Jobsite mobile computing may finally have come of age.

For years now, builders have sought a tool that gives them the utility of the desktop computer and is easy to transport. Many have tried Palm or Windows CE devices, but these often lack computing power, providing nothing more that a traveling calendar and rolodex. And it's difficult to learn the special handwriting language needed to input information.

The good news is that mobile computing may finally have arrived for the builder community. Technically, the tablet PC is identical to a laptop computer, and in most cases has equivalent computing power. The difference is that there's no keyboard. All the computer's functions can be accessed using a special pen.

I've been using a tablet PC for six months, and have been surprised at how easy it is to use. You can write in your normal handwriting, and even turn the pen over to erase your digital mistakes. You can keep your notes in your normal handwriting or convert them to typed text. In other words, you don't have to learn a strange script.

These machines are light and easy to carry around, whether on a construction site or at a customer planning session. They use a special version of Windows XP, and will run most Windows software, including Microsoft Office. There are also pen-based applications unique to the tablet. Most tablets come with Wireless 802.11b cards built right in. They're available in slate and convertible models.

Slates have no keyboard attached. They are designed to be used with a stylus. If you need a keyboard, mouse or external monitor, you can get a docking station at extra cost.

Convertibles are ultra-light notebooks with screens that swivel 180 degrees, then fold flat against the keyboard; when you want a keyboard for fast text entry, it's available. When you want to use pen input, just swivel the screen out of the way.

Several companies make these new devices. Some are new to the market, and some are household names. There are also several "rugged" versions, which are particularly useful for builders who spend most of their time on site or in a truck. Here are some of the leading brands.

Consumer Slate

Fujitsu's Stylistic ST4120 is the lightest of the tablet PCs, and has the best battery life of the non-rugged models. A suede back makes it more comfortable and slip-resistant. On the downside, the infrared accessory, keyboard lacks a built-in mouse, unlike the other models keyboards. The Fujitsu is a PC Magazine Editors' Choice.

Consumer Convertibles

Toshiba's Portégé 3500 has by far the best performance of all the systems, because it uses the Intel Pentium III-M 1.33-GHz processor and a very fast hard drive. On the downside, it also has the shortest battery life (3:05 hours). Unlike the other tablet PCs, the Toshiba has a "hybrid" configuration that does not separate the display and processor from the keyboard, as the slate and convertible configurations do. Its hinge rotates between notebook and tablet modes. The operating system detects the change and automatically changes the screen from portrait to landscape mode or vice versa. The Toshiba is a bit heavier than the other models, but at 4.1 lbs it is still manageable. It's also, a PC Magazine Editors' choice.

Compaq's Evo TC1000 has the most versatile design overall. You can use it like a regular notebook with attached keyboard, or fold the keyboard to use the machine in tablet mode. You can also remove the keyboard altogether. The pen is large and comfortable, with a rubberized grip. The downsides are a small, 10.1-inch screen, and an awkward keyboard. Also, many reports have commented on its slow performance, particularly during high disk activity such as scanning with anti-virus software.

Rugged Versions

Though they cost almost twice as much as the consumer models, rugged tablets can withstand the beatings of the construction site. There are three leaders.

Slates

CT60 Rugged Tablet PC by Intermec Technologies iX104 Rugged Tablet PC by Xplore Technologies

Convertibles

Panasonic Toughbook 18 Touchscreen PC.

These tough guys all conform to military ruggedness specifications. They can endure immersion in water, spills, humidity, temperature extremes, extreme vibration and 3-foot falls onto concrete. They are also easily readable in sunlight, often a problem in the consumer-grade tablets.

Conclusion

As for me, I wanted something that could go, but still serve as my office computer. I finally selected the Toshiba Protégé convertible, and I'll never go back. Ultimately, though, the choice will depend on your particular needs. — by Jason Williamson

Executive Summary

Tablet PCs offer all the power of a conventional laptop, but are used like a clipboard. Here, the author looks at the leading brands of tablet PCs, including costly models that are tough enough to withstand a 3-foot fall onto concrete.

Jason Williamson is the technology director and co-founder of BuildLinks. He can be reached at Jason@buidlinks.com