NEC Versa LitePad
terri stratton
LitePad Tablet PC, check http://thetabletpc.net/nec.htm for full
specifications and information contained in the press releases.
More pics will be uploaded as received.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
Jason Bethune
impresses me from the specs. I do like the bundled
software though. Will have to test one someday to get a
real feel for it.
>
Robert Scoble
> impresses me from the specs. I do like the bundled
> software though. Will have to test one someday to get a
> real feel for it.
Yup, the design goal was to be the thinnest and lightest. How does that
affect things? Well, for one, when our engineers shopped for hard drives,
they decided on going with a 5mm thick hard drive (all the other tablets use
a thicker hard drive). Our drive is made by Toshiba and is the largest
5mm-thick-drive on the market. Clearly if you need more than a 20GB drive,
our Tablet won't be for you, but if you are gonna stand up a lot with your
Tablet and hold it, then you'll really appreciate the light weight.
Performance? The MVP's did several tests last week. Ours noticeably
outperforms the Compaq and Acer machines and isn't perceptably different
from the rest.
Specs? We're the first with 802.11 a. Our writing surface is closer to the
LCD than any other Tablet. We're using a brand-new Intel chip (just
announced in mid-January) so we're using the absolute latest in
light-weight, low-power technology available. We're the first with three USB
2.0 slots too, but clearly our differentiator is that we're the thinnest and
lightest. That was our total design goal, and it drove all of our technology
decisions.
End result? Bill Gates said it's his favorite (and has said so on several
occassions).
Robert Scoble
NEC Mobile Solutions
http://www.neccomp.com
Jason Bethune
feathers :) The mobility factor is great being so light
and thin. The ability to add more than 512MB RAM would
have been nice but I assume that is a factor of the tablet
size. 20GB should be fine for most people myself included.
I thought my TC1000 had USB 2.0 ports on it...but I could
be wrong. Very good design and features...would like to
see more shots of it from different angles though to get
more of a feel for it.
>
terri stratton
them. The NEC has 3, one with power port.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Jason Bethune" <jbet...@town.kentville.ns.ca> wrote in message
news:018e01c2d780$25629a80$a201...@phx.gbl...
Jason Bethune
Thanks for clarifying that....guess I should pay more
attention to details. I want to be a Microsoft MVP...:)
>.
>
Robert Scoble
different angles though to get more of a feel for it.
There are quite a few pictures out there about it.
http://www.tabletpctalk.com has a bunch (including a video). Here's a couple
I snapped of MVPs using it:
http://www.pbase.com/image/13164865
http://www.pbase.com/image/13164925
Jason Bethune
attach to the NEC to carry with it? Or is it like the
COmpaq where it "docks" to it.
>
terri stratton
NEC is a slate and not a convertible.
After using both a convertible and a slate, for my use, I don't want to have
to carry the keyboard when I don't need it. The pure slate format works
better for me. Others will have other experiences.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Jason Bethune" <jbet...@town.kentville.ns.ca> wrote in message
news:011301c2d786$2c64d3b0$a401...@phx.gbl...
Jason Bethune
now only if I knew how to become an MVP
>
Robert Scoble
> attach to the NEC to carry with it? Or is it like the
> COmpaq where it "docks" to it.
Like Terri said, ours is a pure slate. I don't have one of our keyboards
yet. I probably will stay with my Microsoft keyboard anyway. Heresy, I know.
Here's some more shots:
http://www.tabletpctalk.com/reviews/nec/necpictures.shtml
http://www.tabletpctalk.com/reviews/nec/necaccessories.shtml has pictures of
the keyboard and mouse.
--
Robert Scoble
> now only if I knew how to become an MVP
Answer thousands of newsgroup posts helpfully, professionally, etc.
At least that's how I got in.
Others have gotten in by starting web sites around Microsoft technologies or
by writing books/speaking at conferences.
Keep at it, you never know!
Robert
Jason Bethune
those NEC tablet pc's for my police station. If only I
could teach them to use a computer properly...oh well
better not try and get the chicken before the egg
>
Erich Koch
> The NEC is nice and light and thin but nothing really
> impresses me from the specs. I do like the bundled
> software though. Will have to test one someday to get a
> real feel for it.
I was not impressed with the price, then I saw the bundled software.
HOWEVER, if I read the literature correctly, the software is not the real thing but just the trial versions. So the software still has to be bought if you like it.
See the bottom of the page of:
http://www.tabletpctalk.com/reviews/nec/necspecs.shtml
Erich
Steve Martin
the source:
http://www.neccomp.com/products/Versa/litepad/
I didn't notice anything about the programs just being demo versions or
anything but I didn't read all of it yet. So, who knows.
"Jason Bethune" <jbet...@town.kentville.ns.ca> wrote in message
news:061401c2d789$31a280e0$3301...@phx.gbl...
Robert Scoble
thing but just the trial versions. So the software still has to be bought if
you like it.
Not completely true. Here's the list and whether or not it's a full version:
Microsoft Office XP Service Pack for Tablet PC (full version)
Colligo Networks Workgroup Edition (full Workgroup Edition) - collaborate
with up to 10 Versa LitePads
FranklinCovey TabletPlanner (30-day trial)
Zinio Reader (full version of reader, but need to subscribe to publications)
Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 (full version)
Corel Grafigo (full version)
Alias/Wavefront SketchBook (free version with upgrade option)
terri stratton
You can find out more about the MVP program at
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com/
On the left side, click on MVP Program for more information.
