HP Compaq tc4200

Rounding off the specifications, our tc4200 (part code PV984AW) had 512MB of DDR2 SDRAM and a 60GB 5,400rpm hard disk, but there's no room in this chassis for an optical drive. Underneath you'll find a docking connector, which is one obvious way to add an optical drive to your setup - just note that a docking station costs £105 (exc VAT) and you'll then need to buy a MultiBay drive to slip into it. A DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive, for example, costs £149 (exc VAT).

The tablet's ports include three USB 2 connections, a Type II PC Card slot and SD card reader, but no FireWire. Bluetooth and 802.11b/g provide wireless connections. Security can be enhanced with the optional TPM (trusted platform module) chip, and HP's Credential Manager software encrypts and manages passwords and network accounts, and provides single sign on (SSO).

The layout, features and battery life make the tc4200 usable in both formats, and it represents good value for money. As a slate, it doesn't match Motion Computing's LE1600, and it's a bit heavy for extended use in this mode. But if you want unrestricted power and an integrated keyboard, the tc4200 is an excellent candidate.

Author: Roger Kirkwood