Flat Panel Tablets

[Steven Wessler]

Android, CTL2 go and Samsung are all fairly high priced.
Are there other units that would meet the minimum requirements to use and run HIP without
any other frills? (Except that the unit must have touch and stylus capabilities)
For those that have used the tablet in the field, do you prefer working with a 8" or 10" model?
I am asking because some use pictures, some use a laptop and others, like me prefer just taking notes
and I'm not sure I would like this form of reporting, but I do need to quicken my speed. By eliminating
writing then transferring to the report, I think the Tablet would do this.

If you would please drop a few names.

[Dominic Maricic]

If you want really cheap get the HP TC1100. We've had guys using these since day 1: http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p5197.m570.l1313&_nkw=hp+tc1100&_sacat=See-All-Categories

[Steven Wessler]

OK. Maybe not that Cheap.
I guess what I am asking is there middle of the road tablets, that come equipped with the following features,
1. Touch screen.
2. Good camera quality.
3. Enough Ram/Memory to run HIP with no concerns.
4. 8" or 10" screen?
I would only run HIP reports, so basic software is all I would want.
I understand its up to the individual, but just would like a good starting point.

[Dominic Maricic]

All tablets have touch screen, that's what makes it a tablet.
No tablet has a camera you want to use as there's no optical zoom.
As far as ram get at least 1 gig if you can.
8" or 10" is up to you!

I still think the HP Slate 2 is the way to go right now!

[Steven Wessler]

Thank You Dominic for your Help.

[Mike Rosato]

Hi Dominic, I'm in the market for a tablet now. Do you still say the HP Slate 2 is the way to go?

[Dominic Maricic]

Yup, I do!

[Mike Rosato]

Thanks Dom. I know all 3 models have 2GB RAM and run the same processor. I can get a great deal on Slate 2 model# B2A28UT which has the larger 64GB drive and windows 7 pro for $518.00 new with free shipping--I can't pass it up!  I need your input on something though? There is another model# A6M62AA for a little more money, but I can't seem to see the difference between them. I know your a busy man, but will you please check it out? Maybe you see something I don't.  Mike

[Mike Rosato]

  Correction! My discount fell through because its not an in-store item.  No discount for online orders.  Oh well, I'm still going to get it I think.  I say I think because I hate ordering things online without physically touching and taking it for a test drive.

[Dominic Maricic]

Where are you getting it from? Most places will let you return them even if you purchase them online.

[Mike Rosato]

I was going to get it at best buy as my daughter works there and would get the discount if they had it in stock.  Because it's online only--no discount. I'm finding cheaper options elsewhere online though.  I will let you know what I do.  You're right though, I can return it although I'm sure I will love it.

[Mike Rosato]

Another Question. What do you think about the new 2go Convertible Classmate PC NL3? I'm leaning that way as it is convertible and rugged.  Also larger drive options and can get 4GB RAM. What are the cons other than heavier. Does it have handwriting recognition, so I can take field notes without typing? The specs don't say and this is my first tablet?  I like the fact that it is convertible and a little bigger.

[Dominic Maricic]

Oh MAN. I didn't know the NL3 was out!! Sweeeet. The video is here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ezGQUZic78M

Yes, the CTL2Go hand handwriting recognition. This unit is much lighter than the previous version too.

[Chris Glochau]

Dom is the 160 GB enough for inspection use? Is there a need to get more than windows7 starter? I have been needing to get something for a while and I think I'm gonna go with the NL3.

[Dominic Maricic]

160gb is more than enough. Yes, upgrade one higher than the Windows 7 starter.

[Mike Rosato]

Thanks Dom, I think the NL3 is the way I'm going to go.  With 4GB RAM, Office suite shouldn't bog it down right? I will store all pics and large files externally, but I want to be able to use Word, Excel and present Powerpoint presentations with it.

[Dominic Maricic]

Office? Eww! I suggest not putting that stuff on an inspection machine but you definitely can. Just make sure it's off when you're running HIP.

[Dan Musielski]

This is what I have been looking at; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHrDTV8EvNg
TigerDirects Business site has it for 699.00
http://biz.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1622088&CatId=4938
This particular unit does not have multi-touch or the outdoor viewable screen(but that's ok).
I also like what I see with the Ctl2go

But I'm still waiting.  I may wait till Windows 8(however, with computers, I've always bought a generation older). I have a 7 year old tablet- so most things will be an improvement in speed.

[Mike Rosato]

I looked at the Think pad also and like it too. I think I might hold out a little longer.  I really like a few of them, but I keep coming back too the slate 2.

[Dan Musielski]

I haven't used a Slate...but It seems like a good idea.  I do almost no keyboard entry in the field anymore.  What I like about my OLD Lenovo is that I have the docking station at home...and it very easy to finish up the report.