Tablet PCs for Dummies

They say accessories make a wardrobe, so why should Tablet PC be left out? The accessories available for your Tablet PC will vary depending on your model and its manufacturer — but here are some neat little fashion items you can look for. Most are available directly from manufacturers, but will probably show up at places such as CompUSA and Staples in short order.

• Slipcases are like little jackets for protecting your Tablet PC (as in Figure 13-5). They’re less like that laptop notebook bag you’ve been carting around (with its pockets and briefcase appearance) than they are slim and trim vinyl or leather sleeves for your Tablet PC. Unless you have a convertible model (or a model such as the Motion 1200 slate that includes its own hard cover), getting such protection for your investment only makes sense.

  Figure 13-5: The Motion Computing M-Series Leather Executive Portfolio is typical of the slim profile of Tablet PC cases.

  If your manufacturer doesn’t offer a slipcase you fancy, try Targus at www.targus.com for a selection of laptop cases that fit most popular Tablet PC models.

• Screen protectors are filmlike layers that protect your screen from smudges and strong sunlight. They also help keep down glare so you can read the screen more easily.

• Rubber handgrips can be added to the corners of some models for both improved grip and added protection from bumps and bruises in more rugged environments.

• Chargers for car or airline seatback systems allow you to recharge your battery while on the road.

  Of course, you can also buy additional batteries to keep an extra charge with you when no charger source is available.

• Wireless keyboards come with some slate models but not with others. If you didn’t get a keyboard with your Tablet PC, you can buy a USB-connectible keyboard to go along with your Tablet PC.