I am thinking of buying a tablet to take to TENCon. I want to be able to remote in to the office, and I'd also like to have the handouts on it. I don't need anything fancy fancy and I'd like to spend as little as possible. I guess I'd have to live with Windows 8? Would any of the tablets come with antivirus protection already on them or is that an add-on? Normally I would not be concerned but with all the employee changes here I'd better be able to remote in if there's a problem.
What should I look for?
When it comes to Windows tablets - first and foremost be aware that there's generally two flavors - Win 8 and Windows 8 RT.
The RT tablets do not run regular computer apps, they're more akin to an Ipad where all the software you use on it will have to come through the Microsoft "store". Regular Windows 8 (and Win 8 Pro) are more like standard PCs where you can load and run any software you want. Generally the RT tablets are cheaper (for a reason) and usually have a bit better battery life, but at the cost of being in a walled garden, like an Ipad.
Outside of that fact, just find whatever's on sale and look up reviews for it. I bought an Asus which seems to work decent but there's pros/cons to each make/model. And yes, you will need antivirus software. Despite being a tablet, Windows 8 tablets are still generally a full blown PC.
Thanks - I didn't know there was a Windows RT. I will see what I can find.
I have a Surface RT (for nearly six months now), running Windows RT. While it is true that you cannot load just any software on the thing you want, it does run "regular" programs. I have a full blown version of Office 2013 on the device, and through the store I have loaded much of the same productivity software as I have on my desktop (Adobe Acrobat, for example). The battery life is phenomenal as well, I use the thing constantly all week, and only have to charge it every four days or so. Unlike with an iPad, this doesn't feel like a glorified phone, however. It feels like a real PC that has been imprisioned (Windows RT is remarkably similar to Windows 8 for the average user).
That said, Jeff is dead on with regard to the store concept. It is just like Apple from a proprietary perspective insofar as you are at the mercy of what Microsoft decides to make available (which is the primary reason why I dislike apple so much).
The device itself is great, because I use it almost exclusively for work applications, and it runs the few programs that comrpise 95% of my time with it: native Excel and Word, and terminal services client, so I can log into our colocated facility and have TAM access. The type cover is a great keyboard, very thin, but responsive too. I'm not sure if I would have gotten this device if I were buying something as an only device to have at home due to the crappy limitations from the M$ store, but in terms of portability (it is no bigger than an iPad) and with the job-orientation purpose for which I use it, it was a good option.
Would the Surface RT be something for a beginner who never touched a computer? If it is tied to the MS store, it would not be likely to install all kinds of unneeded malware/scamware/xxxware etc, right? Also, could one access external drives through wifi?
I'm not tech saavy enough to speak with whether or not it is possible for it to get a virus/malware, in fact, most of the times I've been infected it has come from clicking a link in a browser than from installing something, so I would think it is still possible. It does run versions of both Windows Firewall and Windows Defender, and there are other various anti-badstuff programs available in the store.
As far as it being something good for a non-computer user, I guess that depends on the person. Windows 8 seems pretty intuitive to some people, but not to others. As I mentioned before, Windows RT is nearly indistinguishable from Windows 8 to a novice.
Good thread and good info! +1 Jeff and Steven for the feedback! :)
Deb get an ipad you will thank yourself later and install logmein on your pc at work now you can control your work pc and you have an ipad which is the best in the tablet world.
The wife has an iPad and I agree that it is probably the best, but Android is catching up quickly. The main difference is the Apps available. I would be just as happy with an Android tablet if I didn't have a few specific navigation apps on the Apple.
I have no experience yet with Windows tablets, but have the general opinion that they are third. I agree that it is pretty easy to go in the the agency computer with logmein on any device.
If you are still interested in doing real work and often, then just get a cheap laptop. There is still no real substitute.
You could also look at the Nexus 7. I've heard lots of good things about it. It's android based so you can do anything an android phone can plus more.
Quote from: Joshua Conner on August 27, 2013, 11:34:03 AM
Deb get an ipad you will thank yourself later and install logmein on your pc at work now you can control your work pc and you have an ipad which is the best in the tablet world.
Given that you are shall we say in the group that has accumulated more "wisdom," I would advise you to test drive the remote control from an iPad - one BIG thing you cannot use is a mouse. For those in the wise group I have found that this can be an issue - some are simply so accustomed to the mouse that they do not like using a finger as same.
I have no idea if you can plug a mouse into an Android tablet. I would be surprised if you can't plug one in to a Windows tablet.
