Drawing two conclusions on pen computers.

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Information Technology

Background:

• The emergence of hand-held pen computers presents a challenge to traditional PC-based workstations.
• Established network vendors currently dominate the market with PC-centric systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential for pen computing networks to compete with established PC-based systems.
• To assess the market viability of pen computing in the face of industry giants.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of market dynamics between pen computing startups and established network vendors.
• Monitoring of pen computer manufacturer production and demand.

Main Results:

• A startup, Practice Technology Inc., aims to establish information networks using pen computing.
• Two pen computer manufacturers have ceased production due to insufficient market demand.

Conclusions:

• Pen computing faces significant hurdles in displacing established PC-based network solutions.
• Market demand and manufacturer viability remain critical factors for the success of emerging pen computing technologies.