Prologue

I first had the concept of making a Table PC back when I saw a demo of Microsoft Surface (now called PixelSense). It was a basically a coffee table made of a flat panel display. It was many years ago but I like the idea. But I also understand the price is prohibitive. Also there is virtually no software available with touch control.

Then the introduction of iPad changes everything. Suddenly, every PC company jumped on board for touch based PC.

A few years ago, I found the original Microsoft Surface (the Table, not the Tablet PC) in my local library. I believe it has a 40" display. It was quite exciting but unfortunately, it was either defective or poorly calibrated. Part of the screen seems to pick up "phantom touches" As a result, it is really difficult to use.

I had the idea of owning my own Table PC for some time. At the time, a 10" Android tablet can be found for as little as $200. But 10" is far from big enough.

Then I found out there is the Acer 21.5" Android display, costing less than $250 for an refurbished one. I almost pulled the trigger until I learned about the poor reviews. Reports of it being slow, poor App compatibility are alarming. The final blow is that many have its touch screen broken. An Android tablet with a broken touch screen is useless!

Finally, I see the light in the end of the tunnel. With the popularity of Windows 8, many laptops and even monitors are outfitted with touch screens. Even better is that the price has come down. I was surprised to learn that a 23" touchscreen monitor can be found for as little as $130. For the computer side, I have always wanted Android. There just aren't that many Small Form Factor PCs. Many SFF PCs' case alone cost $100+. Besides, I have accumulated a healthy library of Apps collected from Amazon Appstore.

Initially, I thought about using cheap android tablets. Such as the cheap HiSense tablets because it comes with HDMI port. But I have previous experience with Android tablet when hooked to a TV that the screen isn't an exact replica of the tablet (the bottom menu bar is cut off). On top of that, I don't know how to relay the touch interface to the tablet.

Enters the Chromecast. Google made a stick PC that plugs directly to TV's HDMI port and powered via USB. It is both practical and elegant. With a little bit of research, I found out that a little heard of Android stick, initially named as MK802, has gained a lot of popularity since introduction. I think an Android stick has only 1 display and there is no issue with multiple displays.

I decided it is time for some action. I like making things incrementally. So I go with the brain behind the display first. I pulled the trigger on the MK809III which is the 3rd generation Android Stick with a quad core processor.

To be continued.