Travel Technology - Netbook for travel?

Im thinking about picking up a Asus Eee PC 901 for lightweight travel. I currently have a 17" Powerbook G4 and feel its just too big and cumbersome to whip out in coach. Worst of all the battery lasts less then 1 hour. The Eee PC 901 claims to last 8 hours on a single charge with its 6-cell battery, and costs just $350. I know its not a powerhouse of a processor but Im not planning on playing Farcry 2 on it or anything. I'm just hoping to use it for internet and storing my photos and videos ( I already have a bunch of 2, 4, and 8GB SD cards so the small SSD hard-drive size isnt a big deal).

Does anyone have any experience with Netbooks used for frequent travel?

I have an Acer Aspire One that I've been using the last 3 months or so. I love this thing. It has a 160 gb drive, instead of an SSD, and gets 5 hours to a charge. I also have a Sony Vaio SZ440, which is a terrific, powerful notebook and I use that as my daily computer -- it's a full desktop replacement and only weighs 4 pounds. However, now I take my Acer for travel instead of the Vaio. The Acer is a bit more rugged, weighs only 2 pounds or so, and is considerably smaller. I got a small USB BlueTooth adapter that I leave in one of the USB ports all the time, letting me use the Acer with a BlueTooth mouse. The smaller keyboard doesn't bother me, and the screen size is fine.

These netbooks are a really interesting development -- a step backward in power consumption, CPU power and hard-drive size, yet more and more people are finding them to be more than enough for casual use, particularly when traveling. Buy.com has that Acer Aspire One on sale this week for $329 with free shipping -- if I had some extra money, I'd pick up a second one just as backup.

Get the Asus Eee 1000HD or the new 1000HE. I get 7 hours out of the HD, and the HE is supposed to reach 9 and a half.

Another happy 1000h owner/poster here; it replaced my regular laptop and is hard to fault.

Get a 10 screen - or at very least try a few options side by side. 10" models are worth the slight extra cost. You will notice the difference.

I'm quite happy with my Aspire One (same config as PTravel describes) and posting this from in on the bus to PHL.

The Asus 1000HE has a newer processor and 720P resolution on the chipset rather than 600px. And the keyboard is getting slightly better reviews.

The real improvements will be when the nVidia chipset comes out with 1080 resolution, but that seems to be a little ways off still. Plus, that extra graphics processing will come at a price in terms of battery life.

Anything with a 6 cell battery should get you satisfactory performance duration wise, and then it is pretty much a matter of what you prefer in terms of keyboard, screen, etc.

I've got my 1000HE on preorder; at $349 it is an amazing bargain, especially since it also comes with 802.11n and Bluetooth.

I've got my 1000HE on preorder; at $349 it is an amazing bargain, especially since it also comes with 802.11n and Bluetooth.Interesting! Where are you getting it?

Interesting! Where are you getting it?

The best price I've been able to find is $365 from buydig.com.

I'll third the Acer. So far it's gone on two international trips and several domestic. I have a Bluetooth dongle, AT&T broadband and I'll probably get a USB GPS as well for driving. I have Boingo for US (and international, when I need it) wifi (although I'm eyeing iPass). With those, I'm not sure what else I might need.

Oh yeah- and my phone is just a phone and doesn't do any of those things :)

Cheers.

Instead of dumping money on portable DVD players, I've thought about sending Mrs. Swede and the kids off with a netbook for watching movies on the plane. I have about 30 movies on a portable USB hard drive.

Has anyone have a similar setup for watching movies? What kind of battery life do you get out of it?

Another happy 1000h owner/poster here; it replaced my regular laptop and is hard to fault.

Get a 10 screen - or at very least try a few options side by side. 10" models are worth the slight extra cost. You will notice the difference.

Thanks everyone for your advice so far. I have to say I am kinda leaning towards the Asus 901 still because I really want to stay as small and light as possible. I also favor the 901 because of the SSD instead of standard hard-drive as I plan to really beat the crap out of it. I have already had to replace a hard-drive in my 17" powerbook (paid almost $4000 back in 2003, almost puked when i heard it hit the ground) and Im looking forward to some rough travel in Africa and the Pacific Islands.

As I was browsing through reviews on various netbooks on cnet and PC world and the like I found it humorous if not frustrating that many of the complaints were based on the small screen size. I dont get it, isnt the point of the Netbook to be small? lol As a matter of fact if I could find a 7" with all the same features and battery life as the 901 or 1000 models I would jump on that in a heart beat.

Interesting! Where are you getting it?

http://www.fatwallet.com/forums/hot-deals/901053/

:)

Instead of dumping money on portable DVD players, I've thought about sending Mrs. Swede and the kids off with a netbook for watching movies on the plane. I have about 30 movies on a portable USB hard drive.

Has anyone have a similar setup for watching movies? What kind of battery life do you get out of it?I store movies on my Acer's 160 GB hard drive. So far, I've only watched one or two in flight, but it works fine.

http://www.fatwallet.com/forums/hot-deals/901053/

:)
Thanks. I took a look at the specs. Aside from the the newer CPU and the addition of 802.11n, it doesn't seem very different from the Aspire One. I was hoping that it was 1024 x 768 but I see that it, too, 1024 x 600 like the Acer.

I'm happy with my Aspire One. It's clear that netbooks are the Next Big Thing and, with the economy in free fall, I expect to see continued refinement of these wonderful little machines with selling price maintained or even dropped. I think I'll wait for the next iterations before buying a second one. Besides, how could I justify it to Mrs. PTravel? ;)

Thanks. I took a look at the specs. Aside from the the newer CPU and the addition of 802.11n, it doesn't seem very different from the Aspire One. I was hoping that it was 1024 x 768 but I see that it, too, 1024 x 600 like the Acer.

I'm happy with my Aspire One. It's clear that netbooks are the Next Big Thing and, with the economy in free fall, I expect to see continued refinement of these wonderful little machines with selling price maintained or even dropped. I think I'll wait for the next iterations before buying a second one. Besides, how could I justify it to Mrs. PTravel? ;)

It's all about the battery - the 6 cell pack is flush inside the machine, instead of sticking out the back like on many other brands. The new keyboard looks great.

I had the Aspire One and while it was a nice machine at the time, the mouse just kept pissing me off. The Acer has multitouch on the trackpad, which will be handy under Windows 7.

It's all about the battery - the 6 cell pack is flush inside the machine, instead of sticking out the back like on many other brands. The new keyboard looks great. I don't mind the "pregnant" battery on the Acer -- it angles the keyboard,. which I like.

I had the Aspire One and while it was a nice machine at the time, the mouse just kept pissing me off. The Acer has multitouch on the trackpad, which will be handy under Windows 7.I hate trackpads in general -- I use mine with a BlueTooth mouse.

I have a Sony TT 190NIB. (http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&categoryId=8198552921644590401&parentCategoryId=16154) I won't comment on the price because this was a warranty replacement.

Like PTravel, I'm a lawyer and in my travel computer, I want to have the exact same data and programs as in my office machines.

The TT, unlike a netbook, has an 11.1 inch screen. This one is full HD, 1080p and very bright. Here are some other specs:

Operating System

Windows XP Pro, Service Pack 3 (comes with an install disk)

Weights & Measurements

2.87 lbs. (with standard battery)
10.99"(W) x 0.93"(H) x 7.87"(D)


Performance

1.40GHz (SU9400) Ð 1.20GHz (SU9300) Intel® Coreª 2 Duo Processor
Intel® Centrino® 2 processor technology
800MHz Front Side Bus Speed
3MB L2 Cache


Also, there's a built-in web cam, not that I yet have any use for it.

All in all, I am very happy with this machine.

[Edited to add] It's bigger than a netbook, much more expensive, but I believe it gives a lot more. YMMV.

I have the 120GB HP Mini 2133. Sleek, beautiful, but lacking a bit on the battery life side. The battery that comes with it is flush with the system as well, but if you buy the extended life battery (6 hours), it will stick out slightly but provides quasi base support as it gives a slight incline when on a flat surface.

I have a Samsung NC10, which has about 6 hours on a charge. I got it to try and lighten the load for when I am travelling (another lawyer!). I seldom need the full works from the regular computer when away, as most of the stuff I need for the trip is with me.

I use the netbook for keeping in touch with home and colleagues using VOIP or Skype - built in webcam is helpful here. Also playing music from web radio and BBC Radio4 where ever in the world I am (and BBC Listen Again to time shift listening) I have a data inclusive package on my phone which has internet sharing capability, and can use wifi or internet in hotels etc.

I have installed logmein and using it across the internet I can also access my normal computer at my office desk, and if necessary use it to send mail and docs, copy material, print stuff, fax stuff etc as if i was sitting there - now that is useful at times when something crops up!

Any of you guys use Linux on these little things?

I am considering getting one for the teenager. I really don't want her to have a Windows box (updates, security, viruses, she can install weird stuff, etc etc etc).

Anyone able to make a comparison to a Thinkpad X series (besides of course price)?

I've got a Thinkpad X60s which is pretty small and lightweight. Also bought an Asus eee a year or so ago - loved that for fast bootup and internet access "around the house" but found the keyboard to be a PITA, so i sold it.

Keep looking at the netbooks, but since my Thinkpad is pretty light, I'm wondering how much additional benefit I'll get out of one. The main advantages of a Netbook for me seems to be the faster bootup and slightly smaller size so I can throw in it a handbag.

I got an HP Mini 1000 last month. First long trip with it this week, and it does very nicely.

The keyboard is superb.

Fwiw, I tried out the Acer and simply found typing on it impossible.

Instead of dumping money on portable DVD players, I've thought about sending Mrs. Swede and the kids off with a netbook for watching movies on the plane. I have about 30 movies on a portable USB hard drive.

Has anyone have a similar setup for watching movies? What kind of battery life do you get out of it?

I stick the movies on the HDD and forget about the USB. One less thing sticking out of the laptop, the better. ;)

I was also looking at portable DVD players. The problems I encountered were: 1) limited filename size so many multi-eps files all show up the same, 2) The codecs on the DVD players are limited. You'll find that they need to be within certain encoding and dimension specs, and 3) I can't stick a game on the DVD player if I'm bored of movies. ;)

With the laptop, it'll play anything.



Anyone able to make a comparison to a Thinkpad X series (besides of course price)?

I've got a Thinkpad X60s which is pretty small and lightweight. Also bought an Asus eee a year or so ago - loved that for fast bootup and internet access "around the house" but found the keyboard to be a PITA, so i sold it.

Keep looking at the netbooks, but since my Thinkpad is pretty light, I'm wondering how much additional benefit I'll get out of one. The main advantages of a Netbook for me seems to be the faster bootup and slightly smaller size so I can throw in it a handbag.

Yeah, I brought my X61 for myself and the Asus PC1000HA for my wife on our last trip to Japan. The X61 is actually more slimline and lighter, even with the extended battery. Of course, the X61 packs more of a punch for internal specs. Lastly, I hate touchpads and prefer the X61 trackpoint more. If you're used to the trackpoint, you'll probably come to the same conclusion.

Personally, the only advantage for a netbook is the size but I'm not sure you'll find much improvement over the X61 comparative to price paid.

]I've got a Thinkpad X60s which is pretty small and lightweight. Also bought an Asus eee a year or so ago - loved that for fast bootup and internet access "around the house" but found the keyboard to be a PITA, so i sold it.

I've been debating a used X60/X61 vs. the upcoming 12" Samsung NC20. I prefer the trackpoint being a Thinkpad user for the past 8 years. I love the size of the 9-10" netbooks but the usability stinks. I see no advantage to a netbook if you have a 12" ultraportable.

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]I've got a Thinkpad X60s which is pretty small and lightweight. Also bought an Asus eee a year or so ago - loved that for fast bootup and internet access "around the house" but found the keyboard to be a PITA, so i sold it.

I've been debating a used X60/X61 vs. the upcoming 12" Samsung NC20. I prefer the trackpoint being a Thinkpad user for the past 8 years. I love the size of the 9-10" netbooks but the usability stinks. I see no advantage to a netbook if you have a 12" ultraportable.

The size was reason enough for me to buy a Dell Mini 9.

Horses for courses obviously, but I felt for what I was doing, going any bigger meant I may as well just lug my regular 15in work-issue HP.

I've been debating a used X60/X61 vs. the upcoming 12" Samsung NC20. I prefer the trackpoint being a Thinkpad user for the past 8 years. I love the size of the 9-10" netbooks but the usability stinks. I see no advantage to a netbook if you have a 12" ultraportable.

Bang on. I still prefer to bring my X61 on trips over the PC1000. Ultraportables are also light years ahead of standard 14-15" notebooks.

Get the Asus Eee 1000HD or the new 1000HE. I get 7 hours out of the HD, and the HE is supposed to reach 9 and a half.

Most if not all models come with only 1GB DRAM. Can you add 1 more GB (slot avail)? When at home, can you attach a larger LCD monitor to it (will its resolution support a larger monitor)? Is the weight really below 3 lb?

Don't know why no one mentioned the Lenovo S10e. IMO it is the BEST netbook on the market based on the solid build and good specs. All the other netbooks (Acer Aspire One, EEEPc, NC10 etc..) feels really flimpsy but the Lenovo s10e has a really good solid feel to it (but also really light even with the 6 cell battery)

It is actually my main computer now and I run everything on it from Full MS Office 97, Itunes, IE, etc....

Specs:
160GB HD
1.5GB Ram
ATOM processor
LINUX Splashtop fastboot
webcam
Expresscard slot
SD card reader
2XUSB
6 Cell Batt (with 4.5 hours Full usage -with WIFI and Bluetooth turned on and screen on FULL brightness)
Good keyboard. I can touch type now on it


I am really pleased with this machine and the size and weight is ideal as I take it everywhere everyday now!

