It was the easiest setup I've ever been through. Once charged, it took me less than ten minutes to grab on to the local wireless network, set up access to my SBC email account and download and install two (free) iPad apps. They were access to my account at NetFlix (including streaming movies and tv shows) and to The Weather Channel.
Matt Gordon has recommended several more that I'll play with over the next few days.
The device is intuitive enough in operation that an instruction booklet is unnecessary. Honestly, I did have to search out an iPad for Dummies page that showed me what the few buttons did.
Screen size is good, graphics are rendered flawlessly at all sizes (YouTube videos look GREAT!) and the enclosed Safari browser works like a champ. The audio could be a bit louder, but that's from the perspective of a set of 62-year old ears. There is an output for headphones, but no headphones are included. I have a set or two around here and I'll let you know how it sounds within.
So what will this new toy do for me? Well, it will not replace either my Asus Netbook or my Toshiba laptop that Mike Batchelor will be upgrading to Windows7 next week. Both have their own jobs to do, so to speak. But the iPad will be a handy carry-with device that will allow me to watch and read and do all but the back-end stuff necessary for most of my work.
The only heartburn I have with the Apple brand is that with any of their products you get only the very least gear to get the job done. Accessories and software are always extra and very expensive. The first thing I need is a folder that keeps the device's cover safe. So far, the best price on the most acceptable folder is about $50.
UPDATE: Folding faux-leather protection, screen covers and styli ordered with Amazon credit.
