
Published in StarDotStar, Vol. 17, No.2 Spring 2012 edition