I did a lot of soul searching before jumping in, if you want only what a netbook promises to give and no more, I jumped on the MSI Wind U-120. Its the newest model, has 802.11 n,b,g and bluetooth. Price just dropped to $399 with an additional $20 rebate. It's only in white now but I think that if your requirements are not super stringent it's currently the best bang for your buck. This opinion is only valid NOW as there will probably be something slightly better/different in an hour or two....:rolleyes:

Instead of dumping money on portable DVD players, I've thought about sending Mrs. Swede and the kids off with a netbook for watching movies on the plane. I have about 30 movies on a portable USB hard drive.

Has anyone have a similar setup for watching movies? What kind of battery life do you get out of it?
I use DVD via USB drives on a Linux EEEpc 900 but I usually have it plugged in when traveling as there is usually an at seat power socket. I now dislike hard drives for traveling and prefer solid state, allows more knocks and security bumps. The DVD's are 'shrunk' to fit a cheap USB drive and work fine on the EEE's player, under play DVD from folder.

These netbooks are a really interesting development ... more and more people are finding them to be more than enough for casual use, particularly when traveling

I now have one in my living room for things like spontaneous google searches during contentious rounds of game playing, allowing visitors a convenient way for them to check their e-mail, effective way to pull up recipe searches while making dinner, etc. Really comes in handy for things that require more than my iPhone, but less than a full desktop.

Bang on. I still prefer to bring my X61 on trips over the PC1000. Ultraportables are also light years ahead of standard 14-15" notebooks.

I pulled the trigger on a used X60s off craigslist today for $400. Basically the same spec as my new work issue T61 and 2.5lbs lighter. Came with a 4 and 8 cell battery and 1 year of warranty left. Now I need to find a reasonably priced lightweight bag that will carry more than just the X60.

Any opinions on the Dell 9" mini-inspiron? Looks like those can be had refurb for a very decent price.

I bought a Samsung NC-10 in January -- which I really like. However, it lasted about a week before the hard drive started sprouting bad blocks. I had to send it in for warranty repair, it returns tomorrow.

I just got back from HKG with my Lenovo S10. It travels wonderfully.

I jumped on the MSI Wind U-120. Its the newest model, has 802.11 n,b,g and bluetooth. Price just dropped to $399 with an additional $20 rebate.
For those contemplating the Wind, ZipZoomfly currently has it for $330 + shipping (http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=10009930&prodlist=dealnews). I was sorely tempted, but have opted to put in a preorder with Amazon for the ASUS Eee PC 1000HE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QTXL8C/ref=noref?ie=UTF8&coliid=IW606YNQHJYZD&s=pc&colid=2TTKTKDBA7Y7I).

Most if not all models come with only 1GB DRAM. Can you add 1 more GB (slot avail)?
The way I understand it, if you want to upgrade the memory on the ASUS you replace the 1GB with a 2 GB module (http://www.amazon.com/OCZ-PC2-5400-SODIMM-Laptop-OCZ2MV6672G/dp/B000RZ8WHG/ref=pd_bxgy_pc_img_b).

I bought a Samsung NC-10 in January -- which I really like.

+1. Sitting next to my Samsung flat screen TV, which I also really nice. They make some nice stuff.

However, it lasted about a week before the hard drive started sprouting bad blocks. I had to send it in for warranty repair, it returns tomorrow.

Yikes! That's disappointing. No sign of that from mine yet (bought in in Dec).

+1. Sitting next to my Samsung flat screen TV, which I also really nice. They make some nice stuff.



Yikes! That's disappointing. No sign of that from mine yet (bought in in Dec).

I think it is a general problem with infant mortality on SATA drives.

Instead of dumping money on portable DVD players, I've thought about sending Mrs. Swede and the kids off with a netbook for watching movies on the plane. I have about 30 movies on a portable USB hard drive.

Has anyone have a similar setup for watching movies? What kind of battery life do you get out of it?

I have an Acer Aspire One with 6-cell battery (love it), and use a portable hard drive (Toshiba 320GB) to watch movies on the plane.

The 6-cell normally gets 5-6 hours but since the external hard drive is powered off of the USB port, the useable time is just about cut in half to between 2 and 3 hours.

For that reason, I carry a Lenmar Universal Notebook battery pack.

I pulled the trigger on a used X60s off craigslist today for $400. Basically the same spec as my new work issue T61 and 2.5lbs lighter. Came with a 4 and 8 cell battery and 1 year of warranty left. Now I need to find a reasonably priced lightweight bag that will carry more than just the X60.

$400 is a pretty good deal. A new 8 cell battery would have been 50% of cost! ;)

The way I understand it, if you want to upgrade the memory on the ASUS you replace the 1GB with a 2 GB module (http://www.amazon.com/OCZ-PC2-5400-SODIMM-Laptop-OCZ2MV6672G/dp/B000RZ8WHG/ref=pd_bxgy_pc_img_b).

Yup. And the ASUS is one of the easiest to install a new HDD or memory module. Just pop off the bottom plastic shield and voila!

I'm typing this from a Lenovo S10. I've bumped it up to 2GB of RAM total (.5GB onboard, 2GB chip, but total is 2.0GB addressable). I've also bumped it up from 160GB to 500GB. So... who needs a DVD? I can load as many DVD's as I want on it, via the Ethernet port (or Wifi if I'm lazy).

I'm quite pleased with it. Only things I'd change would be to make it 1024x768 instead if 1024x600, and I'd up the run time which is at 3 hours right now.

It plays "DVD's" from the hard drive just fine.

HTSC

Any opinions on the Dell 9" mini-inspiron? Looks like those can be had refurb for a very decent price.

Fairly boring machine - and no HDD option. Some people prefer SSD drives, but the limited storage space makes them pretty useless for movies and music.

Scott, are you seeking/getting/interested in a Eee PC 1000HE for reviewing on your blog?

From that source, the linked articles showed the case is essentially the same, aside from the bottom now being flat, and the higher capacity battery.

It will be fun to see what becomes available from the respective vendors, especially if the new versions have a better battery life and potentially faster/bumped resolution graphics.

All for the purpose of better movie watching while traveling. ;)

For those contemplating the Wind, ZipZoomfly currently has it for $330 + shipping (http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=10009930&prodlist=dealnews). I was sorely tempted, but have opted to put in a preorder with Amazon for the ASUS Eee PC 1000HE (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QTXL8C/ref=noref?ie=UTF8&coliid=IW606YNQHJYZD&s=pc&colid=2TTKTKDBA7Y7I).


The way I understand it, if you want to upgrade the memory on the ASUS you replace the 1GB with a 2 GB module (http://www.amazon.com/OCZ-PC2-5400-SODIMM-Laptop-OCZ2MV6672G/dp/B000RZ8WHG/ref=pd_bxgy_pc_img_b).

Just a point of info, not slamming another post..... The $330 deal above is one model lower then my post, it does not come with 302.11n or bluetooth. My deal adds $49 and the hassle of a $20 rebate if the newer networking and bluetooth means something to you.

I have an Acer Aspire One that I've been using the last 3 months or so. I love this thing. It has a 160 gb drive, instead of an SSD, and gets 5 hours to a charge. I also have a Sony Vaio SZ440, which is a terrific, powerful notebook and I use that as my daily computer -- it's a full desktop replacement and only weighs 4 pounds. However, now I take my Acer for travel instead of the Vaio. The Acer is a bit more rugged, weighs only 2 pounds or so, and is considerably smaller. I got a small USB BlueTooth adapter that I leave in one of the USB ports all the time, letting me use the Acer with a BlueTooth mouse. The smaller keyboard doesn't bother me, and the screen size is fine.

These netbooks are a really interesting development -- a step backward in power consumption, CPU power and hard-drive size, yet more and more people are finding them to be more than enough for casual use, particularly when traveling. Buy.com has that Acer Aspire One on sale this week for $329 with free shipping -- if I had some extra money, I'd pick up a second one just as backup.

I'm in a similar situation with the same basic set-up on my Aspire.

One aspect some might find worth considering, and key in my decision to get an Acer, is the issue of security. I take frequent relatively short trips to what are considered dicey areas with a lot of theft, robbery, etc. When I used to carry my laptop, I had a significant concern about losing not just the material I was working on, but everything in the HD- both personal and professional.

While I used good personal and tech security, the loss of the laptop would be devastating and I did not like taking into every pit stop restroom, restaurant, etc. With the Acer, I only load it with what I need on my short trips along with generally non-sensitive apps for e-mail, etc. A few things I put on a thumb drive which is easy to secure on my person.

I now feel a lot more relaxed knowing that anyone who takes the netbook will not get much of value (other than the computer itself).

Just traveled to a boondoggle in Germany with an HP Mini 1033CL from Costco ($450). It was running Windows 7. Not a problem in the world. I bought it on impulse and luckily it worked out. :cool:^

I got an HP Mini 1000 last month. First long trip with it this week, and it does very nicely.

I'm writing this from my new HP Mini, which I just got a few hours ago. Not a bad little machine... any troubles I'm having are because I'm a Mac person and this is a Windows OS. (The OS is warning me about every little thing. I've gotta find a way to turn these things off.)

I'm writing this from my new HP Mini, which I just got a few hours ago. Not a bad little machine... any troubles I'm having are because I'm a Mac person and this is a Windows OS. (The OS is warning me about every little thing. I've gotta find a way to turn these things off.)

this should get you there turn off UAC (http://www.petri.co.il/disable_uac_in_windows_vista.htm)

Actually the HP Mini is WinXP Home Edition, so the UAC thing doesn't apply. Folks can probably help the previous poster figure out what might help if he can post the content of the warning messages.

Actually the HP Mini is WinXP Home Edition, so the UAC thing doesn't apply. Folks can probably help the previous poster figure out what might help if he can post the content of the warning messages.

Not correct ;)

Only the Mini 1000's for home use come with XP. The business oriented machines (2133 and 2140) come with Vista.

Since the poster is having windows warnings with everything he changes, I'd say he probably has a Vista installed machine.

I picked up an ASUS EEEPC 1000HD for $329 at BestBuy last month. I've actually shelved my full-size HP laptop except for weekly bill paying on quicken which i've yet to migrate to the 1000HD.

I love the darned thing. It's replaced my work laptop, the home laptop and travels immensely well.

I love the quick boot-up each time. I do find that I spend a lot more time in bed in the a.m. because it's so comfy to surf from bed as i can reach over and grab it off the side table without disturbing the sleeping kitty since it weighs virtually nothing.

A 2GB upgrade of RAM should be waiting in the mailbox tonight and i'm off to the races!

Might actually consider selling the 8mo old HP now!

Not correct ;)

Only the Mini 1000's for home use come with XP. The business oriented machines (2133 and 2140) come with Vista.

Since the poster is having windows warnings with everything he changes, I'd say he probably has a Vista installed machine.

OK :)

But since he quoted my post which specifically mentioned the the 1000, I assumed his response was in reference to that.

If he doesn't have a 1000, then of course you're right.

Some people prefer SSD drives, but the limited storage space makes them pretty useless for movies and music.

Which is why I use USB flash drives for that stuff, they are so cheap now that it seemed like it was worth doing. I hated carrying my laptop round, no such worries with my EEEpc and I can get three films on an 8Gb (film length dependant).

The way I understand it, if you want to upgrade the memory on the ASUS you replace the 1GB with a 2 GB module[/URL].

Thanks. Sounds like it has 1 memory slot.

I picked up an ASUS EEEPC 1000HD for $329 at BestBuy last month.

A 2GB upgrade of RAM should be waiting in the mailbox tonight and i'm off to the races!

Please post your experience with the memory upgrade. Thx.

Please post your experience with the memory upgrade. Thx.

Memory arrived last night. It was a Kingston 2GB.

It literally took no more than 2-3 minutes. removed battery, popped off the cover (2 small screws), unclipped the 1GB memory chip, popped in the new one, repeat the steps above and it was ready to go.

The computer recognized the increase but i'm not sure what material difference there is in performance. i tend to have 10 IE windows open with youtube running at the same time...a bit ADD here.

It seems fine and the video didn't halt/skip

Loving it still...also read through an ASUS forum last night...I guess there's a huge battery available that can give around 10-12hours? anyone have any experience with that?

Not correct ;)

Only the Mini 1000's for home use come with XP. The business oriented machines (2133 and 2140) come with Vista.

Since the poster is having windows warnings with everything he changes, I'd say he probably has a Vista installed machine.

Actually, my 2133 came with Linux and then I got rid of it and installed XP Pro instead.

But since he quoted my post which specifically mentioned the the 1000, I assumed his response was in reference to that.

Yes, it's a 1000 I got, with XP installed. After making some changes... like installing Safari (yes, I know lots of people hate it), I'm finally getting used to the thing.

As I look around in control panels and preferences, I'm able turn off some of the more annoying stuff. It strikes me that MS must ship XP with every conceivable warning and notification activated. Stuff like for no apparent reason it has to tell me that I'm not on a wired network. Huh? I know the XP thing is off topic, sorry.

I basically like the machine. The only minor criticism is the trackpad. Having the left and right click buttons on either side of the pad is a problem. People's thumbs are shorter than their other fingers. You scroll with your index finger. To left click, you have to turn your hand to an uncomfortable angle.

We got a Dell Mini 9 last weekend, and are happy so far. Mrs. Redbeard watches our US Slingbox from bed, and can put it in her purse and hang out at Starbucks if she likes. It also has an integrated SIM slot so when there's no Wi-fi we can lock on to the 3G network. We're still tweaking options, and may upgrade the "hard drive."

Memory arrived last night. It was a Kingston 2GB.

It literally took no more than 2-3 minutes. removed battery, popped off the cover (2 small screws), unclipped the 1GB memory chip, popped in the new one, repeat the steps above and it was ready to go.

The computer recognized the increase but i'm not sure what material difference there is in performance. i tend to have 10 IE windows open with youtube running at the same time...a bit ADD here.

