Member shinrai of the EeePH forum has posted a tutorial on how to conduct a check-up on Asus Eee PC 701s and 900s using Xandros' Diagnostic Tools.
You can read the entire step-by-step tutorial here.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Xandros: How to do a check-up on your Eee PC
Asus denies cancelation of Eee 900 in favor of 901
Per Notebook Italia, contrary to our previous post regarding a Digitimes report ("Asus stops taking Eee PC 900 orders in preparation for upcoming 901 launch") Asus has denied that it will cease the production of 900s and will actually sell them alongside the newer 901 models.
The categorical denial of Asus reads: "The news published by DigiTimes is not true. Eee PC 900 and 901 have characteristics and different target sales. Eee PC 900 weighs less than 1Kg; Eee PC 901 will have a battery capable of reaching 7 hours of autonomy. Both models coexist to meet the needs of different categories of users. " According to Asus, orders for Eee PC 900 will continue throughout July, until autumn, when they will introduce the 901 model in Italy.
Notebook Italia translated site here.
Gigabyte to apologize to Asus
From Digitimes -
The legal battle between Gigabyte Technology and Asus looks set to be over before it even started, with the former agreeing to issue an apology to be published, at its expense, in Taiwan newspapers on June 1. Asus, in turn, has agreed to drop all proceedings related to the issue.
Tensions between the two had flared up over "defamatory" comments Gigabyte made in an internal doc which challenged Asus's claims of using high-quality components and the merits of Asus's EPU energy saving technology and its own DES equivalent. Asus complained to the Taiwan's Fair Trade Commission and sued the Gigabyte employee who wrote the piece.
ASUS Eee Stick motion controller brings Wii to the Eee
From Engadget -
ASUS will be intro'ing the Eee Stick at Computex. The Eee Stick is a pair of Wii nunchks look-alike motion-sensing game controllers except that the left nunchuck can also work as a 3D mouse.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Asus to offer £10 battery upgrades on Eee PC
From PC Pro UK -
Asus may offer British Eee PC owners a cheap battery upgrade to quell the fury that's erupted over the company's decision to supply lower-capacity batteries to British buyers. British owners of the Eee PC 900 have been supplied with a 4400mAh battery, while laptops shipped in North America came with a 5800mAh battery.
Asus has publicly blamed the LG Chem battery factory fire for the situation, claiming that a shortage of available 5800mAh batteries forced it to put the lower-capacity model in British machines.
Source article here.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Acer Aspire One MiniNote
Above photos were posted by new member Liza (joined 5/29/2008) at the UMPCPortal forum. This is presumably a press release intended from the upcoming Taiwan Computex.
IF posted details from Mobile 01 are right, the unit is called Aspire One, runs Win XP SP3 1024 x 768 on a 8.9" screen, is Atom-based and is made by Quanta. Quoted price is 299 euros (US$469.49).
Mobile 01 thread (Chinese) here.
Mobile 01 translated thread here.
UMPC Portal forum thread here.
UMPC Portal article here.
ASUS Eee Box: Initial Impressions and Dissection
For those interested, AnandTech has dissected the Asus Eee Box and posted a lot of photos.
The machine used has a 1.6GHz Intel Atom with an Intel 945G chipset, 1GB of DDR2-667 memory and a 160GB Seagate Momentus 5400.4 2.5" SATA hard drive. There is no optical drive but the machine has built in Gigabit Ethernet and 802.11n wireless. Bluetooth is also built in.
Photo below shows the components - At the top is the Intel 945GMCH, the sliver of a CPU in the middle is the Atom, to the left of it is a standard Core 2 Duo E7200 and to the right is the 802.11n card. Above the 802.11n card is the sole SATA/power ports on the motherboard.
Source article here.
Dell's Mini Inspiron - Eee PC Killer?
Gizmodo bumped into Michael Dell at All Things D after his interview, and he was nice enough to show off his laptop - a small form factor sub-portable like the Asus Eee PC. Dell did not provide details but Gizmodo saw three USB ports, a card reader, VGA out, Ethernet, and that red candy shell.
Source article here.
Asus stops taking Eee PC 900 orders in preparation for upcoming 901 launch
From Digitimes -
Asus' Eee PC 900 was unveiled just late April (for the US market, May 12) but the company has stopped taking any more Eee PC 900 orders as it prepares to launch the Eee PC 901 on June 3. In hindsight, the Eee PC 900, based on the Celeron, appears to have been a transitional product meant to compete with new VIA-based sub-portables while Asus waited for the delivery of the new Atoms.
Asus to launch 10-inch Eee PC on Tuesday: Confirmed
From Crave -
Asus has confirmed they will launch a 10-inch Eee PC on Tuesday at the Taiwan Computex.The larger-screened model should be on sale in the UK in November. No other details are confirmed at the moment, but the guess is that the new Eee will use the new Intel Atom chips, which are due for launch at the same time.
Source article here.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
VIA OpenBook Mini-Note Reference Design
Taipei, Taiwan, 27 May 2008 - VIA Technologies, Inc, a leading innovator of power efficient x86 processor platforms, today introduced the new VIA OpenBook™ mini-note reference design targeted at the rapidly growing global market for ultra-portable notebooks.
The VIA OpenBook mini-note reference design introduces a host of new innovations, including the next generation of VIA Ultra Mobile Platform, based on the VIA C7®-M ULV processor and the new all-in-one VIA VX800 digital media IGP chipset. Together, this ultra compact, power efficient platform delivers richer computing and multimedia features, including a stunning 8.9” screen and greater video playback support, in a compact and stylish clamshell form factor that weighs just 1kg.
The VIA OpenBook features a flexible internal interface for high-speed broadband wireless connectivity that provides customers with the ability to select from a choice of WiMAX™, HSDPA and EV-DO/W-CDMA modules appropriate to their market. In addition, under a unique collaborative approach, the CAD files of the external panels of the reference design are offered for download under a Creative Commons Attribution Share Alike 3.0 license to give customers such as OEMs, system integrators, and broadband service providers greater freedom in tailoring the look and feel of their device to meet the diverse needs of their target markets.
