News Week of July 15, 2007

HP to present 1.6kg lightweight tablet pc 'HP Compaq 2710p'

HP Japan announced the launch of its 1.6kg lightweight tablet pc 'HP Compaq 2710p'. As a business notebook pc, the 2710p adopts Intel Core 2 Duo ULV processor U7500/7600 and runs on Windows Vista Business 32/64 with Windows Tablet PC Edition. (Source: Danyan Yu, AVING.net Global News Network)
Posted Friday, July 20, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 4.5 Comments ()

Happy birthday to the ThinkPad- first Tablet PC

One of the longest running lines of mobile gear is the ThinkPad, begun at IBM and now carried by Lenovo, the line usually encompassed very innovative technology at a premium price. According to Lenovo, today is the 15th birthday of the ThinkPad line as the first model shipped in 1992. What most people don't realize is the first ThinkPad, the IBM 2521 ThinkPad, was a pen-based PC running the PenPoint operating system from Go Corporation. That's right, the first ThinkPad was a Tablet PC! (Source: jkOnTheRun)
Posted Friday, July 20, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 5 Comments ()

Samsung Q1 Ultra-V

A sentence I typed on the integrated split-QWERTY keypad on Samsung's new Q1 Ultra-V ultramobile PC (UMPC) came out like this: "The quuck browm focx jumprd o er the gence." Awkward lilliputian keys, slow processing, and a mediocre screen resolution make this US$1199 mini-PC hard to use. (Source: Michael S.Lasky, Tech World)
Posted Thursday, July 19, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 2 Comments ()

Rugged Tablet PC Receives Outstanding Reviews

Independent reviews praise the MobileDemand Tablet PC for its ruggedness and ability to serve a broad range of industries and applications. MobileDemand's Tablet PCs can be used anywhere from the shop floor - to the delivery truck - to the check-out line.

Hiawatha, IA (PRWEB) July 19, 2007 -� In recent months, news and reviews of the MobileDemand xTablet T8600 Rugged Tablet PC has been buzzing all over the Internet. Independent reviews by GottaBeMobile.com, RuggedPCReview.com, TheTablePC.net, and TabletPC2.com praise the MobileDemand Tablet PC for its ruggedness (meets MIL-STD 810F) and ability to serve a broad range of industries and applications.

Warner Crocker of GottaBeMobile.com reviewed two versions of the xTablet T8600 Rugged Tablet PC. The first version was the basic rugged tablet pc, while the second version included MobileDemand�s bar-code scanner and magnetic stripe reader. In his thorough Online Video Review he praises the high-capacity battery, carrying accessories, the world�s only built-in numeric keypad and more.

�I�m very impressed not only with the Tablets I got to check out and what they offer, but MobileDemand�s vision of a total cost of ownership approach.�...� Whether it be sales, manufacturing, real estate, the entertainment industry, etc� MobileDemand has come up with a package and an approach that looks to speak to a variety of needs regardless of the specific market segment.� � Warner Crocker

Conrad H. Blickenstorfer of RuggedPCReview.com had similar findings and added a few more of his own. ��the T8600 represents more than just a technology update over its predecessor. The additional speed and power are much appreciated, but what sets this new device apart is the addition of a hardware numeric keypad that allows rapid data entry. This can make all the difference in field applications where not everyone is comfortable with on-screen navigation and data entry only.�

�Add to that the inherent ruggedness of this design, the massive 77 watt-hour battery that can make it through an entire shift, the scanner/imager and radio options, the availability of flexible vehicle mount solutions, and the company's experience in this sort of technology and supporting customers in their core markets and beyond, and the xTablet T8600 looks very good indeed� - Conrad H. Blickenstorfer

TheTabletPC.net normally reviews non-rugged tablet pc�s, but site owner Terri Stratton jumped at the opportunity to review the xTablet T8600 Rugged Tablet PC. In her review, she noted, �The screen warranty alone tells the story of a company that isn't afraid to stand behind its product. The 3 year warranty covers up to 2 screen replacements per year.� She went on to say, �If you do a lot of work from within a vehicle, the mounting system made specifically for this Tablet is a huge help. The fan-cooled mount will make writing and entering data much simpler when in your car or truck.�

�Overall, this Tablet PC should meet the requirements of anyone needing a Tablet PC that can handle rough handling, hostile environments, and heavy use.� � Terry Straton

Linda A. Epstein of TabletPC2.com was impressed with the display and numeric keypad of the rugged tablet pc. �The MobileDemand xTablet T8600 Rugged Tablet PC has a screen that can be seen indoors and out from every angle. There is no loss of clarity indoors which is very impressive. This is one screen that has the right to claim it can be viewed anywhere. The display on the xTablet T8600 is nothing short of amazing��

�With its numeric keypad and amazing screen, the new MobileDemand xTablet T8600 Rugged Tablet PC is an excellent choice for those in need of a rugged Tablet PC that functions equally well indoors as it does outdoors.� � Linda A. Epstein

With independent reviews like these and a client base that includes Disney, Anheuser-Busch, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), NASA, and hundreds more; it�s easy to see that the MobileDemand xTablet T8600 Rugged Tablet PC is taking the world by storm. To learn more about MobileDemand, visit their website at http://www.MyRuggedTabletPC.com (Source: Press Release)

Posted Thursday, July 19, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 4 Comments ()

Spellex announces handwriting recognition of specialty terminology for the Tablet PC.

