Electronic translators

[slyry75]

Do you guys have any opinions on the best electronic translators (English/Spanish bi-directional)?

I was looking at the Ectaco models:

http://www.ectaco.com/main.jsp?do=pr...ln=18&go=Go%21

I'd like to know if anyone prefers another brand.

[Cap'n Jib]

We have used the "the Ectaco models" with good results. I have told this story else where. The VERY FIRST time I used it in 'action' was at a restaurant party and her 3 year old daughter appeared to be very tired. I asked here if her daughter took ‘naps’ using the Ectaco to translate the word ‘naps’.

Unfortunately, I did NOT look at the translation before giving the translator to my gal. ‘Naps’ according to Ectaco transliterates as “traficante de drogas”. S. made the sign of the cross rapidly twice and vehemently said “NO!”

We seldom use it now after 10 months. We know it works to a point. We just never know WHICH point. I would buy one again.

[Charlie640]

Try to get one that has a lighted screen. That is one thing I hate about my Franklin. Also... try to figure out if you need an "electronic dictionary" for specific words only or a full blown translator... there is a BIG price difference. ALSO.. look at the size. Some of those Ectacos are HUGE! Not something you want to whip outr of your pocket without making a spectacle of yourself.

I use this one...
http://www.franklin.com/estore/dictionary/DBE-1470/
but it is a dictionary only... with NO backlight. BUt I like it because it is VERY small.. and light and fits nicely in my hand.

[Tim413]

The translator that Charlie uses is what my wife and I have. This translator has helped us many time.

We first learned how to communicate by writing our thoughts on paper and translating with this translator. Great memories!!!!!!!!

Tim

[slyry75]

Thanks Tim. Yeah, I used one when I went to Russia a few years ago. I suppose like the Russian language translators, the Spanish ones work well enough to get basic ideas across. I think an electronic translator is a must have if you don't speak the language fluently. I hope everything is going well with your marriage Tim. Maybe you could post a comment on the thread in the general topics section debating on whether the institution of marriage is dead? I'm trying to keep faith in being able to find my life long soulmate. It would be nice to hear the experiences of someone in a happy, successful marriage.

[Charlie640]

Actually.. this topic has inspired me to look at different options.
I use a Palm Treo 650 phone,,,,and always found myself carrying it and my translator around. Yesterday I found a myriad of software programs for the Palm OS... some VERY VERY powerfull. One is put out by Ectaco.. so I am sure it is good. I am going to download some demos at check them out. I thin it also can interface with my email program in my phone... so it should be neat to tap on a word and get an instant translation.

[Cap'n Jib]

I have also down loaded the Ectaco to my Palm. Works fine!

[slyry75]

I found the Ectaco Talking Electronic Dictionary ES400TX Bidirectional Spanish/English on Amazon for $100. It seems like a good price. I think I might have to buy it.