My Vista Preium Review - Day 1

So yesterday, my wife and I got our first look at Windows Vista Premium SP1 via our new Dell Inspiron 1525s'. I have shown the hardware specs as well as they tend to be pertinent when it comes to how well Vista runs.

Hardware:

Inspiron 1525, Intel Core 2 Duo T5550, 1.83GHz, 667Mhz, 2ML2 Cache
1GB, DDR2, 667MHz 2 Dimm
15.4 inch Wide Screen WXGA LCDTrueLife for Inspiron 1525
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100

120G 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive

Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium Edition, English
DELL RESOURCE DVD,BACK-UP INSP 1525

Icon Consolidation Application
Vista, PC-Restore, Dim/Insp
DELL SUPPORT CENTER 2.0
Media Direct 3.5

Integrated 10/100 Network Card
Integrated 56K Modem
ADOBE ACROBAT READER 8.1 DIM/INSP
8X DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Drive
Roxio Creator DE 10
Integrated High Definition Audio 2.0
Dell Wireless 1395 802.11g Mini Card,for Insp 1525
Integrated 2.0M Pixel Webcam
Creative Earbud EP630
Software for Integrated 2.0M Pixel Webcam
56 WHr 6-cell Lithium Ion Primary Battery, for Inspiron 1525
Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
DataSafe Online Dim/Ins/XPS
DataSafe Online Dim/Ins/XPS 1YR-FREE
Insp Datasafe 3GB,1YR(Incl in price),DHS

Overall Rating (Day 1): 3.0 / 5.0

In General: As far as first impressions go, I was impressed with the visual effects, such as the Aero Glass, and desktop layout. The desktop looks similar, but better, than the traditional XP desktop. The sidebar widgets are a nice touch, but I am not sure how truly useful they will be. The Dual Core processor seems to hum along quite nicely and makes large tasks seem relatively easy.

The Good: Aside from the before mentioned look and feel of the desktop, there are several features that make this version of Vista a good OS. The instant on wireless manager (via the side sliding switch) makes wireless network monitoring pretty easy. Also, connecting to the wireless network was pretty easy, at least for my wife's laptop. for me it took a few tries.

The network connections folder has been replaced with a "network control panel" of sorts. Although this is nice to keep related tasks together, it does not clarify how to do some basic tasks (i.e., set up a local network or home office network.)

Speed; I was surprised at how quick things ran, installed and un-installed on Vista. This could be based on the processor or the fact that I have little installed on the machine. I installed Microsoft's' Visual Web Developer 2008 Express quickly and easily without issue.

The Bad: As I stated earlier, my wife's wireless connection took mere minutes to get running...mine took about an hour. It may have been where I was physically located, or it may be the fact that my wireless router is an 802.11b router. I was frustrated for a bit until I finally got connected.

The fact that similar tasks are grouped together may be a good idea later on when I am more used to the system, but for now it is a burden. I am used to things being in specific places, and they are not where they used to be. Chalk this up to a lack of experience on my part.

The lack of knowing how-to" is a key limiting factor in the Vista experience. I need to be able to VPN and Remote Desktop to my work PC. I am assuming that this is possible because I can set up a VPN and there is Remote Desktop capability in this version of Vista, but I am at a loss trying to get it to work Like I am used to, or at all.

All in all I believe that my first impressions and experience with this version of Vista have met if not exceeded some expectations. I am still not sure how or why people bash the OS so much. I may find that out in a few days or weeks. But until then, I am impressed with it.

More to come as the days go by...

Lightning Review: HP 2133 Mini-Note

The peeps at Gizmodo have handed down the verdict on the HP 2133 Mini Laptop. Click here to get the full deal.

The Price seems a bit high (for the $750 model) but it does seem to be a good fighter against the Asus Eee!

DellTo Sell Windows XP After June Deadline

This is not that surprising. I mean, with the world seemingly avoiding Vista ( as much as we are told it is), it is not a far fetched realization that people will still be shipping PCs' with XP.

