The Tablet PC

What is a Tablet PC?

More user-friendly and efficient than the PDA, the Tablet PC is part of the category of Ultraportable computers. Its touch screen using the handwriting recognition or oral, and incorporates or not
physical keyboard. The Tablet PC comes in two models: convertible (similar to laptop) and "slate" (a form of tactile slate without a keyboard).

A Tablet PC: for whom and for what purpose?

Initially, the Tablet PC is a compromise ergonomically designed for public mobile businessmen, travelers. Through its performance close to the PC, it is a practical platform for people who do not work on keyboard (e.g. doctors). A few features about it shares the same office (software) and techniques (wifi, bluetooth) that a traditional PC.

Tablet "slate"

The slate (slate) is a lightweight laptop with no physical keyboard. Simple to use, not bulky, it is less versatile than the convertible (no drive), but should
ideal for mobile professionals.

Convertible Tablet PC

Closest to the traditional PC, the convertible model, aiming at a wider audience. Its characteristics: physical keyboard, touch screen pivoting or sliding. Peripherals (CD / DVD, ports, software, internet). It is therefore a versatile platform.

The price

Argument: the price of the Tablet PC varies between 500 and 4000 Euros (Panasonic CF-19). The purchase of a Tablet PC is primarily dictated by specific conditions of use.

Criteria for choosing its Tablet PC

• Test the keyboard and touch screen: the use of a keyboard and a touch screen can be tedious. It is therefore essential before any purchase, be familiar with these two modes of writing. Do not forget that the Tablets offer reduced size keyboards.
• Size of the touch screen and writing: two elements for ease of use. The screens vary between 10 and 12 inches. The best way is to "simulate" a work situation before buying. Test the screen and the pen to enjoy the comfort of writing.
• Shock resistance. A criterion of choice for mobile users exposed to shocks. Learn about the resistance of components and protections available for your Tablet PC.
• Performances: office (software), network connection (WiFi, Bluetooth) and ports equivalent to a conventional PC. 256 Mb of RAM is a minimum for general use. The storage capacity ranges from 10 to 100 Go Finally, the weight is a variable to take into account: one to four kilos for current models.

New generation of Tablet PC

The new Tablet PC integrates technologies like Wimax (connection mobile broadband) to Nokia. There are also ultra -resistant model (but are expensive) as the Panasonic Toughbook.