ActiveClipboard Review

Active Clipboard Review
By Chris De Herrera
Date 11/01/05

Today ActiveInk released Active ClipBoard which retails for $49.00. Active ClipBoard expands the functionality of the Tablet PC by providing custom handwriting recognizers along with information I want to paste on a regular basis. This article provides an overview of the features Active ClipBoard offers.

Overview of the main screen. Active ClipBoard is divided into 3 major areas - the Input Panel which is the top 1/2 of the screen above, the Favorites which are stored on the left and the Windows Clipboard which is displayed on the right. Active ClipBoard extensively uses Drag and Drop for many functions.

Custom Handwriting Recognizers - Entering Data into Active ClipBoard

ActiveInk has included custom recognizers for Active ClipBoard which makes the entry of data easier for the user. These custom recognizers include the Word Recognizer, Name Recognizer, Street Address Recognizer, City, State, Zip Recognizer, Phone Number, Number Recognizer, E-Mail Address Recognizer, Website Address Recognizer, Date Recognizer, Serial Number Recognizer and File Name Recognizer. With the addition of the custom recognizers users are able to improve the accuracy of the recognized text so less editing is required. Some users may find it beneficial to use the handwriting recognition in lieu of the Tablet Input Panel. You can insert the recognized text into the active application window by clicking on the Insert button. Of course if you have a problem entering the text into the recognizers, you can click the Edit Text button (right below the pushpin) to bring up the character by character text editor.

Storing and Using Favorites

Once you have entered data into Active ClipBoard, you can store it in the Favorites. Also, you can select and drag in text to be stored into the favorites. When you want to paste the text or image into an application, all you do is drag and drop the favorite on the application and the text or image will be pasted right in.

Active Shortcuts - A Hidden Gem

The Active Shortcuts functionality of Active ClipBoard is not obvious to the user when they first launch it. To find them you need to click on the wrench and select Manage Buttons / Active Shortcuts. This brings up another screen where you can choose what recognizers are available for you to select as well as work with the shortcuts. The shortcuts are a way that you can quickly enter in text, run (execute) a program, send an e-mail or create a word list. Once you have setup these shortcuts you can click on the Active Shortcuts button and the text will be translated or the appropriate action will be taken. This speeds up the ability for users to enter data into the Tablet PC tremendously.

Getting Help

Active ClipBoard also includes a full manual. You can find it by clicking on the wrench and selecting User Manual. There you will find lots of information on the features and functionality it offer. In addition, Active Ink also has a flash tutorial available as well to help you get started.

Conclusion

With Active ClipBoard, users will be able to more effectively enter data into their Tablet PCs, store favorites and shortcuts, and paste the text or images into applications. With this ability to store images and text Active ClipBoard makes the Tablet PC easier to use for everyone. Once you get Active ClipBoard, I'm sure you will think of many ways you can use it to make your Tablet PC experience better.

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