As for the Windows Surface Pro, if you want a mouse, you can use one on it. The other thing is the stylus is one of the best I've seen. It acts as a mouse too. You can right of left click with it. We bought one for a producer to try and he loves it now.
I also have a Nexus 7. The quad-core processor make the thing lightning quick. It is a device I use often at home, primarily for web browsing, email and the like. It (like iPads, in my opinion) are more single-purpose devices. The Surface is more of a Production device (if that makes any sense). Not that they are bad (I've got the thing in my hands constantly during football season with many windows open, streaming games, for fantasy scores, etc.), but when I need to sit down and work on a spreadsheet or log in and use TAM, it wouldn't be my first choice. Conversely, I don't think I would like to have the Surface as my only personal device. There are too many android apps I enjoy that are just not available.
As far as the mouse thing goes, if you get one of the Keyboards, the Surface has a built-in Track-pad. It will also recognize some brands of usb wireless mice (I only say some, because I have only tried two, and haven't really checked to see if others will work).
Josh, I am just not going to buy Apple, sorry! :-[
I am not looking for something that does everything, but I would like something very portable that I can use to log in at work if necessary, and check on the agency bank accounts and record deposits or alert the owners of any nefarious activity on those accounts. Also being able to check the work email address and delete all the junk mail would be great. Having the TENCon handouts on a tablet would be very nice. I can't afford too many other bells and whistles, but I really would like to use a mouse if I could.
You will all be assimilated. Resistance is futile. Time is on our side.
Quote from: Steven Strauss on August 27, 2013, 12:59:19 PM
Quote from: DebAmstutz on August 27, 2013, 12:18:58 PM
Josh, I am just not going to buy Apple, sorry! :-[
Steven, would that I could I'd give you two +1's for your contribution to this thread, especially for the graphic which speaks volumes.
Quote from: Billy Welsh on August 27, 2013, 03:09:10 PM
You will all be assimilated. Resistance is futile. Time is on our side.
;D - what he said!
After trying iPad, Windows RT and two Android tablets, I ended up using and recommending to our executives the Asus TF700T with the Asus Mobile Dock. Android, keyboard, trackpad, works great for Windows remote control using the iTap Mobile RDP client.
I was an apple hater too at one point. Its ok.
I have the philosophy buy once cry once.
All I can say is I hope windows 8 is better on a tablet then it is on a desktop cause its a miserable user experience with a mouse and keyboard.
I still have that netbook you can use for free at tenconn if you want to try it out.
Quote from: Joshua Conner on August 28, 2013, 09:43:06 AM
I was an apple hater too at one point. Its ok.
I'm not an apple hater, I'm an apple laugher :o 8)
Just because I avoid the cult of Jobs at all costs, doesn't mean that I like Windows 8. I wholeheartedly agree that it is not a good desktop OS. While it functions reasonably well on a tablet, running it on a desktop can cause premature graying or balding, sudden violent mood swings or an effusive stream of profanities...
Quote from: Steven Strauss on August 28, 2013, 09:51:33 AM
Just because I avoid the cult of Jobs at all costs, doesn't mean that I like Windows 8. I wholeheartedly agree that it is not a good desktop OS. While it functions reasonably well on a tablet, running it on a desktop can cause premature graying or balding, sudden violent mood swings or an effusive stream of profanities...
+1
The little interaction with Windows 8 that I have had, I've managed to mostly avoid the major UI changes by using trusty run commands.
Where the H is the control panel in this thing? Windows key + R, enter text: Control. Much easier.
Need to do some network settings. Windows key + R enter text: ncpa.cpl. No fumbling or moving tiles. What a waste. (Why was this buried anyway?? Seems this has been buried since Vista?)
I prefer navigating most systems that way anyway. I have noticed, and idk if indexing is to blame, but in Windows 7 and Server 2008 when compared to XP/2003 it's very slow to open folders. So slow in fact, that the address bar doubles as a status bar. I've also noticed this when accessing shared folders. Maybe it's the fingers moving theory, but I find it much faster to type out the path to the folder I'm looking for instead of clicking through each folder and waiting for the screen to load. In fact, if I can do whatever it is I'm trying to do via CLI, it is even faster. I think it's indexing. Especially since I've noticed that I can add a file to a share and it is not instantly shown in the folder. This is very frustrating.
Now back to tablet discussion....
I always like to check Costco for stuff like tablets, mostly for price. But they also have a 2 year no questions asked warranty for ALL electronics. I took a 20 month old printer back that wasn't working and they gave me cash on the spot.
