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The First 5 Things You'll Want to Know About Tablet Computers

The First 5 Things You'll Want to Know About Tablet Computers

If you're new here, or to Tablet PC's, there's a few things you should know. A few bits of information we should get out of the way first...

1. The Tablet I use is a PC, Not a Mac
Everything but the iPad is Windows based. Mac's tablet the iPad is more like a giant iPod Touch, it wasn't designed to have a stylus/pen input, but there are several apps for that now, but you can either type (using the virtual keyboard) or use your finger to write. Also, the only way you can get anything on the computer is through email, there are no input ports, but i understand on the iPad 3 that might have changed. But don't dispare, this is only the third version of the Mac tablet, and only the first since Steve Jobs passed, so there's bound to be a bit of a shake down cruise since he's gone, and they'll probably come out with one that has a few more input choices. In the mean time, there is an after market/third party 'upgrade' you can get that will turn a MacBookPro into a tablet computer, but I'm not sure of the cost. (If you're interested in that, leave a message here, or better yet email me at tmoodyca@roadrunner.com and I'll hook you up with people in the know about such things), i will tell you that from what i have seen it partitions the harddrive so that you can run both Mac & Windows. So you'd still be running Windows programs just on a Mac machine.

2. What Kind of Tablet is Right for Me?
There's two different types of Tablet PC's. A slate tablet, and a convertible. The slate does NOT come with a keyboard but is usually lighter in weight, but a bit more expensive. The convertible allows the screen to swivel all the way around and lay flat on top of the keyboard. These are a bit heavier (although not by an enormous amount), but they cost less. Poke about in this blog to find some of the manufactures of both types of computer, or contact me via email at the above address.

3. Using Tablet PC's On-Set
Every Tablet PC comes with the program - Windows Journal, Journal Note Writer, or something like that, in it. The name varies, but it's exactly the same program & Script Supervisor's can use this program to take their notes AND line their pages. It does NOT turn your handwriting into text. You can enter text in this program, it just takes a few more menu scrolls and pen clicks, but it can be done. You'll have to decide if it's worth the effort. Other programs I know Script Supers to use are Excel, Filemaker Pro, Access, Adobe Acrobat, & Bluebeam Revu (more about those last two in section 4.)

4. PDF Readers & Printers
You may not know what it is, but you're going to need it. It's a program (or programs) that will allow you to read and print your pages and forms into PDF. PDF is a universal format that every computer, both PC and Mac, can view. There's a couple of different ways to achieve this, some more expensive than others, but all viable ways to go. The Acrobat Reader is free and easy to download, but that's just about all it does. And there are several programs out there that are just PDF printer drivers and those are either free or at a nominal cost. Or you can go with a couple of different PDF Editors. These allow you to read, print and manipulate PDF files. The two most well known are Adobe Acrobat, and Bluebeam Revu. I believe both have a 30 day free trial that can be downloaded from their websites. (There are other PDF Editors out there, just Google for a list.) These can be used to take your notes and to line your pages as well. However there is a little bit more of a learning curve involved with all of them.

5. eBay - A cheaper way to shop
Ok, you've decided to jump in and do the deed, but you're a little tight on cash. Or you're still a bit skittish about the whole thing because you're a Mac and it's a PC. Here's my recommendation: go eBay. First you're gonna want to do a bit of research. Find the make and model of computer you like (HP, Lenovo, Motion Computing, Dell, Tablet Kiosk, etc.), then I suggest going to Fry's or Best Buy, or Sears, and basically fondling the merchandise. Find something that you like the feel of, the weight of. You like the way the pen writes on the screen. See what software it comes with (Microsoft Word, or Excel, etc.), what hardware (external hard drive, or keyboard, etc.). Find the one that's right for you. Do NOT skip this step, I know the research is often the boring part, but in this case it's important. You are going to have to spend at least 12 1/2 hours a day with this machine, and a fairly large chunk of money, so it should be something you like. After you've researched it and found the machine of your dreams, then head to eBay. First just see what they have to offer in tablets, you might find something you didn't know about. Then get down to business, and look for that one computer that will make your life complete. Now you might have to settle for last years model (so make sure you get the name and numbers correct), but if it comes at a significant discount (on the order of one half the price or so) you'll have a decision to make.

So there you are, the first five things you need to know. Go forth and compute.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

CTL 2GO Mini Convertable Tablet PC Netbook

a little tablet, the screen is only 8.9 inches. upgradable to 2GB RAM. weighs less than 3 lbs


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CTL 2GO Convertible Classmate PC 8.9" Laptop/Tablet with Hard Drive with Windows XP Home


The CTL 2go™ Convertible Classmate PC with Intel Atom processor has a rotating screen which easily converts from traditional Intel Classmate PC netbook format with keyboard entry to a resistive touch netbook tablet. The included stylus allows control of the 2go tablet touch screen as well as digital pen text input. This convertible tablet functionality enables a world of new usage options for use and control of the 2go™ Convertible Classmate PC.
Built on the Intel® Atom™ processor, the 2go™ Convertible Classmate PC is an Intel powered Classmate PC which features durable, drop and spill resistant construction with a sturdy plastic case and removable carrying handle to withstand demanding everyday use at school, in the house, on the job or when traveling.