Is Vista that bad? XP is a solid OS, the best Microsoft has ever done. But does that mean Vista is that bad? I will give my interpretation later this week...when I get my new laptop with Vista Premium!

Gizmodo link here.

Ubuntu 8.04 Released!

Hardy Heron is out and about for all you Linux peeps out there.

Download it here.

Computer Dimentia aStore From Amazon

This is not a sales pitch, but rather a place to find a good portion of the items reviewed and listed here on Amazon.coms' website.

There are a lot of good items at the store, some you can seemingly only get online. I would suggest using ProceGrabber.com as well to ensure you are getting the best deal!

The site link is here.

Thanks and happy shopping!

Asus' VX3 Lamborghini Laptop Arrives, Costs 2% of Real Lambo

This new Asus laptop is stylish, but with a price tag of roughly $3,300, it should have more power and speed.

Currently it features 4GB RAM, and an Intel dual core processor. For that chunk of change, why not have a Quad Core processor?

Maybe it is just me, but that seems a bit extreme for a model that just looks cool and has some pretty upgrades, such as the "sapphire-crystal lens on the built-in camera, a handmade leather palm rest and a titanium alloy hinge."[Gizmodo]

Gizmodo link here.

Iomega unveils 500GB HD multimedia drive

Iomega has been, in the past, at the forefront of storage technology. The zip drive, the jazz drive...all helped to revolutionize the industry of mass media storage.

But when the CD-R came out, it seemed all but over for Iomega...until now.

500 GB is a lot of storage for the average household to use. Backups and finding a place for all your pictures and home movies will be simple with this device. The remote seems to be a nice feature too.

Read the review here.

Gizmodo Reviews the AMD Triple Core

Gizmodo has written a review, done by Maxim, of the AMD Triple Core processor and posted it on their website.

While they seem to punish it for being closely priced, and of less quality and performance than the superior X4 Phenom Quad core processor, they state it performs as expected.

Not a dual core, not a quad core...lost in it's on little limbo world of the "niche" technologies.

Gizmodo link.

When Asus Eee Laptops Go Bad

This article on Gizmodo.com shows some crooks rigging an ATM to steal peoples personal information, like credit card numbers, via an Asus Eee PC.

Obviously, it is not as easy as buying an Asus PC, but this was the tool they decided to use! Not a good marketing ploy, but it gets the Asus name out there!

If OSX Was Available on Non-Proprietary Hardware, Would You Ditch Windows, Macs?

This is a excellent question for the growing collection of build-your-own-box computer buffs. Would you use OSX on your computer if you could simply install the OS wherever you wanted to?

My main point of contention with Apple and The Mac OS in particular, is that it is proprietary. If you buy an Intel based system, with Mac OSX preinstalled, you can upgrade to the latest OSX version easily.

If you have built your own PC from scratch, your options are Windows and Linux. Of course there are ways to install OS X on any machine, but they are hacks and not a custom install from the manufacturer.

I would seriously consider buying a copy of Mac OS X and installing it as a dual boot OS on a system if I could. It seems to me that Apple should be considering this, and I find it hard to believe that they are not.

Maybe one day all one will need is the hardware, the OS and the desire to build whatever machine they want, however they want. Until then, we will just have to wait and wonder...

Original Gizmodo link.

Close Call: Apple's OS X Almost Looked Exactly Like OS 8

I am not a Mac historian, but this does sound like a "close call" for those that cheer the innovative UI geniuses at Apple.

The UI for the new OS X does look beautiful and it is hard to imagine what life, or Apples' stock price, might be if they had gone with the OS 8 look and feel!

Three cheers for Steve Jobs?

Original Gizmodo link here.

Gigabyte Says Goodbye...to Asus!

Not exactly the most current of all news flashes, but pretty interesting none the less.

Here is the link to the article.

Best OS Survey

Take the "Best OS" Survey! Cheer for your favorite Operating System and see who wins on May 5th!

The Mac Mini...Do They Still Make These?

The answer to this question is yes!

