A review of the C-Pen 600 C
Monday, March 15, 2004
By: Kurt von Behrmann
The C--Pen 600 C
Web Site:
also
Here is the entire package.
What It Does:
For those unfamiliar with pen scanners, the concept behind them is simple. Instead of copying notes by hand and entering them into your computer via the keyboard, pen scanners offer a convenient way to capture, store and then retrieve information quickly. The device scans and then uses OCR, Optical Character Recognition, Technology to translate visual text into digital editable text on your PC or Mac. Think of it as the ultimate paperless solution for copying, storing, entering and retrieving text information.
THE REVIEW
Not all Pen Scanners are created equal. When you match value with function, the C—Pen 600 C is a workhorse that is the essence of practical. Resembling a slightly over sized magic marking pen, this offering from C—Technologies AB from Sweden represents a nice merging of contemporary styling with state of the art function.
Containing a small camera and computer processor within the diminutive form factor, this scanner comes out of the box and ready to function. Sharing some similarities with the top of the line C—Pen 800 C, the major differences are in terms of features and functions. When it comes to OCR accuracy, speed and all around function, this unit is identical to the gold colored 800C.
The differences separating the two units have to do with power, and some added extras. Unlike the 800 C that ships with a rechargeable battery, the 600 C is powered by two AAA batteries. The impact this has on weight compared to the 800 C is negligible. The two scanners are that closely related.
Where the functions differ stems from the range of functionality. The major functions that are included with the C—600 include the following:
Notes—This function is for actual scanning of text into
the device and will be your primary entry point with the device.
An Address Book—This allows you to enter your Outlook
Information into it as address entries.
Dictionary—This allows you to install a dictionary for
seeking definitions and translation functions as well.
Settings Dial—To adjust assorted settings for the device
Storage—Here you can transfer files from one machine to
another.
Direct – This allows you to enter information directly
into the scanner from your pen to your pc.
Functions like an clock, alarm clock, and other detailed applications are found on the 800C.
Another area that differentiates this model from the higher price point model is that screen display. Slightly smaller than the 800 C with a slightly decrease in detail on closer observation, the difference is noticeable immediately when you compare the models. Aside from features, lack of a leather case and definition with the LCD screen, the models are comparable in both quality and in function.
Summation
In the important areas, the 600 C is an able scanner. There is little here not to recommend it as a solid choice for students on the go business pros and office workers. This is defiantly a peripheral that fills a void in computing.
The loss of some functions found on the more expensive 800C are somewhat missed if you do a compare and contrast with both models. While some of these extras may have dubious value, some do not. After having worked with the 800C, I do miss the sharper text and the clock function. If there were a way to merge the crisp detail and larger interface with the C-600 this would be total perfection. Also, having a rechargeable battery would be nice as well.
Considering everything here, this model stands out in sharp contrast to some of the lesser models I have seen. If price points are an issue, and you do not mind purchasing two AAA batteries, this is still a easy recommend.
C-Pen 600 C Price $ 187.00
- Processor 72 MHz Argus, custom designed
- Stored pages up to 1500
- Size 140 by 35 by 24 mm
- Flash 6 MB
- Ram 4 MB
- IR connection IrDA
- LCD 33 by 168 pixels
- Weight 80 g including batteries