* Microsoft® Windows® XP Home, Microsoft® Works 9.0 and lots of other great software Pre-Installed - the CTL 2go Convertible Classmate PC with Intel Atom processor is ready to go to work right out of the box!
* Dual mode of use – convertible tablet mode and traditional netbook mode – the CTL 2go Convetbile Classmate PC adjusts to changing usage needs
* When open like a traditional netbook, the 2go touch screen swivels 180 degrees for sharing with peers
* The 2go Convertible Classmate Touch screen & advanced palm-resting technology promote new models of interaction
* The 2go Convertible Classmate PC allows for writing (with handwriting recognition) or drawing directly on the tablet touch screen in a natural way
* The 2go Convertible Classmate PC built-in camera rotates 180 degrees to enable users to interact in a new way
* With a Removable carrying handle and lightweight compact size the 2go Convertible Classmate PC with Intel Atom Processor supports micro-mobility
* Durable construction; rugged outer case and water resistant keyboard are all key features of the CTL 2go Convertible Classmate PC.
* The 2go Convertible Classmate PC features touch-optimized software
* Includes 6 Cell Lithium Ion battery for up to 5+ hours usage per charge

View the 2Go Convertible Classmate PC Quick Start Guide PDF (opens new window)
Read Laptop Magazine's (www.laptopmag.com) review of the 2go Convertible Classmate PC here (new window)>>
NOTE: Due to very high demand, the 2go convertible classmate PC is sold out again and is currently on backorder.
We expect to receive more stock by JUNE 24th . At that time, our production department will build units in the sequence in which orders were received. We expect this next batch to sell out quickly, so to reserve yours, be sure to place your order today!
1:1 eLearning 2go Video

AVAILABILITY: Usually Ships in 1-2 Weeks
Quantity:
Configuration Options:

*Memory
1GB RAM Included in Total Price
Upgrade to 2GB RAM* Add $69.00

*Operating System
Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Pre-Installed Included in Total Price
Upgrade to Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional Pre-Installed Add $186.00

*Microsoft Office
No Microsoft Office Included in Total Price
Microsoft Office 2007 Home Basic Add $186.00
Microsoft Office 2007 Small Business Add $270.01
Microsoft Office 2007 Professional Add $358.81

Accessories
Add a NU(R) Brand External Slim USB SuperMulti Drive CD ROM/RW + DVD RW (ESW860) Add $78.00
Add an extra 2go Convertible Classmate stylus/pen to use as a spare Add $12.00
Add an extra 2go Convertible Classmate 6 Cell Lithium Ion Battery to use as a spare Add $89.00
Add an extra 2go Convertible Classmate AC Adapter to use as a spare Add $39.00

*Warranty
1 Year Parts and Labor Depot/Mail-In Warranty Included in Total Price
Upgrade to 3 Year Parts and Labor Depot/Mail-In Warranty Add $70.80


As configured:
Reg Base Price:$598.82
Base Price: $499.00
Customized Price: $499.00
- Hide Details -

* 1GB RAM
* Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Pre-Installed
* No Microsoft Office
* 1 Year Parts and Labor Depot/Mail-In Warranty

Quantity:


Fixed Specifications

Hands on video of the CTL 2go Convertible Classmate PC with Intel Atom Processor at
the 2009 CES Show by go Gotta be mobile (www.gottabemobile.com)

HARDWARE

CPU & PLATFORM

* Intel® Atom™ Processor N270 1.6GHz
* Intel 945GSE Chipset

2go TABLET UTILITIES

* Tablet Sensor: When switching from clamshell to tablet mode, display rotates 180-degrees
* Accelerometer: Display rotates as device is rotated

CARRYING HANDLE

* Carrying handle is easily removable. Just remove the battery, remove the 4 screws that affix the handle, remove the handle and replace the battery.


STORAGE

* 60GB 1.8" PATA HDD
* 2-in-1 SD/MMC memory card reader
* Supports boot from card reader and USB
* USB 2.0 Interface for external storage.

INPUT

* Water Resistant Physical Keyboard - when screen is rotated in clamshell mode
* Touch pad (Mouse)
* Touch Screen accepts handwriting recongnition and virtual on-screen keyboard


I/O PORTS

* 2 USB 2.0 Ports
* 1 x RJ-45 10/100 LAN
* 1/8" External Microphone-in jack
* 1/8" External headphone jack
* 2-in-1 SD/MMC memory card reader
* Kensington Lock Ready.
* VGA Port (15 Pin VGA)


MEMORY

* 1GB Standard (Upgradeable to 2GB)


NEWORK

* 10/100M Ethernet
* Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with open mesh support (Linux Only)
o Mini-card form factor, single antenna
o Security: WPA, WPA-PSK, WPA2, WPA2-PSK


DIMMENSIONS AND POWER

* Size: 9.5" (W) x 7.5" (H) x 1.5" (D)
* Weight: < 3 lbs
* 6-cell Li lon Battery
* Battery life aprox 5hrs+ typical usage time