Spellex announces the Spellex Tablet PC Suite 2.0 for specialty terminology. The new Tablet PC enhancement recognizes hundreds of thousands of comprehensive English terms, including words relating to business, language, current trends, and Internet technology. With the Spellex Tablet PC Suite, you can also enhance your handwriting recognition and spell checking ability by adding specialized terms from the medical, legal, and scientific fields.

Benefits: The new Spellex Tablet PC Suite allows your Tablet PC to better recognize handwritten specialty terms in many handwriting enhanced applications including Microsoft OneNote, Office, Windows Journal, the Windows Tablet Input Panel and more. This eliminates the need to constantly add specialty terms to your Tablet PC�s user dictionary. The Spellex Tablet PC Suite also allows users to verify unsure spelling of words by phonetic or typographical search as they type in Microsoft Office. The user saves time and increases their productivity.

Both handwriting recognition vocabulary and spell checking improvements co-exist in one combined software suite! The Spellex Tablet PC Suite will easily integrate into your program so no new training is needed. There are no help files to read, no commands to learn, and no more embarrassing errors.

Pricing for the Spellex Tablet PC Suite starts at $59.

To order the Spellex Tablet PC Suite or to request product information or a free evaluation copy, visit the Spellex Web site at www.spellex.com or contact Spellex at 800-442-9673 or 813-792-7000. (Source: Press Release)

Posted Wednesday, July 18, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 4.5 Comments ()

Pepper Pad 3 Linux UMPC arrives in UK

It may not be the most attractive portable device on the market, but the Linux-based Pepper Pad 3 internet tablet has been given a technical makeover that includes faster Wi-Fi connectivity and a much needed slimmer body. (Source: James Sherwood, RegHardware)
Posted Wednesday, July 18, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 2 Comments ()

Fujitsu Extends Its Leadership in Pen Computing, Adding Latest Processor Technology to Stylistic ST5100 Tablet PC Series

Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation today refreshed its Stylistic (R) ST5100 lightweight slate Tablet PC Series with the new Intel (R) Core (TM) 2 Duo Ultra Low Voltage processor offering superior performance levels with extended battery life.

Weighing just 3.5 pounds and delivering up to 9.5 hours (1) of computing time with a high-capacity nine-cell battery, the ENERGY STAR (R) version 4.0-compliant Stylistic ST5111 and ST5112 Tablet PCs are ideal for highly mobile professionals in markets including healthcare, and field and sales force automation.

Less than one-inch thick, the comfortable-to-carry slates make text and graphics easy to view in various lighting conditions with a choice of state-of-the art display technologies. For mobile professionals whose work is primarily outdoors, the Stylistic ST5111 Tablet PC is fitted with a 10.4-inch reflective front-lit XGA display optimized for direct sunlight conditions. With a bright 12.1-inch indoor/outdoor XGA display featuring a wide, 160-degree range of viewing angles, the Stylistic ST5112 Tablet PC offers excellent viewing in a variety of lighting environments.

"As the leader in the development of pen-enabled systems for over 15 years, Fujitsu understands user needs, which is why we are one of the few companies to offer both slate and convertible products," said Paul Moore, senior director of mobile product marketing, Fujitsu Computer Systems. "With perfect balance, exceptional performance, and long battery life, the Stylistic ST5100 Tablet PC Series continues its dominance as the slate of choice for highly mobile professionals who benefit from pen-driven input."

"The simplicity of the Stylistic Tablet PCs belies its power and functionality," said Harry Freedman, Executive Director of the Georgia-based National Spine Network, a non-profit organization whose members are independent spine care providers. "While Fujitsu slates are lightweight and thin, their durability is most impressive. Fujitsu continually demonstrates that it knows how to optimize the use of the newest available technologies while maintaining a highly mobile form factor that is ideal for untrained users like patients."

The durable and reliable Stylistic ST5111 and Stylistic ST5112 Tablet PCs are reinforced with a high-quality magnesium-alloy lower casing. Data is protected against minor accidents with the Fujitsu Shock Sensor utility, an accelerometer-based hard disk protection system that retracts the hard drive head if a sudden movement or vibration is detected, reducing the possibility of data loss. The sensor can also be set to password-lock the system whenever movement is detected, preventing unauthorized access to data.

