The Mobile NoteTaker sets you free to capture notes or sketches at any location, without being tethered to a desktop, laptop, or notebook computer, a Tablet PC, or a PDA. It also doesn't require special paper. Just attach the device to a pad or even a single sheet of paper, and start writing or sketching with the digital pen.

Notes and sketches are marked by the date and time they are saved. It's easy to find and edit existing notes, including adding or deleting information or changing ink or page color, although the LCD display is a bit small and difficult to read. It can also be distracting, because it's difficult to resist the temptation to keep glancing at the display as you write or sketch. Pen strokes are displayed at 50 percent of actual size, although you can zoom in to 100 percent or out to 25 percent.

Four navigation buttons to the right of the display allow you to easily navigate through the simple menu system (capture, browse, settings, and status). You can also use the pen and the five buttons underneath the display to perform the same functions.

The unit can hold up to 50 letter-size pages of notes and drawings, and you can delete an entry to make room for more, if necessary. When you're ready to transfer your notes to a desktop or laptop PC, you can connect the Mobile NoteTaker with the included USB cable. If you want to share notes and drawings with colleagues, you can export them in JPEG format and send them via e-mail or an instant messaging program, like any other file attachment.

The Mobile NoteTaker uses two AAA batteries, and the pen uses three SR41 batteries. There's no way to determine how much battery life is remaining, so it's a good idea to keep an extra set of both battery types on hand. Replacement/spare pens are $29.95.

Overall, the NexConcepts Mobile NoteTaker is an expensive product, but if you need true mobility, the cost may be worth it.

Pro: Easy to use. Doesn't require a computer, PDA, or special paper, so you can use it almost anywhere. Compatible with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Con: Expensive. Like any pen, the digital pen is easy to misplace or lose. Can't convert notes to text.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

NexConcepts/Synnex Corporation
44201 Nobel Drive
Fremont, CA 94538
888-956-6837
http://www.nexconcepts.com

Warranty
1 year