TOPIC: MS Surface Pro

Hi Dan
I will hang on for the 8 inch Dell. Hopefully it will be available towards end of month. Will let you know then how it compares to my almost portable 14 inch notebook, especially if it is suitable for entering data on the go....

Sounds good Peter...
Tomorrow I plan on doing my first inspection with Sony Tap 11 (provided I complete all the updates in time; too bad Microsoft hasn't learned anything from Apple in this area).  The Sony is 1.7lbs...down from my Thinkpad X41t which is 4lbs

As a follow-up...

I've used the Sony Tap 11 in the field for almost 2 weeks now.  So far this has been excellent for HIP on site. Currently, it is the thinnest Windows 8 tablet made, and uses an N-Trig pen.  It comes with a Keyboard which you can leave in your bag if you have not desire to use it.   If you do wish to "type" on site, the keyboard is sync'd automatically to the tablet with an RF connection.

This has been the first true competitor to replace my Lenovo X series Thinkpad tablet which has served me well for years.
Reports can be finished with the tablet, or simply use Dropbox to finish on a desktop/laptop.

Awesome Dan. Thanks for the review!! Are you using handwriting recognition with it or the virtual keyboard?

Hi Dominic -

As far a handwriting recognition or virtual keyboard, I use both. When entering model #'s from a furnace or AC unit I find the virtual keyboard best. If I'm entering a short comment then I use handwriting recognition.  I leave the RF wireless keyboard(which is full size) laying on the kitchen counter,.. and that's ideal for entering "client info". 

I used "handwriting" with Tablet XP which worked surprisingly well.  Windows 8 "handwriting" takes up more "screen real estate", and doesn't automatically add a "new" line when you run out of space writing - So that has taken me a little bit of getting use to...but that's minor as far as overall use.

Hi Dan
I was expecting to receive the 8 inch Dell (64 GB version) tablet this week, unfortunately Dell have temporarily stopped shipping the 64 GB version due to some software glitch and are now only selling the 32 GB version. Not to sure whether to go for the 32 GB version or wait until the problems are sorted with the 64 GB version.