A tablet computer.....why?

statdoc · #1 03-14-2011, 05:51 PM

OK, I am really tempted to buy a tablet computer, mostly because I like gadgets. But, I am also wondering what I would really use it for?

I already have a laptop, that is my primary computer. I have a Blackberry, that also allows me do email and minimal websurfing, when needed. I can even tether the BB to the laptop, for real net connectivity when I have no other options.

I look at all the cool iPads, the various Android tablets, and the BB Playbook. I think they would be fun, but would I really use them for anything after the first week of playing? What niche would be filled?

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motordavid · #2 03-14-2011, 05:57 PM

I am very curious, also...looking forward to reading the Techies reasons & FABs.
You musta been reading my mind, Doc.
BR, mD

E61Silver · #3 03-14-2011, 06:05 PM

I would say it is great to travel with or take to meetings.

It is also is a reader.

My plan for the next year or so would be to replace the laptop with a new 17 inch model and get a iPad for travel.

I see no reason to get a 3G Pad since my Droid X can function as a hot spot.

Quicksilver · #4 03-14-2011, 06:11 PM

This thread goes back to Jan 2010. http://www.xoutpost.com/off-topic/lo...ad-thread.html The others are just getting off the ground. If you have a specialized field it could help. Here's one example. http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2010/04/...-medicine.html Others will say it's a worthless device. You be the judge.

Personally I don't look at it as a computer. I see it more as an open ended device that allows you to customize it for your personal use.

E61Silver · #5 03-14-2011, 06:15 PM

My daughter got a hand-me down iPad one and the tough screen ability was nice. It seems that you can get a Pad base word processor that is compatible with Word.

I think that the iPad 2 could also function as file server for your tv and audio system so you would not need Apple TV or other similar products. Yes you could do that with a laptop as well but the pad is smaller and therefore easier to connect. Do you know that as a Amazon Prime member you can get some downloads for free. I think that the on demand downloads through the internet, may allow you to reduce the services you get (pay for) with cable.

statdoc · #6 03-14-2011, 06:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by E61Silver

My plan for the next year or so would be to replace the laptop with a new 17 inch model and get a iPad for travel.

OK, so you travel with the tablet, and leave the real computer at home. What about when you want/need to access documents on your real computer? What about if you decide to write a letter? Or work on a PowerPoint? Seems like you are limited to web surfing with a tablet.

Dannyell · #7 03-14-2011, 06:36 PM

My mom is happy with her's since she put hundreds of pictures & etc on it...very easy to share with the family every time they get together...just pass the tabled around lol.

Anyways, up to you whether the thing is worth $

statdoc · #8 03-14-2011, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dannyell

Anyways, up to you whether the thing is worth $

Well, of course it is up to me. The point is to elicit opinions from others, as to their perceptions of usefulness of this new technology. Perhaps things I am not seeing at the moment.

Quicksilver · #9 03-14-2011, 07:04 PM

Like I said if you want to do something someone is prob already figuring out a way to do it.How do I copy Keynote presentations onto my Apple iPad? :: Free Tech Support :: Ask Dave Taylor!®

As for accessing your files while away from home? Done.
Access Your Computer From Anywhere on Your iPad

Apple iPad Mac Version Keynote Documents iPad Version Edit Microsoft Word Documents Launch Keynote Launch Pages Microsoft Word Copy Keynote Presentations Mac OS Powerpoint Presentations it can all be used.

Edit : Quickoffice adds full PowerPoint support for the iPad | ZDNet

Edit again: Can the iPad be used to type documents? Can it open and save Microsoft Office files? Can it open and save PDF files? @ EveryiPod.com

haigha · #10 03-14-2011, 07:10 PM

I haven't got one yet because I don't see the need. I got my first TabletPC back in 2003 but they never caught on in the mainstream because the price was too high.

I think the current generation of lower cost tablets are useful for people who have extensive need for a device that is most read-only (movies, pictures, eBook reader) or uses apps that have simple UI requirements.

Certain types of games work well on it too (Plants vs. Zombies, for example).

I wouldn't want to do email or create documents on one but then I'm used to a 24" screen and a 52" extended desktop and don't like doing those activities on my Droid X either.

I prefer the Kindle display for eBooks because I use a computer screen most of the day and prefer the e-Ink for reading books.

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