Windows Tablets For Fieldwork

[Randall Garrett]

"Missing" follow-up post(s)

For some unknown reason (technical glitch?), a post or two, meant to follow up on the Venue posts seems to have not made it on-line here. At this point, I can't remember everything I wrote but I'll try to recap the most germane points today.

I am currently testing a few of the most recent Win 8.1 "mini-Tablets." The two main units are the Dell Venue 8 Pro and the Lenovo Miix 8. I have another device by another manufacturer, and while it has been publicly announced, it is not yet available in the retail channel. I am assured (ha!) that the unit I have represents the finished product, but I will not comment on it by name until I get a notice of the retail unit having been shipped. I am just using the sample unit to compare to the others for the ergonomic factors, etc. in lieu of a finished device.

The general "8 inch" size category is an interesting one that some appraisers may want to consider if the idea of a smaller, more portable "companion device" (vs. larger 10" - 11" companion or full "desktop replacement") seems attractive. Generally, the lower price of these units seems to main attraction for many, but it is the ergonomic factors which may actually be the more compelling/important with respect to your actual work flow. The two main factors are that these units are "one handers" and can (barely) fit into a jeans or jacket pocket for interim storage (think: place to stuff it while traversing the subject, juggling things.). These devices, being low-powered, are not meant to run heavy programs like most full appraisal "suites." The previous Clover Trail units would run these programs, but they were sluggish. The newer Bay Trail devices run the exact same programs considerably better, but don't expect a $300 mini-Tablet to perform like a modern laptop, much less a full bore desktop beast.

I am finding the Dell and the Lenovo to be in a near dead heat - one unit being a little better here and the other nosing ahead there. Notably, the Lenovo needed to be swapped out - I think my first unit was part of a very early production run - but the replacement unit is just fine. The Dell unit is just slightly larger and heavier than the Lenovo, but you would not call it heavy or bulky at all. The Dell has a more heavily textured back cover which is "grippier" but the Lenovo slips in and out of a pocket easier.

I am really appreciating the 16:10 aspect ratio over the more common 16:9 ratio found on most 10" - 11.6" devices. I wish all Windows Tablet manufacturers would go with 16:10. Actually, something like 12:9 would be better, but that is not going to happen. Generally speaking, 16:9 is a very poor choice for business use and is best suited for video type applications. Some may (needlessly) worry about the 1280 x 800 resolution on these two tablets, but I can assure you that this is sufficient for our purposes. Higher resolution is appreciated, but would mostly serve to diminish battery life and lower available brightness & contrast. Don't let yourself fall prey to the "it is not a 'retina' display" hype. If you want to pine for something better, complain about the lack of matte screen treatments.

One we manage to get a few bight, sunny days on a weekend here, I will post some comparison pictures which illustrate some of the other things you may wish to consider. Neither of these units is "perfect" (and the third unit seems to be just "another flavor" so far) but I recommend that those interested in a smaller form factor check them out if you have a retail store nearby. I still am more excited by the business class variants because the single sample I have used has some technical advantages which will translate to better performance and thus productivity for most. They will cost more when announced (shipping Q1, 2014?) but I believe they will be worth the extra $100 (?) when available. That said, if you want/need something now, these two units are inexpensive and worthy of consideration as companion devices.

Hope this helps for now!


-Randall Garrett-
*Apex Software*

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[Randall Garrett]

Asus T100

Read a pretty fair review of the ASUS T100 "hybrid" Tablet/notebook and thought I'd pass along the links.
For a basic overview, here is a direct link to the video on YouTube: Asus Transformer Book T100 Bay Trail tablet/notebook review - YouTube
The article has others which are embedded. The video pretty much illustrates basic performance using the included apps as well as the general 360 view, showing the ports, basic operations, etc. The other videos go into more detail on certain specifics. Pretty good video for those interested in sizing up this 10" $390 device. The Tablet weighs 1.2 lbs. and the keyboard dock weighs the same.

Please note that this is a "value" tablet, not an Enterprise or "Business Class" variant, and thus not the exact model I would recommend as being my first choice. You all should know that I prefer the more robust models as I feel they are a better fit for most appraisers. Still, this is not a bad device, so you may want to check it out.

This class of Tablet contains the 32-bit Intel 3740D "Bay Trail" CPU which is basically the faster, more robust version of last years Clover Trail CPU. Most reviews, however, report the CPU as the 3740, leaving off the "D" designation. The full 3740 is capable of supporting a 64-bit OS (i.e. Windows 8.1 Pro) and more RAM. We won't see those (?) until early next year, hence my suggestion that some should wait until then before making a purchase. Anyway, this device is still limited to 2 GB of RAM, but it is also MUCH improved - faster (about 2X - 3X) performance due to a better "pipe" and much improved graphics. The improvements to graphics is not so much for heavy duty gaming, though that is also improved, but graphics play a big part in modern OS's. To a point, the better the graphics chip (GPU section), the less the OS and graphics based apps drag down the rest of the system. All that said, for under $400, this is an excellent exmple of the inexpensive type of device I have been telegraphing to be coming soon for several months now and it should be attractive for many - especially if you want to stick your toe in the mobile space without risking a lot of money but that also gives you a lot of flexibility.