I've been supporting other users in newsgroups for 6 years now. I was
awarded MVP in 2001 for the support in Windows XP groups, primarily in the
public preview areas. Although I posted well over 3400 posts in the ensuing
year, post count isn't the most important thing in receiving an award.
Helpfulness, courtesy and respect as well as correct information is much
more important than just post count.
Those of us who have been awarded the MVP title are proud of it. In most
cases, there's a lot of work behind it, but we do it because we want to, not
just because of a title. Many of us started doing it long before we even
knew what an MVP was and I think most would continue with or without a
title.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Jason Bethune" <jbet...@town.kentville.ns.ca> wrote in message
news:049101c2d787$77b1e820$8ef82ecf@TK2MSFTNGXA04...
Erich Koch
Erich
Erich Koch
Out of curiosity, now with the Tablet PC, what percentage of your answers are handwritten and converted to text (as opposed typing or course).
Erich
Robert Scoble
>answers are handwritten and converted to text (as opposed typing or
course).
For myself, all newsgroup posts I write are keyboarded. I ink a lot, but not
usually when the end goal is ASCII text (unless I'm answering stuff while
standing in line at Starbucks and even then, I usually can wait until I get
back to a keyboard, unless it's something very short).
That all said, I'm finding that ink is getting to be more and more important
to my life all the time.
Robert Scoble
terri stratton
Last week, all my posts were handwritten. The week before, many were done
using speech.
When I'm at home, I use a keyboard or speech as I still type and talk faster
than I write. It's hard to give any percentages because it changes all the
time, depending on the machine I'm using and the specific things I'm working
with.
The Tablet PC I use most has a slate with a docking station, so it really
acts just as a desktop for me. If I walk away from the desk, I just grab
the Tablet and write if I see something that needs answered. It's really
become a very natural extension of my arm. :)
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Erich Koch" <ko...@aerovironment.com> wrote in message
news:3E52A547...@aerovironment.com...
Erich Koch
I am still by the sidelines on the TabletPC. The NEC looks great.
I have an old Fujitsu B-142 notebook, Win98SE, with an 8.4" pressure sensitive screen, 800x600,
and running PenOffice 2.4 that I can switch to spanish. I answer a lot of my
family email in spanish by handwriting, then I ge the n~ capability.
I have found that by writing big the recognition is extremely high, close to 100%
It beats trying to type while in bed late at night, specially in the small keyboard of the B-142.
Erich
Chris H.
with Office XP installed, or just the free Office XP Pack for Tablet PC? If
the latter, it doesn't do any good unless the user installs Office XP. The
wording, not only on NEC's site, but what you quoted doesn't explain fully.
The Office XP Pack for Tablet PC is available for free download here:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/tabletpc/downloads/default.asp
--
Chris H.
Microsoft MVP/Tablet PC
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"Robert Scoble" <robert...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:O3j$rE51CHA.2288@TK2MSFTNGP09...
Robert Scoble
Office. Sorry for the confusion.
--
Robert Scoble
NEC Mobile Solutions
http://www.neccomp.com
"Chris H." <winx...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:eQKunl51CHA.2552@TK2MSFTNGP10...
Erich Koch
Furthermore, what does this means: "Alias/Wavefront SketchBook (free version with upgrade option)"
Anybody with any TabletPC can download the free limited version of SketchBook,
but the full Pro version is $129. So now the question is: what is the meaning of "upgrade option"
How much is the upgrade option? Still $129 or does the NEC user get a brake?
The Zinio reader is also free to any Tablet PC:
http://search.microsoft.com/default.asp?IntCat=0&Boolean=ALL&Nq=new&qu=Zinio+reader&ig=1&siteid=us/products/windows/windowsxp
Oops, watch for word wrap
Erich
Robert Scoble
Office, so you'll need to purchase Office elsewhere. Most of these packages
are already available on the Web elsewhere for free. Colligo is the one
exception.
Nope, there isn't any special SketchBook deal for NEC customers.
Sorry for the confusion. I should have checked the list over better.
--
Robert Scoble
NEC Mobile Solutions
http://www.neccomp.com
"Erich Koch" <ko...@aerovironment.com> wrote in message
news:3E52B246...@aerovironment.com...
Chris H.
XP Pro operating system, and there are lots of other free, complete (and
fun) PowerToys available for download here:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/tabletpc/downloads/powertoys.asp
--
Chris H.
Microsoft MVP/Tablet PC
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"Robert Scoble" <robert...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:OYTAj751CHA.2012@TK2MSFTNGP09...
terri stratton
I don't see any options on the website for an upgrade price. There's only
the downloadable Pro for $129 or the shipped version for $149.
There's also the feature-limited free version, Alias Sketchbook.
For those who need to see what the difference is in free and Pro version,
check this -
http://www.aliaswavefront.com/en/products/sketchbook/buy.shtml
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Erich Koch" <ko...@aerovironment.com> wrote in message
news:3E52B246...@aerovironment.com...
G. Leger
work standing up (medical staff etc), the majority of people who work in
offices may prefer convertibles because they work on desks or meeting
tables, or off their laps, and there are many office tasks such as writing
reports etc are still done better with a keyboard.
