I’ve been wanting portable terminal access to my main computer for many years. The problem is, when I start envisioning how this would work, I always end up with a laptop with a Windows Terminal Services client. And then I wonder if I should just switch to a laptop. This week, Microsoft announced a wireless display that lets you use your primary computer from anywhere in the house. ViewSonic is selling the first versions of this device, which is marketed as an evolution of the display not the computer (which differentiates it from the Tablet PC which looks similar). At first glance I was excited about how well this matched up with my needs. But the price point is a problem. At $999 ($1,299 for a larger screen) I can buy a low-end laptop instead. A laptop is useful outside of the house. I think I’d be willing to spend up to $500 to have the terminal access device I’ve been envisioning. (via misnomer)