I am thinking about a new tablet

**Sprinkler Guy** · 03-08-2008, 11:28 AM

I am a landscape contractor and have been trying to use my gateway CX2610 convertable notebook when I go on a sales call and taking measurements of a prospective customers yard. I am trying to use the gateway to take my notes of the conversation, take down measurements, etc. I want to have all my notes stored electronically so that I can then down and write a proposal and not have to try to find the paper notebook or napkin or whatever I took my notes on.

THe Gateway often ends up staying in the truck because it's to heavy to carry around yard and I can't really set it on the ground for fear of it sucking up dirt and dust.

It's too big, too clunky, too slow to boot up. I really don't need a full notebook. I get some funny looks from customers when they see me trying to fumble around with my computer and my measuring wheel.

I bought the Gateway used on Ebay and it's been my regular notebook computer for a couple years now. I bought it for a song and overall have been happy with it. If I can set it on a table or desk and am inside it works fine. Outdoors walking around is another story.
I'm not sure I would want to move to small slate style machine with no keyboard, I haven't forced myself to abandon the keyboard completely. I am typing this message.

Is there a smaller, more rugged, convertable machine out there that doesn't cost an arm and a leg?

Any thoughts appreciated.

**John Hill** · 03-10-2008, 05:13 AM

you could look at a Fujitsu T2010 or Lenovo X61 and put it in a bump case. That way you can carry it around in tablet mode but then use it as a laptop when not in the field.

**Sprinkler Guy** · 03-10-2008, 05:37 AM

John,
Let me ask this question. With a slate style tablet that has a usb port can I use any usb keyboard? I saw that MOTION offers an optional USB keyboard with their slate machines. Also any thoughts on when your next ONE NOTE webinar might be?

**John Hill** · 03-10-2008, 05:55 AM

any slate tablet has USB ports that can be used with any USB device. THe convertible keyboard for the Motion is great. I personally think this is the way to go for you. Send me an email (john@alltp.com) and i'll email you the contact info for one of my customers who is using the tablet in his landscaping business for many years using OneNote and loves it.