AUDIO, SPEAKER, MICROPHONE

* Integrated 2 channel audio w/ 1W speakers
* Built-in speaker and microphone


VIDEO

* 8.9'' LCD, 1024 x 600 Touch Screen
* Color LCD TFT, LED Backlight
* Digital LVDS Interface
* Integrated camera
* Driver / AP support Windows XP

WEB CAM

* Integrated 1.3MP webcam which rotates 180 degrees to allow creative interaction

OPERATING SYSTEM

* Microsoft® Windows® XP Home - Installed
* Supports Linux (ETA April 2009)

BATTERY

* 6 cell Lion Battery


WARRANTY

* 1 Year Depot/Mail-in Parts and Labor Warranty

OTHER

* Resisitive Touch Input
* Includes stylus/pen for resistive touch input
* Built-in accelerometer senses orientation and automatically switches screen between portrait and landscape modes

DROP TEST

* Ruggedized: Tested with 50cm Drop Test

Software and Utilities

* Microsoft® Windows® XP Home - Pre-Installed
* Microsof® Works 9.0 - Pre-Installed

Utilities

* Tablet Sensor Functionality: When switching from clamshell to tablet mode, display rotates 180-degrees
* Accelerometer Functionality: Display rotates as device is rotated
* Intel Quick Launcher
* Easy Network Manager
* Intel Power Manager
o Advanced power management for improved battery life and power efficiency
* Quick Control Panel
o Provides quick access to some key controls - particularly when in tablet mode
* Touch Screen Calibration
o Calibrates the touch screen based on 9 points

Pre-Installed Software

* Microsoft® Works 9.0 (On Windows XP Home Versions with 1GB RAM only)
o Works can help youcoordinate everything from little tasks to large projects. You can stay on topof your busy schedule, update your contact list, manage a household budget andkeep up with your correspondence. Works gives you the basic tools you need tomake your tasks easier from start to finish.
+ WordProcessor: Use the Works WordProcessor to easily create letters, resumes, greeting cards and more, withcustomizable templates, improved proofing tools and a built-in dictionary.
+ Spreadsheet:Keep to-do’sorganized, plan home improvements, or track your personal budget with the WorksSpreadsheet.
+ Calendar:Combine up to 32different calendars into one view to keep track of everyone’s plans with theWorks Calendar.
+ Database:Store addresses,lists, or home inventories in the Works Database.
+ Compatible with Microsoft Word and Excel 97-2007: Share & edit Works Word Processor and Spreadsheet files withMicrosoft® Office Word and Microsoft® Office Excel and vice versa.
* ArtRage 2 - Painting tool
o ArtRage is a fun and easy-to-use painting tool that lets you play with realistic paints on your computer. You can create your own paintings from nothing, load in photos, and recreate them with oil paints, pencils, felt pens, or any of the other tools ArtRage has to offer.
* MyScript Stylus - Handwriting recognition
o Write naturally on your TabletPC or Graphic Tablet screen and MyScript Stylus Windows converts your handwriting into computer readable and exploitable text!MyScript Stylus Windows replaces your keyboard in applications requiring text entry. MyScript Stylus Windows transforms your handwriting into typed text and inserts it at the position of the cursor in the application you are working with (text editor, task manager, calendar, etc.). MyScript Stylus Windows is available in two language configurations (English and French) and understands both hand printed and cursive handwriting.MyScript Stylus not only provides handwriting and character recognition, it also provides a virtual on screen keyboard and math keyboard which accept input by taping on the screen (useful when the screen is folded into tablet mode and the keyboard is not available)
* FBReader - e-book reader
o FBReader is an e-book reader which supports several e-book formats including: fb2, html, chm, rtf, plucker etc.. Direct reading from zip, tar, gzip and bzip2 archives is also supported. FBReader can read FREE e-books which can be downloaded from resources such as these:
+ http://www.memoware.com/
+ http://manybooks.net//
+ http://www.gutenberg.org/catalog/
+ http://www.baen.com/library/
+ http://www.gutenberg.net.au/plusfifty.html
* Foxit Reader - pdf viewer
o Foxit reader is a very fast and efficient tool for opening, viewing, commenting and printing PDFs. Annotation tool: Foxit Reader allows you to draw graphics, highlight text, type text and make notes on a PDF document and then print out or save the annotated document. Save fillable forms after filling them out so you can continue anytime. Text converter: You may convert the whole PDF document into a simple text file. High security and privacy: Foxit Reader highly respects the security and privacy of users and will never connect to the Internet without users' permission while other PDF readers often silently connect.
* ArcSoft Webcam Companion - webcam tools
o ArcSoft WebCam Companion offers a broad range of applications designed and optimized for webcam use, whether utilized to record video or to take a special photo, ArcSoft WebCam Companion lets you get the most out of your netbook's webcam.
* Evernote - Note-Taking
o Evernote allows you to easily capture information in any environment using whatever device or platform you find most convenient, and makes this information accessible andsearchable at any time, from anywhere.
o Watch Evernote in action: Evernote youtube video (opens new window)
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