Gerry
Ottawa
"terri stratton" <sup...@thetabletpc.net> wrote in message
news:OD3OVb41CHA.2904@TK2MSFTNGP09...
terri stratton
only on occasion. If I need the USB keyboard, it's either in my briefcase
or on a desk, easily accessible if I need it. If I don't, I like that I
don't have to carry around the extra weight. At home, the docking station
makes it very comparable to one of my desktops.
I think a lot of people are tied to a keyboard only because it's habit. Some
of the attached or semi-attached keyboards are tougher to use than regular
keyboards. I've found I can write easier than I can type with some.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"G. Leger" <GerryLeger...@canada.com> wrote in message
news:Oft1z061CHA.1624@TK2MSFTNGP10...
Robert Scoble
Some
> of the attached or semi-attached keyboards are tougher to use than regular
> keyboards. I've found I can write easier than I can type with some.
Absolutely true. Not to mention, I use a Microsoft keyboard because I'm
about 15% faster on a curved keyboard than on a flat one. Even if my Tablet
had a keyboard, I'd rarely use it anyway.
Oh, and putting more moving parts into a PC lowers the reliability
dramatically. My IBM ThinkPad's keyboard had some major problems (er, due to
a Diet Coke spill) and it cost $350 to replace. I've been looking over the
service reports from our laptops and what breaks most often? You guessed it:
the hinges and keyboards.
The only place I thought I'd miss a keyboard is on the airplane and I
actually didn't miss it there. Why? Because for the first time I could use a
computer even while my meal was on the tray table. That more than made up
for the little bit slower input that comes with using handwriting to answer
things.
Robert
Patrick Meader
>>That all said, I'm finding that ink is getting to be more and more
important to my life all the time.<<
So, what are you using yours for? I'm just curious how people are using
these devices in the real world. I can't think of anything where ink rises
to the level of "important" for me.
I find I type anything that I expect will be longer than four or five lines.
I'm using the Toshiba, so it's easy enough to spin around the lid and switch
modes on the fly if I realize something will be longer than anticipated at
first. The best practical use my wife and I have discovered for the tabpc so
far is reading the paper in bed. I think the NEC would be even better for
that!
Handwriting recognition is reasonably good, but I'll have a couple or three
or four corrections at that length (sometimes more), and I can type a
zillion times faster than I can write the same thing by hand--estimating
conservatively, of course.
I haven't tried the speech yet, but my experiences with speech in the past
have been very mixed. I love the idea of speech technology, but in practical
terms I just haven't found it to be very useful. I keep buying the latest
and greatest revs of Dragon, etc, but so far, it just isn't robust enough to
seem like more than a fun toy that you put away when there's real work to be
done.
Robert Scoble
> these devices in the real world. I can't think of anything where ink rises
> to the level of "important" for me.
Me?
Pitching people. If you were outside of Jing Jings' in Palo Alto last night
you would have seen me with a crowd around me. We were all standing up.
That's a situation that's impossible to do with a laptop.
But, some of the people I've sold Tablets to already are:
Lawyers. They need to stand up in front of juries. Using a laptop is
impossible here.
CEOs. A certain CEO was using a slate in a meeting that I attended last
week. He was running around the stage while taking notes. Ever try to do
that with a laptop?
Professors. Again, need to use a computer while standing up?
Doctors/Nurses. Ever try to type while holding a laptop while staring at a
medical device that's spitting out info?
Newspeople. Ever try to read the news off of a computer screen? Now
newspeople can have all their notes in digital form and hold it in front of
them like a paper set of notes.
Restaurant workers/retail salespeople. We're selling them into a restaurant
who is going to use them to show you their wine selection -- they have
100,000 bottles of wine in stock. Ever try to use a laptop in a situation
like this? A PocketPC might work, but the screen is too small to really give
a nice layout to their menu. Plus, this restaurant wants to be cool.
Software developers: most of the folks who are developing the next version
of Microsoft Windows are using Tablets. They find they are using the
keyboard less and less because they need to draw things on the screen to
show relationships. Also, while working with other people, the Tablet form
factor really works well (I watched as one guy handed his Tablet around the
table to get feedback on one of his ideas -- doing that with a laptop is
akward).
Journalists: ever try to take notes on an event while standing up? I have. I
once interviewed Bill Gates while following him around Comdex one year. I
wish I had had a Tablet for that.
I'm also using mine a lot in meetings, ala the "Corridor Warrior" stories.
Microsoft is going to come out with a new application called "OneNote"
that'll be awesome for recording meeting notes.
I'm finding that a Tablet is more acceptable to pull out in a restaurant, or
use while standing in line at Starbucks, or while in meetings, too, since
the screen isn't a "wall" between you and the other people you are talking
with. Many people still bring paper notepads to meetings instead of their
laptops. Ever ask yourself "why?" Typing on a keyboard while in a meeting is
usually rude and it just isn't that good to capture a lot of the things that
are communicated.
One lesson, how could you teach me how a gear works with just ASCII text?
With my Tablet, I can easily draw you a picture of the gear.
Oh, and code reviews (actually any reviews of written documents) are awesome
on the Tablet. Why? Cause you can write in red ink on top. Just like your
professor used to do on your papers when you were in college (and, I note,
that most editors still print their articles out and copy edit them while
printed out).
> I find I type anything that I expect will be longer than four or five
lines.