It seems fine and the video didn't halt/skip

Loving it still...also read through an ASUS forum last night...I guess there's a huge battery available that can give around 10-12hours? anyone have any experience with that?

Thanks. Appreciate the info.
When you open multiple apps including something like Photoshop, then you might notice the performance difference of the added memory.

Please post your experience with the memory upgrade. Thx.

One quirk of the ASUS PC1000. After upgrading memory, you need to enter/exit the BIOS for the Netbook to recognize. Well documented but nobody is sure why...

One quirk of the ASUS PC1000. After upgrading memory, you need to enter/exit the BIOS for the Netbook to recognize. Well documented but nobody is sure why...

D'oh!
I thought I read that somewhere but wasn't sure what I need to do...the darnded thing boots up so fast i'll have to wait with my trigger finger on the F key.
Is there something I need to do in the BIOS to get it to recognize? It does recognize in the sense that when I right-click on "my computer" it states i have 2GB of RAM

Is there something I need to do in the BIOS to get it to recognize? It does recognize in the sense that when I right-click on "my computer" it states i have 2GB of RAM

Found this in an ASUS forum:
For the computer to recognize the new memory you have to go to the Bios when you turn the machine on. Replace the battery and/or plug the computer into the charger. Press the power button and immediately press and hold the F2 key. You'll see a message on the screen telling you the machine is booting or loading Bios. No worries, this is simple. Once the Bios loads you'll see the full two gigs of memory have been recognized. Use the right arrow button to go to Exit. The default will be 'save changes and exit'. Just hit the enter key. Windows will load and you'll see the 2gb of memory loaded in "my computer/properties."

Re: the Netbook Era

Love all these comments--and those out there to be found on the webnest. Our take, after evolving thru (just the light ones for now) the ATT Globalyst 130, Sonys (10" and 505 12"), and Dells (1330 and x1)-- and living with all on the road, I've arrived at a netbook.

Actually the second. Tried the Samsung on trip to China. Lovely machine, but thick, somewhat heavy, dislikable touchpad and those fingerprints!

Returned Samsung and second major research focused on Lenovo s10 and Hp 1000 and 2140. Liked the Richard Sapper-based design of the Lenovo (he established the whole design ethos of the thinkbooks up to now), solid and business-like. Really like this machine, and price is low--($283 today), but keyboard a bit small for our fat fingers. However HD is great--160g.

Decided to try the HP 1000 (the 2140 was a little bigger and bit more $). Poor Circuit City had the 1035nr nearby for $404. Had to buy--very much like their early Omnibook form factor, which was an early trope on the Netbooks. (Also, they are a sponsor of our www.sparkawards.com project--but we are vigorously neutral with our laptop purchases!)

So--two weeks on, I love it. Widescreen, very light, fast, easily replaces Dell X1. (Big rant--everyone says these Intel Atoms aren't fast and are hot. Compared to what? In the real world they're all hot on one's lap. And this Atom is often playing DVDs and several (small) apps at once. (No not big games-- so read a book.) Still with fingerprints (wish these folks would give us rubbery-black surfaces)!

The Dell X1 is a good comparison--it's light, fairly fast and tough. Get one on ebay if you can--our 4year old is still in service (with new MB and drive). But it cost $1800 new.

The HP 1000 was $404. Add $70 for second battery, $70 for external dvd (all netbooks need), $15 for 2g ram (yes it works), and a nice skin from skinit.com. We're way under $1800.

Note to companies that make laptops-- yes, you'll lose a few thousand $1800 sales. But you'll sell millions of $400 units and vastly enlarge your markets. Who knows--they may even move up. And in a depression yet!

...$15 for 2g ram (yes it works)

Did you buy your extra RAM from HP? If not, who?

www.crucial.com is a good resource. Once you know the specs, you can buy it at any local computer store.

Thanks. But Crucial, Kingston, et al are all showing ~$30+ for the 2GB module, not $15. So I'm very interested to know where the poster found a 2GB module for that price.

Bought a new HP TX2500z Tablet PC about 4 months ago. Specs:

12.1" Widescreen Wacom touchscreen
AMD Turion X2 (Dual core) Processor
3GB RAM
160GB HDD
DVD Burner
ATI 3200 Graphics
802.11 a/b/g wireless
Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit
8 cell Li-ion battery (provides about 5 hours battery life)
HP Remote
Altec Lansing speakers
Integrated Web-cam

All for $799

Going to try it out on my next International trip in 5 days

Any other experiences with the Dell Mini 9? Ubuntu version is on sale today for $199! With a few minor upgrades, it still comes in under $300

I've been tempted to get a netbook for sometime for travel and at this price its tough not to...

Didn't like the Mini 9 too much from a review, since I basically want a Laptop replacement and found it in an Advent 4211 (MSI Wind U100) that I souped up to 2GB Ram and 320GB HDD (and factory Bios that Supports 2GHZ overclocking out of the box).

It traveled all over the world with me already and replaced my 15.4" Laptop. suffers a little "lack of style" (simply due to the fact that it's cheap) but is awesome apart from that.

Am actually eagerly awaiting the HD Version of the HP 2140 - A higher resolution display, that's all that's missing for my -perfect- Netbook.

Any other experiences with the Dell Mini 9? Ubuntu version is on sale today for $199! With a few minor upgrades, it still comes in under $300

I've been tempted to get a netbook for sometime for travel and at this price its tough not to...

I got a refurb one for the teenager. She likes it.

Change from the Dell desktop to the standard Ubuntu desktop. I already had an optical drive in case we need to reload the OS. No HD is a bit of disadvantage, but it doesn't seem to be bothering her. Note that this isn't a full featured laptop replacement -- it's not for music, videos, etc -- but it seems OK for web, email, schoolwork.

I got a refurb one for the teenager. She likes it.

Change from the Dell desktop to the standard Ubuntu desktop. I already had an optical drive in case we need to reload the OS. No HD is a bit of disadvantage, but it doesn't seem to be bothering her. Note that this isn't a full featured laptop replacement -- it's not for music, videos, etc -- but it seems OK for web, email, schoolwork.

Thanks!

I have a more full featured laptop for music/video/storage so this will be just for web/email/word processing while traveling. I got sick of lugging my 15.4" laptop everywhere and switched to blackberry-only travel recently, which is fine for short trips, but would rather have an actual portable computer for longer trips.

I will post a review in a few weeks.

Any other experiences with the Dell Mini 9? Ubuntu version is on sale today for $199! With a few minor upgrades, it still comes in under $300

I've been tempted to get a netbook for sometime for travel and at this price its tough not to...

Glad I saw this today! I've been looking for a netbook with a price that I won't have a big issue with if it get stolen.

Thanks. But Crucial, Kingston, et al are all showing ~$30+ for the 2GB module, not $15. So I'm very interested to know where the poster found a 2GB module for that price.

I would use something like this for $23 shipped, not sure if this is compatible with your particular netbook but it worked in a Samsung NC-10 per one review so i would think so.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148162

I used this in my mom's Thinkpad T60 and it worked fine.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148162

My dad is in town and I'm reminded of how much I dislike the usability of these netbooks. Here's a picture of his Aspire One on my Thinkpad X60s (taken with my iphone.)

http://img23.imageshack.us/my.php?image=x60svsacerie3.jpg

Here's the Aspire on my work T61

http://img240.imageshack.us/my.php?image=t61vsacerqz8.jpg

My dad is in town and I'm reminded of how much I dislike the usability of these netbooks. Here's a picture of his Aspire One on my Thinkpad X60s (taken with my iphone.)

http://img23.imageshack.us/my.php?image=x60svsacerie3.jpg

Here's the Aspire on my work T61

http://img240.imageshack.us/my.php?image=t61vsacerqz8.jpg

Interesting. Those pictures show me exactly why I love my Aspire. Smaller, lighter, far more portable for a "portable computer." I guess it's like the HSBC ads on jetbridges in London (and other places) showing the same pictures with opposing feelings about them :)

Cheers.

Interesting. Those pictures show me exactly why I love my Aspire. Smaller, lighter, far more portable for a "portable computer."

It's only 1/2lb lighter than the X60s. It's slightly more portable but the keyboard is rubbish and the trackpad isn't very usable. I use the X60 every day, I can't see myself using a netbook at home ever.

It's only 1/2lb lighter than the X60s. It's slightly more portable but the keyboard is rubbish and the trackpad isn't very usable. I use the X60 every day, I can't see myself using a netbook at home ever.

For home use I agree. But the netbooks are for travel...and at that they're far, far more convenient than the regular-sized items, IME. No contest on portability for travel use. I find the keyboard quite usable (and I can't type worth beans) and the trackpad is fine with a two-hand approach. Of course, it would be very simple to use a bluetooth (or similar) mini-mouse if the track pad is not acceptable.

Cheers.

For home use I agree. But the netbooks are for travel...and at that they're far, far more convenient than the regular-sized items.

Compared to a full sized laptop like my 5lb. T61 I would agree. But the 12" ultraportables are very easy to travel with and much more usable than any netbook I've tried. I wasn't going to spend $400 on a netbook that would only get used a few times a year. Even if I did a lot of travel I'd still rather have a 12" ultraportable because it doesn't feel like it was designed for a munchkin.

Compared to a full sized laptop like my 5lb. T61 I would agree. But the 12" ultraportables are very easy to travel with and much more usable than any netbook I've tried. I wasn't going to spend $400 on a netbook that would only get used a few times a year. Even if I did a lot of travel I'd still rather have a 12" ultraportable because it doesn't feel like it was designed for a munchkin.

Well, different strokes for different folks. I find it non-munchkin-like in the extreme and much easier to carry than something bigger. When traveling and walking around with a computer, the small one is much better to me. Fits in a small comfortable bag and always with me.

Anyway, enjoy your larger laptop and I'll enjoy my smaller one :)

Cheers.

I leave my employer issued Dell D630 in the office, and now travel with only my Lenovo S10. I love the small size and the keyboard is perfectly OK for typing. I pimped it with a 500G HDD, 2GB of RAM, an internal Bluetooth adapter and XP pro. It is the perfect size and does everything I need it to do.
I would urge all you people who are sitting on the fence to jump in, you really won't miss your honking great big dual-cored, 15" luggable monster. :D

- Tim

I jumped in the netbook pool recently. And I do have small 4lb, 12" screen laptop that I love. But I've found myself recently being torn between needing/wanting access and leaving the 700m home on trips.

A big reason for being torn is that I'm never sure if my carryon will be relegated to under plane storage by an overzealous FA (yes, even though it fits beautifully under the seat, this happens regularly on a particular flight I take repeatedly) and I don't want to send the laptop under the plane, nor do I want to have it at my seat without it's bag.

But there's no question now. The Aspire One fits neatly in my purse and will always make it on board with me, regardless of where my carryon ends up. Plus the security checkpoint is a breeze because there's need to open up my carryon bag.

I just used my Dell mini 9 on a 2 week trip to Bangkok ,

It worked fine , I was able to show some photos to people so I could leave the digital photo frame at home !

I got free Wifi from 2 sources outside my hotel window , not real fast but it got the job done ,

The Mini 9 has a solid state HD so its noise free ,

For $250 on Dells outlet it works great , I hope to download some movies to a USB memory card next time.

I am glad I bought it , its something that was needed for years !

Rally

I just used my Dell mini 9 on a 2 week trip to Bangkok ,

It worked fine , I was able to show some photos to people so I could leave the digital photo frame at home !

I got free Wifi from 2 sources outside my hotel window , not real fast but it got the job done ,

The Mini 9 has a solid state HD so its noise free ,

For $250 on Dells outlet it works great , I hope to download some movies to a USB memory card next time.

I am glad I bought it , its something that was needed for years !

Rally

The form factor on the Mini 9 sounds great! I have one on order that will take a MONTH to get here...how like that?

Anyway, once it gets here, it has a 2GB module and a 32GB SSD waiting for it. Once I install that, it will become a Hackintosh (running OS X) and will be ready for world travel...

I would use something like this for $23 shipped, not sure if this is compatible with your particular netbook but it worked in a Samsung NC-10 per one review so i would think so.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148162

I used this in my mom's Thinkpad T60 and it worked fine.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148162

---------------------
I'm sorry I didn't respond earlier-- I bought that ram in Hong Kong at the tech shopping center in "mid-town." Also a nice Samsung ext dvd for about $60US. By now both are probably less.

Update on HP 1000... no complaints after 1.5 months. Great size, speed, even battery OK. (I did buy an extra 3-cell. But why buy big, ugly 6-cell? Just change 'em!) Overall, a good traveling partner. But wish they'd make that darn vga dongle available.

Love Flyertalk & you folks!

My dad is in town and I'm reminded of how much I dislike the usability of these netbooks. Here's a picture of his Aspire One on my Thinkpad X60s (taken with my iphone.)

http://img23.imageshack.us/my.php?image=x60svsacerie3.jpg

Here's the Aspire on my work T61

http://img240.imageshack.us/my.php?image=t61vsacerqz8.jpg

I don't understand the point you are attempting to make. Yes, a netbook is smaller, er ok, that's the point!

I've had my dell mini 9 for about a week now and love it! took all of a half hour to get used to the keyboard (made myself send out a bunch of emails on it) and it's been great ever since. i got a refurb'd model with the 8gb ssd, bluetooth, 2gb ram, XP for 230$ shipped. im debating putting OS X on there or just upgrading to XP Pro. it's light, runs quick, and has done everything i've needed it too including watching the latest Wallace & Grommit show :)

I did a lot of soul searching before jumping in, if you want only what a netbook promises to give and no more, I jumped on the MSI Wind U-120. Its the newest model, has 802.11 n,b,g and bluetooth. Price just dropped to $399 with an additional $20 rebate. It's only in white now but I think that if your requirements are not super stringent it's currently the best bang for your buck. This opinion is only valid NOW as there will probably be something slightly better/different in an hour or two....:rolleyes:

I got the MSI U100-420US for $280. It was an open box model. I get to try it and return it for no restocking fee as it was an open box. So far, I like it. It doesn't have 802.11(n) contrary to a post by another poster. It does have bluetooth although specs that I have seen say it does not.

