The Bottom Line
Pros
- Long operating time - over 700 hours on AA alkaline batteries.
- Compatible with Mac and Windows systems.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Neoprene carrying case could use a handle or shoulder strap.
Description
- Large and easy to read display.
- AlphaWord Plus word processing program.
- +700 hours of operating time with 3 standard AA alkaline batteries.
- Using rechargeable battery pack provides +200 hours of operating time.
- Built-in industry standard IrDA port. Information easily shared between devices or Palm OS devices.
- USB port for printing or connecting to a PC or Mac.
- Additional SmartApplets can be installed for increased functionality.
- Plenty of storage space for documents.
- One touch access to 8 files and additional files can be saved with any name you wish.
- AlphaSmart Manager used to retrieve & transfer documents between Neo's.
Guide Review - Neo From AlphaSmart
Businesses which require their mobile professionals to gather and input data on a regular basis will find that the Neo is up to the challenge. It's a great mobile device especially for workers that are less Internet savvy and won't always have a means to connect to the Internet.
Weighing only 2 lbs it's lighter than most laptops and easy to take into meetings, you also don't need to worry about a power source, so it can be used just about anywhere.
With the ability to share information between Palm OS devices or other AlphaSmart products using the Beamer, the Neo provides a method of sharing and collaboration.
I like how easy it is to use the Neo and had no problems creating documents, then transferring that information to my laptop and desktop. It's a very comfortable device to use and you won't get frustrated when you have to enter a great deal of text. If you have a USB printer as most newer printers are, then you'll find no problems there.
Think beyond this being a mobile device just for students and consider how it can be used within your own organization. You just may be surprised at the ideas you come up with.