“The VIA OpenBook builds on the great success of the VIA NanoBook reference design launched last year, which has been widely adopted by numerous customers around the world,” commented Richard Brown, Vice President of Corporate Marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. “Our unique open approach to case design customization and wireless connectivity flexibility, coupled with the higher levels of performance, further extends VIA’s leadership in the global mini-note market.”
“VIA is a forward thinking company that has realized that sharing enables a healthy ecosystem which helps them provide an innovative product which supports their core business," commented Jon Phillips, Business and Community Manager for Creative Commons. "Making the actual raw CAD files available under a Creative Commons Attribution ShareAlike 3.0 license is a brilliant first step that clearly and legally allows others to emergently build upon VIA's open innovation."
The VIA OpenBook Mini-Note Reference Design
Powered by the VIA C7-M ULV processor and the VIA VX800 digital media IGP chipset, the VIA OpenBook mini-note reference design is a small, 1kg, 8.9" mini-notebook form factor design that supports screen resolutions of up to 1024x600 and high performance VIA Chrome9™ DirectX™ 9.0 3D graphics. Advanced video acceleration for MPEG-2, MPEG-4, WMV9, VC1 and DiVX video formats, a VMR capable HD video processor and 8-channel HD audio make it a highly media rich mini-notebook platform.
The VIA OpenBook mini-note reference design offers unrivaled broadband connectivity options though two internal modules, with the first one featuring WiFi, Bluetooth, and optional AGPS connections and the second one offering a choice of WiMAX, HSDPA, or EV-DO/W-CDMA options. In addition, the VIA OpenBook also comes with three USB 2.0 ports, a VGA port, and audio-in/audio-out jacks as well as a 4-in-1 card reader (SD/SDIO/MMC/MS) and a 2 mega-pixel dual-headed web camera.
The VIA OpenBook supports a wide range of operating system environments, including Microsoft Windows Vista Basic, Microsoft Windows XP, and various Linux distributions. The device features up to 2GB DDR2 DRAM and can be equipped with a choice of hard disk drive and solid state storage options.
Featuring a 4-cell 2600mA lithium-ion battery, the VIA OpenBook delivers up to three hours of battery life and measures just 240mm(W)x175mm (D) x36.2mm (H).
For more information, file downloads, video and images of the VIA OpenBook mini-note reference design please visit the VIA OpenBook website here:
www.viaopenbook.com
Enabling Global Broadband Wireless Coverage
The VIA OpenBook reference design has a unique internal interface for the addition of a choice of extended connectivity modules, enabling customers to offer HSDPA, EV-DO/W-CDMA, and WiMAX connectivity options to the their device that are appropriate for their target markets, and to forge deeper relationships with local carriers and service providers, creating new business models for the mini-note segment.
Making Customization More Accessible
The CAD files for the external panels of the VIA OpenBook mini-note reference design are being released under the Creative Commons Share Alike Attribution license, giving customers the flexibility to bring their own innovative style and brand value propositions to the mini-note market segment. Through this flexible approach, customers can reduce product development costs and speed time-to-market. The CAD files can be downloaded from the www.viaopenbook.com website.
About the VIA Ultra Mobile Platform
The VIA Ultra Mobile Platform is centered around the VIA C7-M ULV processor, an ultra power efficient mobile processor available in speeds of 1.0-1.6GHz with a maximum power draw (TDP max) of only 3.5 watts, and idle power as low as 0.1 watt, helping to ensure longer battery life. The number one choice for ultra mobile devices with over 30 global design wins, the most on the market today, the VIA C7-M ULV processor's low profile nanoBGA2 package measures just 21mm x 21mm, enabling device designs with drastically reduced weight, size, and thickness.
The latest generation of VIA Ultra Mobile Platform pairs the VIA C7-M ULV processor with the VIA VX800 digital media IGP chipset, which integrates all the cutting-edge features of a modern chipset's North and South bridges into a single chip package measuring just 33mm x 33mm, for a silicon real estate saving of more than 42% over traditional twin-chip core logic implementations. The VIA Chrome9™ HC integrated graphics processor with DirectX® 9.0 3D graphics provides support for brilliant 3D graphics, while the VIA Chromotion™ CE video display engine offers a stunning video experience through hardware decoding acceleration of MPEG-2, MPEG-4, WMV9 and VC1 video formats.
For more details on the VIA Ultra Mobile Platform, please visit the VIA website at:
http://www.via.com.tw/en/products/ultra_mobile/
About VIA Technologies, Inc.
VIA Technologies, Inc is the foremost fabless supplier of power efficient x86 processor platforms that are driving system innovation in the PC, client, ultra mobile and embedded markets. Combining energy-saving processors with digital media chipsets and advanced connectivity, multimedia and networking silicon enables a broad spectrum of computing and communication platforms, including its widely acclaimed ultra compact mainboards. Headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, VIA’s global network links the high tech centers of the US, Europe and Asia, and its customer base includes the world’s top OEMs and system integrators. www.via.com.tw
VIA PR Contact
International: Richard Brown
Phone: (886)-2-2218-5452 #6201
Fax: (886)-2-8218-6752
Email: RIBrown@via.com.tw
Eee PC helps Asus become sixth largest PC vendor
From Digitimes -
Per IDC, Asus now ranks as the 6th largest PC vendor, with a total of 2.1 million notebooks shipped for Q1 2008. But without the Eee PC shipment of 700,000, Asus would drop down to 8th, behind Fujitsu and Apple. Total low-cost PC shipments for 2008 is estimated to reach eight million units.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Asus Ebox ready for launch
According to The Inquirer Asus will be launching the EBox on 3rd June.
Details so far: 160GB Hard Drive, 2GB ram and possibly Intel Atom.
Source article here.
Asus speaks out on UK Eee PC 900 battery issue
According to Register Hardware Asus is bundling the 900 with a 4400mAh battery for the EU market and the bigger 5800mAh for the U.S. A Asus UK spokesperson confirmed this, stating, "Asus offers different solutions in different markets. In EU countries, we use 4400mAh [with the] Eee 900. However, we give a two-year warranty within the country you bought the Eee 900."
