USB Pens??? (For capturing writing...)

Looks like some people are finally starting to realize this is a good idea...
http://www.everythingusb.com/upluspen.html

It's basically a USB pen that, when attached to your computer, acts kind of like a mouse but actually captures your writing and sends it back to the computer for recording. This could be really useful with class notes or editing PDFs on the fly...

Does anyone know where to get one of these things???

 

I see endless possibilities for that.

If it can be incorporated into programs like the Gimp, Photoshop, Paint etc: used like a pen or a mouse, then it will be a must have. It's hard being so precise when using a touchpad or mouse when working with Photo apps.

 

If I understood that article correctly, it probably will act like a mouse...only there will probably be a small button or whatnot to signal that you are actually trying to write.

 

http://www.aving.net/usa/news/default.asp?mode=read&c_num=31325&C_Code=02&SP_Num=0

I see little dots on the paper. It looks as if you must use special paper with the pen. Reminds me of the Logitech iO pens.

 

Wow, I'm glad this thread ended out talking about USB Pens and not something else. The title really caught my attention

This is a great idea, might even be more convenient than a tablet.

 

I wonder if it will be better then PC NoteTaker/mobile Mobile PC NoteTaker
http://www.pc-notetaker.com/

 

Well, I just ordered one through Academic Superstore...it's the ePen. Anyway, I'll be doing a review of this when possible.

 

There was one on engadget the other day that doesn't require special paper, but I don't think its avaiable for purchase yet. I've been wanting an I/O pen for years, but between the high cost and the need for special paper, I've yet to decide it to be worthwhile.

Ok, much searching turned it up for me -- apparently it is available. Hmm... I see me a graduation gift idea.
http://gadgets.engadget.com/2007/02/08/genius-introduces-the-g-note-7100-digital-pad/

 

These guys have a good selection as well, including a BT model.

http://www.ipen4you.com/ipen.htm

 

I too was thinking of ordering this one but I could not get any tech info on Ezonics web site.
Do you know if it converts handwriting to text and is it compatible w/ One note or is it just a pointer style pen( no character converter).
I am trying to contact Ezonics but they don't open for another hour.

 

I am curious how the pen would know when you lift it up and move to another spot in a drawing? How will it know where to put the next line when you sent the pent o paper again?

Would LOVE one of these for writting at least...if they would work for drawing I would love to read the review on how that all works too!!

 

What about pressure sensitivity? That is something that makes tablets indispensable, because you can be really soft, for light lines, and really hard to make a bold stroke. Or the eraser?

 

I bet it does pressure sensitivity.

As for drawings and such, the ones that use special paper keep track of the marks you make by referencing a grid or pattern on the paper. Not sure about the ones that do standard paper.

 

I liked other product by epos:
http://www.everythingusb.com/epos_digital_pen.html
http://www.epos-ps.com/products.asp?pid=1275&ppid=1278

It existed on their website already for a year, but I haven't seen it sold though I tried very hard to find it! Epos also haven't replied to my inquiry as to where I can buy it.

I guess that this product will be sold rebadged under different names.

PC-notetaker seems to be the closest to this pen but it is an older technology.