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?

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.

statdoc · #4 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.

E61Silver · #5 03-14-2011, 07:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by statdoc

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.

Doesn't Apple have a remote computer access system/program, wonder if it works with the Pad? I bet the IT guys would know?

Also doesn't Office 2011 for Mac have a lot of "cloud" functionality?

Quicksilver · #6 03-14-2011, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by E61Silver

Doesn't Apple have a remote computer access system/program, wonder if it works with the Pad? I bet the IT guys would know?

Access Your Computer From Anywhere on Your iPad

chrgosselin · #7 03-14-2011, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by statdoc

What about when you want/need to access documents on your real computer?

I use Dropbox. It's simply the best file storage service in the Cloud.

StumpyPete · #8 03-15-2011, 03:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by statdoc

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.

I replicate my PC to a NAS device using Goodsync and then I can access the NAS over the web using FTP or Web Browser. Means I can get all my files at home wherever I am in the world.

Quicksilver · #9 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 · #10 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.