The Notebook PC appears to be taking an evolutionary step. Some features of a PDA (Palm or PocketPC Organizer) are being integrated with the computing power of a Notebook. The result is a flexible mobile solution that offers the choice of writing, speaking, or keying data into your computer with incredible ease and amazing functionality.

A Tablet PC is a computer that allows you to write on its Touch screen with a stylus, as you would with a PDA. The screen is, however, much larger - about the size of a typical notebook screen. In addition to data entry, you can also use your stylus to emulate many of the things you would ordinarily do with a mouse. The fundamental approach is power to exceed your needs and simplicity for unparalleled friendliness.

There are two types of Tablet PCs: Slates and Convertibles

Slates
A slate is essentially a screen with all the PC hardware located in the chassis behind it. The way to enter data or interact with applications is by using a stylus. The slate is slim and offers the familiarity of 'writing' as if you were writing on paper. Extremely lightweight and power efficient, the slate is aimed toward mobile professionals that are interested in having the power of a Windows PC with the practicality of a PDA.

Convertibles
These appear similar to notebook commuters with a significant difference. The screen portion can swivel or be removed to allow stylus entry in addition to keyboard entry. A convertible gives the user a choice.

Whether you choose a Slate or Convertible, you can modify the screen orientation to accept data in either Portrait or Landscape modes. Portrait is the closest format to simulate entry into a paper notebook - screen displays the entire page. Landscape is similar to traditional computer data entry - screen displays a portion of the page.

The driving force behind the Tablet PC is Microsoft. The operating system is Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition. Virtually all Tablets include this operating system. It can be used with all Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint and can adapt to recognize your handwriting style for easy entry and conversion. If you wish, you may also choose to use an on-screen keyboard.

It also offers speech recognition capabilities so you can use your voice to control and enter data to several applications. This feature is available for use in English, Japanese and a simplified version of Chinese.

A built-in text processor, Windows Journal, is a fast and easy way to take notes at meetings, lectures, or just when you're on the go. Microsoft also integrates ClearType, which optimizes screen resolution to permit easy reading from the LCD screen.

With Microsoft's commitment and support for this platform, it's expected that many other software developers will begin to make applications suited to Tablet PC use.

Though the hardware and operating system was introduced toward the end of 2002, many manufacturers (including Fujitsu, Compaq, Acer, Toshiba, and Viewsonic) already have models on the market. Choosing a Slate or a Convertible model is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer using a keyboard most of the time, the convertible may be a wiser choice. Initially, it appears as if it's a traditional notebook. The screen can flip over so, when writing on the screen, it resembles and functions like a slate. If you enjoy using a PDA for writing notes, the slate may be more comfortable for you. Either way, the screens are about 12" (diagonal) and allow an outstanding area for writing, viewing, and using. The demand is growing and the reviews seem promising. The impetus of business and mobile professionals seems to be driving the popularity of the Tablet PC. With wireless capabilities (i.e. WiFi or Bluetooth), you have the capability of accessing the Internet, send and receive E-Mails, and much more. With significant edges on portability and utility, it is very likely that the Tablet may be overtaking the Notebook very soon.