I'm thinking of getting a netbook, mostly for increased battery life on business travel. Tired of the 6 lbs plus weight of the charging brick and extra battery for my 5-year-old workhorse, a Dell Latitude 600.

Main use - net and wordprocessing, so surfing speed and keyboard are important. Iprefer trackpoint, but will use touchpad if need be. Webcam nice, now that we have family abroad.

I'm leaning towards the ASUS eee PC 1000HE based on comments here and on-line. However, I'm curious as to why no one has mentioned the MSI Wind series in this thread. Is there something I'm missing? They are $50 less for roughly comparable models...

I strongly recommend the HP Mini 1000 (http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/series_can.do;HHOJSID=l5g2JNbVvnhWpp8wmFL9JL1vhNWD QR2VvBhXFzgYst4v7tS5wnhJ!-233804918?storeName=computer_store&landing=notebooks&a1=Category&v1=Mini) series. It is extremely lightweight and has a beautiful design. Other than a rather lame battery life (around 2 hrs) this netbook is outstanding all around.

I recently bought the top of the line 1035NR from Newegg (http://www.newegg.com)for USD 349.99 delivered. Right now Newegg has bumped up the price of this netbook, but I wouldn't be surprised if they drop down the price again.

However, I'm curious as to why no one has mentioned the MSI Wind series in this thread. Is there something I'm missing? They are $50 less for roughly comparable models...

No idea about the Wind U120 but the Wind U100 is a b!tch to get at if you want to upgrade RAM or the HD.

I strongly recommend the HP Mini 1000 (http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/series_can.do;HHOJSID=l5g2JNbVvnhWpp8wmFL9JL1vhNWD QR2VvBhXFzgYst4v7tS5wnhJ!-233804918?storeName=computer_store&landing=notebooks&a1=Category&v1=Mini) series. It is extremely lightweight and has a beautiful design. Other than a rather lame battery life (around 2 hrs) this netbook is outstanding all around.


But, to me, having a good battery life is the whole point of a netbook.

No idea about the Wind U120 but the Wind U100 is a b!tch to get at if you want to upgrade RAM or the HD.
I had heard that about the Acer. zthe video I saw on how to add RAM to the ACER confirmed that. But adding RAM to the MSI Wind U100 is not all difficult. Here is Youtube Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwvc8fOxnF0&feature=related) showing you how to do it.


But, to me, having a good battery life is the whole point of a netbook.
Agreed.

Went ahead and sprang for the Asus eee 1000HE ...lured by the longer battery life, frustrated by the absence of erasure-head track ball (available only on HP netbooks, as far as I could tell). Will report in about a month after trips to OGG and KUL.

Another vote for the Acer Aspire One. Got it at Thanksgiving and have taken it on more than a dozen trips including the beach in Puerto Rico and Costa Rica. Love the thing. I used to work in IT and I'm picky about my computers but the thing performs like a champ and I love how incredibly portable and light it is.

I agree that the ultra portable full computers like the X60 are very nice as well and if you need to do more than web, email and few other basic tasks, than something like an X60 makes a lot more sense.

I haven't read every post in this thread yet but one other thing I'll mention is I like the security of taking this Netbook on trips rather than my main laptop. If I lose, damage or otherwise destroy my Aspire One, I am only out $300 and a little hassle--no data is lost and no major downtown when I get back to my office and still have my main laptop. This thing is worth EVERY penny.

Bang on. I still prefer to bring my X61 on trips over the PC1000. Ultraportables are also light years ahead of standard 14-15" notebooks.

Another vote for the X61 - just drug one all over South America. I use the extended battery, which seems to last forever, but I took the regular (small, flush) battery on it all over New Zealand and it made the unit super small and light. NZ was my first time ever using the small standard battery and having been so used to the 5+ hours i get from the extended one, I really found it limiting, I only would get about 2 hours out of it (it seemed).

Just 'cause I like new technology, I was really excited about the netbooks, but I too am a 10+ years Thinkpad trackpoint user and am useless with the touchpad, plus the X61 was only slightly larger than the netbooks but seemed to have a lot more capacity.

While I would love an X61, $1100 is a tough pill to swallow. I'm thinking of picking up an Asus 1000HE before my next big trip in June to replace my aging (and horrible battery) HP dv4000.

FWIW I've had an ASUS 901 (XP version) about 6 months now, and rate it 5*. At first, I only used it when travelling, but it's so light, easy to use & convenient, I now use it pretty uch every day (for leisure, not work). Battery life is good (6 hours+). At £250 (+/- $330), it's great value. I've lost count of the no. of times I've had guy/gals sitting next to me in airport bars/lounges ask about it and where I bought it, so it's a great social asset as well! Also, dropped it once at EWR security - no harm done!

It's the only netbook I have used, so cannot comment on others, but thoroughly recommend the ASUS brand.

I don't understand the point you are attempting to make. Yes, a netbook is smaller, er ok, that's the point!

That a 12" ultraportable is only marginally bigger and a lot more usable. Small is good for portability until it starts to infringe on usability.

I'm not thrilled to see a netbook thread hijacked for plugging larger ultralites.
Surely there are PLENTY of threads already, relevant to various non-netbooks.

Back on-topic for netbooks:
Asus Eee PC 1000HA refresh sees new chiclet keyboard (http://news.google.com.au/news/url?sa=t&ct2=au%2F0_0_s_6_3_aa&usg=AFQjCNHOTRM-LGi67XgvcT_X7r-xACoClw&cid=1324940459&ei=iGbYSajjIJCA7QPis66dAg&rt=SEARCH&vm=STANDARD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.netbookchoice.com%2F2009%2F04 %2F03%2Fasus-eee-pc-1000ha-refresh-sees-new-chiclet-keyboard%2F) Netbook Choice
Asus Eee PC T91 net tablet passes FCC (http://news.google.com.au/news/url?sa=t&ct2=au%2F0_0_s_4_0_t&usg=AFQjCNE_tFyDFm3Wxhj0P0qOwhT4JqbnzA&cid=1326304705&ei=iGbYSajjIJCA7QPis66dAg&rt=SEARCH&vm=STANDARD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.netbookchoice.com%2F2009%2F04 %2F04%2Fasus-eee-pc-t91-net-tablet-passes-fcc%2F)
Asus netbook includes optical drive (http://news.google.com.au/news/url?sa=t&ct2=au%2F0_0_s_5_0_t&usg=AFQjCNGzzXpWEI341CiTulR6ybFs_BzBsw&cid=1321506276&ei=iGbYSajjIJCA7QPis66dAg&rt=SEARCH&vm=STANDARD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.desktoplinux.com%2Fnews%2FNS3 094329097.html) (& fast graphics)
Asus (slim) S101 review (http://news.google.com.au/news/url?sa=t&ct2=au%2F0_0_s_7_0_t&usg=AFQjCNFt7freWeRSHKmaPZP2u9_hXkB2fg&cid=1323433380&ei=iGbYSajjIJCA7QPis66dAg&rt=SEARCH&vm=STANDARD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.smh.com.au%2Fnews%2Fdigital-life%2Flaptops%2Freviews%2Freview-asus-s101%2F2009%2F03%2F30%2F1238261511502.html)

I'm not thrilled to see a netbook thread hijacked for plugging larger ultralites.

The OP was asking about the merits of owning a netbook. Everyone gave their opinion. There was no hijacking.

Small is good for portability until it starts to infringe on usability.

Fortunately it doesn't for netbooks, if one uses them properly.

Cheers.

I absolutely love my Asus 1000H, take it everywhere with me now because it is just so small and I can pretty much do everything I need to do on the road. When I was flying this time several people were really interested in it as well and the air hostess actually asked me what kind it was.

Well, on the plane I actually watched 2 full movies on it that I had transferred to it via SDHC.

Just got back from from a SJC-SLC-EWR-SLC-SJC round trip. I transferred all my TIVO shows that have been sitting on the box for a while to my Samsung NC10. Despite the lack of on-board power, I was able to use the netbook for the entire duration of the flight (above 10000 ft!) without on a single battery charge.

Question:

I have an eee PC 1000HD. I've been watching movies in-flight and a thought just occurred to me. If I have the movies on the hard drive but when I watch, switch them to the SD card, would that save battery power? I have a traditional hard drive in mine, not a SSD. I was thinking that the hard drive wouldn't be spinning when watching the movie from the SD card.

If someone knows the answer to this, I would appreciate it.

Fortunately it doesn't for netbooks, if one uses them properly.

Your statement doesn't make a whole lot of sense as you would need to define how one uses a netbook "properly" (and also what constitutes improper use.) It very much comes down to personal preference and/or the intended use (ie., it's highly subjective.)

Your statement doesn't make a whole lot of sense as you would need to define how one uses a netbook "properly" (and also what constitutes improper use.) It very much comes down to personal preference and/or the intended use (ie., it's highly subjective.)
I think the comment makes perfect sense - if you are realistic in your expectations of what the device will do, it is perfectly useable. These devices are designed to be highly portable, but allow use of everyday apps such as a web browser, email, showing photos to friends, watching TV shows / movies on airplanes.

I keep my Aspire One on the coffee table at home when I'm not travelling - if I need to quickly look up something or write an email I just open it up, it wakes from standby in 2 seconds, and I just close the lid when I'm done. I can stick several hours of video content onto an SD card and watch it flawlessly on the device using VLC player or similar. Those uses alone are well worth the ~$300 cost of these devices.

Question:

I have an eee PC 1000HD. I've been watching movies in-flight and a thought just occurred to me. If I have the movies on the hard drive but when I watch, switch them to the SD card, would that save battery power? I have a traditional hard drive in mine, not a SSD. I was thinking that the hard drive wouldn't be spinning when watching the movie from the SD card.

If someone knows the answer to this, I would appreciate it.

The hard disk does not keep spinning for the entire movie... DVD players such as InterVideo read a huge block of data, say 25-50MB in one go into a memory buffer, so the HDD is active only for a few seconds per 5-10 mins of a movie.

Since there is an overhead involved with each read that is minimized with read-ahead caching and the cache of the DVD player. So, there is not going to be any savings with an SD card, infact because HDD are much faster than an SD card you may increase power consumption by directly using an SD card instead of transferring it to a HDD.

I took my Asus 1000HE and my $8 USB travel mouse with a retractable cord out to the KC BBQ Do last weekend. It was perfect for my needs - web browsing to kill time at both airports (the travel mouse works perfectly on the armrest of the comfortable WN "lounge" seats, and breakfast at a Panera on Sunday AM.

The hard disk does not keep spinning for the entire movie... DVD players such as InterVideo read a huge block of data, say 25-50MB in one go into a memory buffer, so the HDD is active only for a few seconds per 5-10 mins of a movie.

But it will be spinning the whole time, as there won't be enough lag in access for it to stop spinning, and that is where the power consumption comes in to play.

I'm a die hard life long Mac user...however I should be delving into an Asus 1000 netbook shortly.

How are you folks ripping DVDs to SD cards? I have software that lets me rip them to MemorySticks for a Sony PSP, but it is slow, quality is terrible and it limits the screen to about 2.5"

Any good software suggesions? Any good Mac software suggestions that can be watched on the WinXP machine?

Thanks

I'm a die hard life long Mac user...however I should be delving into an Asus 1000 netbook shortly.

How are you folks ripping DVDs to SD cards? I have software that lets me rip them to MemorySticks for a Sony PSP, but it is slow, quality is terrible and it limits the screen to about 2.5"

Any good software suggesions? Any good Mac software suggestions that can be watched on the WinXP machine?

Thanks

There are several existing threads on this topic in the forum that are more appropriate for this specific discussion. Please check them out. One is here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/travel-technology/936754-imdone-dvd-s-what-fastest-most-efficient-way-rip-masses-them.html).

I think the comment makes perfect sense - if you are realistic in your expectations of what the device will do, it is perfectly useable. These devices are designed to be highly portable, but allow use of everyday apps such as a web browser, email, showing photos to friends, watching TV shows / movies on airplanes.

I think the trap your falling into is thinking what works for you applies to everybody else. I have several hours behind an Aspire One, trying it side-by-side with my X60, and it did not work for me. The keyboard is tiny, the trackpad stinks and the screen is small. Short of using it as a portable movie player and to type out the occasional e-mail it would not get used unlike my X60 which I use daily (and travels very well.) My advice with netbooks has been pretty consistent, try before you buy if at all possible.

I think the trap your falling into is thinking what works for you applies to everybody else. I have several hours behind an Aspire One, trying it side-by-side with my X60, and it did not work for me. The keyboard is tiny, the trackpad stinks and the screen is small. Short of using it as a portable movie player and to type out the occasional e-mail it would not get used unlike my X60 which I use daily (and travels very well.) My advice with netbooks has been pretty consistent, try before you buy if at all possible.I agree with your basic premise, i.e. it all depends on what you need the netbook for. I like mine because I can replicate my "traveling office" in a much, much smaller footprint. I wouldn't use it on a long trip, but for short ones it's perfect -- at least for me. The small keyboard doesn't bother me, and the screen size, though small, is adequate for non-sustained use. I agree about the track pad -- I hate them. I solved the problem by getting a tiny Bluetooth adapter that stays plugged into one of the USB ports and only sticks out about 1/4". I use it with a Bluetooth Microsoft laser travel mouse. The combination works perfectly -- the mouse is small and rarely needs a mouse pad.

I think the trap your falling into is thinking what works for you applies to everybody else.

This is indeed true.

I, for instance, adapted to the keyboard and trackpad of the AcerOne in less than 30 minutes and haven't looked back.

I have an Aspire One. It plus a small HP printer together were $325 total.