Asus has previously reacted to buyer complaints in Hong Kong on the same issue by offering free battery upgrades.
Source Article here.
Will Win XP beat out Linux in the sub-portable market?
When Asus first announced its Eee PC around this time last year at the Taiwan Computex, it made headlines because of three things:
First, the price. At $199, it immediately changed the business model. Suddenly, small does not have to be expensive.
Second, instead of a conventional hard drive, the Eee PC was configured with a solid-state drive. Never mind if the capacity was rather limited (4GB). Having a SSD meant no moving parts, and therefore, a less fragile (and also lighter and faster) device.
Thirdly, no Windows. The Eee PC used instead a Linux distro called Xandros. What made it stand out in particular was the extremely easy to use Easy Mode Menu. And with the plethora of built-in applications, the Eee PC came out acting more like a consumer device instead of a computing device. In fact, unlike most mainstream notebooks, off the shelf and out-of-the-box, it was instantly usable.
In fact, Asus got it right early on by trying to market the Asus Eee PC as a consumer device (“It is not a notebook.”) and by selling it via consumer-oriented retail channels as well.
The pre-launch hype generated by the announcement was nothing short of phenomenal, so much so that inspite of Asus eventually doubling the price and downgrading the configuration when the Eee PC was finally released after several delays, it went on to become a bestseller as it continues to be today.
Unfortunately, Asus was soon besieged with component shortage, limiting the Eee PC’s production run. Asus was nevertheless complacent and predicted that competition will start to show up only in the second half of 2008. However, as we have predicted (given the Asus Eee PC basically used off-the-shelf components and open source software), competing products started appearing by Q2 this year.
Yet no one competing product has, to date, come close to the original Asus Eee PC 701 in terms of value for money. (The MSI Wind, which is scheduled to ship next month, might be the first serious contender.) So Asus has had an incredible opportunity for some time now to further strengthen its dominance in the low-cost sub-portable market segment that it has itself created.
It could have easily achieved this by simply maximizing economics of scale and reduce prices downward towards the original $199. Especially since subsequent product introductions by the competition all failed to match the Eee PC’s value for money proposition.
But Asus instead chose to chase after the competition by upgrading the original configuration, adding a bigger screen, more memory, and increasing its price. Instead of letting the competition chase after its dominance with its 701 model, with its newer 900 model, it became simply one of many contenders fighting for the mid-priced sub-portable market.
But the repercussions of Asus’ strategy go beyond Asus’ potentially losing its dominance in this market segment. For in upping the hardware ante (and thereby, increasing the cost), Asus has inadvertently given new life to Microsoft Windows XP.
Previously Microsoft has announced it will cease to offer Win XP by June 30, 2008. But alarmed by the inroads Linux was able to make with the emerging proliferation of low-cost sub-portables, it decided to extend the product life of Win XP and offer it to the manufacturers at substantially reduced prices.
Still, the minimal configurations of the sub-portables meant a dismal performance by the bloated XP, especially compared to the leaner Linux distros. Moreover, the sub-portables’ low price meant Microsoft had to provide hefty discounts to the manufacturers. Even then, the licensing fee meant an increase in the retail price. Thus, most manufacturers ended up providing upgraded and higher priced Windows configurations for their respective products. The price difference allowed the Linux versions to remain attractive to potential buyers considering the Windows alternative.
But the recent introduction of newer models featuring bigger screens, additional RAM, hard drives, and higher prices have altered the playing field again. The additional computing power means better hardware hosts for Win XP. The price increase lessens the significance (in terms of percentages) of the licensing fee. Suddenly, having Win XP on a sub-portable seemed a very attractive deal again.
The newer models have also reversed the trend of sub-portables becoming more consumer appliance-like and now appear to be positioned as mere lighter and smaller alternatives to other notebooks in the mid-priced market segment. Guess what? This has always been Microsoft Windows territory. Linux seems suddenly out of the running again.
So will Win XP now beat out Linux in the sub-portable market?
While the developing trend looks very much leaning towards such outcome, we don’t think Microsoft will be able to deliver the knock-out punch just yet.
Unless Asus reverses its direction and decides to offer again an entry-level model at under $300, it will likely lose the its dominant position in the ultra-portable market by December. Its traditional rivals MSI and ECS will probably introduce entry-level models in time for the holidays and these will fight it out for market share. (Cheaper MSI Wind and ECS G10IL variants, perhaps?)
And expectedly, these entry-level models will have Linux instead of Windows XP. More significantly, they will also have very user-friendly menus directed towards the original 2nd billion user target of the Asus Eee PC. And this should give Linux renewed hope of penetrating the consumer market even deeper.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Public Wi-Fi: Be Very Paranoid
Here are some tips from an old but very informative Businessweek article on protecting yourself when using public WiFi -
Use a virtual private network (VPN). If you don't have a VPN option, seek out secure Web sites that encrypt all traffic. You can tell a secure site by an address that begins "https:". If you use Firefox, a secure connection will turn the address bar gold. You can generally use these sites with confidence even on an open network.
But if you are visiting an insecure site, and that includes popular mail services like Gmail and Yahoo!, an eavesdropper will have no trouble reading your messages. If the login page isn't secured, your password will also be exposed. So don't use a password for a Web mail account that you also use for online banking or anything else where privacy matters.
Don't use an open connection, either. If the network is legit, connecting sans permission may be regarded as theft. Worse is if you end-up connecting to a rogue network that steals your data and infects your computer. Be leery of "ad hoc" networks as these are highly likely to be rogue or infected systems that will damage your system without ever actually connecting you to the Net.
While public wireless networks are immensely useful but the dangers are real, and simply understanding them will go a long way toward keeping you safe.
Source article here.
Win XP in Cloudbook in Taiwan
As the screenshot above clearly shows, Windows XP is now available on the Everex Cloudbook, previously only available with gOS. While this particular model is available only in Taiwan, the way Microsoft has been aggressively pursuing manufacturers, it should only be a matter of time before it becomes available in other countries as well.
