Computing on a plane that has a working AC power outlet!

I'm on my way to San Diego for the 2nd International mHealth Networking Conference in San Diego on Sept 8-9. I'll be making a presentation is titled, "Technology and Medicine: Mobile Applications and Clinical Outcomes."

I'm sitting on the plane and I see that we actually have a standard working power outlet on our seats. I don't need an airline DC power adapter anymore. I can just plug in my standard AC adapter and use my computer.  When's the last time you flew on an airplane that had working AC power outlets on the seats? It's also great to have in-flight Wi-Fi. I can keep up with all my work and stay connected to the world as I fly across the country. What would I do without you, Gogo inflight internet?

Speaking of the mHealth conference, if you'd like to hear my presentation at the mHealth conference, make sure to catch me on Thurs, Sept 9 at 10 am.  Here's some general information about the conference:  http://www.mobih.org

2nd International mHealth Networking Conference
September 8-9, 2010
Town & Country Resort Hotel
San Diego CA

Click here to view the program and I look forward to seeing you at the mHealth Networking Conference!

Computing on the train

I'm traveling for work today, so I'm computing on the train. I still remember the old days when we didn't have any Internet access on trains. Now, I simply use my Windows Mobile smartphone to tether my tablet PC and I'm quickly online.

Soon, all the major trains, buses, and airlines will offer Wi-Fi and we will look back in a few years at the "dark ages" when we didn't have Internet access on trains and planes. Can you imagine a future where the Internet is everywhere? 

Computing on the plane

I've used just about all my mobile computers on the plane:

• Laptop (all sorts of screen sizes)
  
• Convertible tablet PC
  
• Ultra-mobile PC (Samsung Q1 Ultra)
  
• OQO handheld computer
  
• Smartphone
• iPod touch (do you consider this a mobile computer?)
  

My conclusion is that laptop manufacturers should make a business computer that's just for the frequent flier.

• This device would have a really wide, but very short screen. This way, when the person in front of you reclines back, you're still able to see your screen and type away. 
• Speaking of the screen, it should have a security screen so that your neighbors can't see what's on your screen (you can buy these filters, but why not build it into your notebook?)
  
• It should have a full keyboard so that you can type easily. 
• It should have a built-in cup holder so that you can drink and work at the same time. 
• It also needs a spill-proof keyboard.  (crumb proof would also be nice)
  
• It should have an illuminating keyboard. (it's so hard to find laptops that have this - unless you get a Mac)
  
• Battery life should exceed 8 hours. (and yes, it should be a user-changeable battery Apple!)