The atTiny45 USB LED E-mail, Twitter and Pidgin Notifier

From Just Blair's Audio and Electronic Pages -

Using an Atmel aTiny45 processor, Just Blair has modded his Asus Eee PC 901 with a color-changing LED (red, green, and blue) that notifies him whenever he receive a new message either from Thunderbird (email), Twitter, or Pidgin (IM).

It is a nifty tool but as Just Blair found out all too soon, it can make you a complete slave to email. Whenever the light flashes, you will just HAVE to know what that message is...

Aftermarket 10-cell battery creates Eee PC 901: Hammerhead Edition

From Engadget -

A 13000mAh after-market battery was recently offered at eBay. Although it seems intended for the Asus Eee PC 1000 series, it fits the 901 as well - albeit creating a weird, aesthetically-challenged unit that only a true Eee fanatic would love.

Eeeuser forum thread page here.

Ebay auction page here.

Eee PC™ to Feature 3.75G for Internet Access Anywhere

From Asus -

ASUS today announced that it will be adding 3.75G connectivity* to its hugely-popular series of Eee PC™ netbooks, enabling convenient and high-speed access to the Internet anytime, anywhere. The inclusion of 3.75G is a perfect addition to the Eee PC’s™ existing set of travel-friendly features such as its high portability, shockproof data storage and all-day battery life—strengthening its reputation as the ultimate solution for computing on the go.

With 3.75G, the Eee PC™ will be able to deliver on its promise of borderless one-day computing better than ever before. No longer bound to Internet hotspots, 3.75G-equipped Eee PC™ users will be able to enjoy low latency mobile broadband Internet access at high downlink and uplink speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps and 2 Mbps** respectively, regardless of where they are—ensuring a seamless connected experience on the go. The Eee PC’s™ 7.5-hour battery life*** provides more than ample power to keep it up and running during extended outdoor excursions.

Frequent travelers will particularly welcome the timely addition of 3.75G support, which comes as service providers around the globe are ramping up their adoption of 3.75G High-Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA). This means that they will be assured of a reliable, high-speed mode of Internet access in many destinations around the world.

3.75G will make its first appearance in Eee PC™ 901 netbooks released to market from October 2008 onward.

Specifications

Model	Eee PC™ 901 with 3.75G
Operating System	Genuine Windows® XP Home
Display	8.9"
CPU & Chipset	Intel Atom
Wireless Data Network	WLAN: 802.11b/g/n**** Bluetooth: Yes****
Memory	1 GB (DDR2)
Storage	16 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) 20 GB free online Eee Storage
Memory Card Reader	MMC/SD (SDHC)
Camera	1.3 M Pixel
Audio	HD Audio Stereo speakers Digital Array Mic
Battery	6 Cells, 7.5 hrs***
Dimensions	225 mm (W) x 175.5 mm (D) x 22.7 mm ~ 39 mm (H)
Weight	1.1 kg
Casing Colors	Black or White

* 3.75G support is operator dependent.
** Actual speeds are operator dependent.
*** Actual battery life is subject to usage, configuration, as well as model.
**** The inclusion of 802.11n and Bluetooth capabilities is operator dependent.

Another Eee PC 901 price drop: Now just $448 from Walmart

Submitted by Brad Linder -

Yesterday Amazon and other retailers listed the Eee PC 901 for $499, or about $100 or so off the original list price. Now Walmart has one-upped Amazon by cutting the price to $448:

More details here.

Asus blames lack of Linux Eee PC 901s on Atom hold-ups

From Register Hardware UK -

Asus blames Intel and not Microsoft for the apparent absence of the Atom-based Eee PC 901 from UK suppliers' shelves. Windows XP-loaded 901s are widely available from British resellers. It seems all manufacturers are experiencing delays in shipments of Atom CPUs from Intel, impacting orders both large and small, no matter what volumes were previously promised.

Asus claims to produce Linux and XP Eees in equal numbers and will continue to do so but says the Linux Eees are the better selling models.

Source Article here.

Eee PC 901 shows up for pre-order on Amazon for $399

From Engadget -

Amazon has a listing for an "Eee PC 900" with 16GB of flash and an Atom processor with a pre-order price of $399. However the specs and price are actually for the Asus Eee 900. Given that Asus has released an endless stream of new Eee models that differ little from each other, Amazon's miscue is understandable. If you are planning to order the 901, better confirm that you are, in fact, getting the 901.

