Lighten Your Load with a Tablet Computer

Many are still debating the laptop vs. tablet switch and are not quite sure if it is a good time to change. The answer is "Yes!" I, too, agonized over the decision until I completed a trial use of the aptly named Motorola XOOM, which I immediately bought. The portability of the XOOM, which fits neatly into my purse and is instantly "prêts à travailler" (ready to work), has amped my efficiency and productivity. However, switching from a laptop to a tablet has also significantly lightened the load of equipment that I carry with me each work day, leaving a small pile of electronics that I no longer need. Below are some items that you will likely not need as much or at all if you purchase a Motorola XOOM.

1) GPS Unit - The XOOM comes with two of my favorite apps installed, Google Maps and Places, both of which have spoken driving and walking navigation capability. I connect the XOOM to my car stereo via the auxiliary port and, depending on my need, use one of the programs for navigation. Places even allows you to customize searches for business types wherever you go, such as antique or thrift stores. Best of all, the larger screen makes viewing the maps (when I'm pulled over out of traffic) much easier. There are various car mounts available for the XOOM.

2) MP3 Player - My XOOM has ample space for my music. I carry a small combo earbud/microphone headset that I use to listen away from the car, just as I did with my MP3 player. (The microphone comes in handy when I choose to use SKYPE or any of the voice active functions of the XOOM.) Best of all, the music player works around other programs that are simultaneously in use. So, for instance it pauses music when the GPS navigator speaks. Very cool.

3) E-Reader - I read a lot, and I have a Nook that I used regularly until I bought my XOOM. Though I still prefer the e-print screen that Nook offers when I'm reading in the sun, I now read on the XOOM almost exclusively.

4) Camera - The XOOM comes loaded with front and rear facing cameras, both of which produce high quality pics and video. There are also several great apps that allow me to edit and upload projects in seconds.

5) Video Player - When I'm cooling my heels between appointments and wanting to check out a video, my XOOM comes to the rescue! Whether it is one of my stored videos or the latest rage on Youtube, the XOOM performs this function well.

6) Cell Phone - I will always keep a cell phone, but there are places where they are not allowed. For instance, many public or doctor's offices have banned the cells for talking and texting. Luckily, I can text (via email), chat or even make SKYPE calls from my XOOM if I must.

7) Memo Book - Okay, I know this one isn't electronic. However, it is part of the litany of items I used to lug around in my satchel. Now I use a few notepad apps to speak my notes into my XOOM. The accuracy of the text-to-word programs is quite awesome, leaving me with more time for tasks other than transcription.

So, if you are on the laptop vs. tablet fence, come on down! Your work and your back will thank you.