I’ve been using an apple iPad as a replacement for my macbook.
Overall, it is a great laptop replacement for e-mail, word processing, watching video and viewing photos. I have also done some light-duty design and spreadsheet work with the iPad version of iWork 09.
When my work calls for making presentations at client meetings, workshops or seminars at off-site locations I use the iPad version of Keynote (apple’s interpretation of powerpoint).
Generally, I connect the iPad to my Epson 1715 projector and I’m good to go. However, I did run into trouble recently when I tried to use the iPad connected to a conference center’s in-house projector. Tech staff gave it their best shot, but was not able to get the presentation projected onto the screen.
Luckily, I’m well versed on the topic I was presenting. I skipped the visuals and had a lively give-and-take discussion with attendees. The lesson: Stick with my closed system or bring a back-up PC.
Another consideration when purchasing the iPad is choosing between the Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + 3G version. I opted for the Wi-Fi only version which means I can connect anywhere Wi-Fi is available (which is most everywhere today, though not always free). Having the 3G capable version would give me access to cellular networks and as much access as I was willing to pay for.
So far, downloading files/e-books that I want to have on hand and depending on available Wi-Fi has worked fine.
Three questions to ask if you’re thinking about replacing your laptop with an iPad:
- What tasks will I want to perform on my iPad?
- How much storage capacity will I need?
- Do I want to be connected everywhere I go?
If you have had replaced your laptop with iPad drop me a note about your experience. And, if you still have questions about making the switch e-mail me and I may answer them in a future post.
This is part 3 of a 3-part series. | Read Part 2 | Read Part 1
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