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Going Mobile - Picking the Right Tablet
At Comdex 2000, Bill Gates demonstrated a prototype of a Tablet PC. Seen as a major evolutionary step in PC functionality
and usability, it brought greater simplicity and mobility to the computing experience. In 2006, the next major evolution
took place - the introduction of a smaller and lighter Tablet PC or Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC). Today, Tablet PCs are used in
construction, law, sales force automation, health care, and government institutions to enable a growing mobile workforce.
With the ease and convenience of the Tablet PC, it is no surprise that many laptop users are switching to tablets to capture
the benefits of pen-based computing. For those of you who are considering making the switch, you might find some useful
tidbits of information below.
Let's start with resources. There are a couple of places to find information on Tablet PCs.
Gottabemobile has a plethora of useful information when it comes
to Tablets and other mobile devices. Especially cool - the "Ink Shows" - video reviews that cover hardware and software
related to Tablet PCs. They also have editorials, podcasts, a user community, and more. Another favorite site is
TabletPc2. Here you will find quick access to the hardware
manufacturers that provide solutions for the tablet community. There are also useful reviews and tips and tricks.
Next, let's discuss your basic options - slate, convertible, ruggedized, Wacom, or UMPC. To keep things simple - a slate is a
tablet without a keyboard, a convertible is a Tablet with a keyboard, ruggedized means the tablet can withstand some pretty
harsh conditions (4' drop to concrete, water submersion, etc.), Wacom Tablet is a display/monitor with pen-based input, and the
UMPC is a mini tablet (usually 7" screen or less). The option best for you depends on your needs
For those of you who have no need for a keyboard and have grown up with the pencil and pen, the slate is the way to go. Much
lighter and thinner, it is the electronic equivalent of the pad and pen. The smaller form factor and light weight also minimizes
arm fatigue. Plus, just add a portable keyboard if the need to type arises.
The convertible is a nice option for those accustomed to a laptop and will use a keyboard more often than the stylus. This gives
you the flexibility to use the stylus when the need arises, but work predominantly in laptop mode.
Ruggedized Tablets are a must have for any type of onsite or outdoor work - these are the choice of military, construction, and
safety professionals. Aside from the general cool factor of a Tablet PC you can drop 4' direct to concrete and submerse in water
the indoor/outdoor screen and utility of a pen make this option truly practical for outdoor work.
The Wacom Tablet is an interactive pen display that combines the advantages of an LCD monitor with the usability of tablet
technology. By using a pen directly on the screen, you work much more quickly and naturally (requires a workstation). The 21" model is
great for reviewing blueprints electronically and has been implemented by many local governments for plan check.
Finally, the smallest and lightest of the bunch, the UMPC. This niche product is truly just that - it meets very particular needs of
a road warrior or site manager who spends her time jotting down notes on documents and drawings and sending email. OK, there's the
rundown so let's get to specifics.
Over the years, I have seen, researched, tried, and even purchased some of these products and for the most part, find them all
pretty solid. This is by no means a recommendation to purchase any of these Tablets, but it gives you a head start with your own research.
Fujitsu Stylistic
HP TC4400
Toshiba
Lenovo Thinkpad X series
Xplore Technologies
Panasonic Toughbook
Cintiq
OQO Model 02
Good luck with your effort to extend your reach and mobilize. You too may find the pen is mightier than the keyboard.
Richard
Bluebeam CEO
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