E-reading made E-asy

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We’ve all seen e-readers being used by people on buses and in doctor’s office waiting rooms. Although there are many devices on the market, two of the most popular brands are the Kindle and Nook. E-readers have actually been around for more than 15 years, but it’s only been in the past few years that many of the online retailer libraries have caught up to traditional paperback retailer selections. In addition, improvements to battery life and screen clarity in bright surroundings have increased user interest.

Here are tips for getting the most for your investment:

■ Resolution: Make sure that your display can be read in all kinds of environments. Bright sunshine or lights should not affect your ability to read. Ask the sales clerk if you can look at the unit outside. Also make sure it has variable font adjustments to avoid the use of reading glasses.
■ Proprietary file formats: Beware of any device that has enabled digital rights management (DRM) controls. These are file formats or protections that limit the user to an operating system or device. This can be a problem when you’re trying to move purchased materials to a new device from a different manufacturer.
■ Battery and backlighting: E-readers are convenient if you’re a night reader and don’t want to disturb your significant other. Unfortunately, backlighting means increased battery consumption, so make sure you turn off this feature when you don’t need it.
■ Wireless and storage space: Most new devices have lots of storage space, and are now wireless — so it doesn’t take a genius to understand that wireless devices are much more convenient for file transfers. However, make sure you turn off your wireless functions when not in use. This function also eats up battery life.
■ Note-taking: Many professionals are taking advantage of e-books’ ability to take notes and highlight text. If you need these functions, test different readers before buying. Some devices also have the ability to go online, and thus can be handy for checking email or looking up a web site in the field. PMP

Reach Stanbridge, a PMP and longtime technology columnist, at dean@directlinesales.com.