Translated Everex site here.
Original Everex site here.
Inventec intros $230, 10.1" V10 laptop for China
From Engadget -
Inventec has announced its new V10 laptop, priced at a mere 1,600 Chinese yuan (roughly USD230). Specs include a 10.1" display, 128MB of RAM, a 20GB hard drive, and built-in Ethernet, 2 USB ports. Unfortunately it comes with a decidedly lackluster 1GHz VIA C3 processor and no built-in WiFi.
Sugar Labs in talks with four laptop makers
Friday, May 23, 2008
Asus reveals Eee PC spinoff will be touchscreen only
From Current (Austrialia) -
Asus Australia national retail manager Emmanuele Silanesu was quoted as saying Asus was “obviously looking at other form factors rather than just a clamshell” and that a new model would use a touchscreen and might be launched at at Taipei Computex show next month. He also hinted the new model may not be badged as an Eee PC, due to its change in usage.
Source article here.
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Hmmm. But doesn't Asus already have a touchscreen UMPC in its R2H, which isn't branded as an Eee PC?
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Bestlink Alpha 400 - Cheapest Linux-based laptop?
From Desktop Linux -
Hong Kong-based Bestlink is shipping a Linux-based ultra-mini PC (UMPC) for only $250 ($180 in volume), which appears to be the lowest price yet for that market segment.
The Alpha 400 comes with a 7" 800 x 480 display, XBurst Ingenic 400MHZ CPU, 128MB RAM, 1 - 2 GB SSD, SD slot, Ethernet port, 2 USB ports. WiFi is optional. It measures 8.3 x 5.6 x 1.3 inches and weighs only 1.5 pounds and is available in six colors.
Pre-installed, open source software includes Xiptech's Xip Word and Xip Table, which is claimed to be compatible with Word and Excel and software for web browsing, Flash support, chat, MPC and AVI playback, photo sharing, paint, email management, an e-book reader, and other basic utilities.
The Alpha 400 is available for order now, for $250, including courier cost, and is available for $180 in quantities of 100, with greater discounts available in higher quantities.
Bestlink website here.
MSI Wind Versus ASUS Eee PC 901
Extremetech has a comparative review of the MSI Wind and the Asus Eee PC 901. Highlights include -
Storage - the 901 has SSD, the Wind HD. Obviously the 901 will be less fragile.
Size - the author actually prefers his 7" Eee PC 701.
Support - author likes the Eeeuser forum so much, he is likely to stick with the Eee PC line.
However, the HP Mini-Note doesn't look half as bad either.
Source article here.
Six months with an Eee PC and Not Looking Back
Matt Safford chronicles his usage of the Asus Eee PC 701 4G for the past half year over at Extremetech. Basically with a few tweaks and some add-ons (16GB SD card, 2GB RAM, Win XP on SD with higher res), the subportable has done all that he has needed to do and he is still constantly finding new uses for it. He has managed to run Photoshop and Warcraft III as well.
Source article here.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Vye mini-v S37B sub-notebook
From Register Hardware -
The Vye mini-v S37B is yet another entry to what is now appearing to be an unending stream of new ultra-portables. But its 7" screen is a 1024 x 600 touch-type with a swivel that allows the unit to be turned into a tablet PC. In addition it comes with a 120GB hard drive.
Unfortunately it has a plastic look (though it feels solid) and has a single-core 800MHz Intel A110, essentially an old Pentium III. Also its 1 GB RAM is barely enough for Windows Vista, and the Intel G945 chipset does not help much either.
The S37B does have a decent array of ports, including VGA; SD/MMC/MemoryStick and CompactFlash memory card slots; two USB ports, WiFi, Bluetooth, and a 10/100Mb/s Ethernet port. High end models come with a built-in antenna and TV tuner.
Where the mini-v really shines is in tablet mode. It has a set of controls that can be used to navigate and control the device, making the stylus optional. Another plus is its extended battery, with can last to five hours
This is a device designed to used in just about any situation but it comes with a stiff price of £700. The Asus Eee PC 701 sells for around £220. Unless Vista and/or tablet operation are essentials, it's hard too justify the additional cost.
Source article here.
Asus Eee Box Slated for mid-July
According to Trusted Reviews Trusted Reviews their source has confirmed that pictures of the proposed Eee Box that were leaked before are the real deal, adding that it will be available in both the black and white versions.
Other details remain sketchy, but ball park release schedule is "mid-July", with possibly Intel's Centrino Atom platform. Unfortunately there is no word yet on pricing.
Source article here.
ASUS wants you to know that women and children are strong enough for an Eee PC
WEP Cracking Without the Basics
Submitted by Blueberry -
Actual post in a popular Asus Eee PC users forum -
"Hi!
I'm trying to figure out how to crack my own encryption key (just for fun) on my EEE PC, but just about every single program I try, has some kind of error, or I am too much of a newbie to figure it out. Backtrack 3 doesn't work, kismet has an error, as well as aircrack(-ng) and airsnort. I have NO IDEA what I'm doing wrong, but if someone can PLEASE give me a nice tutorial on how to use ANY wep cracker supported by the EEE PC, that would be WONDERFUL!
Thanks!!!
(P.S. these sites say something about a wireless card, is that built-in???)"
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We really don't know if the post was meant to be a joke or a true case of a newbie trying to do something without learning his/her 1010101s but it did make us smile.:)
New OLPC design looks way too cool for school kids
From Crave -
OLPC has released a few very intriguing photos and details for its next generation OLPC XO laptop. The most interesting part is the dual touch-screens in place of a traditional keyboard and monitor. Highlights from the press release include:
Cost reduction - New developments in display, processor, and other hardware and software technologies will make it possible to achieve a $75 target in the future.
Lower power consumption - The XO-2 will reduce power consumption down to 1 watt.
Smaller footprint - The XO-2 will be about half the size of the first generation device.
Enhanced book experience - Dual touch-sensitive displays will be used to enhance the e-book experience.