Only complaint I have is the battery life...I can barely get three hours, even milking the settings a bit. I'm not sure how much farther I could tweak it to get more.

There are a handful of sites out there that don't work well with the screen - most notable being Google Maps. I'm very used to the screen, keyboard, and mouse by now. For a traveling laptop, this one works nicely.

Just wish it had a better battery, that's all...

The other Netbooks I was seeing were about $100-150 more. (I figure this printer is really worth about $50. It is nothing fancy.)

I have an Aspire One. It plus a small HP printer together were $325 total.

Only complaint I have is the battery life...I can barely get three hours, even milking the settings a bit. I'm not sure how much farther I could tweak it to get more.
It might be worth getting the 6-cell battery for it, I presume this is the 3-cell one? I get 4-5 hours from mine, often playing fullscreen video on it for a good portion of that.

I have an Aspire One. It plus a small HP printer together were $325 total.

Only complaint I have is the battery life...I can barely get three hours, even milking the settings a bit. I'm not sure how much farther I could tweak it to get more.

There are a handful of sites out there that don't work well with the screen - most notable being Google Maps. I'm very used to the screen, keyboard, and mouse by now. For a traveling laptop, this one works nicely.

Just wish it had a better battery, that's all...

The other Netbooks I was seeing were about $100-150 more. (I figure this printer is really worth about $50. It is nothing fancy.)
I'm pretty sure that your battery troubles are because you purchased the cheaper AspireOne model with the 3-cell battery. The more expensive models have the 6-cell battery and that is, IMO, a deal-breaker for choosing a NetBook.

And you're right about Google Maps. I've worked my way through the troubles on it reasonably OK, but that is annoying. A minor price to pay for the weight and space savings; a reasonable trade-off for me.

I think the trap your falling into is thinking what works for you applies to everybody else. I have several hours behind an Aspire One, trying it side-by-side with my X60, and it did not work for me. The keyboard is tiny, the trackpad stinks and the screen is small. Short of using it as a portable movie player and to type out the occasional e-mail it would not get used unlike my X60 which I use daily (and travels very well.) My advice with netbooks has been pretty consistent, try before you buy if at all possible.
It's hardly just my opinion - netbooks are the fastest growing segment in the PC market by a huge margin, according to various industry analysts such as Gartner, etc. There must be something right about them :)

I guess the discussion is over - let's agree to disagree.

Sounds like to 2MB of RAM is a real good idea... any one sell a good netbook with that much RAM already installed?

Sounds like to 2MB of RAM is a real good idea... any one sell a good netbook with that much RAM already installed?

Not that I know of - but with 2GB costing under $20, it's best to just DIY the job. Most ram can be upgraded in under 5 minutes with a small screwdriver.

Yes: at $250-ish, I'm sure I bought the cheapest of the Aspire Ones. 1.6Ghz Atom processor, 1G RAM, 160GB HD.

Looks like a 6-cell will set me back $44 to $48, shipped. I guess it's worth picking one up...

Sounds like to 2MB of RAM is a real good idea... any one sell a good netbook with that much RAM already installed?

Nope. And you can blame Microsoft for that.

In allowing XP to be sold for the NetBook market Microsoft defined strict requirements on the maximum specifications that the device could be delivered with. That includes screen size and RAM, with the latter capped at 1GB. Of course, the smarter vendors designed the systems to be easily upgraded, and the upgrade is generally very cheap, but there is a hard limit at 1GB set by MS.

Not that I know of - but with 2GB costing under $20, it's best to just DIY the job. Most ram can be upgraded in under 5 minutes with a small screwdriver.
Yes, but . . . on the Acer Aspire One it is, evidently, quite a task that involves disassembly of virtually the entire computer. There are sites around the net with photos documenting the process -- definitely not for those who are squeamish around computer guts.

Yes, but . . . on the Acer Aspire One it is, evidently, quite a task that involves disassembly of virtually the entire computer. There are sites around the net with photos documenting the process -- definitely not for those who are squeamish around computer guts.

Ah yeah, I forgot about that, thanks!

The Aspire one was a nice machine, but now I remember why I made the switch to other machines.

Why does Microsoft care about the maximum specs? I can understand minimum...

One other annoyance about the Aspire: I'm having a hard time getting it to actually go into standby mode and retain most of its battery charge. It appears to go into standby mode but continues to drain the battery... (I'm talking about draining the entire charge in a few hours...not the normal standby effect where you lose a few percent overnight.)

Why does Microsoft care about the maximum specs? I can understand minimum...Because Microsoft really, really wants to abandon XP and get everyone on Vista.

One other annoyance about the Aspire: I'm having a hard time getting it to actually go into standby mode and retain most of its battery charge. It appears to go into standby mode but continues to drain the battery... (I'm talking about draining the entire charge in a few hours...not the normal standby effect where you lose a few percent overnight.)

Could be your machine. I get about 4-5 hours of actual use. If I put it into standby, I can get several days of life out of the battery before needing a charge. Definitely not a characteristic of the machine, in general.

Cheers.

I've had the Acer One 8.9" screen w/ the 6 cell battery for about 6 weeks now and I love it. I had a mod done a week ago or so to put a touchscreen on it and an internal Bluetooth adapter. Having the touchscreen function just increases it's usability in close quarters IMO.

Has anyone tried putting OS X on a netbook? I'm really tempted to buy a netbook just to try it out, if it works, I'll have a light and cheap macbook mini. I can get the Dell Mini 9 for around $325. Here is a OS X compatibility chart for various popular netbook models.
http://gadgets.boingboing.net/2008/12/17/osx-netbook-compatib.html

I read through the process for doing it on a Dell Mini 9, and it doesn't seem to complicated. I've given some thought to buying OS X and giving it a try but I really don't mind XP that much.

Wow, I've been eyeing the Acer netbook at Sam's Club for several weeks. Every time I go I have to look at the thing. It is $299, does that sound like a good price? They also carry an HP version, the specs seem identical, but that is around $450.

This thread has been extremely helpful!!!!

My major worry so far has been the compressed keyboard, but it sounds like you adjust to it (kind of like typing on my iPhone). When I was in high school, I bought a Brother electric typewriter that had funky keys, and I adjusted to that too. Although I have an iPhone, the Netbook could be handy for when I want to surf the net and watch tv at home (have a nice tv/stereo setup in the family room, a very wired house and WiFi all over) and for personal travel. I have an old IBM T42 that I sometimes lug in my backpack, but this could be a nice change, and I wouldn't mind carrying it.

I have a eee 1000HE, 2GB ram and a touch screen installed. Traveled with it last month and was quite pleased. Even with the touch screen on and running a Sprint 595U when i didn't have wifi, I was still managing around 8 hours of battery when on the power saver mode. With it set to high performance mode, it would still get about 5-6 hours.

Although the keyboard is small, it is still quite usable. I didn't have any problems using it to remote desktop back in office whenever needed. Although the screen did feel a bit cramped since most of my screens back in the office at running 1920x1200.

I used to carry a dell m1330 but the eee is much more convenient. I felt bad for those poor souls who were bringing out their 17" laptops, reminds me when I used to lug my inspiron 9300 around, ouch.

Has anyone tried putting OS X on a netbook? I'm really tempted to buy a netbook just to try it out, if it works, I'll have a light and cheap macbook mini. I can get the Dell Mini 9 for around $325. Here is a OS X compatibility chart for various popular netbook models.
http://gadgets.boingboing.net/2008/12/17/osx-netbook-compatib.html

A bunch of people have done this, and it works pretty well:

http://wiki.osx86project.org/wiki/index.php/10.5.5_on_the_Dell_Inspiron/mini_9

The installation process is a bit involved, especially if you use USB flash drives instead of an external DVD reader, but the end result - a poor man's MacBook Air - is worth the trouble.

Wow, I've been eyeing the Acer netbook at Sam's Club for several weeks. Every time I go I have to look at the thing. It is $299, does that sound like a good price?

That's probably the model with the shorter battery life with 3 cells. Costco by me has the 6 cell Acer in stock for $399, but I seem to recall looking at reviews on that model and the battery life was shorter than other 6 cell models out there.

Try a PM to brp on the AA forum. He has the Acer model you're probably looking at. Don't know how often he checks in here.

That's probably the model with the shorter battery life with 3 cells. Costco by me has the 6 cell Acer in stock for $399, but I seem to recall looking at reviews on that model and the battery life was shorter than other 6 cell models out there.

Try a PM to brp on the AA forum. He has the Acer model you're probably looking at. Don't know how often he checks in here.

Hadn't been here in a while, but I guess this is a timely visit :)

$299 does sound like the 3-cell model. Definitely go for the 6-cell. I have that one and do get 4-6 hours out of it. Mine is from Micro Center, so I can't comment on whether the CostCo offerings perform more poorly.

Cheers.

I've had the Acer One 8.9" screen w/ the 6 cell battery for about 6 weeks now and I love it. I had a mod done a week ago or so to put a touchscreen on it and an internal Bluetooth adapter. Having the touchscreen function just increases it's usability in close quarters IMO.

Where does one get this done...and what is the approximate cost? I'd like the bluetooth internal (had one of those tiny dongles and it self-destructed even though it's very low profile). I hadn't heard about a touchscreen option, but I do find myself trying to touch the screen anyway...so I must want one :)

Cheers.

The touch screen panels are about $100. I ordered mine for my eee from http://www.fidohub.com, I believe they stock one for the Acer One there. Installation is a bit involved since you have to take your netbook apart. Since there is no soldering involved, if you take your time you should be able to tackle the job.

The touch screen panels are about $100. I ordered mine for my eee from http://www.fidohub.com, I believe they stock one for the Acer One there. Installation is a bit involved since you have to take your netbook apart. Since there is no soldering involved, if you take your time you should be able to tackle the job.
Wow...that's pretty cool. I'm very tempted by that, though I'm not entirely sure why. I cannot think of a reason that I need mine to be a touch screen, but I still want it to be. :o

The touch screen panels are about $100. I ordered mine for my eee from http://www.fidohub.com, I believe they stock one for the Acer One there. Installation is a bit involved since you have to take your netbook apart. Since there is no soldering involved, if you take your time you should be able to tackle the job.

Thanks for the link to the touch panel screen. That's really cool.
Aside from the installation (which can be tricky), can you report on your experience with it? Any software needed (presume it was bundled with the panel).

Why don't OEMs offer a netbook with touch screen?

The touch screen panels are about $100. I ordered mine for my eee from http://www.fidohub.com, I believe they stock one for the Acer One there. Installation is a bit involved since you have to take your netbook apart. Since there is no soldering involved, if you take your time you should be able to tackle the job.

That is pretty neat! How does it affect the visibility of the LCD under it? The one for the Dell Mini 9 says "Transmittance: >85%"...I'm wondering how that works in real life.

That is pretty neat! How does it affect the visibility of the LCD under it? The one for the Dell Mini 9 says "Transmittance: >85%"...I'm wondering how that works in real life.

Haven't really noticed much of a difference. I usually have my screen brightness set halfway and after the install didn't change it.

Today's Woot is an EEE 900 for $149.

Today's Woot is an EEE 900 for $149.With only a 4GB SSD and 512MB of RAM, that's about how much a refurb EEE900 is worth.

Thanks for the link to the touch panel screen. That's really cool.
Aside from the installation (which can be tricky), can you report on your experience with it? Any software needed (presume it was bundled with the panel).

Why don't OEMs offer a netbook with touch screen?

My experience with it has been good so far. Clicking on icons and links when using the browser are great. The downside is trying to use it to do something precise, then again I usually use my finger instead of using the pen included.

It comes with software to calibrate the screen, once you've installed it and calibrated it you are good to go.

808,
Thanks

I finally did it, I ended up picking up a Dell Inspiron Mini 10.1" over the weekend. So far, so good, got Windows 7 on it just fine (after later picking up a USB memory stick). The keyboard is slightly smaller than standard (I think they say 90%), the main thing to get used to is the touchpad; I seem to bump it when I hit the space bar. I do have an external mouse that I'm using too.

Now I want a case for it. I found this one (http://www.amazon.com/Mobile-Edge-Messenger-Black-Silver/dp/B000GFHJUS/ref=pd_ts_e_12?ie=UTF8&s=electronics), what do people think?

I have a laptop backpack I could use, but it seems a bit overkill for such a small computer...

Anything else I should know or any helpful hints are appreciated.

As far as cases go... we have 2 of the Dell 9" ones now. One Ubuntu, one a CloudBook (MacOS and saves on MobileMe). We got Belkin neoprene sleeves at Target. The kid tosses hers in her purse. The wife puts hers in a small Timbuktu bag.

I'm not even sure Dell is still packaging the Mini9 with Ubuntu anymore but I strongly warn anyone against buying it. I was enthusiastic about the $299 price and Ubuntu sounded neat but I've only had mine 6 months and it is going back to Dell for the third time for repair.
It seems there is some issue with Ubuntu upgrades causing the system to crash or malfunction and Dell doesn't seem to have a handle on getting it resolved properly. So beware!

Proud owner of Samsung NC10. Light (1kg) and long lasting battery. Great for travelling. I chose it because of weight, higher res webcam, long battery life and great screen. There's a new Samsung N310 - it looks fab. Unfortunately, the specs are similar to NC10 but I love the formfactor and Viao'esque keyboard.

Has anyone tried putting OS X on a netbook? I'm really tempted to buy a netbook just to try it out, if it works, I'll have a light and cheap macbook mini. I can get the Dell Mini 9 for around $325. Here is a OS X compatibility chart for various popular netbook models.
http://gadgets.boingboing.net/2008/12/17/osx-netbook-compatib.html

I've been thinking the same thing too but have just held off. I am just wary of the internet .iso files download.. Hence I was thinking of getting the OS X CD and then do the install using the methods described.

