Digital Pen makes old monitors touch-ready (like tablet PC)

Don't throw away your old monitor even if you cannot swipe and touch the screen to move and execute tasks. With Windows 8 you expect to be able to do that, but fret not, there is a Digital Pen for such task.

Meet Apen Touch8 - the digital pen that can swipe and touch your old monitor.

Smart pen for the not-so-smart screen.

How it works

The attachment, which is really an infrared and ultrasonic receiver, clips magnetically to the side of the screen, which can be as large as 17 inches diagonally. The pen emits an infrared beam out of its tip. The receiver attachment sends the pen's signals to the computer, which interprets its precise location.

Pushing down on the pen results in a separate ultrasonic signal, which is equivalent to a touch screen sensing when you are touching it. Just like that, you can swipe and tap your way through Windows 8. The pen runs on a watch battery, which should last about 500 hours and is replaceable.

Why it's hot

Windows 8, Microsoft Corp.'s effort to make desktop and laptop computers work more like tablet computers, was released in October to mixed reviews. A major problem is the fact that many of the features require a touch-screen monitor to work, making the experience unpleasant for those with older machines. Apen Touch8 offers a way for those with older computers to experience the newer touch-based functions.

Availability

The pen is to go on sale in North America by the end of March for $80 (approx. RM240).