By the way, NewEgg also just went live with the 12GB XP-based 901 for $599.99. Shipping today.

Source article here.

MSI Wind hands-on video and Aspire One/Eee PC 901 comparisons

Mobile Computer (UK) has a nice video comparison of the MSI Wind, Acer Aspire One and the Asus Eee PC 901 -



In addition, it has a comparative review of the three units here.

MSI Wind Windows specs here.

Acer Aspire One Windows specs here.

Asus Eee PC 901/1000/1000H get a July 8th US release date

Submitted by Brad Linder -

According to a Liliputing reader an Asus rep said both the Eee PC 901 and the Eee PC 1000 would be hitting the US July 8th.

Source Article here.

Asus Eee PC 1000H Specs here.

Asus Eee PC 901 20G Linux Edition

Trusted Reviews has given the Asus Eee PC 901 Linux a 9/10 in its review, contending that at £319, the unit provides astounding value for what you're getting.

Aside from having the newer Intel Atom processor, the 901 also has a bigger 8.9" 1024 x 600 LCD, a bigger 6-cell 6600mAh battery that provides 4:45 hours of use (with WiFi on). The trade-off, of course, is the heavier weight at 1.1kg.

New features include Bluetooth, Dolby Sound Room audio (XP version only) and, incredibly, high bandwidth Wireless-N Wi-Fi, 1.3 MP webcam, and dual integrated microphones. Another useful addition is the YOStore online storage, which enables you to store up to 20GB of data online.

With 1GB RAM and the light Xandros OS, performance is snappy and responsive. The Atom processor has a throttling scheme allows three performance modes, Power Saver, High Performance and Super Performance, allowing an optimal balance of performance and battery life.

Keyboard is, unfortunately, still slightly cramped and prevents the 901 from being ideal for writing long documents. The caveat, of course, is that it is not meant for such tasks. After all, it is foremost a cheap and extremely portable computer that can fit in a small bag and be enjoyed anywhere. And in this aspect, the Eee PC 901 is the best.

Source article here.

Asus Eee PC 901 internals hint future upgrades and options

jkkmobile has disassembled the Asus Eee PC 901. Some of their discoveries:





The SSD is still 2 separate drives as there are only 4 flash modules/side on the psi-e card. 2 x 8 = 16 so to make 20GBs there needs to be 4GB separate SSD.




There is also a SIM card slot and an extra PCI-E slot so 3G HSDPA option is available. Moreover, the shape and size of the cavity highlighted above, together with the zif connector, should accommodate a 1.8" drive. That means WWAN and bigger drive options/upgrades should be available.

Source article here.

Eee PC 901 and 1000-series to start at US$550

From Engadget -

Above photo shows the official specs and pricing for the new Asus new Eee PCs. Specs include: 7.8-hours max of battery, 802.11n, Bluetooth, and 1.3MP camera. The 10.2" 1000 features either a 40GB SSD (Linux) or 80GB HD (Win XP or Linux 1000H). The 901 is now available in Taiwan for NT$16,988 (roughly US$559). The 1000H will sell for NT$18,988 (US$625) and the 1000, for NT$19,988 (US$658).

Asus Eee PC 901 and 1000 Get Official

From Gizmodo -

Specifications include Atom processors, 12 or 20GB (up to 40GB SSD for 1000, or 80GB storage for 1000H), depending on whether you select XP or Linux. The 1000 is much like the 901, but with a 10" screen and 92% full-sized keyboard. Unfortunately, there is still no official pricing.

Below is Asus' press release -

Embrace Easy, Excellent and Exciting Computing with the New Eee PC™
Eee PC™ 901, 1000 and 1000(H) Unveiled at Computex 2008

Upon reaching the milestone of surpassing 1 million Eee PC™ sets sold in just 6 months after its launch, ASUS has provided yet another wave of anticipation with its release of the new Eee PC™ 901, 1000 and 1000(H) models. These new iterations of the ever popular electronic gadget add even more options to users. With its shockproof Solid State Drive (SSD) design, users will be able to enjoy stable and reliable computing on-the-go – making it the ideal and travelling companion for outdoor activities. This new range of Eee PC™ are also equipped with the exclusive Super Hybrid Engine technology that can provide longer battery lifespans of up to 7.8 hours*, exclusive web storage and high speed connectivity**, and large displays for easy viewing. Available on both Windows and GNU Linux platforms – this range expands upon the original 3 ‘E’s to further its “Easy” concept to cater to even more discerning users.
* Exact battery life subject to actual usage and model.
** 3.5G concept sample will be displayed at Computex 2008.

