Computer Input Method Using Pinyin
If you want to write a business letter, paper, email, or you want your characters in type written form for any reason, you will likely be using a Pinyin input method on your computer. These input methods are supported on both Apple and Windows computers. They require the ability to spell Pinyin and recognize the characters that you wish to use. Using these input methods can even be a rewarding way to practice recognizing certain characters and consolidating your Pinyin.
To use the Pinyin input method, you simply type in the Pinyin, using v to represent ü and numbers to represent tones one through four.
Pinyin input on a Mac
To turn on the input method for either simplified or traditional characters do the following:
Click on Apple Menu > System Preferences > International > Input Menu.
Scroll down until you reach the Simplified Chinese or the Traditional Chinese input method listing
Select Simplified Chinese and Pinyin and/or
Select Traditional Chinese and Pinyin
Now you can select the input method from your menu bar in most applications.
If you want to type the standard tone Pinyin tone marks over vowels (outside of the Pinyin Tutor!), you need to load the U.S. Extended keyboard and use these keys: option-a for tone 1, option-e for tone 2, option-v for tone 3, and option-` for tone 4.
Pinyin input on Windows
The website “Pinyin Joe” has good instructions for installing the input method for either Windows XP or Vista: