Nowadays, CAT tools are (nearly) compulsory for translators. Within our translation master’s, SDL Trados Studio has long been in use.
The recommended Windows version for Trados is Windows 10 or Windows 11, although it also works on Windows 7 and 8.1. However valuable and comfy Linux can be, Trados doesn’t work on that System Operator. If you really are a Linux fanatic, you can pick one of the several CAT tools that work on Linux.
However, the specifications that follow are for Trados users who look forward to having the best experience on their computer when translating.
A Solid State Drive (SSD)
Time is precious: that is the reason why you should prioritise having an SSD more than any other specific component in your laptop or desktop.
First, why are SSDs better to boot Windows? Because SSDs are the fastest in storing and accessing DATA. In other words, your computer will start faster: 30 seconds would be the maximum it takes.
Secondly, Trados (or any CAT tool you might use) must also be installed on your SSD. When you open a Translation Memory (TM), the computer needs to access and load it. Making a precise assessment of the time you will save is hard, as many other settings are involved. But there is absolutely no doubt: having a Hard Drive (HD) do the same task will require much more time.
Thirdly, any other operation performed by your computer will be quicker, from using your web browser to loading or transferring any kind of file, and using your favourite software. Easy peasy.
An internal or external Hard Drive
While it is easy to find affordable SSDs with more than decent amounts of storage (up to 1 TO), it is a good idea to own an HD. They are more resistant and last longer, so they are still the best option to keep a backup of your personal and professional documents.
Picking an external HD will also allow you to transfer many large files at once if your USB key isn’t sufficient.
A big monitor or two regular ones
Whether you choose to pick a single monitor, its size should rather be above 27″ (in that case, the 2560 × 1440 resolution is a must). Having two regular screens (at least 22″) is also an option (with a 1920 × 1080 resolution).
Why is it important to have two work areas?
The first area is dedicated to your CAT tool or the documents you’re working on. In other words, you need to have enough space to see the two different texts clearly at the same time.
The second area is meant for research purposes. Working as a translator also means spending a great deal of time trying to fully grasp the text’s meaning. That implies frequently searching for words and synonyms, reading a lot of definitions and striving to understand concepts.
While having a small 14″ laptop comes in handy for travelling and studying, being at ease working on a wide screen will make a true difference and help you save energy and time.
RAM
While Trados can work with 8 GB RAM, having 16 GB RAM will provide you with the best user experience.
Processor
It is important to have an efficient processor though it doesn’t have to be a high-end model. As a reference, Intel 5 or higher processors (or equivalents) will do the job. However, if you also plan to use your computer for gaming or video editing, it is recommended that you pick a more powerful processor according to your needs.
Graphic Card
While you may need one for other activities, there is no need for a graphic card whatsoever when doing translation work.
Printer
After spending a bunch of hours seeing the same text on your screen, having a paper version will probably be a relief. Indeed, reading your own translations on a physical support will help you see the mistakes you have missed on the screen.
Also, being able to scan paper versions of the documents you need to translate will provide you with more comfort.
Mouse
Several kinds of mice are available on the market and it should be easy for you to find what you want. You might want to consider buying a vertical mouse, especially if you’re having any kind of arm pain (e.g. wrist, finger or shoulder pain) from spending a lot of time on the computer or any other activity. These mice don’t require you to spin the arm to the left to match the mouse, instead, you can grab the mouse stretching the arm in a natural way.
In case you haven’t thought about it, a wireless mouse can help you gain room on your desk. On top of that, it is more convenient if you work in different places and move your equipment frequently.
Keyboard
Same goes for your keyboard: you can choose to buy a wireless one or not.
Keyboards are divided into two types: mechanical or membrane keyboards.
The mechanical keyboard’s keys require less strength to trigger and they make a little click sound that lets you know the key has been pressed correctly, allowing you to type faster and with increased comfort. Also, there is more room between keys, and that reduces the number of typos.
In a nutshell, mechanical keyboards are more expensive than membrane keyboards, but they last longer and greatly help you reduce hand and arm strain.
With all that information, you’re braced up to be the goat!
Robin Leroux M1 TSM 21-22
La Traduction de A à Z 