I have often seen the Mac Mini as a way for those, like myself, who have desired to use a Mac without shelling out well over a thousand dollars for the MacBook or MacBook Air to satisfy this desire. The Mac Pro and iMacs are still available, but they have the same problem for me...the price.

Here are some simple stats on the Mac Mini, according to the Apple Store:

1.83GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
1GB memory
80GB hard drive1

This will cost you $599, buying direct from the Apple Store.

This of course does not come with a keyboard or mouse ($98), or a monitor ($599 for a 20" flat panel). These add up significantly, and tend to scare would be buyers away.

But you don't have to get the $599 monitor. Here is a link to help explain why.

Hopefully, one day, the MacBooks will be at a reasonable enough price for even me to seriously consider buying them. Until then, I will keep monitoring the Mac Mini...and hoping.

AMD's "Shanghai" Chips Revealed

This is good news for all the AMD peoples out there. The new "Shanghai" processor by AMD is a 45nm chip and will prospectively have up to 12 cores.

Now what can you do with those cores? Well, 3X more stuff than the Quad core Phenom and 4X more stuff than the triple core Phenom!

Possible 10" Asus Eee On The Way?

According to the Gizmodo article (link here,) it seem that the Asus Eee 900 may be getting a 10" screen.

While this is great news for the die hard Asus Eee peeps, I wonder why. All this does is drag the cost up at least $100, if not more. So if this model is already selling for $550, this would make it around $650.

This is where loyalty and consumerism divide me! I would love to have a 4G or 8G tiny Asus Eee, but I can't justify dropping over $600 on an unproven market when I can get a nice, faster and more powerful model for the same money.

I am assuming that there is a market for laptops where the Eee is the top dog (or close to it), but until that happens here, I am squeamish of anything above the $400 mark...

Asus Eee PC 900 Hits U.S. May 12 for $549

According to the Gizmodo site, the Asus Eee 900 will hit stores in the US soon after the May Asian release. This is listed as a rumor, or speculation though.

The price is also rumored to be around $549 or so. I am of the mindset that unless you cannot use a Vista or XP based machine, then why would you drop over $500 on a machine that still runs a Celeron processor, when you can get one from Best Buy with a Intel Dual Core processor for around $429?

Obviously this is far cheaper than almost all (if not all) Macs, but that is still a bit much for an under performing device, cost wise.

I would gladly, if I had it, drop $250 - $300 on a 4GB or maybe 8GB Asus Eee model, but over $500 is stretching my faith a little. Maybe it is just me.

AMD Triple Core Processors Reach Desktop Market

I was reading the Fryes add in the paper today and noticed the AMD Phenom Triple Core is now showing up in desktops. The Phenom Triple core processor is a Phenom Quad core with one core inactive or non-functional.

This seems to be a good idea, one can get a good, multi-core processor for less. They are cheaper than the quad cores, but lack the same power and abilities as well.

Here is the link to the Fryes website to see some PC stats with the Phenom Triple Core Processor.

AMD Triple Core comparisons link.

MCI Wind Notebook To Come In 8.9", 10" Flavors

The MCI Wind has some updated information. The article at Gizmodo states that the Wind will come in two sizes; 8.9" and 10" LCD screens.

For those of you have yet to see specs on this UMPC, here is the link that will give you some more information.

Microsoft Rolls Services Together, Charges Users

Gizmodos site reads, "which rolls Office Home and Student, Windows Live OneCare, Office Live Workspace and some other Live services into a package that you'll pay a monthly fee for. " [Link]

After reading this article from Gizmodos' website, I am actually not surprised at this move. I remember a time, and it still may be this way, that just for basic MSN Explorer help, you were charged a fee after so many calls / minutes spent on the phone.

Now, having said that, if Microsoft makes this pay-per-service package the only option available to people, then that is a bad, bad move.

With the Open Source and online web apps that are being developed, such as Googles' Google Docs and Open Office, why would Microsoft make the switch to force people to pay for a service that they may or may not want / need?