> I'm using the Toshiba, so it's easy enough to spin around the lid and
switch
> modes on the fly if I realize something will be longer than anticipated at
> first. The best practical use my wife and I have discovered for the tabpc
so
> far is reading the paper in bed. I think the NEC would be even better for
> that!
Yes, that's what Bill Gates said! (Gates filmed a video where he said a
"true slate" is better, while Ballmer, in the same video, which was shown to
Microsoft employees, advocated the Toshiba's "convertible" approach).
I have a keyboard in every room in my house and also on my desk at work. I
find I never have missed a keyboard. I carry one around with me in my
backpack too. But, like Terri said, this lets me carry the increased weight
somewhere that is more useful to me.
> Handwriting recognition is reasonably good, but I'll have a couple or
three
> or four corrections at that length (sometimes more), and I can type a
> zillion times faster than I can write the same thing by hand--estimating
> conservatively, of course.
Absolutely my same reaction. I keyboard 80% of the time. But, sometimes, I
need to do something while standing up. That's when the Tablet comes into
play. And, if you're gonna stand up for more than 20 minutes, weight is very
important. Even Ballmer put his Toshiba back down after a few minutes.
The Toshiba works for that, but I can't stand the keyboards in laptops
nowadays. You've seen my desk (Patrick and I used to work together) and even
when I had a laptop (I have three, plus the Tablet) I use a standalone
keyboard, since I'm quite a bit faster on a Microsoft "curved" keyboard than
I am on the tiny flat keyboards on most laptops.
> I haven't tried the speech yet, but my experiences with speech in the past
> have been very mixed. I love the idea of speech technology, but in
practical
> terms I just haven't found it to be very useful. I keep buying the latest
> and greatest revs of Dragon, etc, but so far, it just isn't robust enough
to
> seem like more than a fun toy that you put away when there's real work to
be
> done.
Speech is a whole nother argument. I don't think we'll get there anytime
soon (at least for using voice to input large amounts of unconstrained
text -- it might be very good within the next decade for doing things like
telling your computer "open word"). Personally, I don't want to talk to my
computer except to call it names that can't be repeated around young
children. :-)
Robert
(All this is my own opinions and not that of my employer, my wife, my son,
or anyone else).
Todd Brooks
> Restaurant workers/retail salespeople. We're selling them into a
restaurant
> who is going to use them to show you their wine selection -- they have
> 100,000 bottles of wine in stock.
Robert, I beg your pardon and I'm not implying that you are lying, but pray
tell what restaurant has 100,000 bottles of wine in stock. I've heard of
ridiculous cellars in some top notch restaurants that have 40,000, but even
they may have been stretching the truth.
100,000??! Come on....
todd
Christopher Coulter
The famous Aureole Restaurant in Las Vegas, Nevada...has around 50,000
bottles in the eWinebook application. I think maybe he meant 100,000
'to order' or in the database. And the NEC was shown here, so I don;t
think it is that far-off, depending on the defintion of 'in stock'. :)
Chris
--------------------
http://www.thinkmobile.com/News/00/59/60/
Aureole Launches New eWinebook Based On Tablet PC
Charlie Palmer's Aureole restaurant in Las Vegas launched eWinebook,
its handheld touch-screen computer that enables guests to survey
Aureole's vast wine list, more than a year ago. This week, the
restaurant revealed a new Tablet PC version of eWinebook.
The eWinebook was created to allow guests to search from Aureole's
selection of more than 50,000 bottles of wine. The new eWinebook uses
Microsoft's Windows XP Tablet PC Edition software and Hewlett-Packard
hardware to allow for features not possible on the previous
incarnation of the eWinebook, according to Andrew Bradbury, the
gadget's creator and Aureole's wine director.
Some of the new eWinebook features for the Tablet PC include
Microsoft's digital ink technology, which allows guests to write in
their query rather than type it. The new eWinebook also allows guests
to look at the wine list by price, region, grape, bottle size and
under any criteria in combination.
The eWinebook also supports live video streaming to show live webcams
from all four sides of the 42-foot wine tower in Aureole restaurant.
When one of the Wine Angels climbs the tower to retrieve a bottle,
guests will be able to see it from their seat.
Steve Martin
I just thought how nice it would be to have your text book in your computer
where you could underline things and highlight things and also have one
place to put all of your notes. I didn't think about the possibility of
being able to search your hand written notes. I just love that idea. I
have one of the Toshibas on order (it's driving me crazy waiting for it)
because I am about to begin some network courses for certification. I have
ordered it because of the uses mentioned above. I think that every college
student should have a tablet PC and I think that all of the companies that
write and print the text books need to put them in a format for the
computer. Imagine not having to carry a single book to class, you could
have everything neatly tucked away inside your tablet PC. I should have
given Bill Gates a call when I had the idea but by that time he was probably
several years into the development already. Anyway, while I always rant and
rave about this new form factor at work, nobody really gets that excited
about it. I think they have to see one in order to understand just how
great a TPC could be. You can bet that I will be showing mine around quite
a bit. I want to convert everyone to a tablet PC.
Chris H.
from Microsoft was already underway for about five years at that point. 8-)
You're absolutely correct about the awesome possibilities. I had a very
interesting chat with one of the security supervisors while waiting for a
flight last Friday, and he was dreaming about carrying around all the specs
for the various scanning machines they use on a Tablet. These
scanners/sniffers apparently need to be calibrated every eight hours or
less, and each one is different. Getting rid of two or three inches of a
stack of papers and being able to immediately file reports when the jobs are
completed was highly appealing to him.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft MVP/Tablet PC
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"Steve Martin" <steven...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:FtN4a.9814$_c6.1...@newsread2.prod.itd.earthlink.net...
