Linux, Hewlett-Packard's Compaq d220, and Element Computer's Helium 2100 are highlighted in a discussion of the use of Java-based applications on tablet PCs. Linux is a more sensible platform for Java-specific vertical applications. Tablet PCs are not a mass- market product, partly because they are twice as expensive as a similar laptop and are hard to use for most office work. They are also easy to break, says one user. However, tablets are a good choice in such vertical niche markets as hospitals and for inventory, and they are selling well in those segments. For Java developers, the Tablet PC has been driven by Windows, including the most recent Windows XP Tablet PC Edition. However, Linux is moving to the tablet form factor, and advantages for Java developers are the low cost of Linux and Linux's effective support for Java. Lycoris's Linux distribution is called Lycoris Desktop/Linux Tablet Edition and can be also purchased on Desktop Evolution's De-Tablet, which is a standard Toshiba Portege 3500 with Linux pre-installed. Other vendors, including Element Computer with Helium 2100, use white-box parts and sell a device for about half the cost of De- Tablet. The devices are very able, with process speed over 1GHz, 30GB of hard disk space, and 256MB of RAM. The next generation should eliminate most of the early-edition bugs, and more Linux- based tablets will be priced attractively.