The Eee PC 1000H is available for pre-order. The specs: Atom CPU running at 1.6 Ghz, with a 10 inch screen, 1 GB of RAM, 80 GB HDD, XP OS and WiFi b/g/n. It weighs 3.2 lbs and has a 7.5 hour battery life (your mileage may vary). It costs $649.99 with free shipping. Shameless self-serving portion of comment: go to my site for the link http://backpackcomputing.com/
It's tough to make predictions, especially about the future but in terms of display technology, I think rollable displays will be common by 2015. The rollable screens have an obvious form factor appeal. The devices will probably be cylinder shaped (think paper towel tube, but a bit smaller) with a virtual keyboard. There are already early versions of both rollable displays and virtual keyboards in existence, see http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/06/technology/06novelties.html?_r=1&ref=technology&oref=slogin and http://www.virtualdevices.net/Products.htm, respectively. By 2015 rollable displays will have full color, etc. and virtual keyboards will hopefully have haptic attributes. This is just my best guess before my morning coffee! http://backpackcomputing.com/
Actually, the post you are responding to doesn't even have my website in it. My site focuses on "small things that get the net" and that includes not only hardware, but also software such as Firefox, cooliris, etc. I'm surprised that you say that Firefox doesn't work with my site as that is what I use to view it.
As for other sites, if you are looking strictly for subnotebooks, you might want to check out umpcportal.com. I have no relationship with that site (or the others I'm mentioning here) and do not even know the people who run it, but that is one idea. Others include laptopmag.com and notebookreview.com.
I hope this helps. Oh, and I do appreciate your feedback on the design issues. I'm trying to correct them, but I need to find someone who can help with me with design/layout issues. Thanks.
You make a good point to the extent that the TDP is an oversimplification of power consumption. But I think it has value as a proxy metric for this purpose. Intel does in fact, as you point out, use this specification for determining system design for thermal issues. However, AMD uses (or used to) TDP to refer to energy consumption (I realize that the Atom is an Intel, not an AMD product). Now AMD looks at ACP (average CPU power) because it thinks that that metric more accurately reflect real world experience rather than the max figure provided by TDP. However,I think it's also important to note that in addition to giving a max TDP, even Intel provides a minimum or idle mode TDP figure, which I think, supports the contention that TDP is a reasonable proxy figure. If you're interested here is a link to a white paper from AMD further discussing these issues. http://www.amd.com/us-en/assets/content_type/DownloadableAssets/43761C_ACP_WP.pdf
If you can wait a couple of months there are several new products coming to market that may be worth the wait. First, the Eee PC 1000H- it has a 10.2 inch screen, powered by an Intel Atom CPU. The "H" stands for hard drive. The 1000H has an 80 GB HDD and WiFi N. Asus is also coming out with the Eee PC 904 and 05 models which combine the larger keyboard of the 1000H model with the 8.9 inch screen size of the 900 series models. I'm not sure, but these models will likely by driven by an Atom CPU.
In September Intel is scheduled to release a dual core version of its Atom CPU. This may be an attractive solution for those who want to make a netbook their primary computer, but were turned off by the lack of processing power. However, the TDP for the dual core is 8 watts, so there is no advantage in power consumption efficiency relative to the single core version.
Finally, by the late fall we should begin to see wimax being integrated into netbooks. For more news on the latest trends in the sub-notebook market check out http://backpackcomputing.com/
You might want to consider the newest Eee PC, the 1000. It, like the MSI Wind, sports a 10 inch screen. But it also comes with either a 80 GB HDD or a 40 SSD. The 1000 was just released Taiwan a few days ago and hopefully should be stateside within a month or so. For more details checkout http://backpackcomputing.com/
It's not spam. I focus on the UMPC/sub-notebook market on my website. The link is if you want more information. If you don't, then don't click on the link. If you do click on the link, you'll find a website that covers the UMPC/sub-notebook market. It's free to visit. I don't have a pecuniary interest in any particular product. Have you even visited the website? Don't be so quick to judge without knowing the facts. It's really the pot calling the kettle black when the accuser is posting anonymously!
I wouldn't recommend buying something that old even if the only thing you're going to use it for is surfing. If you're willing to go for something new and you want alternatives to the HP 2133 and Eee PC, then you might consider the Dell Vostro 1310. It's a 13.3" notebook starting at $749 SRP, but you might be able to get it cheaper using the coupons that appear from time to time on dealnews or techbargains. Alternatively, there is a new subnotebook about to come to the market that is competitive with the Eee PC on price, but has better specs: it's the MSI Wind. For more details and the latest news and deals on the subnotebook market check out http://backpackcomputing.com/
Intel is limiting Atom (it's new 45 NM low power CPU) to motherboards with 1 DIMM at a 2GB limit. This is problematic because several vendors are loading Vista on these devices and they would be well served by 3GB or even 4GB of RAM. See http://backpackcomputing.com/ for a link to the full story.
