Tablet PCs come in a variety of designs, all of which will include a keyboard. Convertible Tablet PCs look much like today's notebooks with integrated keyboards and clamshell designs. With a convertible Tablet PC, you simply rotate the screen and lay it flat to convert to Tablet mode. In this way, the convertible model offers all the advantages of pen-based computing with immediate access to the integrated keyboard. Tablet PCs are also available in Slate tablet designs. These designs offer an ultra-slim and lightweight form factor, with the ability to easily attach a keyboard, or dock the PC to gain access to a keyboard, mouse or other peripherals.

Tablet PCs support docking solutions. But don't expect the same old docking stations offered today where the PC hides away under your monitor. Instead, Tablet PCs offer innovative new capabilities, such as the ability to take advantage of Windows XP dual-monitor support and use an external monitor in addition to the Tablet PC screen while you're at your desk. With a Tablet PC, you can work on one screen while keeping your notes or calendar open on the second screen.

The pen and ink interface of the Tablet PC provides an incredibly natural computing experience. Using the Tablet PC Input Panel, you have several ways to enter text into applications. The Input Panel's Writing Pad allows you to enter text into applications using your own handwriting. The Input Panel's advanced handwriting recognition converts your handwriting into text for use in other applications. The Input Panel also features an on-screen keyboard which is ideal for precisely and quickly entering passwords or correcting spelling mistakes. You can also use the Write Anywhere feature to use the entire Tablet PC screen to enter text into an application.

What is the Tablet PC?
Tablet PCs run Windows XP Compatible software applications without modifications. In addition, powerful new software applications written specifically for the Tablet PC will enable you to get your work done even more rapidly and efficiently. The Windows Journal note-taking utility is part of the Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system and has been created just for the Tablet PC. Taking freeform electronic notes in Journal is an unobtrusive, powerful note-taking experience. You have the simplicity of a pen and paper, combined with the power of the PC. Tablet PC's digital ink offers a rich, natural experience allowing you to use easily manipulate your handwritten information electronically, Cut, copy and paste text between handwritten notes. Search for specific text in handwritten notes. Easily erase information and insert an extra space exactly wherever it's needed. You can also personalize your notes, by changing pen style, ink color and using various paper styles. You can even create stationery templates using custom backgrounds, such as a company letterhead or photo. And with a Tablet PC, you can share handwritten information with others, whether or not they have a Tablet PC. You can share handwritten information as a Journal note file, a web page, or as a black and white image.

Journal also allows you to import documents for annotation, so that you can add comments to the document just as you would with a paper copy. The document and your annotations can be saved electronically, while the original document remains unaltered.

The Office XP Pack for Tablet PC, a freely available download for Office XP, extends the capabilities of Office XP to take advantage of the Tablet PC. With the Office Pack, handwritten notes that you take in Windows Journal can be easily converted into Outlook contacts, tasks, appointments or email. Meeting information can also be automatically taken from your Outlook calendar and added directly into an electronic note in Windows Journal. This integration allows you to start a meeting note with the date, time, attendees and subject information and streamlines your ability to create, maintain, and process information.

All of these advanced features contribute to making the Tablet PC one of the most mobile PCs ever- giving you access to your valuable information - any time and any place.

Offering power, mobility, and versatility, the Tablet PC is the evolution of the notebook PC that lets you use your PC in new and different ways.