UMPCs (Ultra-mobile Personal computers) are taking focus these days with several of them on the way. One of the interesting entries is from known PC components maker ASUS.
Feature set looks promising (hopefully storage can be increased via SDHC); at 1.96 lbs this is one wicked portable device for the person who needs a fully featured PC on the go. Initial impressions from reviewers were pretty positive (a lot better than the now defunct Palm Foleo – RIP) especially with the 10-second boot up time. I am always on the go, and gadgets like this definitely catch my attention. Now how this fits in between your cell phone, ipod up to your notebook will be the question.
Can you afford to carry this along with your notebook or will it be an either/or question?
Here is the specification list for one of the models:
- Display: AU Optronics4) WVGA (800×480) TFT-LCD
- CPU: 900MHz Intel Celeron M ULV 353
- Chipset: Mobile Intel 910GML Express
- Graphics: Intel UMA (shared memory) with external VGA-out connector
- Memory: 256MB (non-upgradeable) or 512MB DDR2-400 (PC2-3200) SDRAM, user-upgradeable up to 1GB5)
- Storage: 2, 4, 8, or 16GB SSD (non-upgradeable)
- BIOS: American Megatrends, Inc. (AMI)
- OS: ASUS-customized Xandros Linux with “Easy” and “Standard” GUI modes
- Wired communications: 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, 56k modem
- Wireless communications: 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, possible Bluetooth integration
- Ports: 3 USB 2.0, MMC/SD(HC)/MS(PRO) card reader, microphone and headphone
- Webcam (optional): VGA (640×480) @ up to 30 fps
- Audio: High Definition Audio; built-in stereo speakers, microphone
- Battery life: 3-4 hours (4-cell NiMH: 7.4V, 5200mAh, 2S2P); other batteries may be offered
- Dimensions: 22.5 x 16.5 x 2.1~3.5 cm (8.9 x 6.5 x 0.9~1.4 in)
- Weight: 0.89 kg (1.96 lbs)
- Colors: white, black
- Price: $199-$299 in USA, could be higher in Europe and elsewhere