Although not an exact comparison, Psystar definitely offers a bigger hardware bang for the buck, particularly with respect to the HDD and the CPU. I didn't see the $599 configuration described above at macmall.com. Here are the $$ stats below comparing the three different vendors:
Here is what $555 plus shipping gets you at Psystar:
Case Color: Black
Intel Processor: Core2Duo/2.2GHz E4500
Hard Drive: 250GB 7200RPM SATA
Graphics Processor: Intel GMA 950
Firewire: Not Included
Operating System: OS X 10.5 Leopard (+ $155.00)
Memory: 2GB DDR2
(you could get 3 firewire ports for an extra $50)
Here is what $949 buys at Apple.com:
* 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
* 2GB 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM - 2x1GB
* 160GB Serial ATA drive
* SuperDrive 8x (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
* User's Guide (English)
* Accessory kit
Here is what $769 (after $25 rebate) buys at macmall.com:
Apple
Mac mini Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz
Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz,4MB L2 cache, 667MHz FSB, 1GB DDR2 SDRAM, 120GB SATA HD, DVD-RW/CD-RW Super Drive, Intel GMA 950, AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth 2.0, Apple Remote, OS X 10.5 Leopard
MacMall Part #: 7288185
Platform: Macintosh
Your Price: $794.00
Mail-In Rebate(s): $25.00
Net Price: $769.00
http://backpackcomputing.com/
The price of the Psystar seems cheap compared to Apple branded products, although there appear to be several rough edges. A base system with the Leopard 10.5 OS, 2GB of RAM, a 250GB HDD and Core2Duo processor costs $555 plus shipping. It does not come with a monitor or keyboard. By comparison, for example, a Mac mini with 2GB of RAM, but a smaller HDD and slower CPU costs $949. Although, the aesthetics of the mini can't be denied. http://backpackcomputing.com/
Although laptops can be expensive, I think the real danger is the potential disclosure of personal and business data on the lost computer. There are several programs that will erase the drive remotely if the laptop is reported stolen by the owner. Here is a link to one as an example, but I haven't used it, so I can't vouch for it:
http://www.sharewareplaza.com/Zapeze-download_39642.htmlhttp://backpackcomputing.com/
The Asus Eee PC is obviously much improved, particularly in the areas of screen size and storage capacity. However, this is a very competitive space. The HP 2133 was recently introduced. It also has a 8.9 inch screen, but has the advantage of a 120 GB HDD option (although it uses a VIA CPU). Intel is begining to rollout it's Atom class CPUs for the UMPC market. Based on a 45 NM process, the Atom based devices should offer much improved battery life and better performance. Also, Dell announced that it is throwing it's hat in the ring, and will probably introduce a device in June, maybe with an Atom CPU. Bottom line: if you can sit tight for two more months you'll probably have many more options. http://backpackcomputing.com/ [backpackcomputing.com]
Clearly, Boeing has lost time. However, with the US dollar down almost 50% against the Euro since 2002, this creates an enormous competitive advantage for Boeing vs. Airbus.
I didn't interpret the/. description or the underlying article as an advertisement. The subject of the piece is a just a prototype or proof-of-concept. Separately, but on a related note Popular Science has an article discussing how nVidia argues that the best bang for your computer buck is not to pay more for a faster CPU, but rather to upgrade your graphics card. Here is the link:
http://www.popsci.com/gear-gadgets/article/2008-04/forget-cpu-buy-better-graphics-card
It's a bit of a misnomer to characterize these UMPCs as "budget" devices. Of course they are much less expensive than the high end sub-notebooks, particularly the Sony products. However, they retain most of the functionality and thus they may be better understood as a fundamental shift in the market to new functionality/price point. (just look at the huge sales of the Asus Eee PC) This holds particularly true for the new HP 2133 top of the line model which has 2 GB of RAM and a 120 GB HDD. (as for optical drives, disc based storage and distribution is rapidly fading) This capacity is going to provide 80%, maybe even 95% of the functionality the average user will ever need. I think the "lack of features" argument will be even less forceful when the Intel "Atom" CPUs are used in these devices, beginning probably in June. Yes, these devices are not the ideal platform for complex weather modeling or playing Crysis, but neither are the $2000 sub-notebooks.