Robert Scoble
> bottles in the eWinebook application. I think maybe he meant 100,000
> 'to order' or in the database. And the NEC was shown here, so I don;t
> think it is that far-off, depending on the defintion of 'in stock'. :)
That's the restaurant we're talking to. Sorry if I was a little bit off on
my numbers. I knew it was a large number, though. They have a HUGE cellar.
Robert Scoble
###
Patrick Meader
Well, I was really asking what *you* are doing with it. :-) IE, not what
your job is, but where are you taking advantage of the device's tabpc-ness
in your day-to-day life. And for others to chime in, too. Most of the
examples here sound a little exotic.
I think you're saying these are actual cases, rather than hypothetical
examples. I think these devices are very cool, but (as is usually the case)
your enthusiasm outstrips mine by a good margin. I can comment on the
editor/journalists aspects of the device, since these are what initially
excited me about the TabPC.
>>Typing on a keyboard while in a meeting is usually rude and it just isn't
that good to capture a lot of the things that are communicated.<<
In some cases. I've heard that before. It's not true for me, but it's
probably that I attend different kinds of meetings. I did recently conduct
an interview where someone drew a graph, and the tabpc was useful in that
context. However, it took three or four tries to get it rendered properly,
requiring tossing the old and beginning anew. I'll admit that could just be
inexperience with the device.
>>Journalists: ever try to take notes on an event while standing up? I have.
I once interviewed Bill Gates while following him around Comdex one year. I
wish I had had a Tablet for that.<<
Silly man: That's what tape recorders are for. More seriously, I walked the
floor of a recent show with the device in tablet mode. It was OK useful.
Holding it while tapping was OK, but I tried to avoid having to write stuff
because I found that uncomfortable while standing. One reason for that could
be the weight of the particular device I have, but another factor is the
location of the pen input area at the bottom of the screen. It felt awkward
to write so low on the screen while standing.
>>(and, I note, that most editors still print their articles out and copy
edit them while printed out).<<
That used to be the case. I don't think that is still true, at least among
the editors I know. I used to do things that way, but over time, gravitated
toward editing on a screen only. The advantages of editing on screen
(namely, speed and flexibility) are just too compelling. In a recent
discussion on this, I think only one editor of seven or eight preferred to
work with printed copies, and only for certain kinds of tasks.
I was very excited about writing over text in Word, but I think it's more
trouble than it's worth to do anything more than trivial editing this way,
and it restricts the kinds of comments you can make. It's awesome for a
"good job!" or two word remark, and it looks very cool, but for more
extensive commenting I return quickly to typing. I'd prefer to make the
comments to the side, but that means showing word at a smaller size and my
handwritten comments look too large. Even here, I feel I'm fighting the
device to do basic stuff.
>>And, if you're gonna stand up for more than 20 minutes, weight is very
important. <<
I agree with that. A coworker and I discussed the tradeoffs of various
devices before choosing the ones we did. (NEC wasn't available yet.) There
are places where a convertible strikes me as a better approach, and others
where I'd prefer a slate. It was hard to choose. No single device had
everything I wanted; I eventually opted for the Toshiba because I liked the
breadth of its features, while my coworker went the slate and docking
station route (the Compaq, I think). Even so, while walking the floor at at
tradeshow recently, I had a few moments where it would have been nice if the
device were a couple pounds lighter.
Anyway, good to see you around, and I hope the new launch goes well for you.
Patrick Meader
immediately file reports when the jobs are completed was highly appealing to
him.<<
I'll bet. If I were he, I'd be salivating.
Just curious: Had this company explored any existing pen-based solutions,
and found them inadequate?
Todd Brooks
> > The famous Aureole Restaurant in Las Vegas, Nevada...has around 50,000
> > bottles in the eWinebook application. I think maybe he meant 100,000
> > 'to order' or in the database.
Is this the restaurant in Vegas that has the "wine angels"?
todd
terri stratton
I use mine in conjunction with my desktop at work. I don't mind using the
writing feature at all, and often respond to ng posts using my Tablet as I
don't have ngs set up on my work computer. My boss is aware that I often
check ngs and has no problem with it as long as my work gets done,
especially as I also use it for work when away from the office.
Last week I used the Tablet PC exclusively and never even plugged in the
keyboard. The more I use it, the more I find myself not using a desktop or
laptop for my personal use.
I certainly agree with you about the weight. I found that the Acer became
quite heavy after holding it for more than 15 minutes or so. The case they
make for it made it much nicer to carry around. I wish there were similar
cases available for some of the other Tablet PCs as well.
I've been using a Motion M1200 recently. It's a pure slate, although it has
a very nice, extremely lightweight usb keyboard that can be plugged in if
necessary. I've never found a need to use it. I have it hooked into the
docking station, but usually use the Tablet PC away from the desk. I've
found that the thinness of the slate models makes it easier for me to carry
around just because they fit my hand better.