I am hoping that this is an option for people who know little or nothing about PCs' and who want someone else to take care of their issues. Personally, I have no need for such a monthly subscription package, but I am not everyone.

Microsoft Gets Into The UMPC Race

I am sure this is not news to many people, nor is it unexpected. Microsoft has always been on the edge of cutting edge. They seem to wait to see how a new trend or idea is going to fair in the market before making an investment or product.

The UMPC from Microsoft, named "Origami," is another fairly high end PC that is highly portable. It will run a version of Vista and have some decent hardware specs (see some below.)

The link for the Microsoft page covering the Origami also displays what one would believe to be direct competitors to the Origami. This is a bit of odd marketing. Maybe they are trying to associate their product with more well know ones in the market. Maybe they are doing a direct side by side comparison to them.

I am sure Microsoft has a good reason for this comparison strategy. The Origami is listed as being available mid 2008.

Hardware specifications

Windows Vista Home Premium OS
Approximately 7" diagonal display (or smaller)
Minimum 800 x 480 resolution
Approximately 2 pounds
Integrated touch panel
WiFi- and Bluetooth-enabled

Scientists Build Worlds Smallest Transistor: Just One Atom Thick

This new transistor is made from Graphene, a form of graphite, and is currently the worlds smallest transistor; only 1 atom thick.

With technology, especially processor dyes, reaching for smaller and smaller dimensions for compact and faster devices, this is a possible marvel in the gadget world.

AMD and Intel are always trying to get the physical dye size smaller and more compact. There are several 65 nm (nanometer) dyes out there and some companies have even started going to a 45 nm dye.

The smaller the dye, the smaller the overall end device can be. This leads to more powerful cell phones and PDAs.

Original link here.

Asus Laptop Gets 1TB Storage

The new (or soon to be new) Asus M70 laptop looks like stunning...and has specs to match. With up to 1TB HDD, this is sure to be a pricey venture even for the most loyal Asus fans.

M70 Specification

Intel® Centrino® Processor Technology
- Intel Core™ 2 Duo T7500 ~T7700/T8100/T8300/T9300 Processor
- Mobile Intel® PM965
- Intel® PRO/Wireless 4965ABGN Network Connection; Intel® PRO/Wireless 3945ABG Network Connection (optional)Genuine Windows Vista®
- Genuine Windows Vista® Business
- Genuine Windows Vista® Ultimate
- Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
- Genuine Windows Vista® Home BasicM70SA: ATI Mobile Radeon HD3650 with 1G VRAM (500GBx2)M70SR: ATI Mobile Radeon HD3470 with 256MB VRAMDDRII 667MHz, 2 up to 4GB*; Support Intel Turbo Memory*Depends on OS supportBuilt
-in 1.3M pixel swivel webcam12.5" HDD 500G/ 9.5" HDD 160/200/250/320G; Support Dual HDD: up to 1 Terra HDD (500GBx2)

Original link here.

UMPC Listing and Compare

I found this little site that compares UMPCs side by side and gives links to a more detailed page of each.

I was blown away by how many there are listed here, and I know there are some that are not on the list. This market has been growing rapidly for what seems like just a few years. There are different manufacturers for different regions, such as Pioneer for Australia and there DreamBook UMPC.

This market is getting more and more stocked with these machines. The problem now is how to tell a good machine from a poor one. Most reviews are speculative at best and very few well known sites have actually reviewed them thoroughly.

In time these machines will be as commonplace as the typical laptop and we will have all the details needed to make the proper decisions on which one to buy and what we are looking for in the machine.

Until then, be wary of great deals and know what you want, before you buy!

Zonbu Laptop: Good deal on Linux Laptop and Mini Desktop

As I was researching information on my Asus Eee pricing post , I came across an ad for Zonbu. I at first believed it to be another Linux distro...then I saw the add above.

$279 for a Linux laptop similar to the Asus Eee for that cheap! Whats the catch I said.

I am not sure if it is a catch, but the site keeps referring to a "no hassle maintenance package" of sorts.

