1. Tablet PCs: Slates Of The 21st Century

The dream of entering data on a mobile PC by pen is nothing new. Microsoft alone was responsible for two attempts to establish pen computing in the `90s, "Windows CE" and "Windows for Pen Computing." But the actual devices suffered from the following deficiencies: while they were mobile, they either weren't powerful enough to execute applications at the same speed as PCs, or they were based on castrated applications that made them useful as a mobile add-on but not as a full replacement for a PC. The pen acted mostly as a navigation tool. There was none of the handwriting-recognition functionality that users have become used to with PDAs based on MS PocketPC.

The software behemoth from Redmond has forged an alliance with hardware and software makers to finally make this dream a reality. In launching this new category of devices (the Tablet PCs), Microsoft intends to introduce users to a radically new mobile computing experience with 'natural-feeling' handwriting recognition and pen entry - and hopes to earn a few bucks in the process.

The principle is as 'easy' as it gets. First, take a stable, mature operating system (Windows XP Professional), mix in some APIs (application-programming interfaces), and then carefully fold in tools that enable users to control the system and enter data with a pen. Finally, bake it in the labs until it has firmed up into the 'new operating system,' the Microsoft XP Tablet PC Edition.

In return, hardware makers promised to provide systems that meet Microsoft's specifications for the Tablet PC. Knowing that the best hardware is of no use at all if there's no innovative software available, Microsoft has put a software-development kit (SDK) and APIs for handwriting recognition, voice (SAPI) and other functions at the disposal of software developers.

Software and hardware makers have identified road and corridor warriors as the main target groups for the Tablet PC. That might include a doctor who takes her Tablet PC along for her morning rounds, an insurance agent, or even a package delivery person. Indeed, there are all kinds of different scenarios in which a Tablet PC can and should be used. That's why it's a good idea to take a closer look at the new operating system that will form the basis of an entirely new category of devices. In addition, THG has subjected a typical Tablet PC, the Acer Travelmate C102Ti, to an extensive test.