I am in the market for a tablet pc and wondered if any of you have experience with them. I am leaning toward the Toshiba R400 but would like to hear if anyone has had good or bad experiences with it.
No one has or is interested in a tablet pc I guess.
Sorry, Bill.
Back when I worked in the Educational Technology Department at Miami-Dade County Public Schools, I previewed some tablet PC's.
They just never caught my attention, and that was over 2 years ago.
I know several Realtors that have them and think they are great. They say clients are very impressed. Apparently they use them as a way to "go paperless". You can sign a contract on screen and e-mail it immediately to another agent's e-fax, etc.
I have a Tablet PC and never use its functions. I have not found it to be very user friendly and my had writing is bad so that doesn't help. I would of rather spent less money and got a normal lap top.
I should probably take a class to learn more about it. Then I might change my mind.
Thanks Joe. This is exactly what I was looking for, advice from someone that has one or looked at tham and decided not to get one, etc. It is easy to go crazy with new gadgets and then not even use them.
I have heard that Toshiba is the better choice. I'm going to get one myself (one day). I think if you use it, it'll save a lot of time. I'm also going to start using Docusign for clients who live 50 miles from me. Customers don't seem to mind at all as it saves them time meeting me somewhere.
Steven--I confess I love technology and if something like this can save me time and gas money getting things done, well I'm all for it.
We got one of the small screen 12" Avertec tablets back in January. My husband wanted to use it in his truck when he's on the road for GPS navigation,etc ... it wasn't as good as we expected, not to mention the one we got had obvious technical problems ... would start freezing almost immediately after starting it ... so we shipped it back and got him a new "regular" laptop instead. If I was to go with a tablet, I would probably try Gateway, I've seen one before that seemed to be quite good. Anyway, from what I know, the processors are not as fast and if you are not planning on using the tablet to its fullest with all the functions, you may be better off with a good laptop instead.
I have the Gateway Tablet PC. I like everything about it, but I don't use the tablet functions often
I have a Dell laptop that I really like. I am not sure if going with a tablet is worth it at this point. I think I'll wait another 6 months or so on this one.
Bill, I can't believe you asked that question. I am a Tablet fanatic. See my post located in this category. Dell is coming out with a tablet any day now. If you REALLY, really like your current lap top and you are satisfied with your functions you don't NEED a tablet. Tablet +Zip+RED+Wireless is more like a Real Business lifestyle.
Bottom line, I love doing business with a tablet, but its not for eveyone. It takes awhile to teach and discipline yourself to do things in a different way. Right now I'm getting used to Vista for Business with Microsoft Pro 2007 along with my new tablet.
My first tablet which served me extremely well was an ebay refurbished. If you want to experiment you don't have to go top of the line.
IF you are inclined, see my post about Gateway tablet. It is not meant to be a commercial advertisement, rather an experience piece.
REgards, Suzi
PS: Joe, you don't have to use the pen often to appreciate that its there when you do need it, or when its more convenient. I have mine set so that I use the pen instead of a mouse--much quicker. Great for highlighting, too. I rarely turn my tablet to slate mode. When I use the pen, I normally use it as an upright tablet. Its a lot of fun using the swivel screen when working with clients. At some point in a presentation I have my client working my computer for some reason. I can tell they enjoy the experience. Almost eveytime someone will remark "I ought to get one of those", or so and so should get one. My perception of clients' perception is that they are impressed with command of technology.
And if you really want to have fun, take your tablet to the espresso shop with you and work, rather try to work once people quit coming up to you and asking about it.
I am a nut for new technology and keep getting tempted by these tablets.
...just remember, in our profession, technology is a valid business expense and write off:-) Tablets really aren't new they are just basically undiscovered. Take my recent purchase, even my purchase 2 years ago--I had to go on faith (and tons of research) because I couldn't find demo models anywhere. I think someone should have tablet specialty stores--but then the price would probably go up.
If you can train yourself to keep one note or journal open and scribble notes as you go, you will eliminate carrying around note pads and looking for notes.
If I am attending a long R.E. class I will take my tablet to take notes. I am always approached by several agents before I get out the door.
But, if you are not determined to use its capabilities, stick to a regular lap top. REgards, Suzi
Suzi, Good input! I was hoping for someone with experience.