[Chemlak]

I find that devices on the table do not detract from gameplay, unless the player uses the device for something other than gameplay.

For example, I have one friend who will pull out a netbook, browse the Internet, find funny videos, and all sorts of other things, rather than getting engaged in the game.

I have another friend who uses a laptop for rules searches on Paizo.com, and an iPad for character management using Hero Lab, and remains engaged in the game the whole time.

As a GM, it's very telling to me how interested someone is in the game by how distracted they are by the electronics they bring to the table.

It's a bit harder when playing online using a VTT, but you can still get a good idea.