The package includes back ups, updates, support, etc. for $15 / month. I hope it is not a requirement, that would definitely add to the overall cost of this thing.

Specs:

Zonbu Notebook is a 15.4" widescreen laptop with all the bells and whistles:
Processor: 1.5GHz, VIA C7-M Intel-compatible, low energy use
Display: 15.4" WXGA Widescreen (1440 x 900) and VGA output
Memory: 512MB
Hard Disk local storage: 60GB (58GB for your data)
Optical Drive: DVD-ROM/CD-RW
Graphics: VIA Chrome9 HC IGP (64MB shared memory, 128MB maximum)
Audio: built-in speaker, microphone and headphone ports
3 USB 2.0 ports
Ethernet: 10/100 Mbps built-in - broadband ready
Wifi: Built-in 802.11b/g
Power Supply: 65W AC-DC Adapter, 15W average power usage
Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 2h30 to 3h, depending on usage
Measurements: 14.1" x 10.7" x 1.5" (35.8cm x 27.2cm x 3.8cm)
Weight: 5.3lbs (2.4kg) )

The OS is not given a name, I assume it is proprietary to the Zonbu family of PC's.

They also offer a mini desktop for $99. Below are the specs on it.

Good things come in small boxes
Zonbu Desktop is a compact, ultra low power mini with all the bells and whistles:
Processor: 1.2GHz, VIA C7 ULV Intel-compatible, ultra-low energy use
Memory: 512 MB
Compact Flash local storage: 4GB
Graphics: VIA CX700M2 UniChrome PRO II, VGA output, supports up to 2048 x 1536 (16 million colors, 75 Hz)
Audio: built-in speaker, microphone and headphone ports
PC-compatible ports for keyboard and mouse
6 USB 2.0 ports
Ethernet: 10/100 Mbps built-in - broadband ready
Wifi: built-in 802.11b/g available as an option
Power Supply: 20 Watt AC-DC Adapter
Measurements: 4.875" x 2.175" x 6.675" or (124mm x 56mm x 170mm)
Weight: 2.1lbs (0.97kg)

Asus Eee 4GB Model Available at Best Buy: Linux and XP Versions Same Price?

Although anyone who reads this blog knows how much I love the Asus Eee, even though I don't have one...yet, I am a little worried about the price comparison between Linux models and Windows XP models.

They have the exact same price...$399!

While that is good for consumers getting Windows XP Home for $399, it begs the question; why isn't the Linux version cheaper? After all isn't Linux a free and open-source OS? I am thinking it should a bit cheaper...say $299 - $349? Maybe the version of Windows XP Home isn't the same as you would get on a traditional laptop. Maybe it is not as good as the Linux version.

I looked at the specs on line and they are exactly the same (except for the MPEG capability, which may be based on the Windows XP OS.)

Asus Eee Linux Specs via Best Buy Link.

Asus Eee Windows XP Specs via Best Buy Link.

I am not saying that Windows on the Eee is a bad thing, far from it. I just think that the Linux version should be a bit cheaper. After all, isn't part of the cost of the system, the OS?

FYI: PriceGrabber.com found what appears to be the Linux version at various places for $350.

Here is the link.

UPDATE: The model is only an 800 MHz machine. But at Amazon.com's site, you can the 800 MHz machine with a 2GB RAM upgrade for $389!

Alienware Aurora PC

I know AlienWare is know for their top of the line gaming PC's and all, but this one will make you take a double look at their lineup.

This machine is running a Quad Core AMD Phenom processor, 4GB RAM and some silly graphics options.

It starts at $999, according to the article and is customizable.

Click here for the article.

Asus EEE 900 Gets 20GB Linux version, Some Launch Dates

It looks like there is some more data coming out on the next Asus Eee 900 PC. It keeps getting better and better...bigger and bigger.

Although it is exciting to see all of the various models and their specs, one has to wonder...are they just trying to get to full laptop status and price? They do make standard laptops and desktops.

The official Asus website does not have this information. It looks like it hasn't been updated in a awhile either.

