Axiotron has announced improvements to its Modbook — a MacBook laptop that has been converted to work as a tablet computer. The Modbook is available starting at $2,249, though you can send your own MacBook to be converted from $1,299.
The updated Modbook features an upgraded hardware controller board that improves sleep, battery and system performance. New Radio Frequency (RF) shielding boosts the digitizer’s responsiveness and reduces the potential for electronic interference with the pen tablet interface.
A new bonding process is being used for the “AnyView” LCD panel and “ForceGlass” screen cover (which mimics the feel of a pen on paper). That has resulted in a better contrast ratio, a firmer etched drawing servies, and decreased parallax between the pen tip and the cursor. Axiotron said all this adds up to improved accuracy for writing and drawing.
Also improved is a liquid metallic coating on the outside of the Modbook which reduces the weight slightly to 5.3 pounds; better system performance and Mac compuatibility; full Bluetooth connectivity; enhanced GPS capability thanks to a reconfigured antenna; new software (Autodesk Sketchbook Express 2009 is now included); and improved serviceability.