A tablet PC is a combination of a notebook and a PDA. It is a handheld computer, often with a touch screen, that offers the mobility of a notebook combined with the technology of a PDA or laptop.

The first choice you’ll need to make when choosing a tablet PC is whether you’re interested in a slate style or convertible tablet. The most well known slate style tablet PC is the Apple iPad. Another cutting-edge slate PC comes from Archos, who manufactures tablet PCs that run both Android and Windows operating systems.

The other type of tablet PC is a convertible style, like the Dell Latitude XT2. These tablet PCs look like laptops but can be swiveled then folded to become compact. They tend to be somewhat heavier than the slate style models.

Both types of tablet PCs have a touch screen as a standard, and the operating systems they run have been designed to work with a stylus instead of a keyboard. When you begin shopping for your tablet PC, looking for these must-have options will help you narrow the field.

Size: Consider the size and weight of the tablet. To ensure easy portability, the tablet PC should be light – less than 3 pounds – and less than an inch thick.

Battery Life: Battery life is an important feature, especially if you’ll be using your tablet in places where an outlet may not be readily available. A good battery will provide 4 or more hours of life.

Input Methods: Check out the input methods available. Can you use a digital pen, stylus, or mobile keyboard? Does the tablet have handwriting capability so you can write and store information by writing on the screen? Do you want a tablet with speech recognition software?

Connections: Your tablet PC should have the latest in wireless capability. Consider whether you want Bluetooth as a built in feature.

Audio: Check the audio systems available. The best tablets will include headset output, microphone input, and built in speakers as well as the capability to attach external speakers.

Convertibility: If you’re considering a convertible tablet PC, make sure it’s easy to convert.

Additional Options

Once you’ve got the basics covered, you need to narrow down the options you want in your perfect tablet PC. Here are some of the areas you’ll want to cover.

Screen size: Screen sizes typically range from 8.9" on compact models to 13.3" on others.. Bigger isn’t always better, it depends on personal preference and intended uses.

Performance: Consider price to performance ratio. You probably don’t need to buy the most expensive tablet PC on the market to get a quality product that will meet your needs.

Style: You’ll have your tablet PC for a while, and will most likely use it quite frequently. Make sure you like the way it looks and feels.

Customization and Upgrades: If you’re someone who likes the latest technology, make sure to check into the machine’s capability for upgrades and other customizations.

Accessories: When looking at specifications for the tablets you’re considering, be sure to consider accessories. Tablet PC accessories are a great way to customize your machine further and make it work for you. Check into what it comes with and what is available separately.

Buy a Tablet PC

The Archos (http://www.dealhack.com/archives/2010/05/archos_9_60gb_pc_tablet_499_at.html) 10-1 Internet Tablet has a 10.1" screen, is only .47" thick and weighs 16.9 ounces. It uses the Android operating system and is capable of playing HD video and displaying 3D graphics. The price starts around $300.

The Dell (http://www.dealhack.com/archives/2008/06/20_off_refurbished_latitude_xt.html) Latitude XT2 offers a 12.1" screen that allows a variety of touch commands and it features a side switch eraser function. This tiny machine runs on a Windows operating system. The full keyboard is quite small but very easy to use. Reliable connectivity is made possible with an LCD-based wireless antenna. The Dell Latitude XT2 starts around $1,900.

Whether you’re just starting out with your first PDA type handheld computer, or you’re into buying and exploring the latest technology, a tablet PC can be a wonderful and fun tool. Keep the above-mentioned suggestions in mind when making your purchase and you won't be disappointed.