Here is the article link.


Specifications
Display: 8.9" Display, 1024 x 600 resolution
Color: Pearl White, Black
CPU: Intel® Mobile CPU
Processor: Intel Mobile Chipset
Memory: DDR II 1GB
Display Card: Intel UMA
Storage: 12GB (4GB built-in + 8GB flash) SSD (Microsoft Windows OS Version)20GB (4GB built-in +16GB flash) SSD (Linux OS Version)
Audio: HD audio / built-in speakers
Wireless: Built-in 802.11b/g
Camera: 1.3M Pixel webcam
Storage Cards: SD / MMC (SDHC)
Input / Output: 3xUSB / VGA-out (D-Sub, 15pin) / earphone jack / mic / RJ45 10/100 MbpsPower: Output: 12V, 36W;
Input: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz universal
Tracking Control: Utilizes FingerGlideOperating System: Windows XP Home / LinuxDimensions: 22.5cm(W) x 17.0cm(D) x 2cm~3.38cm(H)Weight: 0.99 kg

Windows XP SP3 Available for Download

Microsoft has released Service Pack 3 for Windows XP recently. While the service pack is not a major enhancement, it does offer users the confidence of getting all of the latest fixes and updates, especially if you have turned off your "automatic updates."

SP3 does have some security fixes and enhancements of its own such as Network Access Protection (NAP) and "Black Hole Router" Detection.

Click here for the download.

NVIDIA and Ageia: GPU Physics Engine Nearly Complete

For all of you graphics junkies out there, here is some news.

I am not sure how much impact this driver update will have, but it seems important enough for Gizmodo to post it, so here is the link.

gOS Boot Failed

Yesterday, in an attempt to widen my understanding and knowledge of new Linux distros, I created an ISO image of gOS "Space" 2.9.

No problems getting the image.
No problems creating the ISO image disk.

Reboot PC to run live CD....BOOT FAIL

Has anyone else seen this error? I haven't delved very deep into the chasms of the online support documentation for gOS, but from what I have seen, there isn't much there.

I may try another one of there distros this week...maybe.

Foresight Linux

Foresight Linux is another flav of Linux designed for the UMPC and cheap PC market and geared towards a simple and intuitive user experience.

It will come pre-installed on the KPC Shuttle. You can download it via the Internet (and here.)

It is amazing to me the trend of using Linux, a typically non-intuitive OS, to better the experience of the average PC user. Is Microsoft doing that bad of a job or are they missing the market by overloading PC's with junk and worthless software?

I am sure this is not the last "user friendly" linux distro we'll see.

Shuttle PC by KPC - Another Internet PC!

It seems that everyone is getting on the "Internet PC" bandwagon these days.

This is the Shuttle PC from KPC. It retails at $99 and is geared towards users wanting an Internet box. I remember when this happened a few years back. Remember AOL TV and MSN TV? Internet boxes that plugged into the phone jack and you "surfed" the web via your TV?

These are a bit better being as you can save pics and files to your machine (you couldn't on AOL TV or MSN TV.) The price is not bad, even if there is no monitor in the deal.

I enjoy the idea that someone can use a box like this for simple tasks (i.e., the Internet) but the OS, usually Linux based, can be hard to "fix" if needed. Not everyone can use Linux as a main OS and not everyone can repair it if needed. Just my opinion.

Here are the specs:

OPERATING SYSTEM
Foresight Linux

PROCESSOR
Intel® Celeron® (basic version)Intel® Pentium® dual-core (upgrade version)

MEMORY
512MB (basic version)1GB (upgrade version)Supports up to 2GB

CHIPSET
North Bridge: Intel 945GC South Bridge: ICH7

GRAPHICS
Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 950(1) VGA Output

AUDIO
5.1 Channel High Definition Audio

INTERNET
10MB/s,100MB/s,1GB/s

STORAGE
80GB Hard Drive

POWER
100W PSU

BACK PANEL
(1) PCI slot(1) PS/2 keyboard(1) PS/2 Mouse(1) Gigabit LAN port(1) Serial port(1) D-sub port(4) USB 2.0 ports(1) Front out connector(1) Rear Surround out connector(1) Center / Bass connector(1) Printer port (1) Wireless port perforation

DIMENSIONS
11(L)x7.5(W)x6.7(H) Inch

WARRANTY
1 Year Limited Hardware Warranty

Gizmodo review.