Source article here.
Monday, May 19, 2008
My Document Laptop Case is Charmingly Iconic
From Gizmodo -
25togo Design Studios' My Document laptop case design is both bold and clever and stands out with its yellow color, making it an attractive piece. Unfortunately, those are just about the details that are available. 25togo's price does not quote a price and neither does it provide purchasing instructions.
At any rate, if you are decided on getting one, you can access the 25togo site here.
UrbanOufitter Laptop Speaker
Urban Outfitters is selling a stylish and compact B-Flex Speaker. The USB connection provides battery-free and wireless power. What is nice about it is its flexible gooseneck construction allows for customized speaker placement. It is priced at USD39.99.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Asus, MSI use same stock photo for their ads
Our friend Sascha Pallenberg made a very interesting discovery regarding the ad campaigns of Asus (for their Eee PC) and MSI (for their Wind) -
MSI Wind Photo Ad -
Asus Eee PC Photo Ad -
Obviously one or the other must have used a photoshopped version. Right? Wrong. It turns out both actually used photoshopped versions. The original version has the Mac Airbook -
You can read Sascha's original post (in German) here. Google translated site is available here.
3K RazorBook 400 Mini-Notebook PC Specs
We previously blogged about the 3K RazorBook but was unable to get details (see 3K Longitude 400 Mini-Notebook). Now Laptop Magazine has more info on the unit. First of all, it is now known as the Razorbook 400. As for the specs:
* 7-inch WVGA LCD Display (800 × 400)
* 400-MHz 32-bit Single Core Mobile Processor (by Ingenic)
* 512MB DDR2 memory
* 4GB flash drive
* Linux OS
* WLAN
* 3 USB ports
* GTK Linux OS version 2.4
Big question here is what is the 400-MHz 32-bit Single Core Mobile Processor (by Ingenic)???
Source article here.
Chilean MSI Wind gets in-depth hands-on
From Engadget -
As proof of the international popularity of low-cost ultraportables, here's an in-depth Chilean preview of the MSI Wind. As translated (by Google) the keyboard appears to "sufficiently comfortable," the LED-backlit screen impressive, and the performance in XP to be quite good. This despite a glitch that left the Intel Atom processor gimped short of its 1600MHz maximum speed.
The XP version is expected to sell for USD549, the SusSE (with a smaller battery), for just USD399.
Source article here.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Add a Keyboard Backlight For Under $15
Popular Science has a tutorial on an under $15 mod to add a backlight to the Asus Eee PC keyboard -
Time: 3 Hours
Cost: $13.50
Difficulty: Moderate
Parts
* EL Backlight 3- x 5-inch (All Electronics #EL-13; $4.50)
* Techno Flash EL Wire with IM-4 Inverter (CooLight #TFLASH-BG; $6.00)
* Velcro Hook & Loop Fastener (Hobby Lobby; $3.00)
* Double-sided tape
You can read the tutorial here.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Sugar on Asus Eee PC?
With OLPC eschewing Sugar (OLPC's graphical interface) for Windows XP, Walter Bender, Sugar's developer and former OLPC president of software and content has established Sugar Labs, a non-profit foundation that will work on new versions of Sugar.
According to the Sugar Labs wiki, the foundation "will be a unifying catalyst for free and open-source learning systems across multiple distribution[s] and hardware platforms...In order to provide a rich learning experience to as many of the world’s children as possible, it is critical to not just provide computers to children, but to ensure that the software that runs on the computers maximizes the potential for engaging in activities that promote learning: exploration, expression, and collaboration. By being independent of any specific hardware platform and by remaining dedicated to the principles of free and open-source software, Sugar Labs ensures that others can develop diverse interfaces and applications from which governments and schools can choose.”
The announcement also indicated that Sugar Labs will work on adapting Sugar for low-cost platforms other than the XO, such as the ASUS Eee PC.
More details at Xconomy.
How to Run Windows Apps on Your Linux Asus Eee PC
If you need to run your favorite Windows applications but do not want to replace the default Xandros OS on your Asus Eee PC, follow Laptop Magazine's tutorial on installing and using Wine, an application that enables you to do just that.
The tutorial's outline is as follows:
1. Open Synaptic Package Manager
2. Add the Wine Repository
3. Update Package Listing
4. Download and Install Wine
5. Configure Wine
6. Install a Windows Program
7. Run Your Windows Program
You can read the complete tutorial here.
Hands-on with Aigo MID
UMPC Fever has a hands-on review (including photos and video) of the Aigo MID (Gigabyte M528 in US). The 4.8" Intel Atom (Z500) based MID weighs 352g and has the now ubiquitous 800 x 480 resolution. OS is Midinux 2.0, which comes with a GUI that is easy to play, easy to learn and easy to use.
Source article here.
Asus to add more features to Atom-based Eee PC
Per Digitimes Asus will launch the Eee PC 901 on June 3 at a price below NT$20,000 (USD650) and the machine will have several obvious differences from the Eee PC 900, though their hardware specifications will be the same. In addition to a Bluetooth module, Asus will also add metal alloy parts to the keyboard and hinge, while its touchpad will also have a metallic border.
Moreover the Eee PC 901 will replace the Asus logo with an Eee logo at the bottom of the display and on the top of the lid, while the Linux version of the Eee PC 901 will have more software applications added to it.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Lenovo Thinkpad X300: First Look
From Yahoo! Shopping -
Per Consumer Reports, here are the highs and lows of the USD3,060 Thinkpad X300. (Standard configuration include 1.2GHz Core 2 Duo, 64GB SSD, 2GB RAM, Wifi, webcam, fingerprint reader, and a built-in DVD burner.
HIGHS
Portability and comfort
Comfortable, full-sized keyboard
Relatively large display
SSD improvea durability
Few compromises
LOWS
Relatively short battery life at only 2¾ hours
Limited storage space
Mixed performance results.
Undistinguished display and sound
BOTTOM LINE
If portability takes priority over performance, the ThinkPad X300 id a great choice.
Source article here.
To Eee or Not to Eee?