I have a program on it that I use for work. When I'm dispatching trucks
around the country, I see a new load immediately, no matter where I am, as
long as the Tablet PC is with me and there's a wireless connection. Much
more efficient than having to run back to a desktop to see if a load is
available somewhere, if I have a truck in the same area, or how far the
truck has to move to pick it up. In this area, time is critical. It's
usually first come, first served, so even a couple of seconds advantage can
be the difference between moving a truck or having it and the driver
sitting.
If someone in the yard needs a part, but isn't quite sure what it is, I can
do a search, find what I think may be what they want, then carry the Tablet
out to show them for verification before ordering.
Outside of the above, I use my Tablet mostly as a hobbyist, which is also
how I use my desktops. For me, that means email, newsgroups, beta-testing
several programs and some gaming. Granted, the gaming isn't going to be as
good as it is on my XBox or better video desktops, but I find the
portability of a Tablet PC a real benefit. I may use it to download a
recipe I may want to try, then just carry it in the kitchen rather than
having to print it out. If the recipe is something we like, it then goes in
a data file for future use, sorted correctly.
After using the Tablet PCs for several months now, I can honestly say I
don't think I could be without one. I'm very anxious to see what the next
few years will bring.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Patrick Meader" <pme...@fawcette.com> wrote in message
news:#y7xxME2...@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
terri stratton
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Todd Brooks" <tbr...@no.spam.thecodefoundry.com> wrote in message
news:e6HYHcE2CHA.1180@TK2MSFTNGP12...
Robert Scoble
> examples. I think these devices are very cool, but (as is usually the
case)
> your enthusiasm outstrips mine by a good margin. I can comment on the
> editor/journalists aspects of the device, since these are what initially
> excited me about the TabPC.
Yup, these are actual cases under way. Obviously it'll take six months to a
year to see if things actually worked out for these folks.
For myself, I use the Tablet like a laptop for the most part. Most of the
time I'm sitting at a desk with a keyboard plugged into it (and a mouse, for
that matter).
That's the nice thing about Tablets. They really are just an evolution of
the Laptop technology and because they are still Windows XP, you can do
whatever you'd do on a laptop with them.
I think the question you are really asking is: "is the ink important?"
The answer to that is yes.
But, then, I'm a digital photographer, so find that Photoshop really rocks
on Tablets.
I take a lot of notes in meetings.
For these things, I find that ink is better than ASCII text. I usually don't
convert ink to text, though.
Robert
Robert Scoble
I find that tape recorders are useless for walking around Comdex and
recording a conversation. You forget, too, that the Tablet can record audio
(and wait until you see the new "OneNote" application from Microsoft -- it
does some really awesome things with text, ink, and audio).
I find that I'd far prefer having some notes on a conversation than to have
audio, which I need to go back to and listen to over and over again (not to
mention that the noise in a hall like Comdex isn't exactly conducive to
getting usable audio).
But, the nice thing about the Tablet is you don't need to chose: you can
ink, type on a keyboard, or record audio.
Robert
Robert Scoble
>be the weight of the particular device I have, but another factor is the
>location of the pen input area at the bottom of the screen. It felt awkward
>to write so low on the screen while standing.
The Toshiba you have is quite heavy and thick. I got a good chance to play
with one and it's a nice device, but I sure wouldn't want to hold one for
more than a few minutes.
By the way, I agree with you about the input area. It'd be nice to have that
a lot more usable. I know Microsoft is working hard on it, but can't say
more than that due to my NDAs. Suffice it to say that I think that's a
problem that will eventually go away.
Personally, when I'm using ink, I rarely use ink to convert to text. I find
it to be too frustrating. I usually just take notes in ink, and leave them
in ink and may only convert some points later on to save me some retyping
time.
My usage of the Tablet is evolving, though, as I continue to learn what it's
good for and what it isn't good for.
I have handed the Tablet to hundreds of people now, and I find the first
thing most try is a game of Solitare. :-)
Robert
Chris H.
(1) The TIP is not locked to the bottom of the screen, you can very easily
remove the "Dock" designation under Tools and drag it where you want. I
prefer it running at the top of the screen, and it fits nicely just to the
left of any program's three icons (minimize through the close) and the title
of the program on the left.
(2) Windows Journal, which is part of the Windows XP Tablet PC operating
system. You can take notes in your handwriting, save them, search them,
etc., etc. So TIP isn't the only means to taking notes.
All that said, I rarely use TIP, preferring instead the WriteAnywhere
feature when I want to Ink-to-text for an e-mail or answer a newsgroup post
without using the keyboard. And speech I've found is really quite good once
you learn the styleperiod and working back and forth with commands. 8-)
Robert Scoble
> remove the "Dock" designation under Tools and drag it where you want. I
> prefer it running at the top of the screen, and it fits nicely just to the
> left of any program's three icons (minimize through the close) and the
title
> of the program on the left.
Thanks for teaching me something!
Of course, last week I learned gestures (I didn't realize that I could get
the TIP to appear just by waving the pen back and forth really fast while
holding it just above the writing surface -- I hear there's even an app out
there that lets you add more gestures. My friend drew a triangle and
Microsoft Word started up. Cool.).
Robert Scoble
Chris H.
As with most Microsoft products, there are several ways to do things. Like
I'm using speech to send this answer. Look Ma! No hands!
--
Chris H.
Microsoft MVP/Tablet PC
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"Robert Scoble" <robert...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:edYmD4E2CHA.1636@TK2MSFTNGP12...
Robert Scoble
> As with most Microsoft products, there are several ways to do things.
