Effects of Screen Orientation and Margin on Reading with a Handheld Computer

Abstract

Although the small size of handheld computers increases portability and mobility, it causes difficulty reading information displayed on a small screen. In an attempt to improve text readability of handheld computers, this study investigated the effects of screen orientation and margin on reading speed, comprehension, and subjective ease of reading with a handheld computer. A 2×2 within-subject factorial design was conducted with 16 participants reading text from a PDA. In addition, users' preference for the two factors and their experiences with reading with the PDA were elicited in a post-experiment questionnaire. Finally, usability problems encountered were discussed in the interview. The results of this study indicated that neither screen orientation nor margin had a significant influence on reading performance. No prevailing preferences for screen orientation and margin were found. Invaluable qualitative information regarding usability problems was identified, which, in turn, supports several recommendations to improve reading from small screens of handheld computers.

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