Over at the PC Pro Blogs Mike Jennings discusses his quandary after realizing he can get additional work done on his train commute but getting overwhelmed by the burgeoning options for ultraportables. He reviews his choices - the original Asus Eee PC 701; the newer, slightly bloated 900, and the MSI Wind.
He finds both the 701's keyboard and screen too cramped and thinks the 900 addresses these problems although finds the price - £280 excluding VAT - a sticking point - since it is in the ballpark price range of 13" lappies. In addition, competition such as the MSI Wind seem promising although the £700 price range puts them against the 13" models again.
Conclusion? None, so he is actually asking for the readers' suggestions. :)
You can read the source article here and give your thoughts.
Should Linux Standardize on a Single Distro?
Linux Journal provides the pros and cons of whether the Linux community should standardize on a single distribution -
Advantages of a Single Linux Distro
* Linux support would be simplified, as the question of "what distro" wouldn't be relevant.
* Software vendors could release a single package that would install on all Linux desktops.
* The apt/rpm/yum/up2date/synaptic wars would end.
* Linux certification would be easier to define.
Disadvantages to a Standard Linux Distribution
* A select few individuals at the top would control the present and future direction of Linux.
* There would be no internal competition in the Linux community. How sad would it be if we only had Windows and OSX to compare ourselves to?
* We lose the ability to choose, which is a fundamental part of everything Linux stands for.
Conclusion? - Thankfully, you have the right to choose whatever you like. And that's the way it should be.
Source article here.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Black vs. White Eee PC keyboards?
Submitted by Joanna Stern -
According Laptop Magazine the keyboards on the original white Asus Eee PC 701 and the Pearl White Asus Eee PC 900 are identical but the keyboard of the black Asus Eee PC (4G Surf) not only looks different it also feels different.
The keys on the black Eee PC keyboard go deeper and offer more feedback when pressed. They are also a little bit smaller and the space between the keys is greater. Moreover they have a much rougher plastic, which is easier to grip.
And from the looks of things, chances are the black Asus Eee PC 900 will have the dame keyboard as the original black Asus Eee PC 701. So if you are a Thinkpad keyboard type of user, you will definitely prefer black.
10400mah battery for the Asus Eee PC
scutch of the Eeeuser forum has posted some photos (including the one above) of a 10400mah battery in this thread.
While the battery appears humongous, it does seem to make the Eee PC tilt for a better typing angle. :)
Most of the guys in the thread appeared to have ordered from an ebay reseller named lee262onlineuk.
Asus Eee PC 901 images hit the web!
Submitted by Brad Linder -
Just days after the Eee PC 900 hit America, pictures have surfaced of the *next* generation Eee PC -- the 901. This will likely be the first model to include the Intel Atom processor. It's also got a few other changes including a new touchpad style, some additional hardware buttons, and a stereo mic.
French site Blogeee has got a bunch of high resolution images.
Links:
Blogeee (French)
Liliputing
HP 2133 Priced and Specs
From Yugatech -
The HP 2133 is now out and on sale in the Philippines. Units went out this week in HP retail stores. Specs include 8.9" LCD, Via Via C7-M 1.2GHz processor, 2GB RAM and 120GB HDD. Operating system is Windows Vista Home Edition. The HP 2133 mini-notebook is selling for Php29,990 (they got 0% deferred payment for 6 months).
Source article here.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
MSI Wind: $399 price tag
Submitted by Brad Linder -
Laptop Magazine scored an interview with an MSI Wind rep that explained exactly what configurations will be available in the US at launch. And the answers are kind of awesome. You'll be able to get a computer with a 10 inch 1024 x 600 pixel display and SUSE Linux for $399.
More details at Liliputing.
Eee PC, 4 Months Later
Shawn Powers of Linux Journal revisited the Asus Eee PC four months after writing his review and listed down his thoughts -
Pros:
* Extremely portable. It's like carrying a paperback book.
* Fast boot time, especially with the original OS.
* Apps, especially games, come pre-configured for small screen.
* Plugging into a monitor gets full size goodness without a reboot.
* Everybody thinks you're super cool.
Cons:
* The keys really are a bit too small.
* The screen is annoyingly small when browsing some sites.
* The battery life isn't horrible, but it's not great either.
* There's no way to determine the battery charge level externally.
* Updates are awkward at best, and rare to arrive.
Source Article here.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Asus Eee Crystal Case Actually Made of Plastic (But Still Good)
From Gizmodo -
The Crystal Case by Proporta (shown above) is constructed of scratch/shock resistant polycarbonate and features a double hinge that adds 360 degrees of screen rotation to the Eee PC.
ASUS Eee Box B202 desktop gets pictured
From Engadget -
According to Chile Hardware, the picture above is a bona fide Eee Box B202, which weighs in at less than 1 kg and packs an Intel Atom processor / 945 chipset, 1GB of DDR2 RAM, an 80GB hard drive and a Linux-based operating system.
Asus Eee PC 900 (EEEPC900-W017) Now Available
From Laptoping -
The Asus Eee PC 900 is now in stock at Buy.com (USD549.99 Windows, USD565.99 Linux) and ZipZoomfly (USD599.99). Configuration includes the 8.9" 1024x640 display, Celeron M 430 1.7GHz, 12GB (for the Windows version, Linux version has 20GB), 1GB RAM and 1.3MP webcam. Battery life is 2.5 hours.
Source Article here.
The low-cost sub-portable segment revisited
JK on the Run has put to print what many of us have observed - notebook manufacturers appear more interested in maximizing profits than in establishing the low-cost sub-portable segment established by the Asus Eee PC. The site cited the (practically) 100% increase between announced and actual selling prices of the OLPC (USD100 announced, USD200 selling) and the Eee PC 701 ($200 announced, $400 selling).
In addition, newer models, which are supposed to be competing with the original Eee PC are basically more advanced and more expensive (HP Mini starts out at USD499 and goes over USD800; MSI Wind's pre-order price is USD610). Even Asus itself is not exempt with the Eee PC 901's pre-order price at USD549. Which is quite ironic since Asus was the one which established the market segment in the first place. But it now seems bent on competing with competitors trying to compete with its original Asus Eee PC in a roundabout way simply because they can't compete direct on feature for feature for the lowest price.
