Lust after a Tablet, but can't quite afford one? Check out our guide to upgrading what you've got, and, in the worst case, outright faking it.
While many people will debate the real benefits of Microsoft's Tablet PC initiative, it certainly can't be debated that they're objects of geek lust. The problem is that unless you're capable of faking Bill Gates' signature, it's likely that you can't in fact afford one. Despair not, as we present our guide to upgrading what you've already got to be as tablet-like as possible.
Don't fret if your funds are severely limited either, as we've also prepared a guide to comprehensively faking it. Sure, you won't get tablet functionality, but you will be able to show off some funky new technology that nobody needs to know isn't quite kosher.
Upgrading Part One: Digital Ink
Without a doubt, the single most appealing part of the Tablet initiative is the ability to write directly onto a laptop screen. You could go your laptop with some kind of etching implement, but we won't vouch for the life of your laptop -- or your ability to erase what you've written.
You've essentially got three options for pen-based data entry. You could opt for a graphics tablet, which would get you closest to the Tablet experience -- the Toshiba Portégé Tablet 3500 uses a modified Wacom Tablet behind its screen. Using a digital tablet won't give you handwriting recognition, but it would allow you to scribble in meetings in the way that Microsoft claims is so handy. In a similar vein is Logitech's digital io pen, but Australian release dates for that technology remain unclear.
You could move slightly back in Tablet PC history with IBM's Transnote laptop. While IBM no longer makes the genuinely innovative notepad/notebook combo systems, you could hunt around to find a secondhand unit -- a quick ebay search found us more than a dozen at around US$500-$1000.
Your third option would be to purchase a bluetooth capable PDA. Sync that continously with a notebook, and you've got not-quite-instantaneous digital writing, including handwriting recognition.
Faking It Part One: Digital Ink
It's much easier if you're just looking to fake it for the visual appeal. Simply pick up an etch-a-sketch -- or a cheap clone thereof. Instant slate-style Tablet. Don't forget to remove the product badge, and if anyone challenges you, remember phrases like "exceptional battery life" and "Innovative Japanese design -- won't be out here for a few years"
| Digital Ink | Flip Top Head | Voice Recognition |
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