Tablet PCs are mobile computers that run Windows XP Tablet PC Edition, a version of XP that features built-in handwriting recognition. The devices come in two general form factors. The pure slate design looks like an overgrown Pocket PC and doesn't have a keyboard (although all Tablet PCs can accept external USB keyboards). The convertible units are basically notebook PCs with a swiveling display that you can fold down to cover the keyboard. When the keyboard is covered or removed, you control the Tablet PC by using an electronic stylus that communicates with the display's built-in active digitizer.
The Tablet PCs in this Buyer's Guide expand on the basic form factors. Some of the listed products are as light as 2.2 pounds; others offer displays as large as 14.1" and processor speeds as fast as 1.6GHz. Tablet PC prices, however, remain somewhat higher than conventional notebook PC prices.
Both pure slate and convertible designs have advantages and disadvantages. Pure slate units are usually thinner and lighter than their convertible brethren, but propping up a pure slate Tablet PC in your lap or on an airline tray table isn't particularly convenient. The convertible form factor makes you carry the keyboard with you even when you don't need it but is easier to use on your lap or in a small space.
HP, Intermec, Motion Computing, NEC Solutions America, and Xplore Technologies make pure slate Tablet PCs; Acer makes convertibles. Fujitsu Computer Systems, Gateway, and ViewSonic make both pure slate and convertible designs, whereas HP and Motion Computing offer add-on keyboards that transform their pure slate Tablet PCs to convertibles.
06-30-2004, 09:32 AM
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