I don't think the 1.6 GHz CPU is worth paying extra for. The base model is $499, but for $549 you get 1 GB of RAM, 1.2 GHz Via CPU and Vista Basic. Importantly, you can opt to go with Windows XP and get a license for Vista so you can "upgrade" later. As far as the competition, Asus will be introducing an 8.9 inch screen on the Eee PC shortly and it may also include Intel's 45 NM "Atom" CPU. For more details and a link to purchase check out http://backpackcomputing.com/
I'm not sure I'd run out and get the XP version with only a 4 GB SSD just yet (albeit with an additional 4 GB card). The 8 GB is available now (see http://backpackcomputing.com/ for the link). Also, a version with an 8.9 inch screen, but the same overall form factor should be out in a few months.
There is an enormous financial cost for trying to go from a 3 lb. device to 2 lbs and certainly a loss of functionality in terms of screen size and keyboard utility. The one rule breaker to this is the Eee PC which weighs only two pounds, but costs $400 (or less depending on the configuration). Of course, it's not a terribly powerful device relative to a desktop, but it will probably suffice for most on the go surfing needs. One model that is overlooked here is the OQO model 02. It is generally expensive, but there is a $499 discount on selected models via a link at http://backpackcomputing.com/
It depends on how critical the form factor is, but if you can live with Asus' size (2 lbs), I'd probably go for that given the screen size and keyboard. I just don't like henpecking on the smaller keyboards, personally. I have a new website which has recently reviewed both if you're interested. It's backpackcomputing.googlepages.com/home
This may be only the beginning of the race to the bottom. Just as Google has experimented with offering free wireless broadband service, I wouldn't be surprised to see offers of free sub-notebok/ net-centric class devices in the near future, sort of like the cellphone market.
If you're interested, I've started a new website that focuses on the sub-notebook/ UMPC market, including the Asus Eee PC. It's also going to discuss the software side, i.e. the increasingly cloud or distributed computing based on these sub-notebook net-centric devices. Full disclosure: I have ads on there and if you click through to buy on Amazon I get a commission (but it doesn't cost you anymore). The url is backpackcomputing.googlepages.com/home
Slashdot Mirror
The Eee PC 1000H is available for pre-order. The specs: Atom CPU running at 1.6 Ghz, with a 10 inch screen, 1 GB of RAM, 80 GB HDD, XP OS and WiFi b/g/n. It weighs 3.2 lbs and has a 7.5 hour battery life (your mileage may vary). It costs $649.99 with free shipping. Shameless self-serving portion of comment: go to my site for the link http://backpackcomputing.com/
It's tough to make predictions, especially about the future but in terms of display technology, I think rollable displays will be common by 2015. The rollable screens have an obvious form factor appeal. The devices will probably be cylinder shaped (think paper towel tube, but a bit smaller) with a virtual keyboard. There are already early versions of both rollable displays and virtual keyboards in existence, see http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/06/technology/06novelties.html?_r=1&ref=technology&oref=slogin and http://www.virtualdevices.net/Products.htm, respectively. By 2015 rollable displays will have full color, etc. and virtual keyboards will hopefully have haptic attributes. This is just my best guess before my morning coffee! http://backpackcomputing.com/
Actually, the post you are responding to doesn't even have my website in it. My site focuses on "small things that get the net" and that includes not only hardware, but also software such as Firefox, cooliris, etc. I'm surprised that you say that Firefox doesn't work with my site as that is what I use to view it. As for other sites, if you are looking strictly for subnotebooks, you might want to check out umpcportal.com. I have no relationship with that site (or the others I'm mentioning here) and do not even know the people who run it, but that is one idea. Others include laptopmag.com and notebookreview.com. I hope this helps. Oh, and I do appreciate your feedback on the design issues. I'm trying to correct them, but I need to find someone who can help with me with design/layout issues. Thanks.
