First off, what is a tablet pc? Tablet pc is a great name for it because it literally is like a tablet, or a pen and paper notebook. It is a slate-shaped computer that is easy to take with you on the go. The user operates the touch screen with a digital pen, a stylus, or even a finger. This is more convenient that the typical keypad or mouse of a desktop pc for when you are on the go. The functionality of a tablet pc is great when a laptop or pen and paper may not be appropriate due to being on the go, or because pen and paper does not come with the software of a tablet pc. Tablet pc's come in two forms, slate or convertible. One is not necessarily better then the other, it is just user preference. Slate style Tablet PC's come with a stylus, or digital pen as its main way for user interface. The convertible style is much like a notebook in many ways, but a main difference from notebook is that the screen can swivel. The difference in the convertible to the slate is that the convertible comes with a build in keyboard and the slate does not. To use as a traditional laptop, the slate tablet style requires being connected to a docking station or having an optional keyboard plugged in or connected by BlueTooth to use a keyboard. There is a weight difference between the two. The slate style Tablet PC usually weighs around 3.5 pounds and the convertible weighs 1-2 pounds more. For most people, the slate style is what is preferred due to its lighter weight and it offers more features. But if you find that you need a keyboard often, it is probably best to get the convertible style. There is also a less used Hybrid series. The Hybrid shares qualities of both the slate and convertible style by having a detachable keyboard. Nearly every Tablet PC comes with built-in wireless networking. In order for a Tablet PC to send or receive data in real time you must be connected to a wireless network. The battery life usually last from 2-6 hours depending on the model you choose. However, it is good to keep in mind that using the built-in wireless networking can use up the batter life a lot faster, but still should be good for at least 2 hours of use. There are several advantages to using Tablet PC's to notebooks. • There is a natural ease to using a pen for sketching or writing notes compared to a keyboard and mouse. • There is no jerky mouse movement like on notebooks which can allow you to pay attention to what is important, not worrying about trying to aim the mouse perfectly. • Tablet PC's are very slim, and are smaller then typical laptops which makes them easier to carry and use in a flash. Tablet PC's are gaining popularity with many professionals for their portability, ease of use, and their high functionality. The key is finding which Tablet PC is right for you.
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