History and Evolution of Stenography Machines and Benefits of Touch Typing

This flashcard set covers the historical development of stenography machines from 1877 to 2015 and outlines the primary benefits of touch typing.

Miles Bartholomew

Recognized as the "father of the stenograph" and developer of the 1877/1887 Stenograph Shorthand Machine.

The Stenograph Shorthand Machine (1877/1887)

A device developed by Miles Bartholomew where keys were pressed singularly to create dots and dashes.

George Kerr Anderson

The creator of the 1889 Anderson Shorthand Typewriter.

Anderson Shorthand Typewriter (1889)

The first keyboard allowing multiple keys to be pressed at once, using English characters instead of code.

Ireland Shorthand Machine (1911)

A device developed by Universal Stenotype Company that featured a totally depressible keyboard and was 40 pounds lighter than predecessors.

Master Model Stenotype (1914)

A machine produced by Universal Stenotype weighing only six pounds; production stopped during WWII.

LaSalle Stenotype (1927)

A stenography machine featuring a two-spool ribbon system whose success was hindered by the Great Depression.

Secretarial Model

An early Stenograph model featuring an 11-inch ribbon and 100-fold paper.

Reporter Model

An early Stenograph model designed to hold 309-fold paper.

Stenograph Data Writer (1963)

A machine using organ-type switches and light contact to encode notes onto magnetic tape for computer transcription.

SmartWriter (1987)

The first machine to encode notes onto a floppy disk, marking a major industry shift.

Stentura Series (1992)

The first machines to feature an LCD screen for instantaneous translation in English or Steno.

Élan Cybra (2001)

The first totally paperless, inkless, and ribbonless stenography machine.

Élan Mira Series (2003)

A machine featuring an adjustable LCD, USB/Serial ports for realtime writing, and audisync OTG-on the goal.

Stentura Protégé Student (2005)

A machine similar to its predecessor but designed specifically for students with USB and Serial connectivity.

Stentura Fusion (2006)

A machine capable of being paper or paperless that included SD card compatibility and Audio Sync.

The Diamante (2009)

A machine that established a new standard for speed with "True Stroke" technology and dual SD cards.

The Luminex (2015)

A machine featuring high-end "True Stroke" technology, chrome-plated key levers to reduce friction, and a customizable keyboard.

True Stroke technology

Advanced technology introduced in the Diamante and Luminex models to establish high standards for speed.

Benefits of Touch Typing

Includes increased speed, improved accuracy, reduced strain/fatigue, enhanced focus/productivity, boosted confidence, and versatility.