Review site: www.anythingbutipad.com
I don't have a Costco membership and there was not one anywhere near here until recently. I believe it's being constructed on the north side of Fort Wayne. I don't believe in having to pay in order to shop. ;)
Quote from: DebAmstutz on September 04, 2013, 08:22:01 AM
I believe it's being constructed on the north side of Fort Wayne. I don't believe in having to pay in order to shop. ;)
I keep telling my wife this. She also likes to pay to hold a credit card (AMX). wt?
Quote from: Mark on August 28, 2013, 10:04:33 AM
Quote from: Steven Strauss on August 28, 2013, 09:51:33 AM
Just because I avoid the cult of Jobs at all costs, doesn't mean that I like Windows 8. I wholeheartedly agree that it is not a good desktop OS. While it functions reasonably well on a tablet, running it on a desktop can cause premature graying or balding, sudden violent mood swings or an effusive stream of profanities...
+1
The little interaction with Windows 8 that I have had, I've managed to mostly avoid the major UI changes by using trusty run commands.
Where the H is the control panel in this thing? Windows key + R, enter text: Control. Much easier.
Need to do some network settings. Windows key + R enter text: ncpa.cpl. No fumbling or moving tiles. What a waste. (Why was this buried anyway?? Seems this has been buried since Vista?)
I prefer navigating most systems that way anyway. I have noticed, and idk if indexing is to blame, but in Windows 7 and Server 2008 when compared to XP/2003 it's very slow to open folders. So slow in fact, that the address bar doubles as a status bar. I've also noticed this when accessing shared folders. Maybe it's the fingers moving theory, but I find it much faster to type out the path to the folder I'm looking for instead of clicking through each folder and waiting for the screen to load. In fact, if I can do whatever it is I'm trying to do via CLI, it is even faster. I think it's indexing. Especially since I've noticed that I can add a file to a share and it is not instantly shown in the folder. This is very frustrating.
Now back to tablet discussion....
There is also right clicking that hot corner that brings up the start screen and goto control panel from the menu that comes up in 2 clicks. Though its typing speed vs mouse speed on if its faster, or what someones more comfortable with.
Theres also just searching for control panel by typing if you're on the start screen itself (aka, Win+typing and select from the bar that comes up), or the long way in this case, which is win+q+typing while on the desktop.
Windows 8 brought me back to using more keyboard shortcuts than I had on previous operating systems, due to the way that some of the touch gestures translates to mouse movements. Though its not the right way to end up that way, I still think i'm better for it.
What is Win+q? Doesn't do anything on XP
I prefer typing over mousing. And command line over gui for many things. Can't see my preference ever changing. Also prefer fishing over computing, but that's a whole 'nuther story ;)
Windows 7 is VERY type friendly...in fact thats what mainly drove me to love Win 7. Win Key and start typing - anything you want is there. Win Key + type "word" and boom word opens without touching a mouse.
I still have to try 8.1 to see how that works...just haven't had time!
I've always just used the run box (still on XP 99% of the time) Windows+R -> winword opens word. Excel opens Excel and, anything you have in your path variable or in system32 folder as well. Any computer I work on frequently will have putty in the path or in system32 folder.
Quote from: Mark on September 04, 2013, 08:23:46 AM
Quote from: DebAmstutz on September 04, 2013, 08:22:01 AM
I believe it's being constructed on the north side of Fort Wayne. I don't believe in having to pay in order to shop. ;)
I keep telling my wife this. She also likes to pay to hold a credit card (AMX). wt?
You really expect them to scrape by on that 8% they charge the merchants? Come on, man! ;D
Quote from: Billy Welsh on September 04, 2013, 10:35:38 AM
You really expect them to scrape by on that 8% they charge the merchants? Come on, man! ;D
Well at least now that she switched to a Costco AMX the card is free with membership. But my next complaint is that Cosco is 40+ minutes away! lol
/ End Hijack
Back to the tablets - this just published last week.
Why beat yourself up, Deb? Just get an ipad.
In Windows 7 your cursor defaults to the run box (now the search/run box).
Quote from: Jeff Golas on September 04, 2013, 02:14:02 PM
In Windows 7 your cursor defaults to the run box (now the search/run box).
Yep, I noticed. Old habits die hard. I'm still a Widows + R guy! lol
Why beat yourself up, Deb? Just get an ipad.
John, did you notice the title of the thread? ;)
Deb, yes I did, but why?
Just get an ipad, you're worth it.