“With constant innovations and implementation of the latest technologies in the new Eee PC™ range, we have since expanded the original 3 ‘E’s into ‘Easy’, ‘Excellent’ and ‘Exciting’. ‘Easy’ will still encompass the core value of Easy to learn, work and play, ‘Excellent’ will highlight the Eee PC’s™ role as an Excellent mobile Internet device and ‘Exciting’ entails utilizing the Eee PC™ for Exciting multimedia enjoyment.” said Jerry Shen, CEO of ASUS.

Solid State Drive for Shockproof and Reliable Computing
With mobility being one of the key factors that contributed to the Eee PC’s™ overwhelming success, the new range of Eee PC™ continues in this trend and utilizes the built-in Solid State Drive (SSD) technology. This technology is shock proof, quiet, produces less heat and is energy saving for reliable and stable computing on-the-go. Traditional hard disk designs spin at 5400 RPM (Revolutions per Minute) – creating more chances of data loss or damage in the event of shocks or bumps. The Eee PC™, on the other hand, are able to safeguard against such incidents – making them the perfect solution for outdoor computing and ideally suited for reporters, wildlife photographers and other like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.

Exceptional Features for User Convenience
The new Eee PCs™ are also equipped an expanded battery that provides up to 7.8 hours* of battery life; while the exclusive Super Hybrid Engine technology provides three GUI modes to easily adjust CPU frequency, voltage, and LCD brightness to minimize system noise and power consumption to save up to 15% power consumption, or to maximize system performance according to individual needs. What’s more, the addition of exclusive 20GB Internet storage makes data backups simple and convenient.
* Exact battery life subject to actual usage and model.

Enjoy Easy Viewing with Large Displays
The new Eee PCs™ will integrate large 8.9” to 10” displays – allowing users to view more screenspace and enjoy easier viewing of A4 documents and online webpages – without the need to scroll left or right. Furthermore, the Eee PCs™ pair a built-in 1.3M Pixel webcam with high speed wireless Internet connection capabilities for easy web communications anywhere, anytime – increasing work efficiency or just making it easier to chat with friends and family. What’s more, the keyboard is 92%* the size of generic notebooks – making it more comfortable to type for more relaxed usage.
* Only available on the Eee PC™ 1000 models

Exciting New Covers to Suit Your Trendy Lifestyle
The new range of Eee PC™ also makes its mark with trendy and colorful Infusion cover patterns inspired by various elements. The Infusion technology utilizes a unique manufacturing process that is inlaid into the chassis itself – forming an integral part of the Eee PC™. It is also extremely resilient – resisting scratches and scrapes, and thus will not fade with time. Additionally, these new cover designs are tastefully designed and provide vibrant colors to suit the user’s individual personalities – making the new Eee PC™ the ideal companion for your computing needs.

ASUS will also be showcasing several new Eee Family products like the Eee Box and the Eee TV at our Computex booth. This new range of products embody the “Easy” concept synonymous with the Eee PC™, and will provide allow users to easily enjoy new digital experiences.

ASUS Eee PC™ Achievements
ASUS has sold more than a million Eee PC™ sets since the official launch in October 2007. On April 19th 2008, at the Eee PC™ 900’s official launch in Hong Kong, ASUS sold 1,000 sets in 1 day. In Taiwan, the Eee PC™ 900 was placed on Yahoo’s front page on the 16th of April, and in just 1 hour achieved 20,000 hits – creating a brand new blogging record.

Hands-on with Atom-based Eee PC 901 running WiMax

From Engadget -
Engadget Chinese is at the WiMax Expo with the first WiMax-enabled Eee PC 901 pictures. Showing off a funky, cutaway hinge (likely due to missing battery), the unit features an Atom processor, Bluetooth, 802.11b/g, and 802.11n. The WiMax chipset used is Intel's Link 5150, which has a dual-mode WiFi and WiMax module. In other words, there's no guarantee the 802.11n will carry over to the WiMax-less 901 being announced tomorrow.

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.

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.

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.

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