To follow is a list and description of the most popular features offered in the Professional line up of digital recorders.

PC Connectivity
Sometimes called "PC Link" refers to the connection used to upload / download data to/from the digital recorder and pc.

Available Methods
1) USB Cable: Upload/Download of data to and from recorder with a direct connection to USB Cable.

2) Cradle: Upload/Download of data via a USB Docking Station. The docking station doubles as a recharge center (battery charger) as well.   

3) Card Reader: Download of data via a media reader.  Card Readers are used frequently when a user prefers not to connect the recorder.  This method allows the user to turn in the removable media, replace it with another memory card and continue utilizing the recorder.

4) USB Direct: Upload/Download of data by direct connection of recorder. The digital recorder has USB Connector and plugs directly into the USB Port.

Recording Modes
Sometimes called "Recording Format" refers to the mode selected to capture audio. Most digital recorders allow you to choose between 2 to 4 different record modes. The most common record modes are Standard Play / SP and Long Play / LP Mode. Other examples include ST / Stereo Mode, STLP / Stereo Long Play Recording Mode (Offers a longer recording time while maintaining 2-channel recording) and HQ / High Quality Mode.

Files Folders
Many recorders utilize files and folders as a means to organize and store files on the digital recorder.  It allows for quick retrieval and storage convenience.

Voice Activation
Also Called "VOR" and "VCVA" enables hands free recording by automatically starting and pausing recording based on the level of sound present. 

Repeat Playback
Repeat Playback allows you to set a portion of an audio file to play back on a repeat basis. 

Lock Files
Feature used to prevent recording over or deleting an existing file. Feature helps prevent any chance of files being accidentally erased

Index Marks
Index Marks are used to "mark/flag" an important part of a recording. The feature allows you to locate important sound bites quickly and easily by moving to the desired mark.

Priority Levels
Refers to a feature that allows you to mark the Priority level of a recorded file as High or Normal.

Author ID and Work Type
Refers to feature that allows you to assign a "User Name" and "Work Type" to a recording. The information selected for Author ID and Work Type will be displayed in the header information of the recorded file.  This feature is sometimes called "Setting Job Data".

Programmable Buttons
Feature that allows you to assign a function or shortcut to a button on the recorder.

Combine and Split Files
Refers to feature that enables you to split a recording into to two separate files or combine two recordings for easier access.

Operation
There are two options for operation "Push Buttons" or "Thumb Slide Switch".  This is basically a preference issue but individuals that use their recorders frequently will find the "Slide Switch" is easier and faster to use.

Playback Speed Control
Also called "Digital Pitch Control" allows you to adjust the playback speed of a recording.  

HI/LO Microphone Sensitivity
Refers to feature that allows you to adjust the microphone sensitivity. Many recorders offer two microphone settings "Dictation" (LO) which is used to narrow focus or "Conference" (HI) which has a broader pattern to pick up more sounds. 

Built in Microphone
There are two types of built-in microphones Mono and Stereo.  A Stereo microphone can be beneficial in conference setting where you need to pick up a range of sounds. However it is not necessary for basic dictation.

Player/Editor Software
Refers to the software packaged with the digital recorder that enables you to manage audio files on the pc. Software features vary, however they are generally designed to help save, edit, play, and transcribe the downloaded audio files.  Depending on the Vendor, the application may be integrated with other programs to enhance productivity.