John, I'm just not a fan of Apple products. I'm not a big tech fan of anything, actually, but I need something that will allow me access to the agency network and some of my daily tasks while I'm away. Believe me, whatever I get will remain dormant most of the time. Why put a lot of $$ into something that will be rarely used? I will need to make it as secure as possible because I can't afford a data plan for any devices like that, and I will have to be near some sort of free wi-fi source because I can't afford any kind of data plan and I don't want to be tempted to spend time with a device when that time could be better spent face to face with people or doing something other than staring at a screen. I understand how technology is very helpful with many industries and in keeping people better informed about personal, local, and world events, but I don't want it to take over my life. I might be one of the few people left on the planet with an opinion like that, but hey, that's just me.
Deb,
I'm just being mischievious.
We need more people like you - This is a technology organisation and you make sure we keep our feet on the ground and remember what the purpose of it all is. So easy to get carried away with all the tech.
John, you're a technology imp! hahaha ;D
Quote from: DebAmstutz on September 05, 2013, 09:09:02 AM
John, I'm just not a fan of Apple products. I'm not a big tech fan of anything, actually, but I need something that will allow me access to the agency network and some of my daily tasks while I'm away. Believe me, whatever I get will remain dormant most of the time. Why put a lot of $$ into something that will be rarely used? I will need to make it as secure as possible because I can't afford a data plan for any devices like that, and I will have to be near some sort of free wi-fi source because I can't afford any kind of data plan and I don't want to be tempted to spend time with a device when that time could be better spent face to face with people or doing something other than staring at a screen. I understand how technology is very helpful with many industries and in keeping people better informed about personal, local, and world events, but I don't want it to take over my life. I might be one of the few people left on the planet with an opinion like that, but hey, that's just me.
What you have described is a cheap laptop with a real keyboard and a real mouse. I have an old netbook which works just fine for that. It runs on windows so there will be no learning curve for you. Mine cost around $300 years ago. You could probably pick up something used with a 10 inch screen for $100 or less used. I get ads for new laptops which would be much more powerful than mine for around $300 to $350.
Tablets are nice toys and will do many things much more easily than a laptop, but business work is not one of them.
I will agree that if you really want to get a tablet for the "cool" factor or to actually use it for entertainment, then Apple is still the best and worth the surcharge. Samsung is catching up quickly especially on the hardware, but further behind on the software or apps.
Oh, BTW Deb, I am not an Apple fanboy either and I know what you mean. I do own several Apple devices, but do not worship at the alter of Jobs like so many Apple users do.
Just because a lot of jerks love Apple products does not mean they are bad. Just because a lot of jerks drive BMWs does not mean I would turn one down. :D
BMW proof here - http://live.wsj.com/video/bmw-drivers-really-are-jerks-studies-find/29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60.html?mod=WSJ_article_outbrain&obref=obnetwork#!29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60 (http://live.wsj.com/video/bmw-drivers-really-are-jerks-studies-find/29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60.html?mod=WSJ_article_outbrain&obref=obnetwork#!29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60)
Quote from: Gene Foraker on September 05, 2013, 11:24:04 AM
BMW proof here - http://live.wsj.com/video/bmw-drivers-really-are-jerks-studies-find/29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60.html?mod=WSJ_article_outbrain&obref=obnetwork#!29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60 (http://live.wsj.com/video/bmw-drivers-really-are-jerks-studies-find/29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60.html?mod=WSJ_article_outbrain&obref=obnetwork#!29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60)
That's gotta be great for rates! ;D
This. The thing is they just work - I'm not a fanboy either, but my brand new Windows 8 tablet tends to sit around while I wait and wait for my Ipad 1 to grind and chug and load websites. I'm most likely going to get a newer Ipad soon if my car stops falling apart.
Quote from: Gene Foraker on September 05, 2013, 11:24:04 AM
Oh, BTW Deb, I am not an Apple fanboy either and I know what you mean. I do own several Apple devices, but do not worship at the alter of Jobs like so many Apple users do.
Just because a lot of jerks love Apple products does not mean they are bad. Just because a lot of jerks drive BMWs does not mean I would turn one down. :D
BMW proof here - http://live.wsj.com/video/bmw-drivers-really-are-jerks-studies-find/29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60.html?mod=WSJ_article_outbrain&obref=obnetwork#!29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60 (http://live.wsj.com/video/bmw-drivers-really-are-jerks-studies-find/29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60.html?mod=WSJ_article_outbrain&obref=obnetwork#!29285015-BB1A-4E41-B0C0-0A41CB990F60)
Quote from: Jeff Golas on September 05, 2013, 03:36:15 PM
This. The thing is they just work - I'm not a fanboy either, but my brand new Windows 8 tablet tends to sit around while I wait and wait for my Ipad 1 to grind and chug and load websites. I'm most likely going to get a newer Ipad soon if my car stops falling apart.