Data is further safeguarded with a comprehensive range of security features including embedded Trusted Platform Module, a dedicated Smart Card slot, hard disk drive lock with two-level password protection, security panel with more than 800,000 possible password combinations, BIOS-enabled Computrace/LoJack theft recovery system, and a universal lock slot. The Stylistic ST5112 Tablet PC also offers a biometric swipe sensor.

Six intuitive one-touch application buttons make launching email or rotating screen orientation easy. A multifunction stylus pen, equipped with an eraser top and an electromagnetic digitizer, offers more accurate pen-driven input for an exceptional user experience. With the addition of the optional tablet dock, the Stylistic ST5111 and ST5112 Tablet PCs easily transition from slate configuration to a fully functional workstation with a keyboard. The dock supports both portrait and landscape modes, immediate undocking for grab-and-go computing without rebooting, multiple plug-and-play ports, plus an option for modular optical drives. In addition, the Stylistic ST5112 Tablet PC offers a dual digital microphone array with noise cancellation software.

The Stylistic ST5111 and ST5112 Tablet PCs easily connect to the office network or Internet through an integrated Gigabit Ethernet LAN or modem. Intel (R) PRO/Wireless 3945ABG or Atheros Super AG (R) (802.11a/b/g) wireless LAN offers wireless connectivity, and a diversity antenna provides excellent data transfer rates. With optional embedded Bluetooth technology, wireless connections to peripheral devices are conveniently established.

Price and Availability

The Fujitsu Stylistic ST5111 Tablet PC is priced at $2,599(2) for a base configuration, and the Stylistic ST5112 Tablet PC is priced at $1,999(2) for a base configuration. Both Tablet PCs are immediately available through the Fujitsu direct sales force, website, channel partners and select retail outlets(3). Users can choose from a recommended configuration, or they can customize their system using the Fujitsu Configure To Order (CTO) program. See http://www.computers.us.fujitsu.com/store/index.shtml for further information.

Service and Support

The Stylistic ST5111 and ST5112 Tablet PCs are backed by a one- or three-year International Limited Warranty for U.S. and Canadian customers. The International Limited Warranty(4) includes technical support 24 hours a day, seven days a week(5), and unlimited online chat support. In addition, Fujitsu offers other warranty plans designed to meet the unique needs of mobile users. See http://us.fujitsu.com/computers for further information. (Source: Press Release)

Posted Wednesday, July 18, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 4 Comments ()

Pricing announced for HP�s 2710p Tablet PC

The base price for the 2710p will be $1,649, however with all available configurations you can pay as much as $2,478. I think that it is a reasonable price for as much as you�ll end up getting out of this machine. (Source: SlashGear via GottaBeMobile)
Posted Wednesday, July 18, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 3 Comments ()

A Magazine of Ideas

And it�s not just money that business brings. Because policymakers have trouble imagining what they have never seen, business can play a critical role in launching and nurturing innovations that would never see the light of day. One is Philadelphia�s School of the Future, opened in the fall of 2006 and created by Microsoft and corporate partners like Gateway and Meru Networks.

The school provides each student with a tablet PC. There are interactive digital whiteboards in the classrooms, software called the Virtual Teaching Assistant that lets students direct the pace of their learning, and a teacher-competency tool that�s modeled on Microsoft�s own human resources operation. As Philadelphia�s school superintendent Paul Vallas has explained, �This isn�t Microsoft money. This is Microsoft smarts.� (Source: Frederick M. Hess, American.com)

Posted Wednesday, July 18, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 4 Comments ()

Doctor gadgets on the go

The tablet PC, which was designed with input from clinicians, includes an integrated camera and an optional bar code reader.

�We�ve spent a lot of time listening and observing and asking questions,� said Joel French, vice president of Motion Computing and general manager of the company�s Healthcare Business Group.

Physician feedback led to a number of design features. For example, the Motion C5 uses a pen as the main input device rather than a keyboard. Clinicians are more comfortable working with the pens, French said, adding that keyboards can harbor pathogens. (Source: John Moore, Government Health IT)
Posted Monday, July 16, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 2.5 Comments ()

Toshiba Portege M400 Tablet PC Review

VERDICT
The Toshiba Portege M400 offers a great deal of performance in a semi-portable package. It may not have added to the idea of what a Tablet PC is but the addition of 3G and the powerful specification make this is a good machine for those who don�t wish to compromise power when on the move. (Source: Stuart Miles, Pocket-Lint)
Posted Monday, July 16, 2007 by ChrisD
Rating: 4 Comments ()