You make a good point to the extent that the TDP is an oversimplification of power consumption. But I think it has value as a proxy metric for this purpose. Intel does in fact, as you point out, use this specification for determining system design for thermal issues. However, AMD uses (or used to) TDP to refer to energy consumption (I realize that the Atom is an Intel, not an AMD product). Now AMD looks at ACP (average CPU power) because it thinks that that metric more accurately reflect real world experience rather than the max figure provided by TDP. However,I think it's also important to note that in addition to giving a max TDP, even Intel provides a minimum or idle mode TDP figure, which I think, supports the contention that TDP is a reasonable proxy figure. If you're interested here is a link to a white paper from AMD further discussing these issues. http://www.amd.com/us-en/assets/content_type/DownloadableAssets/43761C_ACP_WP.pdf
If you can wait a couple of months there are several new products coming to market that may be worth the wait. First, the Eee PC 1000H- it has a 10.2 inch screen, powered by an Intel Atom CPU. The "H" stands for hard drive. The 1000H has an 80 GB HDD and WiFi N. Asus is also coming out with the Eee PC 904 and 05 models which combine the larger keyboard of the 1000H model with the 8.9 inch screen size of the 900 series models. I'm not sure, but these models will likely by driven by an Atom CPU. In September Intel is scheduled to release a dual core version of its Atom CPU. This may be an attractive solution for those who want to make a netbook their primary computer, but were turned off by the lack of processing power. However, the TDP for the dual core is 8 watts, so there is no advantage in power consumption efficiency relative to the single core version. Finally, by the late fall we should begin to see wimax being integrated into netbooks. For more news on the latest trends in the sub-notebook market check out http://backpackcomputing.com/
You might want to consider the newest Eee PC, the 1000. It, like the MSI Wind, sports a 10 inch screen. But it also comes with either a 80 GB HDD or a 40 SSD. The 1000 was just released Taiwan a few days ago and hopefully should be stateside within a month or so. For more details checkout http://backpackcomputing.com/
It's not spam. I focus on the UMPC/sub-notebook market on my website. The link is if you want more information. If you don't, then don't click on the link. If you do click on the link, you'll find a website that covers the UMPC/sub-notebook market. It's free to visit. I don't have a pecuniary interest in any particular product. Have you even visited the website? Don't be so quick to judge without knowing the facts. It's really the pot calling the kettle black when the accuser is posting anonymously!
I wouldn't recommend buying something that old even if the only thing you're going to use it for is surfing. If you're willing to go for something new and you want alternatives to the HP 2133 and Eee PC, then you might consider the Dell Vostro 1310. It's a 13.3" notebook starting at $749 SRP, but you might be able to get it cheaper using the coupons that appear from time to time on dealnews or techbargains. Alternatively, there is a new subnotebook about to come to the market that is competitive with the Eee PC on price, but has better specs: it's the MSI Wind. For more details and the latest news and deals on the subnotebook market check out http://backpackcomputing.com/
Intel is limiting Atom (it's new 45 NM low power CPU) to motherboards with 1 DIMM at a 2GB limit. This is problematic because several vendors are loading Vista on these devices and they would be well served by 3GB or even 4GB of RAM. See http://backpackcomputing.com/ for a link to the full story.
Although not an exact comparison, Psystar definitely offers a bigger hardware bang for the buck, particularly with respect to the HDD and the CPU. I didn't see the $599 configuration described above at macmall.com. Here are the $$ stats below comparing the three different vendors: Here is what $555 plus shipping gets you at Psystar: Case Color: Black Intel Processor: Core2Duo/2.2GHz E4500 Hard Drive: 250GB 7200RPM SATA Graphics Processor: Intel GMA 950 Firewire: Not Included Operating System: OS X 10.5 Leopard (+ $155.00) Memory: 2GB DDR2 (you could get 3 firewire ports for an extra $50) Here is what $949 buys at Apple.com: * 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo * 2GB 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM - 2x1GB * 160GB Serial ATA drive * SuperDrive 8x (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) * User's Guide (English) * Accessory kit Here is what $769 (after $25 rebate) buys at macmall.com: Apple Mac mini Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz,4MB L2 cache, 667MHz FSB, 1GB DDR2 SDRAM, 120GB SATA HD, DVD-RW/CD-RW Super Drive, Intel GMA 950, AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth 2.0, Apple Remote, OS X 10.5 Leopard MacMall Part #: 7288185 Platform: Macintosh Your Price: $794.00 Mail-In Rebate(s): $25.00 Net Price: $769.00 http://backpackcomputing.com/
The price of the Psystar seems cheap compared to Apple branded products, although there appear to be several rough edges. A base system with the Leopard 10.5 OS, 2GB of RAM, a 250GB HDD and Core2Duo processor costs $555 plus shipping. It does not come with a monitor or keyboard. By comparison, for example, a Mac mini with 2GB of RAM, but a smaller HDD and slower CPU costs $949. Although, the aesthetics of the mini can't be denied. http://backpackcomputing.com/
Although laptops can be expensive, I think the real danger is the potential disclosure of personal and business data on the lost computer. There are several programs that will erase the drive remotely if the laptop is reported stolen by the owner. Here is a link to one as an example, but I haven't used it, so I can't vouch for it: http://www.sharewareplaza.com/Zapeze-download_39642.html http://backpackcomputing.com/
The Asus Eee PC is obviously much improved, particularly in the areas of screen size and storage capacity. However, this is a very competitive space. The HP 2133 was recently introduced. It also has a 8.9 inch screen, but has the advantage of a 120 GB HDD option (although it uses a VIA CPU). Intel is begining to rollout it's Atom class CPUs for the UMPC market. Based on a 45 NM process, the Atom based devices should offer much improved battery life and better performance. Also, Dell announced that it is throwing it's hat in the ring, and will probably introduce a device in June, maybe with an Atom CPU. Bottom line: if you can sit tight for two more months you'll probably have many more options. http://backpackcomputing.com/ [backpackcomputing.com]
Here's a crazy idea: DoD should consider contracting out the work to Apple or Google! http://backpackcomputing.com/
Clearly, Boeing has lost time. However, with the US dollar down almost 50% against the Euro since 2002, this creates an enormous competitive advantage for Boeing vs. Airbus.
