Tablet PC

What is a Tablet PC

Microsoft set the standard for the term Tablet PC so we will look at their definition that has been evolving since 2002. As of January 2007, the software features and support that defined a Tablet PC are now incorporated into most versions of Window Vista.

The following definition, last updated in February 2005 is still generally applicable.

Computers powered by the Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system, and equipped with a sensitive screen designed to interact with a complementary pen, are called Tablet PCs. Tablet PCs are fully-functional laptop PCs and more. You can use the pen directly on the screen just as you would a mouse to do things like select, drag, and open files; or in place of a keyboard to handwrite notes and communication. Unlike a touch screen, the Tablet PC screen only receives information from a special pen. It will not take information from your finger or your shirt sleeve—so you can rest your wrist on the screen and write naturally.

By interacting directly with the screen, rather than with a mouse and keyboard, the PC becomes more comfortable and easy to use. There is no need to find a flat space on which to use your PC, nor does a vertical screen become a dividing wall between you and the person with you whom you are meeting. What's more, a Tablet PC can even be used while standing up, which is perfect for professionals on the move such as doctors, foremen, and sales managers.

Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005 includes all of the features and functionality of Windows XP Professional and Windows XP Service Pack 2. Tablet PCs do not run Windows CE or Windows XP Embedded.

Along with the options typically provided by a conventional laptop, Tablet PCs are certain to include:

• Mid- to high-end processors that are optimized for mobile computing
• High memory capacity for most computing needs
• High capacity hard drive storage space
• Built-in 802.11b and/or 802.11g modem for wireless and networking connectivity
• Tablet PC-compatible electronic pen
• Tablet PC-compatible digitizer screen

see the complete article on Microsoft's site.

• What IS a Tablet PC - featured article.
• Tablet PC Features in Vista