Like
> I'm using speech to send this answer. Look Ma! No hands!
Hey, seeing as most MVPs hadn't even seen one before last week, I figure I'm
ahead of the curve. :-)
Since NEC is just coming out now, I'm four months behind you bleeding edge
types -- but catching up fast. :-)
Robert Scoble
terri stratton
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Chris H." <winx...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:uCFb9AF2...@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
Patrick Meader
Thanks for describing how you use the device. That's very interesting. In my
day job, I'm an editor at a programming magazine, and I'm quite interested
in seeing how people will adapt this device to work environments and make
themselves more productive with it. I'm especially interested in seeing what
kinds of custom apps companies will create for it.
>>Last week I used the Tablet PC exclusively and never even plugged in the
keyboard. The more I use it, the more I find myself not using a desktop or
laptop for my personal use.<<
That's very cool. My wife uses it only in tablet mode, and for a couple
hours a day, on average, mainly to surf the Web and write short emails. I
think her interest and the way you are using your device say much about the
potential longterm commercial viability of this device.
>>I've found that the thinness of the slate models makes it easier for me to
carry around just because they fit my hand better.<<
I agree. I didn't go into specifics, but the reason I chose a convertible is
that I'd hoped to use it in lieu of a much larger laptop that I travel with.
I was looking for the functionality of both worlds with decent performance
in one device (aware of the compromises this would mean). On my most recent
trip, it was the only computer I brought, and it proved more than adequate
as both a notetaking device and as a full laptop when I got back to my room
at the end of the day. But absolutely, for the tasks you describe, a slate
makes a lot of sense.
>>In this area, time is critical. It's usually first come, first served, so
even a couple of seconds advantage can be the difference between moving a
truck or having it and the driver sitting.<<
Very cool.
>>After using the Tablet PCs for several months now, I can honestly say I
don't think I could be without one. I'm very anxious to see what the next
few years will bring.<<
I'm excited to see what will come, as well. My reaction on seeing the v1
implementation and being able to use it for a while was: Why do I have to
wait for version 2 or 3? I want to see them now because the potential of
these devices is so obvious, and I can't wait for the kinks to be ironed
out! I should also note that I've been able to use two companies' devices
for an extended period of time, and I'm much happier the second time around.
The implementation can make a big difference, even on v1 devices.
pat
Chris H.
this project has been ongoing for years at Microsoft but not visible to the
general public until the launch November 7, 2002.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft MVP/Tablet PC
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"Robert Scoble" <robert...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:e2OAGIF2CHA.1776@TK2MSFTNGP09...
terri stratton
way I feel about using a slate rather than a convertible. :) Having the
keyboard available in my briefcase is a lot easier for me than having to
carry the additional weight around all the time.
The other advantage is that I can use it in ways I can't use a connected
keyboard. If there's room to put the slate (the Motion has a plastic stand
for use away from the docking station), I don't need the room for the
keyboard as well. I can stand, put it on my lap, or on a different area for
typing. It's come in handy on the train using it on a tray table.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Patrick Meader" <pme...@fawcette.com> wrote in message
news:#N6g0JF2...@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
Robert Scoble
> this project has been ongoing for years at Microsoft but not visible to
the
> general public until the launch November 7, 2002.
Yup, I realize that. I got a good look at Tablets 18 months ago and
instantly realized that they would change my life. When I was being
interviewed here at NEC last March I kept asking "are you guys gonna do a
Tablet?" (At that point I had spent a few hours using an Acer already) I'm
very happy at how things turned out.
I was jealous of all you who had early copies. Now I just gotta catch up!
:-)
Of course, now that I'm a Longhorn (next version of Windows) MVP it's time
for you all to be jealous of me for a while. ;-)
I can't say much about Longhorn in public (other than "moo" and "moo is
good" -- sorry, inside joke) but I totally believe Gates when he says that
within a few years most computing devices will have the Tablet technology
built in. A good predictor of that is to simply look at what machines the
Windows team is using to design the next version of Windows: most of the
team I met with were using Tablets. Also, both Ballmer and Gates use Tablets
as their main machines. If anyone doubts Microsoft's commitment to the
Tablet, you better watch out! (Translation: the future is very cool for
Tablet users).
I also wanted to say thanks to the Tablet MVPs. I've learned a whole lot
from them and I hope to continue doing so.
Robert Scoble
Robert Scoble
> typing. It's come in handy on the train using it on a tray table.
Yeah, I thought having a Tablet in an airliner wouldn't be a big deal, but
it's the first time I felt comfortable in coach working on a computer. Why?
Because I could move my position in a much wider range than before. Also,
it's the first time that I didn't need to turn off the computer, fold it up,
and put it away before getting food or drinks. Why? Because a Tablet doesn't
need to sit on the tray table. A Tablet is much more useful in tight spaces
than a laptop is -- this same thing explains why Gates and Meader like
reading in bed with a Tablet a lot better than they like using a laptop for
the same task.
Robert
terri stratton
Longhorn MVP?
And Longhorns don't go "moo."
Newgroups are a great way to learn. I constantly learn more by reading here
than almost anywhere else. I always get back much more than I give.
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Robert Scoble" <robert...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:uksFDYF2CHA.1764@TK2MSFTNGP10...
Robert Scoble
> Longhorn MVP?
