A digital memo recorder is a portable audio device that records and stores voice messages internally. These devices are useful for recording personal notes and reminders such as driving directions, appointment times, or grocery lists. The size, storage capacity, and features of a digital memo recorder vary widely by model. Basic models are typically small in size but have limited capabilities. More advanced recorders are usually larger, but can store significant amounts of voice data and often feature computer connectivity.
In order to find a suitable recorder, the buyer should consider the ways in which he plans to use his device. If he wishes to simply make brief notes of disposable data, he may find that a basic digital memo recorder suits his needs. Should he want to record for longer periods and also to have permanent data storage options, he might consider upgrading to a more advanced model.
The most basic digital memo recorder can store around ten to 30 seconds of data. Typically these pocket-sized recorders consist of just a record and playback button and a small speaker, housed in a plastic casing. Often they feature a clip which allows them to be attached to a key chain or wallet. While this small size offers the convenience of portability, its limited internal storage capacity means that it can hold only brief messages that are frequently of poor audio quality. In most cases, a basic recorder cannot be connected to a computer, and thus its memos cannot be transferred to a permanent storage place.
There are many options available for those who seek a digital memo recorder with more advanced capabilities. While these recorders are usually larger in size than basic models, they generally have far greater storage capacities. Advanced models can hold anywhere from ten minutes to hundreds of hours of voice data. In addition, they often allow the user to manually select a quality setting. Typically these devices can store far more material recorded at a low-quality setting than at a high-quality setting.
Often an advanced digital memo recorder can be connected to a computer via USB (universal serial bus). This feature allows the user to transfer recordings from his device to a hard drive or other storage system, thus saving the data after it has been deleted from the recorder. Many recorders are also compatible with transcription software programs. With these programs, the user can easily transform his digital audio recordings into text documents.