Well, if Asus does not see the light, hopefully (and expectedly) other manufacturers such as Compal or ECS will pull back and reverse the trend. After all, computers in any decent form and quality will always sell at the holy grail price of USD199. That was how the Asus Eee PC managed to generate so much pre-selling hype in the first place. It was announced at USD199. That is also how the Everex gPC, an otherwise ordinary computer with a boring configuration, have managed to become a Walmart hit. It is priced at USD199.
Imagine what a sub-portable with 7" 800 x 480 LCD, 512MB, 4GB, WiFi, webcam at USD199 will fare then. Well, imagine the original Asus Eee PC 701 4GB at USD199. It will yet become the iPhone of sub-portables.
You can read the JK on the Run article here.
Asus Eee PC cases: All 11 of them!
Pocketables has a compilation of 11 cases for the Asus Eee PC.
Featured are the Noreve Tradition Leather Case shown above (the most expensive at USD59.99), two each couple of PDair, Proporta, Kroo, and Brando, including the Brando Nylon Sleeve shown below, the cheapest at USD9.
You can view all the cases and read on the details here.
Micro Fondles: HP Mini, HTC Shift, Asus Eee PC
From Mike Cane 2008 -
Blogger Mike Cane stopped by a J&R store and compared the HP Mini, HTC Shift and the Asus Eee PC. Highlights of his comparison -
HTC Shift - keyboard absolutely worthless, device too thick, battery life stunningly bad. At $1,500 simply too expensive.
HP Mini-Note - Keyboard not so bad, not so good. Trackpad okay. Shell has nice metallic finish. It feels like a tool, not a toy. The screen is bright and had no distracting reflection. But it is heavy even without a battery. It is also strangely bulky. Main dealbreaker is the VIA CPU.
Asus Eee PC - some problems with the keyboard. Weight is a charm. A real computer the author can actually tote around for just $400.
Conclusion? Well, the author extends the comparison to include Everex Cloudbook (and its hard drive), the MSI Wind (and its larger 10" screen), not to mention the Asus Eee PC 900. Not surprisingly, he is juggling back and forth between USD400 to USD549 to USD610 (NYC sales tax excluded).
Source article here.
Asus Eee PC 900 pre-order on Amazon started
From I4U News -
Amazon has started to take pre-orders for both new Asus Eee 900 notebooks for USD549.99 each. While it does not have a ship date yet, it is expected shipments will start May 12.
Amazon Asus Eee PC 20G Linux Order Page.
Amazon Asus Eee PC 12G Windows Order Page.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
The Cheapest Laptops: The Round-Up
With the Asus Eee PC 900 being launched today in the Philippines at an official price of Php24,995, Yugatech has compiled a table listing available ssub P25K subportables in the Philippines. (Note: Exchange rate is PhP42.44 to USD1.00.)
The list includes Asus, Acer, HP, Compaq, IBM, Lenovo, MSI, Packard Bell, Neo, Blue, ECS and Prestigio. Some models are quite old but are still widely available in the market.
Dell to leap into Eee PC territory?
From Electronista -
Compal, which makes laptops for Dell, says that it will produce between 200,000 and 300,000 "low-cost" notebooks a month for the latter starting sometime in 2008, with as many as one to two million readied by the end of the year. If true, Dell will be joining Acer, ECS, Gigabyte and several others as they crowd the Asus Eee PC for market share in the low-cost ultraportable segment.
Dell primarily uses Intel processors and is most likely to use Intel's Atom should it decide to join the competition.
You can read the source article here.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Microsoft U-turn to stop Linux dominating ultra low cost PCs
Computerworld UK -
Microsoft plans to offer PC makers steep discounts on Windows XP Home Edition to encourage them to use it instead of Linux on ultra low-cost PCs (ULPCs). To be eligible, however, the ULPCs must have a max screen size of 10.2" (no touch screens allowed) and max of 80 GB hard drives.
The restriction is to ensure that ULPCs don't eat into the market for mainstream PCs running Windows Vista, something both Microsoft and the PC vendors would want to avoid.
Full article here.
New Mini-Note Models coming on Monday and Thursday?
From HP2133 Guide - An HP rep sent this chart
| Part Num | CPU | HD | RAM | Wifi | Cam | OS | Batt | ILP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KR939 UT#ABA | 1.2GHz | 120GB | 1024 1D | abg (B) | yes | VB/ XPP OR | 6 cell | $729 |
| KR948 UT#ABA | 1.2GHz | 160GB | 2048 1D | abg (B) | yes | VB/ XPP OR | 6 cell | $789 |
| KR954 UT#ABA | 1.6GHz | 120GB | 1024 1D | abg (B) | yes | VB/ XPP OR | 6 cell | $749 |
| KR964 UT #ABA | 1.6GHz | 160GB | 2048 1D | abg (B) | yes | VB/ XPP OR | 6 cell | $819 |
MSI Wind gets a price: $610
Friday, May 9, 2008
ASUS Eee PC given away with T-Mobile mobile broadband package
Mobo gets rebadge happy with two new low-cost subnotes for Brazil
From Engadget -
Mobo has announced two new but familiar-looking models, including the Positivo Mobo (pictured above), which appears to almost certainly be a rebadge of Asus Eee PC look-alike Airis Kira 740, which itself is likely a rebadge of some other model. Specs are almost identical - 7" LCD, Via C7-M, 1.3 MP webcam, and WiFi. Main difference is Mobo's has 2GB SSD compared to the Kira's 40GB HD. The second model, the Mobo Kids, is an Intel Netbook (aka Classmate 2) rebadge, with the same Celeron M processor and presumably all the same standard specs seen in other incarnations like the CTL 2go PC.
