Recommend a tablet for me

[86turbodsl]

Can someone help recommend a tablet for a friend?

He's looking for a tablet style computer that will still run windows and office apps,
NOT Windows 8. He intends to use in the workshop and cars for running OBD software
and pulling up PDF's for workshop manuals.

He is NOT a computer guy, but does know that he wants a touchscreen.

I had thought an X220 or similar might be right, but i'm looking for expert opinions.

Thanks.

[brchan]

What is the budget? New or used? A used X201 tablet might work. More than fast enough for his needs and has touch. However, I imagine you would probably want a serial port for OBD.

You may also consider getting a used toughbook cf-19 mk5 or mk4 version, since it is better suited for the rough environment and still has a serial port.

[86turbodsl]

He said 2-300 is ok. I think most diag ports these days are usb. Is the 201 available with multitouch? I don't think he wants to use a pen.

[brchan]

Have a look here http://www.lenovo.com/psref/pdf/ltwbook_2013.pdf.

Starting at the top of the pages on 606 and on, you can see which models have multitouch. If you want to get one with multitouch, make sure the model type number on the bottom of the case matches one of the models listed as having multitouch. You can request one to buy on this forum or by using eBay (make sure the seller is good).

[86turbodsl]

I showed him a few X220's and he loves them. I think he'll be a convert.

Thanks for the help.

[Khipata]

I have Getac E100:

http://us.getac.com/tablets/e100/features.html

It is small, lightweight and built like a tank.

I aslo have Getac V100:

http://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/laptops/getac-v100

Same build quality, built for combat environment.

PM me if interested

[tarvoke]

don't forget that there has been both USB and also bluetooth OBD gear for a while, and I think it's gotten a lot less expensive - i.e. serial is no longer such a necessity.

another option is android tablets or ipad - some of the BT devices claim "only" to have support for android, or ios, or windows, or osx, so do your reseaarch first.

naturally you'd want a fairly rugged case and screen protector for droid or ipad.