Jeff, just to clarify, you would rather wait for you ipad to load than use the new windows 8 tablet? signed, lynne who's probably just being dense on a Friday morning.
edit: how do i get this all out of the quote? See, I am dense this morning...
When you quote somerhign, hit control + end before typing. You want to be outside of the [ /quote ]
I too was an apple hater at one time. But I have gone to the dark side. I have iphone which is by far the best phone I have ever had. I have Ipad mini that I take everywhere including TENCON. And last year I purchased macbook air which I love. Once you start using gestures on macbook, its hard to use a MS touchpad again. Of course I am still married to Microsoft so I run parellels and have windows 7 on my macbook and I have to say it works very very well. Nothing like booting up mac os in 5 seconds!
Of course I still have complaints. #1 complaint about IPAD is no freaking mouse. I'm not even a mouse type person as I use shortcut keys but when your on a tablet and have citrix desktop open trying to scroll, my fat finger on the display just does not work well and shortcut keys are nearly impossible on ipad.
Quote from: Kenny Cruzan on September 06, 2013, 11:52:52 AM
I too was an apple hater at one time. But I have gone to the dark side. I have iphone which is by far the best phone I have ever had. I have Ipad mini that I take everywhere including TENCON. And last year I purchased macbook air which I love. Once you start using gestures on macbook, its hard to use a MS touchpad again. Of course I am still married to Microsoft so I run parellels and have windows 7 on my macbook and I have to say it works very very well. Nothing like booting up mac os in 5 seconds!
Of course I still have complaints. #1 complaint about IPAD is no freaking mouse. I'm not even a mouse type person as I use shortcut keys but when your on a tablet and have citrix desktop open trying to scroll, my fat finger on the display just does not work well and shortcut keys are nearly impossible on ipad.
Just last night I loaded Mocha RDP Lite (whatever the iPad flavor is called) on my wife's iPad so I could run Close-Day and Night Utilities while watching the game. Did not really want to do that on my iPhone - can be done in a pinch but the small screen makes it annoying. Well, one of the config options was "Use a wireless keyboard" which I turned on. Worked quite nicely with the Apple bluetooth keyboard I have to say, but I did not think to try keyboard shortcuts. Will have to play with that over the weekend. Still miss the mouse, but with the full size iPad screen I was barely annoyed over it for this short operation.
Quote from: Kenny Cruzan on September 06, 2013, 11:52:52 AM
I too was an apple hater at one time. But I have gone to the dark side. I have iphone which is by far the best phone I have ever had. I have Ipad mini that I take everywhere including TENCON. And last year I purchased macbook air which I love. Once you start using gestures on macbook, its hard to use a MS touchpad again. Of course I am still married to Microsoft so I run parellels and have windows 7 on my macbook and I have to say it works very very well. Nothing like booting up mac os in 5 seconds!
Of course I still have complaints. #1 complaint about IPAD is no freaking mouse. I'm not even a mouse type person as I use shortcut keys but when your on a tablet and have citrix desktop open trying to scroll, my fat finger on the display just does not work well and shortcut keys are nearly impossible on ipad.
This pretty much describes me. I still walk into the apple store and cringe when i see all the fanboys just drooling over anything with an apple on it.
Yeah I was a little vague there - I did mean I'd rather wait for the Ipad then use the Windows tablet.
Jeff
Quote from: Lynne Desrochers on September 06, 2013, 10:49:24 AM
Quote from: Jeff Golas on September 05, 2013, 03:36:15 PM
This. The thing is they just work - I'm not a fanboy either, but my brand new Windows 8 tablet tends to sit around while I wait and wait for my Ipad 1 to grind and chug and load websites. I'm most likely going to get a newer Ipad soon if my car stops falling apart.
Jeff, just to clarify, you would rather wait for you ipad to load than use the new windows 8 tablet? signed, lynne who's probably just being dense on a Friday morning.
edit: how do i get this all out of the quote? See, I am dense this morning...
I know I'm unique in this, and as much as it sounds like I am, I'm not really bashing the iPad. But... when I pick one up, I have no idea what to even do with it. What does it DO that I want/need/could use?
I haven't found a use for one. I got my wife the iPad 1 years back. And, I know that the fact it's an iPad 1 does have something to do with it, but she hasn't used it in a long time, so once in a while I pick it up and wonder. I'm bored, what could I use this for? Then... I got nothing. I just set it back down on the stack of papers or wherever it was sitting.
I tried to let my son play with it the other day, but he wasn't interested either. Good thing, too -- the battery was dead.