Both models will list for R$999 (USD590), with the Positivo Mobo to be available on May 23rd and the Mobo Kids sometime in July.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Battery Shortage Should Evaporate by Q3
From Yahoo! News -
A shortage of li-ion batteries currently hurting laptop computer shipments will likely ease in the third quarter. A fire at South Korea's LG Chem in March has crimped global supplies of lithium-ion batteries.
The timing couldn't be worse. Demand for notebook computers is soaring this year as people turn to mobile computing. Some companies, such as Asus, have already said the shortage will crimp their laptop shipments this year. Asus believes the battery shortage means lost sales of its popular Eee PC. The company will reach its 5 million unit shipment target for this year, but it could have increased the target were it not for the battery troubles, said Jerry Shen, ASUS CEO, a few weeks ago.
Switched On: The Linux ultraportable opportunity
From Engadget -
While Linux has been slowly creeping into more mobile devices in recent years, it wasn't until Asus used Xandros on its Eee PC that the floodgates opened up really wide. Now that HP has tapped Novel SuSE for the 2133 Mini-Note, the flow is expected to even go wider, deeper, and faster. Especially since while the Eee's positioning has been on the low end, the HP Mini-Note's is more mainstream.
Moreover, the HP Mini-Note is not the only one to challenge the Eee PC's dominance. It is but one of more than a dozen models to be introduced this summer, most of which are powered by some Linux distro. As much as the emerging abundance of Linux-based models brings the OS to the cusp of mainstream consumerism, the real test will be this fall when school-bound students buy their notebooks.
And while these new sub-portables are often lumped into one category, they do not represent a limited range. In fact, they extend into different markets - with the Eee PC's hard drive-less entry model in the low end and the Mini-Note with a 120GB hard drive and at $599 entry point in the upper end. The Eee PC actually has no direct traditional notebook competitor while the Mini-Note is basically in that market segment.
Given the wide range Linux has to cover, the author, Ross Rubin, suggests unifying the products by creating an integrated and engaging platform. By doing so, he thinks this will solidify the segment, which lies between handhelds and traditional notebooks, and therefore provide the best shot for Linux to even gain market share.
You can read the full article here.
ASUS Eee PC 900 Available for Pre-Order
From Hot Hardware - Asus today announced the availability of the ASUS Eee PC 900 for the US, the third country after Hong Kong and U.K. Both Xandros and Windows will be available for the pre-order. The ASUS Eee PC 900 will officially become available in the US on May 12th.
MODEL | Eee PC 900 XP | Eee PC 900 Linux |
| MSRP | $549.99 | $549.99 |
| LCD Size / Type | 8.9" Wide | 8.9" Wide |
| LCD Resolution | 1024x600 | 1024x600 |
| LCD Type | TFT | TFT |
| Graphic | Intel UMA | Intel UMA |
| Chipset | Intel Mobile Chipset | Intel Mobile Chipset |
| Processor | Intel Mobile CPU | Intel Mobile CPU |
| Memory | 1GB DDR2 | 1GB DDR2 |
| Flash / HDD | 12GB (4GB+8GB SSD) | 20GB (4GB+16GB SSD) |
| OS Loaded | Windows XP Home | Linux |
| Microphone | 1 Internal | 1 Internal |
| Speakers | 2 Internal Stereo Speakers | 2 Internal Stereo Speakers |
| Audio Jack - Out (3.5mm) | 1 | 1 |
| Audio Jack – In (3.5mm) | 1 | 1 |
| Wireless Included | 802.11 b/g | 802.11 b/g |
| Integrated Camera | YES (1.3MP) | YES (1.3MP) |
| LAN / Connector | 10/100 Mbps / RJ-45 | 10/100 Mbps / RJ-45 |
| USB 2.0 ports | 3 | 3 |
| Memory Card Reader | MMC/SD (SDHC) | MMC/SD (SDHC) |
| VGA Port | 1 (D-sub 15 pin) | 1 (D-sub 15 pin) |
| Battery | 4 cell | 4 cell |
| Battery Life | ~ | ~ |
| AC Adapter Output | 12V, 3A | 12V, 3A |
| AC Adapter Input | 100-240V AC, | 100-240V AC, |
| Weight | 2.18 lbs (with Battery) | 2.18 lbs (with Battery) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 8.86" x 6.69" x 0.79"~1.33" | 8.86" x 6.69" x 0.79"~1.33" |
| SD Card (4GB) | NO | NO |
| Mouse (USB) | NO | NO |
| Inner Bag | YES | YES |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 1 Year |
You can see the list of U.S. dealers here.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Lower Price for the Asus Eee 701?
Eeeph member macmon has observed that a shop in the SM Cyberzone mall (Philippines) is selling the white Asus Eee PC 4G and 8G at PhP16,000 and PhP21,000 respectively. Initial price was PhP18,000 to PhP19,000 when the subportable was first available last November.
Another member had previously mentioned (in another thread) another shop also selling the 4G at PhP16,000. Other members suggested it is possible this is in anticipation of the introduction of the 900.
Complete thread can be read here.
Yinlips Micro PC YDP-G77
Submitted by Brad Linder -
Shenzhen-based PMP manufacturer Yinlips Digital Technology is introducing yet another Eee PC competitor - its Micro PC YDP-G77.
Not much specs is included in its site but here are some details:
7” TFT screen,LINUX system,support WIFI function
1.Simple usage basdifferent UIed on for common Internemedia tasks and funst & media tasks and funs
.Rich Web browsing
.Email
.Instant Messaging
.On line Shopping
.Movie Player
.Music Player
.Photo Viewer
.eBook Reader
2.Personal computer for all Office Works
3.Integrated Open Source Application Software's
.Abiword –Word compatible
.Gnumeric – Excel compatible
.Dictionary
.PDF Reader
.Games
.Schedulers/Planner
.Paint brush
4.Embedded Software System for easy operating experience
.Powerful CPU to perform demanding task
.32 bit core 400 MHz speed
.Rich display and interactive contents
.Broadband Internet and rich Web content support
.Full size keyboard
.Low power consumption
.Long battery life
.Flash memory (Options for 500M, 1 G or higher)
For Brad's piece on the Micro PC, check out his Liliputing site here.
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