HONG Kong-based computer firm Country Capital Technology used the Software Exhibition '94 to show off the MagicBook notebook, its pen-based Chinese character input solution. The MagicBook, introduced in July, was the only colour notebook that allowed users to write directly on to the screen with any 'normal' pen, Country Capital Technology spokesman George Cheung said. Most other pen-based computers require the use of specially-designed stylus to input data. 'We introduced this product to focus mainly on businessmen and senior executives, to help them when attending business meetings abroad so that they don't have to waste time entering their notes or correspondence in Chinese through a keyboard or take their secretaries around with them,' Mr Cheung said. 'This product has been greatly welcomed by the local Chinese in Hong Kong, and at the SoftWare Exhibition '94 last week there was a lot of interest in it. We have decided to arrange more demonstrations and exhibitions in the future.' With the MagicBook, users can input data in different languages, including English and traditional and simplified Chinese and Japanese handwriting. They can also sign their names and draw graphics when preparing documents. The MagicBook uses a 80484DX2 66-MHz motherboard, a removable 340 or 540-MB hard disk and a dual scan colour liquid crystal display screen. It also features PCMCIA Type III support for on-board fax/modems. The notebook sells for $22,000 and comes with a spare battery, adaptor, carrier case and all basic related documentation.
