vPedal Plug-In for RealPlayer

The vPedal Plug-In for RealPlayer is a specialized, free software add-on created by vPedal that allows users to control audio and video playback using a physical foot pedal. It is primarily used by transcriptionists, captioners, and researchers to control media hands-free while typing out dictated audio or video recordings. Core Features & Functionality

Broad Media Control: It allows your foot pedal to play, pause, rewind, and fast-forward any file type supported by RealPlayer, including MP3s, streaming media, CDs, and proprietary RealAudio/RealVideo formats.

Background Execution: Unlike hardware-programmable pedals that only function when the media application window is active, this plugin lets you control RealPlayer even when it does not have focus (e.g., while you are typing away in Microsoft Word).

“Release Back” (Auto-Backspace): Users can configure an automatic rewind feature. When you lift your foot to pause the audio and step on it again to resume, the plugin automatically jumps back a few seconds (usually customizable between 1 to 3 seconds) so you don’t miss a word. Hardware Compatibility & Technical Requirements

Pedal Requirements: The plug-in explicitly requires USB or Game Port vPedal devices. It does not support older serial port connections.

Conflict Warning: The developer notes that you should only have one joystick/game controller device active on your PC (such as the Galy USB joystick interface). Having multiple joysticks or gaming peripherals plugged in simultaneously can confuse the software and break communication.

RealPlayer Version: It was heavily integrated with legacy editions like RealPlayer 10 / RealOne Player, though the standalone installers can still be found on the vPedal RealPlayer Hub. Installation & Windows Support Realplayer Install – vPedal.com