Following on from yesterday’s article: “Apple iPad: Not Made For Computing”, we’re looking at what tablet computers have to offer. Apple certainly knew that there was no specific need for the iPad touch screen tablet, but they did more than just produce the device, they also created the niche for it. Tablet computers on the other hand, are a completely different. While the iPad could never serve as a substitute for a desktop computer, the tablet PC can handle many of the rudimentary things that are expected of a basic desktop setup.

Asus as recently shown off its new 12 inch touch screen tablet PC that brings users a special touch screen version of Windows 7 Home Premium and enough accessories to turn the tablet into an instant desktop system complete with a dock with ports, and a keyboard –a mouse is not part of the bundle since the tablet is a touch screen device, but that would not stop users from strapping in a USB mouse into the dock.

Overall, it’s a pretty good idea –especially for households that have very little need of high end computers. It is far more portable than a laptop (though you cannot carry the keyboard around conveniently), and solves the complexity of having a separate desktop and laptop device.

For those thinking that this Windows 7 tablet should make for a good iPad substitute, hold your horses. The two devices are not exactly interchangeable. While they do look similar, the ASUS EP121 is a computing device, while the iPad is a media access tablet. The same flaw of the desktop computer still persists in the EP121: slow boot-ups. Unlike the iPhone OS which is a very basic platform, Windows 7 has plenty of drivers and resources that requires to be loaded at boot-up.

Also, battery life is a major concern. Running Windows 7 is no ordinary task, and with a high speed processor, Asus will have to push the limits of its super hybrid battery technology to squeeze out as much power as they can.