Someone recently asked me if I could teach them how to use one because they just got it from work. I said sure; hold town the button on the top until the red slidey thing shows up. Slide to the right, set down on the nearest stack of paper, and open a window. then, after a few moments of nothing, I said just use it like you do your phone but don't try to make phone calls on it because that would just be ridiculous. :P
Quote from: Mark on September 06, 2013, 02:25:47 PM
I know I'm unique in this, and as much as it sounds like I am, I'm not really bashing the iPad. But... when I pick one up, I have no idea what to even do with it. What does it DO that I want/need/could use?
I haven't found a use for one. I got my wife the iPad 1 years back. And, I know that the fact it's an iPad 1 does have something to do with it, but she hasn't used it in a long time, so once in a while I pick it up and wonder. I'm bored, what could I use this for? Then... I got nothing. I just set it back down on the stack of papers or wherever it was sitting.
I tried to let my son play with it the other day, but he wasn't interested either. Good thing, too -- the battery was dead.
Someone recently asked me if I could teach them how to use one because they just got it from work. I said sure; hold town the button on the top until the red slidey thing shows up. Slide to the right, set down on the nearest stack of paper, and open a window. then, after a few moments of nothing, I said just use it like you do your phone but don't try to make phone calls on it because that would just be ridiculous. :P
"...But... when I pick one up, I have no idea what to even do with it. What does it DO that I want/need/could use?"
Totally / completely / exactly right there with you Mark!
If someone gives me an iPad it's like being given a lizard. Really kool but what do you do with it?
I have an ipad. I use it for stupid games, reading company email and watching tv shows. Occassionally I look up something on the internet. There is no reason I have this. I would not buy this. (It was given to me)
I can use to VPN into the network and connect to computers. I find that somewhat awkward and use either my home computer or my windows tablet for that.
Because I never bought any additional programs, I cannot use it to take notes at Tencon, but you will see me with it. I email the notes to myself.
So that is the same feeling I have when I am holding an Android pad. Except I don't know how to hold an Android pad because there are too many buttons that get activated so no real place to hold it. I had an Android pad. A Dell Streak. I gave it to the kids because it was too hard to handle safely for me who was absorbed in the Apple world.
An iPad is just like an iPhone, except bigger. That is my opinion. Probably change next week when the new ones are released. There are lots of apps. A desktop computer doesn't come with anything worthwhile either unless you put it on. 30 days of virus scanning? 90 day Office eval?
Technology is just a tool. Like my shotgun, mixer or my cordless drill. Many brands, many models, some specifically for a single purpose. None please all, none please all all the time.
Quote from: Flag Waving American on September 06, 2013, 07:00:39 PM
An iPad is just like an iPhone, except bigger. That is my opinion. Probably change next week when the new ones are released. There are lots of apps. A desktop computer doesn't come with anything worthwhile either unless you put it on. 30 days of virus scanning? 90 day Office eval?
Technology is just a tool. Like my shotgun, mixer or my cordless drill. Many brands, many models, some specifically for a single purpose. None please all, none please all all the time.
Agreed. I have some useful apps, and of course a few stupid ones.
Today I went into Office Depot looking for a low priced/clearance tablet and I was told that a tablet won't work for what I want to do - connect to the terminal server and get into TAM. The salesperson said that the Android system on tablets doesn't play well with terminal servers. They did have a small ASUS laptop that would do what I want. I must admit I like the keyboard on the little laptop, and it's lightweight.
Oh, by the way, I learned last week that a "classic shell" program is available for Windows 8 computers for those of us who just can't cope with the way 8 looks. Today was the first time I'd been in a store where someone actually wanted to assist me with what I wanted to know about the tablets. I was away part of the week last week due to a death in the family and that set me back on trying to find something to take to TENCon.
My advice, even though I know some people are hard against it...
Before you discount new stuff...try it out for a FEW DAYS, don't just say "I hate it" then move on. I found myself doing that quite a bit over the past few years, and while everything new doesn't necessarily mean "better", what I've come to find is that if you get where they're going with the new designs sometimes, you realize that it DOES have some benefit.
Even before Windows 8, in Windows 7 I pin the 10-15 apps (or less) that I use the most to the taskbar, akin to how Apple's "dock" works. In addition, for things that aren't docked, a quick tap of the WIndows key, type what I want (literally), hit enter, and boom it runs. I don't even really need to look at the start menu or scroll/dig for stuff. On my past computers, I've had a LOT of software, and I do mean a LOOOTTTT of software installed, to the point where the start menu literally went off the screen. In those cases I got so tired of having to dig through the start menu to find things, but now I just type it, hit enter, and boom its running.