I am waiting for the upcoming (I hope) Apple 10" touchscreen tablet.

http://blogs.zdnet.com/Apple/images/apple-tablet-concept-pixel-mojo.jpg

this is one example, not my preferred choice though.

If Apple comes out with a tablet, I'm seriously considering buying it. When will it become a reality?

Proud owner of Samsung NC10. Light (1kg) and long lasting battery. Great for travelling. I chose it because of weight, higher res webcam, long battery life and great screen.

Excellent choice ^ ;).

If Apple comes out with a tablet, I'm seriously considering buying it. When will it become a reality?

Rumor is that it will happen sometime this year. May be announced in June.

Been using the Taiwan MSI Wind U100 ,came with 802.11 bgn and BT, a budget choice and ;) handy.

While not technically a netbook, check out the Sony Vaio TZ or similar series. You can get them at the sony online outlet store for a bargain. Not much more than a netbook, but with cd drive built in, lots of RAM and HD space, and windows vista.

It is funny to watch the small machines slowly become larger :D

My first Netbook was the 7" Asus, then they moved to 8", then 10", and now Dell has even stopped selling their 9".

Now Lenovo is coming out with a 12" Ideapad. Sooner or later we'll all be back where we used to be :D

Shot in the dark here-

My Acer One which is 3 months old has started to turn off about 15 seconds after booting begins. It does this whether on AC or battery and no matter how I try to avoid it by starting in Safe mode, etc.

Any ideas before I just return it to Amazon where I got a pretty good deal?

Any ideas before I just return it to Amazon where I got a pretty good deal?

hahaha. you think you are going to be able to return it to amazon.com? :D

Good luck with that. Your next call will be to Acer tech support.

-David

I will buy an Asus eee pc 1000 ha in 2 weeks time. Hope it is as good as the reviews say.

I will buy an Asus eee pc 1000 ha in 2 weeks time. Hope it is as good as the reviews say.As long as you're okay with the tiny right shift key. That's a deal breaker for me.

Much better keyboard on the Samsung N120 or the Acer Aspire One.

I will buy an Asus eee pc 1000 ha in 2 weeks time. Hope it is as good as the reviews say.

Spend a little more and get the 1000HE - it adds a better keyboard, 802.11n wireless, bluetooth and a better battery. Well worth the price difference.

Spend a little more and get the 1000HE - it adds a better keyboard, 802.11n wireless, bluetooth and a better battery. Well worth the price difference.
The keyboard and longer life battery were the main factors in my choice of the HE, and I've had no regrets. I LOVED not having to worry about recharging the battery on my most recent transpacific flights.

If Apple comes out with a tablet, I'm seriously considering buying it. When will it become a reality?

I thought they already have it

http://www.mumoh.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/apple-newton.jpg
:D

Spend a little more and get the 1000HE - it adds a better keyboard, 802.11n wireless, bluetooth and a better battery. Well worth the price difference.

Sitting here typing this on my new 1000HE and absolutely agree about the battery. I'm having trouble getting used to the fact that it's completely usable even if the battery is down below 15% charge. On my Thinkpad T43 (yes, it should be retired...) with a 2 month old 9-cell battery, I'd be starting to look for a power point if I only had 15% battery left! I just wish the Asus had the same pointer as the Thinkpads because I've never really got used to a touchpad or an external mouse on a laptop. The Asus is no different from other netbooks in this respect though.

Interestingly, the 1000HE comes sans OS here in Thailand (or at least mine did). I assume that may also be the case in some of the other Asian markets. IIRC, the Asus website only lists WinXP as the available OS but I guess the spec here is an indicator of the Thai software market...

I have been using Netbooks for almost 2 years, started off with the ASUS 7", wnrt to the 9" when it came out and now am using the 10". I have had no issues with any of these however have had a far better experience with the 10" mainly due to keyboard size which suits me better.

Also bought my daughter a 9" ACER for Christmas and have to say I'm disappointed with the battery life, found she cannot watch movies from say MIA to ORD (about 3 hrs?), while my ASUS lasted almost twice as long (WiFi shut down etc.).

Spend a little more and get the 1000HE - it adds a better keyboard, 802.11n wireless, bluetooth and a better battery. Well worth the price difference.

Just ordered one myself and will be putting win7 on it^:D

Sitting here typing this on my new 1000HE and absolutely agree about the battery. I'm having trouble getting used to the fact that it's completely usable even if the battery is down below 15% charge. On my Thinkpad T43 (yes, it should be retired...) with a 2 month old 9-cell battery, I'd be starting to look for a power point if I only had 15% battery left! I just wish the Asus had the same pointer as the Thinkpads because I've never really got used to a touchpad or an external mouse on a laptop. The Asus is no different from other netbooks in this respect though.

Interestingly, the 1000HE comes sans OS here in Thailand (or at least mine did). I assume that may also be the case in some of the other Asian markets. IIRC, the Asus website only lists WinXP as the available OS but I guess the spec here is an indicator of the Thai software market...

I'm not sure why they do this.....maybe something to do with having an OS and license...and software piracy??.....but then, 300 b buys you an operating system installed with all drivers. Maybe the manufacturer tries to cut costs by adding something free like Ubuntu....knowing how cheap a complete OS can be bought??....but it is very interesting that all computers I bought in Thailand (over 10 in all) never came with a legit OS installed at the factory.

The Samsung N120 was my choice....very nice 97% of full size keyboard.....great run time....about 9.5 hours.....a really nice set up.

Spend a little more and get the 1000HE - it adds a better keyboard, 802.11n wireless, bluetooth and a better battery. Well worth the price difference.

+1. I love mine. You should get the 2G RAM also.

I don't see it mentioned here, but Intel is supposedly going to release an updated, faster, dual core version of the Atom cpu in the 4th quarter of this year.

So if anyone is planning on buying a Netbook in the near future, they may wish to hold out a bit... (although I have no idea how quickly those processors would be passed down to the Netbook manufacturers).

On another note, I bought a Toshiba NB100 from LHR T5 a few months back. Was less than US$400 (goes for considerably more here in Switzerland). Originally wanted to get the Dell 9, but it had run out, so this Toshiba looked like the second best alternative out there.

It's very small, one of the smallest Netbook you can get, it's also pretty light at around 2 pounds/1 kilo. The 160gig disk is large and fast, even with the power hungry McAfee antivirus tools installed, this thing runs pretty well, occasional hitch here and there. Screen resolution is a perfectly acceptable 1024x600 on the 8.9" screen, and 1gig of ram seems to be enough for my current use.

However, the power unit is a large'ish brick, not as as small as with some other manufacturers, and the keyboard keys are WAY small. It does have a "full" looking keyboard even down to dedicated F11 and F12 keys (missing from some other brands, but sometimes there if you press a key combo), but the keys are just tiny and require a decent amount of pressure for the machine to recognize that I just typed out something. This results in a fair bit of backspacing to correct mistakes :(

Battery life is also a little short at 3.5 hours...

Still, it does what it's intended to do, so I'm not complaining too much, it's just so portable that it overcomes some of the other shortcomings.

Got my 1000HE today. :)

Spending the rest of the day doing Windoze Updates and installing all sorts of programs on it.

Having done some netbook-shopping lately, I've got one question: is there anyone out there who prefers either
(A) the chiclet keyboards used in some models (ie some cheaper ASUS ones, among others)
or
(B) the "flush" keyboards used in some models (quite a few HPs, among others)

The first I don't see the appeal of at all, while the flush keyboards strike me as something that would be good for hunt-and-peckers since the actual business end is bigger, BUT horrible (possibly worse than chiclet) for those of us who can type without looking (whether proper touch typists or simply self-trained) since there is virtually no tactile feedback where the keys end.

I really want a netbook with a hi-res screen, but the only one out there that had it (the HP Mini 2140) is already EOL :(

The Acer Aspire One 11" looks great, but has a horrible CPU and the Lenovo S12 is too big.

I really wish I could just find a nice 10" machine with a 1280x768 display :(

Just got the email that the Asus 1005HA is now available for pre-order.

The only differences I could tell from the 1000HE were a longer battery life (10.5 hr theoretical) and Bluetooth V2.1.

I'm thinking Acer Aspire One 250 model. Is it as well liked as all the reviews and user feedback? It is for my parents and they'll always be close to an outlet so I figure the 3 cell batt model.

I really want a netbook with a hi-res screen, but the only one out there that had it (the HP Mini 2140) is already EOL :(

The Acer Aspire One 11" looks great, but has a horrible CPU and the Lenovo S12 is too big.

I really wish I could just find a nice 10" machine with a 1280x768 display :(

Agreed. The next gen is supposed to get better I heard, but still not really big enough for me. It has completely changed the way I've approached my coding and other publicly consumed content efforts so as to be compatible with the small screen but most others haven't taken such an approach it seems.

I really want a netbook with a hi-res screen, but the only one out there that had it (the HP Mini 2140) is already EOL :(

What about the Dell Mini 10? (not 10v)

It's got an option to upgrade to the "10.1" HD Widescreen Display (1366x768)"

(It has a Z520 or Z530, though, which may be the same "horrible processor" you are referring to with the Acer. I haven't seen the acer 11.6" models in person, but it didn't seem from specs much smaller than the Mini 12 or NC20 - I'd assume that all the 11"-12" models are too big if some of them are.)

That said, all the 12" models I'm aware of are 1280x800

I am going backpacking for a year (some of it on busses / trains etc but also renting RVs in the states (which will be more secure) and wondered if anyone could recommend a good net book that is pretty much as ‘bombproof’ as possible (presumably I should be thinking solid state drive?).

It needs to be capable of storing a decent amount of data i.e. photos and videos from the trip (wont SSD struggle for capacity?), small, inbuilt webcam for Skype etc, light and portable? I need something to slip into the top of my pack to keep in touch. Also would prefer windows as have used before.

I am not overly budget sensitive and want something with a bit of build quality if possible that will last the trip if I look after it and it doesn’t get stolen!!. Thanks in advance for any tips / ideas

a good net book that is pretty much as ‘bombproof’ as possible (presumably I should be thinking solid state drive?).

It needs to be capable of storing a decent amount of data i.e. photos and videos from the trip (wont SSD struggle for capacity?)

The standard netbook-style SSDs will struggle for capacity with photos and videos. Depending on the type of pictures you take and the camera you use, ANY but the largest HDs may struggle for capacity after a year - I shoot around 1gb a day on vacation, and I'm not THAT heavy a user as an amateur photographer (but still shoot RAW; similar volume in high quality JPEG will be around 1/3 that size.)

Heavy video shooting depending on the qualify/codec/etc can overwhelm any hard drive.

Most netbook SSDs are small (order of 16gb); there are larger, HD-sized (64/80/128gb) SSDs ... if you're willing to spend a bit and upgrade a system, getting a regular netbook and then upgrading either (A) the internal SSD to a larger one or (B) the internal HD to a SSD would be options; how easy this is vs. being a matter of surgery really depends on the model.

You can always buy one of those compact external hard drives and just plug it into the netbook when you need to store photos and documentation. They are really small now and take up no real space or weight. I have a 250G Western Digital drive. It's smaller than my Nintiendo DS. I have an Aspire One and, combined with the WG drive, it's given me all I need when I travel.

Don't know how good a deal it is, but I noted that woot.com has the Acer Aspire One 10.1" LCD 1.6GHz Netbook for $259 today.

I noticed Sony announced a netbook (http://news.google.com/news?q=sony+netbook&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hl=en&ei=G6xWSqyVNJW3lAesxaHjBA&sa=X&oi=news_group&ct=title&resnum=1)(W-series) with a higher-res screen, but a higher price, around USD$500.

crunchgear story (http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/07/07/sony-netbook-features-hi-res-screen-costs-500-coming-next-month/)
engadget (http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/07/sony-announces-vaio-w-netbook/)

ScottC, when is your unit due to arrive? ;)

I look forward to the reviews and whether/when it's worth replacing my trusty Eee PC 1000H with something substantially better.

I noticed Sony announced a netbook (http://news.google.com/news?q=sony+netbook&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hl=en&ei=G6xWSqyVNJW3lAesxaHjBA&sa=X&oi=news_group&ct=title&resnum=1)(W-series) with a higher-res screen, but a higher price, around USD$500.

crunchgear story (http://www.crunchgear.com/2009/07/07/sony-netbook-features-hi-res-screen-costs-500-coming-next-month/)
engadget (http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/07/sony-announces-vaio-w-netbook/)

ScottC, when is your unit due to arrive? ;)

I look forward to the reviews and whether/when it's worth replacing my trusty Eee PC 1000H with something substantially better.

I hate Sony. I won't spend a penny on it. FWIW; The HP Mini 110 can now also be ordered with a hi-res screen, and it'll sell for about $350. As usual, Sony is overpriced, underspecced and uninteresting.

Wow what a ripoff. The one and only time I bought a Sony computer was my Vaio laptop for college. Till this day I regret that purchase, it was an overpriced piece of junk!

I hate Sony. I won't spend a penny on it.

+1

I avoid anything with a Sony label like the plague.

The timeline leading to this new Vaio is funny... Sony obviously saw their own marketshare in the ultra portable market disappear, I mean - why would someone pay $2000 for a very nice Vaio (and I mean that) when they could get a fairly similar machine for $400? Sony ignored the whole Netbook craze, and introduced their pathetic P series (honestly, what a piece of crap). Of course, nobody wants to pay $1000 for a machine like that.

So, at the end of the day, Sony joins the ranks of Acer, Asus, Dell and Lenovo who have all been stealing customers from them, except they do it with a machine that does the same as any other, but costs $150 more.

THAT is why I hate Sony.

IMO, Sony is the Apple-version for PC fanbois.

