7/10/2010

RDP technology: This technology on an iPad allows me to run Windows application on my iPad. With Remote Desktop Protocol the processing is actually done on the Windows Server and not on the client Ipad, the results are surprising! The application logic executes on the server and only screen updates, mouse movements and keystrokes are transmitted via the session. The session enables the user to access server-based applications that appear to run locally on the client machine but execute on the server. Much to my surprise, the iPad was very fast and usable for navigating my Windows EMR!

As a long time Tabletpc user, and owner of multiple Apple offspring (iphone desktops and laptops)  I had a hard time justifying buying an iPad. After all, this is not a business machine. This is more of a toy that allows one to, ”Consume,” video, audio, surf the web and view email. There is nothing wrong with that.  

The only realistic input is the virtual keyboard.  

The iPad, is very simple and a very good idea.  If all you want to do is view (consume), then this device works well.  If you want to participate by inputing information, then this is not a business device.

Never the less, I mentally fought with myself for a couple of months before I came up with the perfect rational. I would by this machine for my 92 year old mother. She uses a Toshiba laptop every day for email.  Simple is better and at 92, you need simple.

So I did buy it. Naturally, I had to make sure it was,  “Simple Enough,” for her and of course safe. That would no doubt take several weeks or maybe even months to ascertain.

The first thing I did is download the free RDP Lite from the Apple Store. If you don't know what Remote Desktop Protocol is, then Google it.

I logged onto my computer at work and opened my EMR. The speed was phenomenal given the paucity of the CPU and RAM! Navigation was a pleasure using the finger and pinching the screen to decrease or increase the screen. Much nicer navigation than a mouse or stylus!

 Now for the bad news. While the virtual keyboard worked for inputting data, of course it was too slow.  If only there was hand writing! This so called non business machine would be very usable with RDP if only there was a better method of inputting the data like voice or handwriting. What a shame that Steve Jobs forgot about the Newton. Then again, maybe he has not. Having, “Played,” with the iPad for weeks now, I have grown to appreciate the simple is better demeanor with this consuming device.

My 92 year old mother has a birthday in August. I think it is simple enough and safe too. The question is will I give it to her?

http://www.digital-doc.com/C2/Ipad.html