There ARE things that start menu is/was good for...being able to get to system management and some other stuff is helpful, I'm still learning about where they hide things in Win 8, but its not the disaster I thought it would be.
So, before you go back to sticking with "classic" interface...play around with the new UI and really learn how it works, and you may find its not as bad as it seems. Doing so gets you used to the new UI's (and thought process behind them) and helps you stay current.
PS this is the one I picked up to play with, and most likely will bring it with me to Tencon. I'm having activation issues with Windows on it but i think thats more of an MS issue than Asus.
http://www.amazon.com/VivoTab-Smart-ME400C-C1-BK-10-1-Inch-Tablet/dp/B00AA6OVLI/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1379447951&sr=8-6&keywords=asus+vivotab
My only complaint other than the activation stuff, is that this has a micro-usb port only. You have to use an adapter to adapt it to a full size usb plug, but the end result is that the tablet is much smaller (I plan to hang it on the sun visor of my Buick, I'll post pics of that relatively soon, maybe Friday/Saturday when I attend our next club function if the d--- thing passes inspection).
I also recently saw Staples put one on sale for about $280 that was actually $240 with free shipping from Amazon, but wondering if thats an older model, I believe that was an Asus as well.
Quote from: DebAmstutz on September 17, 2013, 03:42:34 PM
Today I went into Office Depot looking for a low priced/clearance tablet and I was told that a tablet won't work for what I want to do - connect to the terminal server and get into TAM. The salesperson said that the Android system on tablets doesn't play well with terminal servers. They did have a small ASUS laptop that would do what I want. I must admit I like the keyboard on the little laptop, and it's lightweight.
Oh, by the way, I learned last week that a "classic shell" program is available for Windows 8 computers for those of us who just can't cope with the way 8 looks. Today was the first time I'd been in a store where someone actually wanted to assist me with what I wanted to know about the tablets. I was away part of the week last week due to a death in the family and that set me back on trying to find something to take to TENCon.
Back on Sept 5 I said that a small and cheap laptop would best fit your needs. Tablets are more into the entertainment side of computing. (Among other things, I read most of my books now on a tablet.) ASUS makes some nice cheap equipment, but take a look at Lenovo's convertible models for a little bit more. Windows 8 really comes alive with a touch screen and these models are both tablet and a real computer. There are plenty of 3rd party programs to add Start back to a Win 8 computer. Consider them training wheels until you get used to it.
I just checked my inbox and I have a great deal for you on the Lenovo Ideapad Yoga 13 only through Wednesday, Sept. 18. I get lots of deals from them and there may be another soon, but after TENCon.
The deal is $251 off with the code g5kkukXTyNEG
Here is the link to the page w/o the discount applied:
http://shop.lenovo.com/us/en/laptops/ideapad/yoga/yoga-13/?sb=:000001C9:0000EBF5:&esrc=EPI2&cid=EDM_20130916_NA_US_CON_IP_YogaExclusive48_0-6_MC&RRID=203533592&redir=y (http://shop.lenovo.com/us/en/laptops/ideapad/yoga/yoga-13/?sb=:000001C9:0000EBF5:&esrc=EPI2&cid=EDM_20130916_NA_US_CON_IP_YogaExclusive48_0-6_MC&RRID=203533592&redir=y)
Edit - that page may be with the discount applied, I can't tell.
Here is the regular page for the product:
http://shop.lenovo.com/us/en/laptops/ideapad/yoga/yoga-13/ (http://shop.lenovo.com/us/en/laptops/ideapad/yoga/yoga-13/)
I think the page shows a web discount of $200. The code I gave is for $251 and only the one model.
The ASUS laptop seems to be what I could use. I don't need all the bells and whistles that everyone else seems to want. I just want to be able to log in to the terminal server at work, check the bank balances, and check email. I don't care about games. I don't care about much of anything else. It's simply not necessary to me. I just want to be able to connect to my workstation whlie I'm away from the office.
One question I just thought of...and I apologize if it's a dumb question, but if I'm remotely logged into my workstation, will I be able to print items retrieved from company websites to pdf through my workstation since Adobe is installed on my workstation?
Yes, you can print to PDF while logged into your workstation. I do that all of the time through FinePrint when I login remotely to do night utilities or run reports.
Something else you might want to consider are the "free" or low cost books that are available on Amazon for readers like the Kindle or computers/tablets. If you are a voracious reader like my wife (I swear that women can juggle and read at the same time), that can add up over time and make a difference.
