Neo2 Distraction Free Writing

When I saw it sitting in a box neglected for years and gathering dust I had no idea what it was but I new I needed it. But what is the NEO2 and why is it just one of the best things ever for people like you and me who love to write but are constantly distracted or on the go? Well it is a neat little device produced by renaissance learning formerly alpha smart. It is simply a word processor and a modern equivalent to the typewriter in that all it really does is type. You can connect it to your computer to transfer files but it is essentially a distraction free device, like a typewriter, but a whole lot more convenient.

That said it does have some basic functionality all built in that you can use. These include some useful typing features like spell check and of course some hot keys used to highlight text. There is a basic calculator and a built in thesaurus. There is even a typing tutorial program to teach students home keys and such. After all it is, at its core, designed to be an instructional tool. Being disconnected from the internet but still being able to save, correct and even print your work is perfect to keep students on task and away from distractions. That said in a modern context it has turned into a collectors item for aspiring writers. Its portability, use of double A batteries and easy file transfer make it a great device to stick in a bag and travel with. But most importantly it is the distraction free aspect of the device that many authors find appealing.

The Neo2 weighs less than two pounds, but at the same time it does not feel cheap. The basic LCD screen is easy to read and adjustable. Different fonts are available to suit your preferences as well and the keyboard feels really satisfying to type on. Eight different files can be stored on the device at a time, which does not sound like a lot but it is plenty when considering the scope of the device. According to my research the memory can hold about 200 pages of text, which again is not too shabby. The cpu is a 33MHz DragonballVZ which is based on the Motorola 68000. Unfortunately these neat little machines are no longer available and the value of them is climbing due to a dedicated fan base of loyal users.

I will not soon forget the glee of connecting it to my computer and hitting the "send" key. right before my eyes text appeared letter by letter as the Neo essentially retypes my words into Google Docs while a progress bar on the little screen told me how much of my writing remained to be transffered. I just cant get over how neat the little thing is. It may seem kind of dumb but I could see myself taking it with me when I travel instead of my laptop. Pulling it out in a hotel bed or on the beach and just typing whatever little narrative came into my head.

It is such a fascinating tool that harkens back to a simpler time and I have enjoyed it so much that I actually wrote the first draft of this article on it. That is about all its good for in general though is first drafts as anything further is a little tedious to edit. About the only real criticism I have for the little device is the backspace key does not erase text quickly when held down and it is easier to just tap the key quickly instead of waiting but that is a nitpick really. I definitely intend to use mine again and if you're interested I would grab one quickly before they go up any more in price.