I didn't interpret the /. description or the underlying article as an advertisement. The subject of the piece is a just a prototype or proof-of-concept. Separately, but on a related note Popular Science has an article discussing how nVidia argues that the best bang for your computer buck is not to pay more for a faster CPU, but rather to upgrade your graphics card. Here is the link:
http://www.popsci.com/gear-gadgets/article/2008-04/forget-cpu-buy-better-graphics-card
It's a bit of a misnomer to characterize these UMPCs as "budget" devices. Of course they are much less expensive than the high end sub-notebooks, particularly the Sony products. However, they retain most of the functionality and thus they may be better understood as a fundamental shift in the market to new functionality/price point. (just look at the huge sales of the Asus Eee PC) This holds particularly true for the new HP 2133 top of the line model which has 2 GB of RAM and a 120 GB HDD. (as for optical drives, disc based storage and distribution is rapidly fading) This capacity is going to provide 80%, maybe even 95% of the functionality the average user will ever need. I think the "lack of features" argument will be even less forceful when the Intel "Atom" CPUs are used in these devices, beginning probably in June. Yes, these devices are not the ideal platform for complex weather modeling or playing Crysis, but neither are the $2000 sub-notebooks.
I don't think the 1.6 GHz CPU is worth paying extra for. The base model is $499, but for $549 you get 1 GB of RAM, 1.2 GHz Via CPU and Vista Basic. Importantly, you can opt to go with Windows XP and get a license for Vista so you can "upgrade" later. As far as the competition, Asus will be introducing an 8.9 inch screen on the Eee PC shortly and it may also include Intel's 45 NM "Atom" CPU. For more details and a link to purchase check out http://backpackcomputing.com/
I'm not sure I'd run out and get the XP version with only a 4 GB SSD just yet (albeit with an additional 4 GB card). The 8 GB is available now (see http://backpackcomputing.com/ for the link). Also, a version with an 8.9 inch screen, but the same overall form factor should be out in a few months.
There is an enormous financial cost for trying to go from a 3 lb. device to 2 lbs and certainly a loss of functionality in terms of screen size and keyboard utility. The one rule breaker to this is the Eee PC which weighs only two pounds, but costs $400 (or less depending on the configuration). Of course, it's not a terribly powerful device relative to a desktop, but it will probably suffice for most on the go surfing needs. One model that is overlooked here is the OQO model 02. It is generally expensive, but there is a $499 discount on selected models via a link at http://backpackcomputing.com/
It depends on how critical the form factor is, but if you can live with Asus' size (2 lbs), I'd probably go for that given the screen size and keyboard. I just don't like henpecking on the smaller keyboards, personally. I have a new website which has recently reviewed both if you're interested. It's backpackcomputing.googlepages.com/home
This may be only the beginning of the race to the bottom. Just as Google has experimented with offering free wireless broadband service, I wouldn't be surprised to see offers of free sub-notebok/ net-centric class devices in the near future, sort of like the cellphone market. If you're interested, I've started a new website that focuses on the sub-notebook/ UMPC market, including the Asus Eee PC. It's also going to discuss the software side, i.e. the increasingly cloud or distributed computing based on these sub-notebook net-centric devices. Full disclosure: I have ads on there and if you click through to buy on Amazon I get a commission (but it doesn't cost you anymore). The url is backpackcomputing.googlepages.com/home