Since the DocuPen is powered by a built-in rechargeable lithiumion battery, it is extremely portable. It even comes with a leather-like case for protection when you take it along with you. Whether you are at your computer, on an airplane, or sitting on a park bench you can scan any document. The documents that you scan are stored in the DocuPen until you download them to your computer.

To transfer the scan to your computer you simply install the included drivers and PaperPort software and attach the pen to the computer with the included USB cable. The software lets you print, email, fax, and import the document into other programs. It includes OCR (Optical Character Recognition) software that allows you to open the document in an editable form in any word processing program. The battery automatically recharges whenever the pen is connected to the computer.

The DocuPen R800, that I looked at, is well-designed. A single button lets you cycle through the color choices: black-and-white, 12-bit color, and 24-bit true-color. Another button lets you choose the resolution: low (100 or 200 pixels per inch) or high (200 or 400 pixels per inch). You see the choices you make by watching the colored lighted icons on the pen. Although everything is laid out well, it will take some time to learn what each icon represents.

It will also take a little practice to get the scan right. The idea is to start at the top of the page and drag the pen down across the page. You need to keep the scanner straight and maintain an even pressure. This is easy, but can take a little practice to get the hang of it. Once you have mastered the technique and the icons, scanning any document is second nature.

When I reviewed the original DocuPen back in 2004, I said “If Planon can incorporate more memory, better resolution, and longer battery life into future DocuPens, they will be spectacular.” They did all of these things and their new R800 DocuPen is spectacular. At $299, it’s still a bit pricey, but there are also two less expensive models available. These new DocuPens will be useful to any mobile professional. Real estate agents, insurance adjustors and salesmen will love it as will information junkies of all types. It is a great way to organize all the great information that you find in newspapers and magazines.