Frequently Asked Questions

 
 
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General
Q: What is PC NoteTaker?
A: PC NoteTaker is a unique drawing device that captures user-handwritten notes and drawings. These notes can be written on any kind of paper up to letter size and can be edited later on-screen. They can then be stored for future reference, transferred by e-mail or local network, and inserted into other documents. You can also set reminders so that they pop up on a designated date or time.

PC NoteTaker comes with an easy-to-use application and compact hardware. It is an ideal solution for people who prefer to jot down notes by hand or send rough sketches without using a keyboard.

Q: How does the technology work?
A: The digital pen transmits your hand movements to the receivers located in the base unit. The application then translates these movements into digital signals that enable you to view your handwriting on the screen.

Q: Does Mobile NoteTaker require special paper? What paper size does the product support?
A: PC NoteTaker works on ordinary paper up to letter size (8.5" x 11"). It can be clipped on pads up to ½” thick.

Q: Can I use any pen with PC NoteTaker?
A: PC NoteTaker requires a special digital pen that transmits hand movements to the base unit.

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Hardware
Q: After installing the NoteTaker software, I receive a hardware-detection dialog indicating that the hardware was not found. What should I do?
A: Make sure the PC NoteTaker hardware is properly connected to a USB port and click 'Try Again.'

Q: When I start sketching with the pen, no note appears on the PC monitor.
A: Make sure the NoteTaker software application is running.

Make sure the PC NoteTaker is connected to the PC.

Make sure the digital pen is within range of the base unit.

Make sure you inserted the batteries into the digital den.

Q: What kind of refill is inside the pen? Can I replace it? Where can I get a replacement?
A: The refill is a common size (2.6" long X .09" diameter) and can be replaced by using the refill extractor in the pen cap. Replacements are sold through NexConcepts and at most office supply stores.

Q: Can PC NoteTaker be operated when it is exposed to sunlight?
A: Yes.

Q: What are the virtual buttons?
A: There are five icons marked on the base unit front panel. These icons serve as virtual buttons that allow you to perform basic functions without the use of a mouse or keyboard. They can be programmed to perform many functions.

Q: How long will the digital pen batteries last?
A: Battery duration is 100 hours of continuous writing.

Tip: When digital pen batteries are low, a dialog will pop up telling you to replace them.

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Software
Q: Which operating systems does the NoteTaker software support?
A: The NoteTaker software supports Microsoft Windows 2000/XP.

Q: Using Windows XP SP2, I installed the NoteTaker software. While installing the application, I received a message asking if I want to keep blocking or unblock the application.
A: Windows XP Service Pack 2 has a built-in firewall. The first time you run the NoteTaker application after installing Windows XP Service Pack 2, the firewall will ask if you want to 'Keep Blocking' or 'Unblock' the application. Choose 'Unblock.'

If the NoteTaker application is already blocked, you can unblock it by following the following steps: a. Open Control Panel b. Start 'Windows Firewall' c. Go to the 'Exceptions' tab d. Check the box beside NoteTaker e. Press 'OK'

Note: If the NoteTaker application is blocked, it can not communicate with the Mobile NoteTaker.

Q: How can I auto-start the NoteTaker software when restarting windows?
A: In the NoteTaker application, go to 'Configuration > Preferences,' choose the General Tab, and check the 'Load when windows starts' box.

Q: When I start sketching with the pen, a black note appears.
A: A minimum of 16-bit colors is required in your display adapter configuration.

Q: How can I change ink color and width during sketching?
A: Use the button on the Notes toolbar.

Q: How can I create Sticky Notes?
A: Drag any of the Notes from the Note Manager to your desktop.

Tip: Right-click on a Sticky Note to perform advanced actions.

Q: Can I see the Sticky Notes after restarting the application?
A: Yes, just make sure this option is marked in the Note Manager configuration menu.

Q: How can I export a note?
A: You can export a Note when created (real time) or from the Note Manager.

To export when created, use the button on the Notes toolbar. To export from the Note Manager, use 'File > Export to Jpeg.'

Q: How can I change the default Note background color?
A: In the NoteTaker software application, go to 'Configuration > Preferences' and choose any color you desire for a Note (you can choose random color).

Q: How can I change the default Ink color and width?
A: In the NoteTaker software application, go to 'Configuration > Pen Styles' and choose any color you desire for a Note. You can change the pen color and width while sketching by using the Notes toolbar.

Q: Which e-mail clients can I use with the NoteTaker for sending a Note as an attachment?
A: Any MAPI supported e-mail client, such as Microsoft Outlook or Microsoft Outlook Express.

Q: To whom can I send a note via network?
A: A Note can be sent to anyone on your LAN who has the NoteTaker application installed and running.

Q: To whom can I send a note via ICQ instant messaging?
A: A Note can be sent to anyone on your ICQ contact list who is in 'online' status.

Q: Can I stop sketching and then get back to my sketch? Can I resume sketching and return to the same sketch later?
A: Yes, if the paper and the base unit were not moved.

Q: Can I set a reminder to a note?
A: Yes:
1. Right-click on the Note in the Note Manager.
2. Select 'Set Reminder.'
3. Check 'Enable Reminder.'
4. Choose date.
5. Choose time.
6. Press 'OK.'

Tip: You can snooze a reminder (read the user manual for more information).

Q: I can copy my sketches to the clipboard and insert them into Microsoft Word, however I cannot see the image, I can only see the frame where the sketch should be.
A: In Microsoft Word configuration, go to 'Tools > Options > View > Picture Placeholders,' and make sure the 'Placeholders Instead of Graphics' option is not marked.

Q: How can I convert my handwritten notes into text?
A: Pen2Text software, included within the NoteTaker software CD allows you to convert your handwritten notes into text.

Using Microsoft Word XP or 2003 in conjunction with PC NoteTaker, anything you write is converted directly into text. Simply install the Microsoft Word handwriting recognition engine, run Pen2Text, and start writing.

Tip: You may also download the Pen2Text software from the NexConcepts Website.

Q: Can I use my digital pen as a mouse?
A: Sketcher software, included within the NoteTaker software CD allows you to use the Mobile NoteTaker digital pen as a two-button mouse.

When using the Mobile NoteTaker in the connected mode, the Sketcher application allows you to control mouse functions with your Mobile NoteTaker digital pen. Using Sketcher with Mobile NoteTaker will give you the same features as a two-button mouse, including page scrolling.

Tip: You may also download the Sketcher software from the NexConcepts Website.

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