What is the most handy way to type Chinese characters (Debian)?

sirabhorn · 04-24-2014, 11:45 PM

What program do you recommend for typing Chinese [pinyin input method*] when using Debian?

Naturally, I prefer an application which is easy to install and handy to use.

*) the most common input method of Chinese characters - write a word in pinyin [romanization of Chinese] and select between alternative characters by pressing a number

jdkaye · 04-25-2014, 12:26 AM

I'd say that scim-pinyin is what you're looking for.

Quote:

Description: smart pinyin IM engine for SCIM platform
SCIM (Smart Common Input Method) is an input method (IM) platform.

This package provides smart pinyin IM engine for SCIM. It includes the plugin modules and the data
files. With this module you can use the smart pinyin input method for Chinese.

For details about SCIM, please see the description of package scim.
Homepage: http://www.scim-im.org/

jdk

syg00 · 04-25-2014, 01:03 AM

Years ago when I looked on Ubuntu SCIM was the answer, but I'd be surprised if ibus-pinyin isn't preferred these days.
But I don't use Debian (or any of its direct derivatives).

jdkaye · 04-25-2014, 02:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by syg00

Years ago when I looked on Ubuntu SCIM was the answer, but I'd be surprised if ibus-pinyin isn't preferred these days.
But I don't use Debian (or any of its direct derivatives).

ibus-pinyin is also available from the Debian repositories:

Code:

~$ aptitude search ibus-pinyin
p   ibus-pinyin                               - Pinyin engine for IBus                              
p   ibus-pinyin:i386                          - Pinyin engine for IBus

jdk

DavidMcCann · 04-25-2014, 11:10 AM

Don't forget to install and run the input-method chooser and switch from gtk to ibus. You'll also need to set the language options in LibreOffice to enable Asian-language support.

jefro · 04-25-2014, 02:40 PM

When I lived in Japan, they had a typewriter that had some 50,000 characters. It was something like 100 trays with various symbols. If you needed one then you'd have to change the set, type one and then go to next set. The operator couldn't type too fast but got a good workout.

Randicus Draco Albus · 04-25-2014, 10:28 PM

I have used both SCIM and Ibus. I think Ibus is better, but to each their own. Both are in Debian's repositories and both have several Chinese input methods. Not only Beijings's Mandarin-based pinyin system. Have fun.