We have all heard of smartphones, which basically offer computer functionalities using mobile phones. Now, here comes a smartpen! Livescribe has unveiled the world’s first smartpen called Pulse, which as the name suggests is nothing but a computer within a pen that captures handwriting and simultaneously records audio and synchronizes it to the writing. Now, you will never have to miss a word.
When using the Pulse smartpen, users have to simply tap on their notes to replay what was recorded from the exact moment they began writing, so that they never miss a word that they hear, write or speak. Moreover, the Pulse smartpen offers rich I/O capabilities and a Java development environment that enables the user to perform a wide range of applications. The pen can be basically compared to a general purpose computer.
The Pulse smartpen has a sleek and ergonomic design housed in aluminum and weighs just 1.3 ounces. It is available in two models of 1GB and 2GB. The 1GB version which is priced at $149 provides storage for recorded audio, digital notes or add-on applications. The 2GB model for $199 offers double the storage capacity.
The technology used in the Pulse smartpen is explained below:
Paper Replay- Pulse’s core application enables users to record and sync audio with whatever they write. Users can also fast forward, rewind, pause and even speed up or slow down their audio recordings.
Smartpen Technology- The Pulse smartpen includes a high speed infrared camera with a Dot Positioning System (DPS), a rechargeable lithium battery, high contrast display for easy viewing, dual microphones for clear recording and noise cancellation, embedded speaker and an audio jack for Livescribe’s 3D Recording Headset.
Dot Paper Notebook: The almost invisible microdot printed on notebook pages tell the Pulse smartpen exactly where a user is writing or tapping. User can also print dot paper for free on qualified laser jet printers from April 2008 onwards.
Recording Headset – Livescribe has created a revolutionary 3D Recording Headset. Each earbud has an embedded microphone that creates a new standard in recording quality in large rooms or noisy environments.
USB Mobile Charging Cradle – This light weight magnetic cradle connects the Pulse smartpen to the PC to recharge, transfer digital ink and audio, and install new applications.
Livescribe Desktop Software – The digital hub for notes and audio, Livescribe Desktop allows users to store, replay, and search for words within their handwritten notes on their PC.
Livescribe Online Community – Every registered Pulse user receives 250MB of online storage to upload and share notes and audio as interactive Flash movies or PDF files. Users can choose to share with the Livescribe community, selected contacts, or other sites like Facebook. Text and audio transcription services will also be available online.
