Digital Ink technology in Tablet PC

Microsoft has launched Windows XP Tablet PC edition that adds pen-based

capabilities to full notebook computers. The new Tablet PC represents a distinct

evolution of the standard laptop computer by allowing users to input data with a

digital pen as well as a standard keyboard or mouse. Tablet PCs have special

screens which use an active digitizer to enable users to write directly on the

screen to control their PC and to input information as handwriting or drawing.

This process–called inking –enables users to add "digital ink"

to a full range of Windows applications, which appears as natural-looking

handwriting on the screen. The digitized handwriting can be converted to

standard text through handwriting recognition, or it can remain as handwritten

text. Both the converted text in typeface and the cursive handwritten text

function equally well as data formats in Windows applications and platforms–that

is, both forms of text can be sent as e-mail in Microsoft Outlook and exchanged

as documents in Microsoft Word, and can be sent from the Tablet PC to a desktop

computer or a Pocket PC, which can display the text in the same character format

that it was sent in.

Over

a dozen manufacturers will release Tablet PC models in the coming weeks, ranging

from convertible designs with hinged or detachable screens, to pure slates with

innovating docking solutions, and to rugged slate computers that can take rain,

snow and impact.

"The Tablet PC and the inking process opens up new horizons for

computing," says Alex Gounares, Microsoft’s software development manager

and lead software architect for the Tablet PC. "With the Tablet PC, you don’t

have to make compromises. It’s a full-powered notebook PC, but with a valuable

difference."

Inking also allows users to insert a sketch or drawing, jot down a chart,

take free-hand notes, and annotate an existing document such as a PowerPoint

presentation. "Using a pen to input information into the Tablet PC is

simply a more natural and productive way to work in many situations" adds

Alex.

DQCI NEWS BUREAU