December 15, 2010
Revised December 15, 2010. Copyright
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A tablet PC is a combination of a notebook and a PDA. It is a handheld
computer, often with a touch screen, that offers the mobility of a
notebook combined with the technology of a PDA or laptop.
The first choice you’ll need to make when choosing a tablet PC is
whether you’re interested in a slate style or convertible tablet. The
most well known slate style tablet PC is the Apple iPad. Another
cutting-edge slate PC comes from Archos, who manufactures tablet PCs
that run both Android and Windows operating systems.
The other type of tablet PC is a convertible style, like the Dell
Latitude XT2. These tablet PCs look like laptops but can be swiveled
then folded to become compact. They tend to be somewhat heavier than
the slate style models.
Both types of tablet PCs have a touch screen as a standard, and the
operating systems they run have been designed to work with a stylus
instead of a keyboard. When you begin shopping for your tablet PC,
looking for these must-have options will help you narrow the field.
Size: Consider the size and weight of the tablet. To ensure easy
portability, the tablet PC should be light – less than 3 pounds – and
less than an inch thick.
Battery Life: Battery life is an important feature, especially if
you’ll be using your tablet in places where an outlet may not be
readily available. A good battery will provide 4 or more hours of life.
Input Methods: Check out the input methods available. Can you use a
digital pen, stylus, or mobile keyboard? Does the tablet have
handwriting capability so you can write and store information by
writing on the screen? Do you want a tablet with speech recognition
software?
Connections: Your tablet PC should have the latest in wireless
capability. Consider whether you want Bluetooth as a built in feature.
Audio: Check the audio systems available. The best tablets will include
headset output, microphone input, and built in speakers as well as the
capability to attach external speakers.
Convertibility: If you’re considering a convertible tablet PC, make
sure it’s easy to convert.
Additional Options
Once you’ve got the basics covered, you need to narrow down the options
you want in your perfect tablet PC. Here are some of the areas you’ll
want to cover.
Screen size: Screen sizes typically range from 8.9” on compact models
to 13.3” on others.. Bigger isn’t always better, it depends on personal
preference and intended uses.
Performance: Consider price to performance ratio. You probably don’t
need to buy the most expensive tablet PC on the market to get a quality
product that will meet your needs.
Style: You’ll have your tablet PC for a while, and will most likely use
it quite frequently. Make sure you like the way it looks and feels.
Customization and Upgrades: If you’re someone who likes the latest
technology, make sure to check into the machine’s capability for
upgrades and other customizations.
Accessories: When looking at specifications for the tablets you’re
considering, be sure to consider accessories. Tablet PC accessories are
a great way to customize your machine further and make it work for you.
Check into what it comes with and what is available separately.
Buy a Tablet PC
The Archos 10-1 Internet Tablet has a 10.1" screen, is
only .47" thick and weighs 16.9 ounces. It uses the Android operating
system and is capable of playing HD video and displaying 3D graphics.
The price starts around $300.
The Dell Latitude XT2 offers a 12.1" screen that
allows a variety of touch commands and it features a side switch eraser
function. This tiny machine runs on a Windows operating system. The
full keyboard is quite small but very easy to use. Reliable
connectivity is made possible with an LCD-based wireless antenna. The
Dell Latitude XT2 starts around $1,900.
Whether you’re just starting out with your first PDA type handheld
computer, or you’re into buying and exploring the latest technology, a
tablet PC can be a wonderful and fun tool. Keep the above-mentioned
suggestions in mind when making your purchase and you won't be
disappointed.
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