What is a Tablet PC?

Tablet PC is a lightweight version of a PC in the shape of a flat panel. User interact with it by tapping the screen and hand-writing with a penlike device. Tablet PCs will also let users wirelessly connect to the Internet and other PCs. In a word, a Tablet PC combines the mobility of a handheld computer with the computing power of a notebook.

What are the main characteristics of a Tablet PC?

• Powerful -- Tablet PC can run almost all PC applications compatiable with Windows XP, plus the applications which specifically target Tablet PC. On connectivity side, besides the built-in wireless support, Tablet PCs can also be placed into a docking station at a desk to support a large monitor, network connection, keyboard, mouse, and other peripherals.
• Mobility -- The Tablet PC comes in two basic forms, the "convertible" with an integrated keyboard, and the ultra-mobile "pure tablet". All Tablet PCs will be very light — ranging from 2 to 3 pounds. Combined with wireless network support, Tablet PC gives you greater mobility and immediate access to the full power of your PC.
• Natural interaction with computer -- Using a digital pen and the Input Panel utility, you can write directly on the screen and save your notes in your own handwriting or convert them to typed text for input into other applications. Speech recognition is an integral component of every Tablet PC, allowing users to dictate content or control applications with their voice.

Is Tablet PC right for me?

Tablet PC's special features make it best choice for people who have jobs requiring them to be on the move, whether attending meetings in the office or conducting business on the road. You will also find Tablet PC very useful if you like to have the full power of a notebook at a greater mobility.

What are differences between two versions of tablet PC?

There are two versions of the tablet PC -- the slate style and the convertible style.

Slate-style tablet appears similar to a large PDA. The approximate size of the device is 8.5 inches by 12 inches, with a color screen measuring around 10 inches diagonally with control buttons on the edge of the screen. The tablet PC connects to a docking station and peripherals including keyboard and mouse, but can be carried around as a mobile device, with a stylus for input. The slate design has the advantage of being simple and sleek without hinges or moving parts, but it has no keyboard or mouse when the device is mobile, away from the docking station.

The second style, the convertible, is essentially a laptop PC that converts to a tablet PC. The convertible tablet PC has a clamshell design similar to the laptop PC; but when opened, the screen side of the PC swivels 180 degrees, and the backside of the screen folds down on top of the keyboard with the screen side facing up. The size of the convertible design is similar to the slate, although slightly thicker to accommodate for the hinged keyboard component. The main advantage of the convertible style is its similarity to the laptop PC--a familiar device for the consumer. The convertible style also has the advantage of the attached keyboard, but the hinged clamshell design creates a bulkier device that may be susceptible to damage or breaking.

What operating system is Tablet PC running?

The Tablet PC runs a specialized version of Microsoft's Windows XP operating system. This version offers the features and capabilities of Windows XP Professional, plus additional features specific to the Tablet PC, such as handwritting support and voice recognision. All existing Windows software applications would still be able to run on Tablet PCs.

What CPU does Tablet PC use?

Most hardware manufactures are currently using Intel Pentium III (above 800MHz) ultra low voltage CPU for mobile computer.

Which companies make Tablet PCs?

So far Acer, Compaq, ElectroVaya, FIC, Fujitsu, Tatung, VIA Technologies and ViewSonic etc. have announced their Tablet PC products. More companies are expected to join the list in the near future.

What types of Tablet PC are currently available and where can I get one?

Tablet PCs from several companies, e.g. Acer, Compaq, Fujitsu, Motion Computing, Toshiba, ViewSonic etc., are currently avaialable in the market. Please refer to the Products Center page for detailed product specifications and their availability at some of the online retailers.

Where can I find more information about Tablet PC?

Microsoft's Tablet PC home page is a good starting point to learn more about Tablet PC, e.g. Tablet PC system overview, features, and demos etc.  Or you may refer to Related Links page for other tablet PC related websites.