I'm going back-and-forth between a new 11.6" netbook (probably the Gateway LT3103u) for around $400 and an off-lease Dell D420 for around $235 (after 8% bing.com cashback). This would be for around-the-house computing, travel business computing (email, office), and travel video (mostly 720p MKV). I'm currently leaning towards the D420 for the following reasons

Price - ~ $165 less
Durability - Magnesium/aluminum body vs. plastic
Processing power - 1.2ghz Core Duo vs. 1.2ghz Athlon Single Core
Battery life - ~7 hours (with 9 cell) vs. ~5 hours
Screen Finish - Matte vs. Glossy

I consider the following aspects a wash between the two:

Size/weight - both ~12" diaganol, ~1" thick, 3 - 3.5lb
Screen Resolution - 1280x720 vs. 1366x768

There are a few things the Gateway has going for it:

Hard Drive - 250gb vs. 80gb, SATA vs. IDE
Memory - 2gb vs. 1.5gb (but easily upgradeable)
Warranty - 1yr vs. DOA
Video processing - ATI x1270 vs. Intel GMA 945

Anyone have any comments on a newer netbook, especially a uniquely powerful one like the Gateway, compared to an older but higher-end ultralight? Thanks!

Anyone have any comments on a newer netbook, especially a uniquely powerful one like the Gateway, compared to an older but higher-end ultralight? Thanks!

It's cheaper, equivalent weight and has longer battery life. Especially for travel the battery life is crucial. Keep in mind that after you add a sleeve and power brick you're still looking at around 5 pounds or so which isn't ultralight if that matters.

It's cheaper, equivalent weight and has longer battery life. Especially for travel the battery life is crucial. Keep in mind that after you add a sleeve and power brick you're still looking at around 5 pounds or so which isn't ultralight if that matters.

Which are you referring to? In this case, the older ultralight is cheaper, within .5lb of the 11.6" netbook, more powerful (CPU but not GPU), and longer battery life (9 cell assuming decent condition). The main drawbacks are warranty, risk of a dud battery, and video processing (mainly for 720p MKVs). Another benefit is the Dell D420 would share a docking station and power brick with my company laptop, a D630.

Which are you referring to? In this case, the older ultralight is cheaper, within .5lb of the 11.6" netbook, more powerful (CPU but not GPU), and longer battery life (9 cell assuming decent condition). The main drawbacks are warranty, risk of a dud battery, and video processing (mainly for 720p MKVs). Another benefit is the Dell D420 would share a docking station and power brick with my company laptop, a D630.

Sounds like a win all around other than the risks with the battery, and for the $165 you save, that comes very close to the cost of a new battery.

The warrantee seems less of a risk, assuming they have some protection for returns if defective on arrival - in general, laptop problems should be pretty obvious pretty quickly.

I've now found a D420 with 94 days of transferable dell warranty left and no battery for $205 - 8% = $189. I can get a new 3rd party 6-cell batter for $40 - 8% = $37. $226 all-in with warranty and new battery seems to have made my decision for me.

I've been using a Dell Mini10 for several months and have been pretty happy overall.
Pros.. good keyboard, webcam, 160GB HD, wifi and bluetooth, lightweight, small power adapter.
Cons.. Battery life isn't the greatest at ~2hr (I may order an extra battery) and the mousepad doesn't work well for drag-drop (no separate mouse buttons). Works fine though if I use a USB travel mouse but it's one extra thing to carry.

I had bought a Mini9 but the keys were way too small.. mrs. hauteboy is now using it. :)

I hate Sony. I won't spend a penny on it. FWIW; The HP Mini 110 can now also be ordered with a hi-res screen, and it'll sell for about $350. As usual, Sony is overpriced, underspecced and uninteresting.

That's why our friend ;) was a part of the question.
Wasn't it always the way with Sony; be grateful you're not being ripped off to the extent we are in Oz, where we are always charged a substantial premium for some Sony products compared to US prices. :(

The whole netbook thing is funny - I started with the very first 7" Eee - then on to an 8.9" Acer, then a 10" Lenovo, then my 11.6" Gateway, and now (after just 2 weeks), I've moved on to the HP DV2. I'm beginning to think that every who said netbooks were just toys, was right :D

I wish Lenovo would bring back the 701C "butterfly keyboard" on the netbook form factor.

In some ways, my 701C was the best ThinkPad I ever owned, and the keyboard, counter-intuitively, was absolutely rock-solid.

I've often wondered why some manufacturer doesn't resurrect it.

The whole netbook thing is funny - I started with the very first 7" Eee - then on to an 8.9" Acer, then a 10" Lenovo, then my 11.6" Gateway, and now (after just 2 weeks), I've moved on to the HP DV2. I'm beginning to think that every who said netbooks were just toys, was right :D

Back to my favourite netbook attribute... the ability to run for 5-8hrs on one six-cell battery.

While the netbook might be a toy for jobs which push beyond the netbook's original role as a cheap web appliance and low-cost writing tool (like watchingg HD movies), mine's doing fine and going the distance on its battery.

Remember that this thread's title is more than one word. ;)

Just recently picked up a Samsung N110 (latest version of NC10), and loving it!

Good keyboard, bright screen, and very good battery life - 5+ hrs...

Definitely worth a look.

My parents wanted a netbook so I ordered them an Acer Aspire One D250 10.1" with 1GB of RAM and the 3 hour battery in Sapphire Blue from Amazon for $299.99. No sales tax and got the free 2nd day shipping with Prime.

My parents will only be using it to surf the Web and maybe using OpenOffice so I think 1GB should suffice and they always plug in to an outlet.

I'm going to chime in. I am considering one of these to supplement my every day high power Dell laptop, primarily for those rare trips where I don't need all the computing power of that Dell.

I've got some real stupid questions:

1. Can netbooks run apps like Word, Excel and Outlook?
2. Any reason they could not VPN in to a business network?
3. What is the downside of the non-SSD drives that come in these devices?
4. If I wanted to watch movies, what am I looking for in terms of capabilities if I don't want an external DVD drive?

The very few that I have seen in person have terrible to use keyboards. I know I likely won't be able to find a full keyboard, but I need something that I can actually type on without constantly using the hunt and peck mode.

I've been to several Best Buys and don't find many of the units discussed here. I'd like to take a look at some of the ASUS models since they are so highly recommended on this thread...where can I find one in person so I can try before I buy?

Dingo,

1 - yes, like like a regular pc
2 - not really, like like a regular pc
3 - I think SSD is touted as no moving parts but my Samsung NC10 is just the usual HDD. No problems for me.
4 - Not tried it myself but may be to rip your movies to a very large size USB stick. A bit cumbersome I think.

Samsung IIRC keyboard is 97% of fullsize. I like mine. Check out the new Samsung N310... Pretty stylish too with Sony style keyboard and not the price :)

I agree 100% with SQFAN but will add my own commentary:

1. Netbooks use the exact same version of Windows XP / Vista / 7 as full-sized laptops. So any application that's compatible with the version of Windows on your netbook should install. Note that there will be some rare exceptions - some programs that check for a specific processor and/or screen resolution may not install on a netbook. For example, Canon's Digital Photo Professional would not install on my netbook due to the resolution being too low. This situation is relatively rare though.

2. VPN should work fine. The only possible caveat is if your VPN solution uses a smartcard (as my employers does). The smartcard reader in my laptop is a PC Card, and since my netbook does not have a PC Card slot, I've had to get a USB based smartcard reader.

3. This discussion is more about the upside of SSD than the downside of non-SSD. A netbook without an SSD is just using a "regular" 2.5" laptop hard drive; the same kind of drive that's in your laptop. The *upside* of an SSD drive is speed and power savings.

4. I've ripped movies and copied them to my netbooks hard drive. I have a 250gb drive so space isn't really an issue. However, playbook performance can be choppy. If you're going to be ripping movies specifically to watch them on a netbook, you may want to scale down the resolution of the output movie so that playbook will be less resource intensive.

JClishe, good catch on the VPN side. ^ I completely forgotten my past employer required me to use a smart card reader too.

What about the Dell Mini 10? (not 10v)

It's got an option to upgrade to the "10.1" HD Widescreen Display (1366x768)"

(It has a Z520 or Z530, though, which may be the same "horrible processor" you are referring to with the Acer. I haven't seen the acer 11.6" models in person, but it didn't seem from specs much smaller than the Mini 12 or NC20 - I'd assume that all the 11"-12" models are too big if some of them are.)

That said, all the 12" models I'm aware of are 1280x800

Isn't the Mini 10 limited to 1GB ram?

The very few that I have seen in person have terrible to use keyboards. I know I likely won't be able to find a full keyboard, but I need something that I can actually type on without constantly using the hunt and peck mode.


Take a look at the Samsung.

Isn't the Mini 10 limited to 1GB ram?

yep.

4. I've ripped movies and copied them to my netbooks hard drive. I have a 250gb drive so space isn't really an issue. However, playbook performance can be choppy. If you're going to be ripping movies specifically to watch them on a netbook, you may want to scale down the resolution of the output movie so that playbook will be less resource intensive.

The choppiness might be due to some other things. Try using a player that's less CPU intensive. For my Asus PC1000HA, I've got no problems playing direct DVD rips at full resolution.

If you're playing compressed files, it's the codec. Many use h264, which will be a chore for netbooks. Use Xvid or DivX rips instead.

Hiya

I hope you guys can help me. I know I will get several answers but here goes:

I am torn between the HP 110 XP Mini or the Toshiba NB205. Now obvioulsy the HP is about $100 more expensive with the 32 GB SSD and I wondered whether it was really worth it or should I just go to Best Buy and get the Toshiba today?

Regards AKS120

Hiya

I hope you guys can help me. I know I will get several answers but here goes:

I am torn between the HP 110 XP Mini or the Toshiba NB205. Now obvioulsy the HP is about $100 more expensive with the 32 GB SSD and I wondered whether it was really worth it or should I just go to Best Buy and get the Toshiba today?

Regards AKS120

Do you need an SSD? Netbook SSD's are not all that fast. You'd be better off with a nice 160GB hdd than an SSD IMHO.

Do you need an SSD? Netbook SSD's are not all that fast. You'd be better off with a nice 160GB hdd than an SSD IMHO.

That is what I wanted to hear - thanks ^. I don't believe I need the SSD but with all the hype about it being the next best thing etc I wondered if I was missing out by going for the 160GB hdd.

Thanks for the reply - the Toshiba it is!

Regards AKS120

The choppiness might be due to some other things. Try using a player that's less CPU intensive. For my Asus PC1000HA, I've got no problems playing direct DVD rips at full resolution.

DVDs at full resolution should be playable on any machine today; MPEG2 is a pretty easy codec - it was playable (with occasional stutters) on my P2/266 laptop and was fully smooth the same machine after an upgrade to 400mhz.

Atoms are very slow relative to their clock speed(*) but they're still more than twice as fast as a P2/400 :)

(* 1.6ghz Atom is only marginally faster than the 900mhz Celeron in the 1st generation Eee, not nearly twice as fast as one would guess from the megahertz rate.)

If you're playing compressed files, it's the codec. Many use h264, which will be a chore for netbooks. Use Xvid or DivX rips instead.

For any of the above, the specific implementation of the codec also matters; because it has built-in (and reasonably-well-optimized) codecs, I've had things play well in VLC on hardware which performed horribly with a downloaded codec and either Windows Media Player or Media Player Classic.

My laptop struggles with full HD H264 content (downscaling to 1440x900) in WMP, but does fine with it in VLC.

For me, GOM Player works just as well. VLC is excellent, just don't like the interface.

Can someone please help me understand what the different types of keyboards on these things are? Which most closely resemble a standard laptop keyboard?

No description is equal to trying them out yourself.

Can someone please help me understand what the different types of keyboards on these things are? Which most closely resemble a standard laptop keyboard?

I believe the big thing you want to watch out for is keyboard size...if you are looking for as close to a full size style keyboard then you want to pay attention to the netbooks that advertise % of keyboard size ... the closer to 100% the closer to a standard keyboard... usually I see these on the 10" netbooks although there are some 12" coming out pretty soon

I certainly echo what Braindrain said and seeing for yourself....certain netbooks have curved keys while others have the chiclet (read mac) style keyboards and you'll want to do some test typing to decide which is best for you....

I personally have the Asus 1000HE with the chiclet keyboard which the keys are squarish and are separated from each other by some space

Thanks for the posts.

1. So try before one buys on the keyboard, and pay attention to the size ratio. But what terminology / technical jargon is used? I've seen chicklet used here to describe some sort of keyboard. Is that made up terminology or would all manufacturers who make that type of keyboard use it? Is it chicklet and standard?

2. If I want to try before I buy, is Best Buy the best place to do so? They have a dismal selection in three states I have been to recently. Maybe these are so hot they don't stay on the shelf or maybe they carry low inventory in this economic environment. I absolutely want to try...just can't find a place that has more than a couple of models, and none have carried ASUS.

1. So try before one buys on the keyboard, and pay attention to the size ratio. But what terminology / technical jargon is used? I've seen chicklet used here to describe some sort of keyboard. Is that made up terminology or would all manufacturers who make that type of keyboard use it? Is it chicklet and standard?

The term "chiclet" (generally, but not always, without a k - after the gum) is been in use since at least the PCjr used them (although why they are suddenly popular again is beyond me!)

Luckily, nobody yet has used a membrane keyboard on a netbook. THOSE were bloody awful.

2. If I want to try before I buy, is Best Buy the best place to do so?

Local shops and/or places like Fry's or J&R are going to be your best bet for the broader Asus models. Best Buy and similar national big box electronics retailers (if there are any others left that haven't gone bankrupt) are going to have only a very narrow range of the most broadly-marketed models.

Costco has often had a model or two of Acer or HP.

Around last Christmas, Target had one basic Asus model (the plain 900, I think), and might again for the Back-to-School rush although I'm sure it will be an equally narrow selection if so.

Here in the SF Bay Area, Central Computers (http://www.centralcomputers.com/) (preferably one of the South Bay locations - the SF one has, IIRC, somewhat less display space) has tended to have several models of Asus/eee on display.

