When Size Matters - NEC's Versa LitePad

When Size Matters - NEC's Versa LitePad
By Chris De Herrera and Adam Feinberg

Recently we have had the chance to use the NEC Versa LitePad with Windows XP, Tablet PC Edition. we was really impressed with the combination of size, weight and features that NEC put into it.

NEC Versa LitePad

The Box

Inside the Box

NEC’s Mantra – Lighter is better

It is clear by holding the Versa Litepad, that this is not your ordinary Tablet PC or laptop. I’m sure you remember the days when you used to carry around your books at school and you always wished they were lighter. Well NEC has really made sore that the Versa LitePad is the lightest Tablet PC at 2.2 lbs or .99 kg. It is clear that NEC had to really focus on getting smaller and lighter technology in order to achieve this goal. From the use of a 1.8” 20 GB hard disk to the wireless LAN chipset that supports 802.11a and 802.11b these all add up to reducing the weight of the unit without compromising.

Features – Simpler is Better

I was surprised to see that NEC did not bundle much system software with their Tablet PC. It includes the Windows XP, Tablet PC Edition; however, there was not quick menu function to manage the features of the Tablet PC. An example of something missing is the lack of an adjustment for the backlight. I have found that I can read most LCDs in the sun with the backlight turned up to the brightest however NEC does not offer this feature. NEC did make turning the wireless connection off very easy with the slide switch on the face of the Versa LitePad. Also NEC uses a standard Wacom stylus – the same as the Acer with their Tablet PC so you can use any Wacom stylus that you prefer. The stylus writes comfortably on the screen without requiring additional effort.

Full Size Stylus

Smaller is Better

NEC not only has the lightest Tablet PC, it is also the thinnest. Clearly they understand that we really want something as thick as a magazine and this makes it easier to carry. Also, being small does not mean that you can’t use it! The use of the LCD display and digitizer with a mother board in .8” thick package is amazing! Also, the LCD actually covers almost all the physical space on the front of the tablet. The only area not covered is the removable battery.

Thickness

Expansion

NEC included a type II CompactFlash card slot so you can use peripherals interchangeably with your Pocket PC if you can get desktop drivers. Also, NEC included not one but three USB 2.0 ports so you can plug in a keyboard, mouse and an additional peripheral as needed.

Ports and CompactFlash Slot

On the Weak Side

Clearly NEC has focused on integrating great hardware however there were some compromises that you should be aware of. An example of this is the use of a single speaker on the lower back of the Versa LitePad for audio playback. This speaker can be covered depending on how you hold it in your hand or on your lap. Also, the LCD is hard to view at an angle so showing your work to others may require you to adjust the angle of the tablet to make it more readable. Also I found that the dual 802.11a and 802.11b design left the unit less sensitive when I tested 802.11b compared to other Tablet PCs with built-in WiFi, PC Card or CompactFlash WiFi cards. Further the antenna for the wireless was easily moved up and down and I saw no difference in the reception so I question it’s functional purpose for moving. NEC has commented that they plan on offering 802.11g support in the future. There is integrated Ethernet but no modem. You will need to purchase a PC Card or Compact Flash modem if you need to be able to dial up from the road. I understand the reasoning for not building a modem into the unit since most users are going to use high speed connections that are more widely available.

The stand that comes with the unit is light and compact. These features come at a price. The stand seemed a bit flimsy and would at times collapse on itself. I think that there needs to be some additional thought in the engineering. I do not recommend using the stand due to this problem.

Stand

Accessories

CD Stand

Keyboard & Mouse

Lightweight Winner

Overall I believe that NEC has a winner here. Clearly it is a first generation Tablet PC. however However, it’s light weight and its decent battery life will appeal to a large number of users looking for a Tablet PC they can really use comfortably while standing or holding it for long periods of time. I look forward to seeing what NEC has up its sleeve with the next generation of the Versa Litepad.

Purchase the Versa Litepad at Amazon

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