Pen-based computer is a computer that accepts input from a stylus (inkless pen) used directly on the computer screen. This technology enables the user to enter information with the stylus, rather than through a keyboard. Many pen-based computers are handheld devices. However, phones and tablet computers with touch screens have largely replaced pen-based computers.
Some pen-based computers can “learn” to recognize the user’s handwriting. Special software (computer instructions) enables these computers to understand and translate handwritten entries. See Handwriting-recognition software.
People working in hospitals, in delivery trucks, and on factory production lines sometimes use pen-based computers. The Nintendo DS, a popular handheld video game system first released in 2004, featured a stylus, as did the more advanced Nintendo 3DS, released in 2011.
See also Handheld computer.
