How to control computers remotely with Android tablets

Tablets, with their large, beautiful displays, can make certain tasks easier to perform than on smartphones. Controlling a PC remotely is one such task.   The larger display on a tablet allows you to work on the remote desktop without having to constantly zoom in and out.   Here's how connect to a remote PC using your Android tablet:

Computer-side setup

Step 1: On the PC you want to control, download TeamViewer QuickSupport from TeamViewer.  The downloaded file is named TeamViewerQS_en.exe.  The program is a self-executable so it doesn't need to be installed.

Step 2: Double-click on the TeamViewerQS_en.exe file to launch TeamViewer on the computer you want to control.

Step 3: Make a note of the ID and password from the main screen, because you'll need it to connect later.

Step 4: If you're setting this up on someone else's computer, creating a shortcut for them or placing the file on their desktop may help them find it more easily when they need your help.   A small window with a session list will pop up in the lower right-hand corner after you establish a connection.

Android tablet-side setup

Step 1: On your Android tablet, install TeamViewer from the Android Market and launch it. In the first box, enter the ID of the "partner" computer.  In the second box, enter the password and tap the "Connect to partner" button.

Step 2: Once connected, you'll see gesture control instructions.

Step 3: Close the instruction screen to see the desktop of the remote computer.

That's it!  Now you can use the mouse, type, print, and reboot the remote computer from your Android tablet without having to constantly zoom in and out.

Note: Unfortunately, the limitations of the TeamViewer app for Android are the same on the tablet as they are on the smartphone.  The Android app doesn't support local audio, text chat, video chat, or file transfers.