Last Thursday. A subset of the Windows MVP members were invited to be
Longhorn MVPs. It's a continuation of the Windows MVP program, though. I got
a cool fleece sweater with a Longhorn logo on it, though.
And we definitely were mooing. It's an inside joke, though. They told us
that was the only thing not covered by our NDAs. :-)
Robert
Todd Brooks
http://www.ewine.com/operations/news_index_details.asp?ContentID=798
and
http://www.thinkmobile.com/News/00/59/60/
Regards,
todd
"terri stratton" <sup...@thetabletpc.net> wrote in message
news:OVk67fE2...@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
Chris H.
claim being a member of the Denver Broncos Super Bowl winning football teams
because I've got a hat with the logo on it, and using that logic my wife is
part of the New York Yankees. My Anaheim Angels beat her Yanks in the
playoffs last year on "our" way to the World Series title. Declaration of
what you're claiming was never made, check what the lettering on the apparel
says.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft MVP/Tablet PC
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"Robert Scoble" <robert...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:#UT6NTG2...@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
terri stratton
Since what you're talking about is NDA, email will probably be better for
any add'l communication about it.
Look at the fleece again and read what it says. That covers a lot of areas
and a lot of people. :)
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Robert Scoble" <robert...@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:#UT6NTG2...@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
Robert Scoble
> That covers a lot of areas
> and a lot of people. :)
My fleece says Windows MVP under a Longhorn logo. At the end of the session
they told everyone in attendance "Welcome to the Longhorn MVP program."
Maybe I heard something different than what you did. It don't matter anyway,
really.
Robert
Sharon F
Sharon
who is still getting accustomed to a Motion tablet and loving it.
terri stratton wrote:
> LOL - told you it worked really well. ;) I love the speech option.
>
Chris H.
really like to use, but the family budget doesn't include more toys. 8-)
However, it works really great in a quiet environment.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft MVP/Tablet PC
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
"Sharon F" <sharo...@ETEmvps.org> wrote in message
news:OPaGQbK2...@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
terri stratton
(another cheapie) and I also have a Platronics.
I like the Labtech as it has connections for both mike and headphones.
I think the Motion and speech go very well together. I'm glad you like the
Motion, Sharon. It's a very nice machine. :)
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Sharon F" <sharo...@ETEmvps.org> wrote in message
news:OPaGQbK2...@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
Sharon F
Using the alternative input methods for the tablet takes a bit getting used
to but am getting accustomed to it more quickly than I thought I would.
Getting a few laughs along the way. Tablet was a bit slow coming out of
standby the other day. Don't know why I thought the pen was out of ink but
yep, there I was shaking it to get more ink out! Oh, writing with the input
pen on real paper doesn't work well either. <g>
Don't have the newsgroups entirely switched over to it yet but after seeing
Terri scribbling away so competently on her Motion I know there's hope and
just keep at it.
Sharon
terri stratton wrote:
> I've tried a couple of different ones, Sharon. I usually use a
> Labtech 322 (another cheapie) and I also have a Platronics.
>
> I like the Labtech as it has connections for both mike and headphones.
>
> I think the Motion and speech go very well together. I'm glad you
> like the Motion, Sharon. It's a very nice machine. :)
>
>
terri stratton
I know what you mean.
I still brush the eraser crumbs off after I erase something. :)
--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP / Tablet PC
http://TheTabletPC.net
Associate Expert
http://microsoft.com/WindowsXP/expertzone/focuson/tabletpc.asp
"Sharon F" <sharo...@ETEmvps.org> wrote in message
news:eUH76#O2CH...@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
Mark
education. I've yet to find an EMR which fits our
practice, yet feel the tablet is a true in road. I've
used PDA's for coding and portable textbooks and script
writing for years and will change this over to the
tablet. In addition, the is a wealth of patient education
materials "free" on the internet which allow
customization. Now to print and discuss with the patient
in the room with a copy sent home, annotated with our
discussion will be useful. Online text and literature at
the bedside is a personal dream come true. I use a
wireless net in the office already. There are odds and
ends such as phonocardiograms, interoffice messaging....
Mark
mitodad
and E-med Records' CompuKID works just fine. as for phonocardiograms, i
tried stethographics Cardionics II, not so much for teaching purposes (great
for that), but to keep track of murmurs (can do lungs and heart) of "unique"
patients as compared to PPS murmurs and other functional things see in kids.
Biggest problem with the Cardionics II is that crying simulates rales!!
Killed the sale for me for obvious reasons. You may want to contact Bill
Kania (you can tell him Rivendell Pediatrics sent you) at
www.stethographics.com for more info. it is true that using the built-in
mic/speaker set up is not great, and if it wasn't for being a peds, i would
have purchased it as works great on tablet.
other uses - get the doc 9.95 for shipping special from Thomson (PDR) and
install it, it's worth the shipping fee. though i miss the electronic
versions of skyscape.com's e-books on compact flash card, i'm going to be a
single office site again so won't be a big deal.
as for more specifics, go to the Acer site and look at their success
stories - health for more input about tablets/emr and how it fits perfectly
into my paperless office scenario. you can find some other links from
infocater which is how i found out about the stethographics and also dolphin
medical working on an xp (currently only pocketpc versions) of ekg's and
spirometry/pulse-oxymetry units.
mitodad
"Mark" <bm...@earthlink.net> wrote in message
news:083e01c2d957$aa841440$2f01...@phx.gbl...