When you are logged into your workstation - you can do what you normally do at your workstation. When I connect from home I can print either from the printer here at the office (or to pdf files) or I can print to my printer at home. I use GOTOMYPC.
While you have access to everything on your PC if you log directly into your workstation, if you log into a terminal server (which is what I think you said in an earlier post), you are limited to what is loaded/set up on that server (printers, etc.)
Quote from: Steven Strauss on September 18, 2013, 10:41:07 AM
While you have access to everything on your PC if you log directly into your workstation, if you log into a terminal server (which is what I think you said in an earlier post), you are limited to what is loaded/set up on that server (printers, etc.)
Right..... we are not set up that way....no terminal server here......
Thanks!
Edit: I bought the little ASUS at lunch and since the display was the only one left, I received an extra 10% off the clearance price. I will pick it up tomorrow since they have to take the Office Depot passwords and such off it, and they're installing the anti-virus software for me also. I did not get the 2-year $99 protection plan. I'm not going to use it that much, and I'm very careful with tech items, so I didn't think I needed it.
Nice! Let us know how you like it.
Some Win 8 quick tips:
Swipe from the right (to left): brings up "charms"
Swipe from left to right: toggles between apps
Swipe up from the bottom: I forget, but I know brings up the login prompt when locked, and "all apps" on the start screen
Swipe from top to bottom: Closes app (like hitting "x")
Excellent! I had a little asus netbook & loved it. Had it at TENCon a few years ago. I don't know what the sales guy was talking about regarding Android and terminal servers. Seems made up to me as I do that almost daily without issue. Regardless, I think you'll be happier with the laptop anyway.
Sent from my ADR6300 using Tapatalk 2
Those of you attending TENCon will most likely see the item as I plan to put all the handouts on it instead of having my usual three-ring binder full of paper. That's not saying I won't have some paper, but I want to use the laptop as much as possible.
I messed with mine yesterday, trying to dig into Win 8 a little more and some of the Metro apps. I'll def have the handouts on mine as well.
Just because of this thread and deb *Ahem COUGH* Retiring from our chapter President Position We got her an Ipad Mini as a retirement gift.
Now she can be an apple hater while also being an owner. ;D 8) :) ;)
Quote from: Joshua Conner on December 05, 2013, 09:53:23 AM
Just because of this thread and deb *Ahem COUGH* Retiring from our chapter President Position We got her an Ipad Mini as a retirement gift.
Now she can be an apple hater while also being an owner. ;D 8) :) ;)
I expect a thorough comparison of the iPad and the ASUS tablet from her!
Quote from: Joshua Conner on December 05, 2013, 09:53:23 AM
Just because of this thread and deb *Ahem COUGH* Retiring from our chapter President Position We got her an Ipad Mini as a retirement gift.
Now she can be an apple hater while also being an owner. ;D 8) :) ;)
Is that all it takes to get an Apple? I hate Apples too. Can I have one now? ;)
I know, 10 years of rough service. Well done, Deb!
Quote from: Joshua Conner on December 05, 2013, 09:53:23 AM
Just because of this thread and deb *Ahem COUGH* Retiring from our chapter President Position We got her an Ipad Mini as a retirement gift.
Now she can be an apple hater while also being an owner. ;D 8) :) ;)
awesome
Quote from: Jim Jensen on December 05, 2013, 10:01:32 AM
I expect a thorough comparison of the iPad and the ASUS tablet from her!
Agreed! She will now have lots of spare time so a detailed review/comparison should be a snap.
Here's my review:
The Ipad mini is lighter than the ASUS notebook.
::)
Thas because you haven't filled it up with data yet.
Yeah! How much does a kilobyte weigh???
Hah! There's not much on the ASUS either, and it started out weighing more! ;)
I bought a bluetooth keyboard/Ipad mini holder last night at KMart. I charged the keyboard at home. Didn't use it, though, because I fell asleep on the couch and it was late when I woke up! Before I fell asleep, I did choose some sounds for different activities. Still have to go to McDonald's if I want to use WiFi, though. I need to look into internet at home again, but I really do not want to pay big bucks for it.
I need to pick up a case and bluetooth keyboard...and stylus for mine...picked up the dell venue 8 pro yesterday since it was 100 bucks off (199)...liking it so far since its full windows rather than RT, so i've got the touchscreen/tablet size i've been craving, but with whats comparitively better internals than the desktop i'm using here at work (other than storage space :P).
wifi only would bother me with the 32 gigs and needing to rely on skydrive more, but i'll need to pick up a microsd for that and have unlimited data, will trav....tether.