MrsJ has expressed an interest in getting a netbook so of course, I went a little overboard with the prospect of shopping for some tech toys ;) Costco.com has the Samsung NC10, QVC has the Mini 1140 and Mini 110 and Fry's has the Toshiba. I'm sad to report that she fell for those Dell commercials which is why she's interested in a mini. I see the Dells are available at lots of places including Best Buy.

MrsJ has expressed an interest in getting a netbook so of course, I went a little overboard with the prospect of shopping for some tech toys ;) Costco.com has the Samsung NC10, QVC has the Mini 1140 and Mini 110 and Fry's has the Toshiba. I'm sad to report that she fell for those Dell commercials which is why she's interested in a mini. I see the Dells are available at lots of places including Best Buy.

If it's a dell she wants, I would check their website, sign up for their email (at least temporarily) and check the net for the discount/coupon deals they have pretty often...^

Don't know how good a deal it is, but I noted that woot.com has the Acer Aspire One 10.1" LCD 1.6GHz Netbook for $259 today.

Doing some price research, it seemed like a reasonably good price for that unit, and it does have generally favorable reviews, so I bought one. It arrived today.

Pretty much finished with all the tasks that must be undertaken when one gets a new computer (Windows updates, install AV software, and remove pre-installed bloatware). So far, impressions of this little machine are positive. Keyboard is a little small, but not too bad. Display is nice and bright. The built-in wireless card had no problems finding and connecting to my wireless network (once I remembered the WPA password). And the best thing, it's very lightweight. (My previous notebook was about 8 lbs, not including charger. This one is about 4 lbs, charger included)

If it's a dell she wants, I would check their website, sign up for their email (at least temporarily) and check the net for the discount/coupon deals they have pretty often...^

Yep, a big Dell ad came in today's newspaper. We also get a Dell EPP discount but it's not always better than the many sales they run. The new local Best Buy has some new netbooks in stock including Asus 1005HAB for $300 (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9366526&st=9366526&lp=1&type=product&cp=1&id=1218092152108)!

But what I'm leaning towards is the new line of Samsung N310 Go netbooks (http://promotions.newegg.com/Samsung/071509N310/index.html?cm_sp=Subcat_Netbooks-_-Samsung071509-_-http://promotions.newegg.com/Samsung/071509N310/118x118.gif) I saw featured at Newegg.

I have the 1000HE and am a big fan. What ever you get, dont forget to upgrade the memory to 2gb

Anyone know about the roadmap for the Intel Atom chips...specifically, when are faster processors coming out? I would like to purchase a new laptop, and was thinking about going the netbook route as it is likely sufficient for my needs...but I can wait another couple of months if need be. If more powerful units are just around the corner I might hold off for now.

Yep, a big Dell ad came in today's newspaper. We also get a Dell EPP discount but it's not always better than the many sales they run. The new local Best Buy has some new netbooks in stock including Asus 1005HAB for $300 (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9366526&st=9366526&lp=1&type=product&cp=1&id=1218092152108)!3-cell battery is a big minus, but I like the keyboard.

But what I'm leaning towards is the new line of Samsung N310 Go netbooks (http://promotions.newegg.com/Samsung/071509N310/index.html?cm_sp=Subcat_Netbooks-_-Samsung071509-_-http://promotions.newegg.com/Samsung/071509N310/118x118.gif) I saw featured at Newegg.8500mAH 6-cell battery is much, much better; keyboard is unknown; overall design seems thick and not particularly stylish.

3-cell battery is a big minus, but I like the keyboard.

I have an HP with the 3-cell and it lasts about 3 hrs, which is fine. I think the 3-cell is great because it reduces a lot of weight that you would otherwise carry around.

IMO, the difference in weight between the 3-cells and 6-cells is negligible compared to ~3 hrs vs ~6-8 hrs. These are tiny batteries to begin with.

IMO, the difference in weight between the 3-cells and 6-cells is negligible compared to ~3 hrs vs ~6-8 hrs. These are tiny batteries to begin with.Agreed. The whole netbook phenomenon can be described this way: Weight, performance, battery life. Pick two. Netbooks have chosen low weight and high battery life in exchange for compromises in performance.

If you choose a netbook that gives you only one of the three - low weight - you're not getting a good value in my opinion.

The Holy Grail is a netbook that gives you all three - that's why the Gateway LT3103 at Best Buy is intriguing to me.

If you choose a netbook that gives you only one of the three - low weight - you're not getting a good value in my opinion.


Yep, Vaio P. What was Sony smoking?

Does anyone have any experience with the rather new ASUS Eee PC 1005HA. The battery life sounds great.

For those of you thinking about netbooks I just wanted to say I bought the Toshiba NB205 and travelled with it for the first time over the last couple of days.

All I can say is it is brilliant - small enough for my purse, light enough not to notice. No hassle through security, picked up wifi everywhere - just a great little machine.

If you are thinking about this one - I bought mine at Best Buy and then upgraded the RAM - very easy - it is brilliant!!!

Regards AKS120

FWIW; Costco now has the 11 inch Acer Aspire one for just $329 - only downside is the horribly slow 1.2GHz Atom chip.

I ordered the Asus Eee PC 1005HA-P today. Also got a 2 gb memory upgrade. Should have the box Monday and the memory Tuesday or Wednesday.

I ordered the Asus Eee PC 1005HA-P today. Also got a 2 gb memory upgrade. Should have the box Monday and the memory Tuesday or Wednesday.

Please report on any improvements over the existing 10" range of netbooks from the past 12mths.

Any report from someone who call themself a gadget freak, must be worthwhile for intending buyers. :)

FWIW; Costco now has the 11 inch Acer Aspire one for just $329 - only downside is the horribly slow 1.2GHz Atom chip.

Doesn't Acer also make the Gateway 11" notebook (which has the AMD processor)?

I ordered the Asus Eee PC 1005HA-P today. Also got a 2 gb memory upgrade. Should have the box Monday and the memory Tuesday or Wednesday.

Where from, and for how much?

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU iPhone OS 3_0 like Mac OS X; en-us) AppleWebKit/528.18 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/4.0 Mobile/7A341 Safari/528.16)

I ordered the Asus Eee PC 1005HA-P today. Also got a 2 gb memory upgrade. Should have the box Monday and the memory Tuesday or Wednesday.

Where from, and for how much?

Amazon. It was $379 for the loaded version with 6 cell battery and blue tooth. Some other places sell cheaper versions with slightly different features some of the commentors noted. They rate the battery on this one as lasting about 10% longer than in the HE.

Doesn't Acer also make the Gateway 11" notebook (which has the AMD processor)?

Indeed. Machines look the same, but have different internals.

The Dell Mini 10 has been mentioned here, but I couldn't find anyone really expressing an opinion on it. How does it compare to other netbooks. Also, could someone please explain the difference between the Dell Mini 10 and Dell Mini 10v. Looking at the specs on the Dell web site, it's hard to tell how they really differ. Thanks.

I've followed this thread, read reviews and did some of my own research. The machine I want would have:
2GB memory
160GB hard drive
Bluetooth
10.1" screen (seems just right to me)
8+ hours of battery life

From what I've gathered here and elsewhere, ASUS is the way I am leaning.

The machines that meet my specs are the 1000HE and 1005HA near as I can tell. The 1005HA has a bunch of different battery options that seem more confusing than helpful

Amazon has the 1000HE for 375 plus 25 for the memory upgrade.

Amazon has the 1005HA for about the same price.

Before I pull the trigger I'd like to ask:

1. Is there a better place to purchase than Amazon?
2. Am I missing some other important distinction between the two models I've identified? They seem to be the same in all material respects.

The Dell Mini 10 has been mentioned here, but I couldn't find anyone really expressing an opinion on it. How does it compare to other netbooks. Also, could someone please explain the difference between the Dell Mini 10 and Dell Mini 10v. Looking at the specs on the Dell web site, it's hard to tell how they really differ. Thanks.

Mini 10 - Z520 (1.33ghz) or Z530 (1.66ghz) with hyperthreading and slightly better battery life. 1gb RAM fixed. 1024x600 or optional 1366x768 higher-res screen. A few more options (GPS, TV tuner, WWAN, bluetooth), and some things like the 6-cell battery and webcam are standard which are optional on the 10v. Priced higher by about $100.

Mini 10v - N270 (1.6ghz) without HT. 1gb RAM (not upgradeable from Dell, but user-upgradeable to 2gb). 1024x600 screen only. None of the multimedia/WWAN options. Lower price and slightly worse battery life.

If you do get the mini 10 or mini 12, avoid the 1.33ghz Z520. Very, very slow. The Z530 and N270/N280 all perform about the same, although the HT feature on the Z530 may make a slight improvement in responsiveness for heavy users.

As far as I know, the keyboard and most of the ergonomics are the same. Many Best Buy locations have the Mini 10v in stock (although with an obscure model number that makes it non-obvious that it's the 10v) if you want to check it out in person.

I thought it had one of the better keyboards for a 10" model - better than the Acers or Lenovos I've tried, not as good as the better non-chiclet 10" ASUS models. Otherwise specs of the 10v are very dead standard and pretty comparably priced to everyone else.

The 10(non-v) has some very interesting customization options but is a little pricy; if it weren't for the 1gb memory limit that all Z520/Z530 models share it would be very attractive despite that given the better sceen but the memory limit is a killer no-go for me.

<<If you do get the mini 10 or mini 12, avoid the 1.33ghz Z520. Very, very slow. The Z530 and N270/N280 all perform about the same, although the HT feature on the Z530 may make a slight improvement in responsiveness for heavy users.>>

Thanks for that info. I was psyched about the new 11.6" Acer at Costco but it has that 1.33ghz Z520 processor you're warning about.

Jim

Thanks for that info. I was psyched about the new 11.6" Acer at Costco but it has that 1.33ghz Z520 processor you're warning about.

Fairly sure those models are available with the Z530 instead through some channels, although probably not through Costco (similarly, while some Dell Mini 10 and 12 models are available through Amazon rather than Dell - a nice prospect for those of us who still get Amazon sales-tax-free, they're all the base Z520 models too.)

Whether it's still a tolerable speed is a tough call; I have not seen many good benchmarks on the Z520 or Z530 based models. Toms has a table of CPU speeds which includes all 3 of the common Atom processors, but no context:
http://www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_lookup.php?cpu=Intel+Atom+Z520+%40+1.33GHz

The 1gb limit is harder to get around; it's either going to be enough, or it isn't, and while for many people it will be OK that totally depends on your individual workload.

(That last assumes they avoid Windows Vista, for which the answer is always "it isn't"; I haven't tried running Win7 on a 1gb system to give it a definite thumbs up or thumbs down.)

I've followed this thread, read reviews and did some of my own research. The machine I want would have:
2GB memory


I think they all come with 1G. But you can buy and replace the memory it comes with for $25 and it's very easy to do.

amazon's returns on electronics and computers is more restrictive than their other products. Basically, you can return it if it arrives DOA, I think. I don't know if costco carries the 1005ha or not, but if they do, that would be a much better buying choice. They double the manufacturers warranty on computers and have a liberal 90 day return policy.

-David

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I've followed this thread, read reviews and did some of my own research. The machine I want would have:
2GB memory


I think they all come with 1G. But you can buy and replace the memory it comes with for $25 and it's very easy to do.

amazon's returns on electronics and computers is more restrictive than their other products. Basically, you can return it if it arrives DOA, I think. I don't know if costco carries the 1005ha or not, but if they do, that would be a much better buying choice. They double the manufacturers warranty on computers and have a liberal 90 day return policy.

-David

There are at least 3 versions of the HA being sold. Some have no Bluetooth for instance.

Thanks for that info. I was psyched about the new 11.6" Acer at Costco but it has that 1.33ghz Z520 processor you're warning about.

JimAlso note that the Acer at Costco has only a 3-cell battery.

So noted.

Also no bluetooth in the Costco listing.

Jim

Amazon has the 1000HE for 375 plus 25 for the memory upgrade.
1. Is there a better place to purchase than Amazon?


zipzoomfly.com has the ASUS 1000HE for $350 after mail-in rebate (http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=10010057&prodlist=celebros) (rebate offer expires 7/31/09).

Zipzoom is on back order right now.

If I buy the machine, where is a good place to buy the memory?

Zipzoom is on back order right now.

If I buy the machine, where is a good place to buy the memory?

Always check Crucial first (excellent reference for what spec memory is needed even if their prices end up higher), and then shop around. I usually get from Amazon, since the free (/prepaid with Prime) shipping and lack of sales tax are good. Newegg and Frys.com are often good if you're outside of California.

Good deal on 2GB of RAM at zipzoomfly. $12 AR here (http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=10007943&prodlist=celebros).

Picked up a Dell mini 9 last night for $169 to see what this netbook craze is all about...but the stock 512mb wasn't gonna cut it.

J&R is also a great place to buy, great return policy. Unlike Costco you can use visa or mc and you don't need a membership.

On a side note I bought a Wii at Costco and returned it about 5 months later, my excuse for return was that I was board playing it. They were happy to take it back.



I think they all come with 1G. But you can buy and replace the memory it comes with for $25 and it's very easy to do.

amazon's returns on electronics and computers is more restrictive than their other products. Basically, you can return it if it arrives DOA, I think. I don't know if costco carries the 1005ha or not, but if they do, that would be a much better buying choice. They double the manufacturers warranty on computers and have a liberal 90 day return policy.

-David

So I got my 1000HA-P back from our IT guys today. They upgraded the RAM, installed VPN and other programs. They told me that it wont run Outlook connected to an Exchange server. I tried it and it seems fine (it does show 1.99 GB or RAM when I check the my computer info). Has anyone had any problems running Word programs with these, including Outlook over the long term? Thanks.

By the way, other than being a bit on the heavy side and having the EEE mouse click which Im not fond of, it seems quite nice. Im interested in seeing how the real life battery duration works out.