Netbooks
By
Dawn Gordon Luks
Imagine a computer that's small enough to carry with you wherever you go, has an 8-10 inch screen, weighs under 3 pounds and can connect to the internet via WiFi -- all for under $300. This is not some far-off concept, it's here and now and it's called a Netbook.
This new computing category is designed for casual web surfing, email, and light application work. In other words, it's perfect for traveling, and isn't designed to be a desktop replacement. The Netbook is missing several components that you would want in a fully functional laptop, such as an optical disc drive, computing horsepower and a large screen. But if all you want is a travel device, then a Netbook may be in your future.
Let's take a closer look at a few Netbooks.
HP Mini 1000 ($299+) www.hp.com
The HP Mini 1000 is the perfect on-the-go companion for the ultra-mobile consumer. The Mini is available with an 8.9-inch or 10.1-inch diagonal display, weighs only 2.25 lb., and has a nearly full-sized keyboard.
Like nearly all Netbooks, the Mini features Windows XP Home Edition. This model offers a built-in webcam/microphone, 802.11b/g WAN, and optional integrated mobile broadband. The processor is Intel's new 1.60GHz Atom processor, and system memory tops out at 1GB. Hard drive options include: 8GB or 16GB Solid State Drives, or an 80GB hard drive. There's optional Bluetooth connectivity, which will be helpful as this Netbook only has 2 USB ports. Other extras include a 2-in-1 integrated Digital Media Reader, and a Mini Webcam.
Weight starts at only 2.25 lb., and the Mini's dimensions are: 10.3 x 6.56 x 0.99 inches.
Dell Inspiron Mini 10 and Mini 10v ($299+) www.Dell.com
Dell's Netbooks feature 7 color options and 5 artist’s designs, you can customize your Mini 10 to fit your decor.
Like the HP Mini, this Netbook offers the Intel Atom processor -- at either 1.30GHz or 1.60GHz speeds.
Dell's offering features a bright, 720p, 10.1-inch display with a seamless surface and expansion capability in the form of an HDMI port. WiFi is handled easily via 802.11b/g WiFi connection. You can also get optional Bluetooth connectivity for those times when you want to use a wireless keyboard and mouse.
At 92% the size of a traditional keyboard, the Mini 10 and Mini 10v's keyboards are easy to use. Memory is available up to 2GB and you'll have plenty of storage with hard drives up to 250GB. Want to connect with family and friends on the road? That's easy with the Mini's 1.3MP webcam.
A really cool feature is optional GPS, so you can use your Mini 10 to guide you to a destination. There's also an optional, external DVD drive available so you can load software easily.
The Mini 10 weighs under 4 lb., and its dimensions are 10.28 x 7.19 x 1.1 inches.
Asus Eee PC 1000HE ($275+) www.Asus.com
The Eee PC is the first Netbook to use the Intel Atom N280 processor. With up to 9.5 hours of battery life, the 1000HE enables you to bring Internet and multimedia wherever you go, without a power cord. In addition, its LED backlit 10-inch display, flush fitting battery pack, and large ergonomic keyboard will allow you to work or travel in comfort. This Netbook has a generous 160GB of built-in hard disc storage.
Eee PC 1000HE comes with WiFi 802.11b/g/n network connectivity, as well as Bluetooth V2.0 for flexibility and convenience with your Bluetooth devices. The Eee PC features 3 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x VGA port, 2 x Audio input/output ports, 1 x RJ-45 port, and Kensington Lock port. A 2-in-1 MMC, and SD(SDHC) flash card slot is also provided to let you easily access your digital photos and videos, and expand your system storage.
Eee PC 1000HE also features a built-in 1.3MP webcam and Digital Array microphones to allow you have clear video conversations with family and friends.
The weight is 3.2 lb., and the dimensions are 10.47 x 7.53 x 1.50 inches.
Dawn Gordon Luks is a veteran consumer electronics journalist. In addition to her writing schedule, Dawn also designs home audio, home theater, and home automation installations in South Florida. Send an email to Dawn Gordon Luks.