Availability is wide and, for example, I was able to find the 32 GB model for $389.99 on Amazon. I agree with the reviewer that the 64 GB version is a better buy - I was able to find it (also on Amazon) for $399.00, a mere $9.99 for 32 GB of additional built-in storage. http://tinyurl.com/luvup4n
This device also has a microSD slot, so you can easily add 32 - 64 GB of storage for $20 - $50. I personally prefer SanDisk products and get the variants which include a full size SD card adapter. I usually lose them, LOL, but they are handy to have and I generally find them at the same (or even lower!) price as the 'naked" versions. Here is the one I usually purchase: http://tinyurl.com/lg2c25a for $50.48, though I have seen it as low as $47.88 from time to time.

The fit and finish is typical "modest Tablet spec", but that is what you get for such a low price, including the keyboard dock (with ports.) - plastic construction with a glossy, fingerprint-prone dinish. Unfortunately, the keyboard dock does not include an additional battery slice like the Android "Transformer" Pads I have gone through. I am told (unconfirmed) to expect a "Pro" (Business Class?) variant in Q1, 2014 which has the preferred non-glossy exterior finish and a more robust keyboard dock with a conventional HDD and additional battery. A similar option is already available in overseas markets, and that is the variety I used as a sample unit some time back. I don't know why it is (yet?) to be available here in North America.

For those who just want the basic specs, here is what I ganked off the Amazon site:
1-Year International Warranty

• 30-Day zero bright dot display guarantee
• Free 1-way standard shipping
• 6 months battery warranty
• 24/7 technical support
• For more information, visit http://www.service.asus.com

Specifications

• Operating System: Windows 8.1 preinstalled with Microsoft Office 2013 Home & Student
• Display: 10.1" HD IPS Panel (1366x768)
• Processor: Intel Atom Bay Trail-T Z3740 Quad Core
• Memory: 2GB DDR3
• Storage: 64GB eMMC + ASUS WebStorage2
• Optical Drive: N/A
• Wireless: 802.11 a/g/n; Bluetooth 4.0
• Speakers: Stereo speakers with ASUS SonicMaster technology
• Camera: 1.2 MP
• Card Reader: Micro SD Card Reader; Tablet: 1 x Micro USB (support charging and usb device)
• Battery: 31Whr (Up to 11 hrs)
• Dimensions: Notebook: 10.4" x 6.7" x 0.93" (W x D x H); Tablet only: 10.4" x 6.7" x 0.41" (W x D x H)
• Weight: Notebook: 2.4lbs; Tablet only: 1.2lbs
• Color: Grey
• Input/ Output:
• 1 x Audio jack combo
• 1 x Micro HDMI port
• Dock: 1 x USB 3.0 port

What's in the Box

• ASUS Transformer Book T100 Series Notebook & Detachable Keyboard
• AC Adapter
• User Manual

Here is the link to the article: http://liliputing.com/2013/11/asus-...-review-return-netbook-detachable-tablet.html


Hope this is helpful!


-Randall Garrett-
..Apex Software..

/end/

 

[Randall Garrett]

BTW, I just got a notice that the ASUS Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR (64 GB model) dropped from $399 to $379 and is actually less expensive than the 32 GB model, at least on Amazon. http://tinyurl.com/kddedp2

That said, the 32 GB model is running $349.99 at Best Buy http://tinyurl.com/kbtn4pk and a decent "Ultra" 32 GB microSD cared is running $29.99 (non-Ultra is $25.99) and the 64 GB Ultra is $59.99

Again, even though I kind of like this device (maybe "appreciate" is a better word), I am not saying that this particular device is "THE" device to get. I note that it is, however, pretty inexpensive, very "complete" in that it comes with a keyboard dock and is available now. IF this sort of thing interests you, it would be worth your time to stop by a retailer who has it in stock to look it over, if for no other reason than to just be aware of what is out there at a given price.

Today is a bright and crisp day where I am, but I did not bring any of these type devices with me. Hopefully, it'll be nice here this weekend and I can shoot some pix. As before, I will use the exact same screen "image" on all devices so you can get an idea about general ergonomics and view-ability factors, etc.


Regards,


-Randall Garrett-
..Apex Software..

/end/

 

[Randall Garrett]

Sunny weekend predicted here, so I brought a few Tabs home with me and I plan to shoots a few comparison shots. Not sure if I can find a decent camera after my recent move but I'll use what I can find.


