Tablet PC

Mobile computing has become nothing short of a necessity in the information age. Laptops, PDAs, and other digital communication and computer devices have quickly become imperative in conducting business for professionals that cannot be restrained to their office or homes all of the time. Rapid advances in technology have enabled device manufacturers to release products that were virtually unthinkable only a few short years ago. One of the most innovative and popular mobile computing innovations that has gained a great deal of popularity and support in recent years has been the tablet PC.

The tablet PC is a laptop computer with a twist. To interact with traditional laptops, users only have the options of utilizing the keyboard and touchpad. Tablet PC users can utilize the innovative touch screen to operate the computer using a stylus.

Tablet PCs come in a variety of styles to meet the needs of the user. The most popular tablet PC configurations can be placed into three categories: convertibles, slates, and hybrids.

Convertible Tablet PCs

Convertible tablet PCs are a popular option for users that wish to retain the option of keeping their keyboard functionality while taking advantage of the convenience of the touch screen technology. Convertibles look almost identical to a traditional laptop when the lid is shut, however when the lid is opened, an innovative swiveling hinge allows the screen to turn a full 180 degrees, allowing the casing of the laptop to lie back against the keyboard. This allows the user to view the screen and interact with the laptop much as if it were a traditional paper notebook.

Slate Tablet PCs

Slate tablet PCs lack a keyboard or mouse altogether, leaving the touch screen as the sole user interface. Slate tablet PCs are widely used in commercial applications such as hospitals, delivery services, and inventory functions. Since the amount of moving parts has been decreased with the lack of a keyboard, slate tablet PCs are typically notably more resilient and can often be much smaller than other types of tablet PCs, though their computer applications are often limited to a selected, specialized few.

Hybrid Tablet PCs

Hybrid tablet PCs are becoming popular with previous users of the convertible tablet PCs. Hybrid tablet PCs look and perform nearly identical to their convertible counterparts but add the useful function of being able to completely disconnect the keyboard section until it is needed. Hybrid PCs will likely gain popularity as a result of this function in the coming years.