It may look like any other Web tablet, but the Fujitsu Stylistic 3500 is a full-blown PC with all the features you would expect, plus a touch screen. We were impressed with the specifications of the Stylistic and we liked using it for basic functions such as surfing the Web. As much as we like the concept of the tablet PC, we quickly learned that notebook manufacturers won't have to worry about any competition, especially when you consider the price.
Weighing in at 3.2 pounds, and with a form factor of 11 inches by 8.5 inches by 1.1 inches, the Stylistic is small and comfortable to hold. The tablet PC is powered by a lithium ion battery that Fujitsu claims will last for four hours. Processing power is provided by the ultra-low-voltage Intel Celeron 500-MHz processor with 64MB of SDRAM, though the unit we looked at came with the maximum 256MB of memory. The Stylistic can support Windows 98 SE, NT 4.0 Workstation, or 2000.
We found the 10.4-inch XGA TFT display to be crisp and clear, though it isn't as bright as the displays on most notebooks. The display is driven by the ATI Mobility M graphics chipset with 4MB of VRAM. We found the touch screen to be responsive when navigating through applications, surfing the Web, or using the handwriting recognition. For browsing the Internet the Stylistic was great. We especially liked the ability to "portrait" the display, so it can be carried around like a clipboard. It can also allow much more of the webpage to be seen.
Handwriting recognition
The handwriting recognition engine from CIC required extensive training. CIC uses Microsoft's Handwriting Trainer application to calibrate. We worked for about an hour on the 21-word training application, but we weren't able to successfully complete it. Compared to speech-recognition programs that can achieve 80-percent to 90-percent accuracy within 10 minutes, this product verged on the unbearable to train. The handwriting engine doesn't learn dynamically either, so you won't be able to train on the go. Part of the problem was that the 1024x768 native display resolution made writing areas too small to write naturally. We had to adjust the resolution to 640x480 to make writing areas large enough to be comfortable, but then you sacrifice the amount of information you can see at any given time.
When we finally completed 20 out of the 21 calibration words, applications that used the handwriting recognition were quite accurate. The handwriting recognition engine has its limitations, though. You won't be able to complete browser-based forms or use Web-based email. For those applications, you'll have to tap out the information using a software keyboard. An optional infrared keyboard is available, but it's so small that you'll be frustrated trying to type.
The Stylistic includes a VGA port for an external monitor, a USB port, a sound card, an internal modem, a type II PCMCIA slot, and two IrDA ports. One IrDA port is located on the bottom of the device for use with a keyboard and mouse. Unfortunately, the package doesn't include a floppy drive, CD-ROM, keyboard, or mouse. The optional docking station ($310) provides an Ethernet jack and all legacy ports.
For most users, the Stylistic doesn't offer an interface good enough to compete with any notebook. And at $3,900, it's too expensive.
Pros: Portrait display; cool concept; handwriting recognition.
Cons: Too expensive; everything is optional; frustrating to train handwriting recognition.
Company: FujitsuPhone: 1.800.831.3183
Available: June 2001
Price: $3,900