Regards,


-Randall Garrett-
*Apex Software*

/end/

 

[Randall Garrett]

Hey folks,

Sorry for not posting sooner. I've been under the weather with some sort of NASTY cold-type thing with a cough that won't quit. Been staying in bed, trying to rest. Of course, that upsets an already weird sleep schedule, so I am not always at my best during normal hours. My absence from the office is also irritating my office folks and they are getting anxious about me returning the devices I brought home late last week :-\ Seems they want a few back for testing new builds. I brought home a few Android devices so I could compare & contrast the outdoor performance with a few of Win 8.1 Bay Trail devices - the Dell Venue 8 Pro & Lenovo Miix2 (8" @ just under $300) and the ASUS T100 (10.1" @ ~$350.) I have another sample device with me, but I am not allowed to share the details, pictures, etc. yet, but I expect I can within the next two weeks.

I'll not wait that long to post the outdoor pictures of the three devices noted above, along with comparison shots, etc. since I know that some of you are waiting. I will, however, be able to post my thoughts on basic performance items between the released devices and the upcoming one(s.) I won't be able to make a "hard call" because using sample devices is not necessarily accurate enough since many "tweaking" things happen between sample and release cycles.

Summarily, though, I can say that all three of the devices mentioned are solid value propositions for those looking at an inexpensive "companion" type device (vs. "desktop replacement" caliber.) All three are able to run full versions of the various appraisal apps I have access to, but you would not want to hook the up to an external monitor, keyboard & mouse and try to do any heavy lifting. Of course, what would you expect from a ~$280 - $350 device? Each device has their own "pro" and "con" list and once or twice I've scratched my head wondering why on earth some decisions were made on a particular device. That said, not of the items are necessarily deal breakers - the worst is just an "inconvenience" type thing

Anyway, I apologize again for being so late in posting. With luck, I should have pictures up by this weekend. In the interim, if anyone has any specific questions, feel free to ask and I'll share what I can.


Regards,


-Randall Garrett-
..Apex Software..

/end/

 

[Gregory Young]

I lurk here often & always appreciate your feedback. Still trying to time out when to pull the trigger on a truly adequate mobile 'clipboard' for valuation services. From what I can gather & process, looks like 2nd quarter or maybe June-ish 2014 may be a sweet spot. Here's a question that may already be answered...is it possible to efficiently draw a mobile sketch using a stylus?

 

[Randall Garrett]

Gregory,

Thanks for your kind words. Glad to help where I can.

For various reasons, I think we'll see a sweet spot appear over the next 3 - 5 months. Bay Trail is a big thing for many as will be fan-less Haswell with connected stand-by. There are just now starting to be pretty decent devices shipping, but I believe the better ones will be in Jan - March. The next biggest obstacle IMHO is we software developers getting with the program and embracing the necessary changes for mobility vs. revamps of older (sometimes bloated) code in favor of newer, lighter stuff. Nothing I have read this week leads me to believe that any of the main forms companies have any intention to do that anytime soon. That is the reason we need these newer processors. Otherwise, the previous generation would work fine. Of course, newer, faster & less expensive is better so I'm not complaining Should be an exciting Spring... Next big jump is not for another (say) 12 - 18 months afterward.

As far as sketching, what OS are you wanting to use? If I assume Windows (per reading this particular thread), I think that our old Nexus and the programs that mimic it in the ways I think you mean are pretty straightforward for doing the basics. Of course, that program was designed for older Tablet PC's circa 2005-2006 which relied on a special screen with a layer for an "active pen." Today, we see the word "stylus" applied to these by ignorant (or maybe just lazy) writers, but a stylus has traditionally been though of as just a "dumb stick" with a special tip. Trying NOT to get too geeky here, but look at the difference in how a Samsung Note tablet works and an iPad. One has an active pen and digitizer screen while the other has just a less capable capacitive digitizer. The difference is huge. Whether that matters to anyone or not is another question however, since many people find that capacitive touch screen are good enough for their use and that if a bit more precision is needed, buying an inexpensive capacitive stylus works OK. For me (and I am likely in the minority here in the US), active pen is the way to go. For the best drawing, professional "art type" users prefer a Wacom digitizer screen & active pen solution by a huge margin, but the larger world seems to find "touch" to be adequate for most of their needs. We see some competitors to Wacom, but they are largely not quite up to snuff. Of those, N-Trig is the front runner, but it is still not as good as Wacom for most who care about great pen stuff. Oops, getting too geeky - let me reel myself in...

