Tablet PC Adds a Flair to Creative Writing

Tablet PC

A Tablet PC has a form factor that would lead you to believe that it was an ordinary laptop computer. But, with a closer look you would find some remarkable differences. A Tablet PC looks like any other laptop with a flip up monitor and an integrated keyboard. A Tablet PC also functions like any other laptop by running most any software program.

. Interestingly though designers have added unique capabilities such as a hinged monitor that not only flips up - but that can be twist or rotated a full 180 degrees to lay back flat against the unit itself. The term "convertible" has been given to this type of Tablet PC. The keyboard is an integrated part of the Tablet PC, but is not necessary for the operation of a Tablet PC. The monitor is a touch screen and can be written or drawn on with a stylus (digitized pen type device).

Tablet PCs running Microsoft XP Tablet PC Edition OS (operating system) has built in digitizing drivers and functionality requiring only a few special physical requirements of the unit itself. Windows Vista is compatible with Tablet PCs without most of these other requirements.

Other operating systems such as Linux can be used for tablet PCs (Tablet PC = Microsoft and tablet PC = other operating systems) but require extra digitizing software and pointing devices such as those produced by Wacom

Tablet PCs are often used not only for their portability but for the fact that they can fit into areas and into configurations that are more useful than most laptops. Doctors for example use them standing up when a desk or table is not within reach. It would be almost impossible to type the same notes that a student could write during a class or lecture. Sales people often use Tablet PCs because their forms and contracts can be completed with digital ink without the mess and clutter of pages and pages of paper. If you like to doodle then a Tablet PC is for you.

Several Manufacturers sell Tablet PCs - some of the most notable ones are HP, Toshiba, Compaq, Gateway, Acer, LG and Asus. When shopping for a Tablet PC I suggest looking at the different models and deciding which one fits your needs the best. Other than the specific specs the monitor hinges are obviously important.

The price you pay for a Tablet PC is comparable to that of a standard laptop. However, you may get a smaller hard drive or a slower processor. Weight is a concern so you may not get an integrated optical drive (CD-DVD reader/burner).

Some specific models to check out are:

Under $2,000.00

• Toshiba Satellite R15-S822 - 14.1 inch display, 60GB HD, DVD/CD-RW drive, 512MB expandable to 2GB memory
• Acer TravelMate TMC204TMi - 12.1 inch display, 100GB HD, 1GB expandable to 2GB memory, DVD+/-RW drive
• Acer TravelMate TMC204TMi - 12.1 inch display, 100GB HD, DVD Dual drive, 1GB memory

• Compaq TC1000T Tablet PC - 10.4 inch display, 30GB HD, 256MB expandable to 768MB memory

Under $1,000.00

• HP Tablet PC tc4200 - 12.1 inch display, 60GB HD, external DVD/CD drive, 512MB expandable to 2GB memory
• LG LU20 Tablet PC - 12.1 inch display, 40GB HD, 512MB expandable to 2GB memory
• Gateway M285-E - 14 inch display, 60GB HD, DVD/CD drive, 1GB memory,

I am a laptop user and I am very intrigued by the Tablet PC. I am a bit disappointed with the commonality of the features such as the slow processors, small RAM memory and especially the heavier weight. I realize that they are not designed for gamers or even power users, but - why aren't they? You always hear that the specs are good enough for office type software - but how long has it been and how long did it take to view/print/save a number of PDF files? I will consider a Tablet PC when I replace my laptop.