Perhaps you already know about the old Nexus and programs that mimic the core behavior, but mean "When will we see this sort of thing being capable on these newer. lower priced machines?" I believe we'll see this sometime in early 2014, based on what we (Apex) is doing and what I have read of others' paths. I believe that will be in-line with the hardware sweet spot, which is not a coincidental thing IMHO since by far, per the pending release of the more applicable Bay Trail CPUs and fan-less Haswells, which are more desirable due to the bloated nature of your main appraisal apps, not sketching per se. Even our last-gen software runs fine on the last gen (say) Clover Trail devices but, of course, the newer CPUs with more available RAM run everything better and even the current Bay Trails run most full appraisal apps pretty well - much better than the previous CPUs. As WIn 8.1 device choices and adoptions rise, the other software improves, so once again, I think that this (say) Spring start a sweet spot period for most appraisers.

BTW, which main appraisal software are you using?

Hope this helps! If I have missed the thrust of your question, please let me know how to better address your items. I'm still a bit woozy from meds and am not so sure what I just wrote answers what you were asking.


Regards,


-Randall Garrett-
+Apex Software+

/end/

 

[Gregory Young]

Great, thx . Altho just a simple caveman valuation professional, I try to follow along during 'geek talk' :Eyecrazy:. Yeah, my Samsung note II has a 'smart' pen that can pull up menus, etc.

Have actually drawn up a few properties on the S-Note app in the field. It has snap to line option to keep things straight, but obviously doesn't calculate SF. It does allow pinching/stretching to change scale, & I can draw any 'box' (house, porch, outbuilding, whatever) 'out of order' without having to define & fully complete each individual shape before moving on.

Regarding appraisal software - don't use any. All my desktop work is via Office templates & of course Apex :new_smile-l:.

 

[Randall Garrett]

All-

Sorry for the continued random/sporadic input here. I finally went to the Dr., got diagnosed and am on proper meds, so I should be back in gear very soon. Might just be a "false high" today, but I already feel 100% better. The meds make me woozy though and I tire easily... I had (again) meant to post some pix, but on the days we had sunshine, I was zonked by this cough. On says I felt better, it has been cold (for here - mid-30's), overcast and rainy. Looks like we have a few more days of that in store, and it will not be until this coming Wed/Thurs before we have sunny days. My trip to the Dr. was not entirely fruitless, however - while out, I purchased a few more Tablets I'll add those to the mix, where appropriate, for my future commentary/mini-review. One, in particular, was one that I was not able to report on since it was not available publicly at that time, so I am glad I was able to walk into a store and buy one. Of the three I purchased, two of them may be appropriate here. The third was simply another Surface Pro 2 that is a gift for my son...

hoe to have some pix up soon...



Gregory,

Thanks for the feedback!

So, are you using a Galaxy Note for now and trying to figure out if you want to move to Windows (and if so, when)?

Which model (size, year, etc.) Galaxy Note do you have now?
That can make a difference in what I might recommend as an interim solution between now and the upcoming sweet spot.

The better I understand your usage scenario and goals, the better advice I can give for you to ponder, research on your own, etc.


Regards,


-Randall Garrett-
..Apex Software..

/end/

 

[Randall Garrett]

FWIW, I noticed an upcoming "Black Friday" deal on the Dell Venue Pro 8. Basically, you can get it for the regular $299.99 but the deal adds a free folio case and a 1 year accidental damage coverage policy. We always recommend the accidental damage policies to our customers - they are inexpensive and well worth the peace of mind. Add an inexpensive ($20?) microSD card (also always recommended) and your investments in the device and your data are well protected. When possible, we recommend these accidental damage policies be purchased thru the device manufacturer vs. the 3rd party services which are common to the "big box" stores. The ability to get this sort of protection is one of the things that typically separates "consumer grade" from "business class" devices. The Dell Venue Pro line falls more into the Business class device than the consumer grade devices per the construction (plain, no nonsense, durable vs. flashy) and the availability of this accidental damage protection policy.

Summarily, I have been (mostly) well pleased with the Venue Pro line and even somewhat surprised by them in terms of performance, (apparent) durability, etc. I have a gripe on the rear camera placement, but for a device in this price range, the Venue Pro 8 is certainly worth a look. I am also testing a few of the 10.8" versions ("Venue Pro 11")and will report on them when I can get to it. At present, all I am allowed to publicly comment on is the Bay Trail version since the Core i3 and Core i5 units are not available in the retail channel yet (but will be soon.) I am also testing out the two different keyboard docks that are available for the Venue Pro 11 and will report on these when I get to reporting on that "class" of devices. I believe that the mere availability of these types of accessories from the OEM source is an important element of having a well rounded experience. Typically, the chintzy 3rd party accessories are just not as well made as the OEM items.

Hope this helps for now. Note that the link in the image below just takes you to a "landing page" with a count down timer. The actual page for ordering will presumably go live this Friday (?)

[Edit] source added link: http://www.circularhub.com/flyers/d...=13247#!/flyers/dellus-fsi?flyer_run_id=13247



-Randall Garrett=
..Apex Software..

/end/