Eee PC 900

The new Asus Eee PC 900 made it's debut on Gizmodo's website today. This beauty has all the right stuff including a 8.9" screen.

The unit also has 1GB RAM, a new RAM access panel (I didn't know the previous models did not have one!) and a 12GB HD.

The release is set for Mid April. I am not sure where it will be sold or how much it will cost. It is creeping toward the typical laptop market, so it may get pricey!

Here is the original article.

Sharp-Willcom D4 UMPC First with Intel Atom Centrino, Windows Vista Too

Not only is this UMPC beautiful...
not only does this UMPC have an Intel Atom Processor...

It runs Vista!

This is truly, in my opinion, the future of mobile PC's. A fast (1.3 GHz) small, mobile processor designed for UMPCs' and 1GB RAM...that's a lot of machine for the small form. It looks like some sort of cell phone, but it is quite a bit larger.

If this is the future of mobile computing, count me in!

Original link here.

gOS: A different kind of OS

For those of you out there who enjoy the open source ride, while not needing to know in depth Linux commands, gOS may be right up your alley.

The gOS, which either stands for 'green OS' or 'Google OS', is a user friendly Linux distro designed to be used on UMPCs and cheaper computers. It comes in three flavors: Space, Rocket G and Rocket E.

I am not sure what the difference between the distros is, but I am assuming it is mainly cosmetic. The "Space" version seems to be designed with MySpace users in mind.

The OS is free for download and can be used as a Live CD / DVD once burned to media. I am trying to download the Space version, I will write a review if and when I can!

gOS site link

Introducing...The Microsoft Store!

OK, so yes, this is an Apple rip-off, and yes, I am not sure what they're going to be selling, but...isn't it about time Microsoft does this?!?

I mean seriously, if Apple can do it, why not Microsoft? They have the Zune, Windows Vista and XP, Office, etc. Even if they just had a PC running Vista Ultimate I would like to see it in action!

This would also be a great way for Microsoft to advertise new products and to actually show a live side-by-side comparison with Apple. This maybe critical seeing as how a few of the Apple vs. PC adds (you know, the ones on TV) seem to either have misinformation or be just plain old made up. Click here to see the article on this.

Anyways, I think it is a grand idea. I just wonder where they'll put them. Kiosks?

Original article here.

Lenovo's Entire New ThinkPad Line Leaked

I have never used an IBM laptop. I have heard good things about them though. This seems to be a new line up to compete in the modern, HD laptop arena.

I doubt these puppies are cheap, but for the travelling business professional, they may be needed.

Here are a few of the specs from the article.

Many or All Models Will Have:

• 6MB of L2 cache

• Turbo Memory option (think Ready Boost, up to 2GB)

• Blu-ray drive option

• Two PCI Express Slots

• 1.6GHz DDR3 RAM

• LED Backlighting (excludes R Series)

• HSDPA and EVDO (Lenovo claims to have no deals with Sprint)

• 9 cell batteries (same form factor as former 6-cell, 25% more life)

• GPS, WiMAX, and wireless USB are scattered through models

• The x300's solid state hard drive option (excludes W)

Here is the link to the article.

The iPhone Is Killing the Internet!

Although I do not have an iPhone, nor will I ever be able to afford one, I still think laudable articles that poke fun at the iPhone are great!

This one is a bit short and silly...especially for how it is "justified".

Here is the link.

The Everex Mini PC Looks Beautiful

This is a beautiful looking PC.

The cost is $499 and I am not sure where to buy it or how to buy it...they say they're "Out Of Stock." Whatever that means.

Click here for the homepage.

Here are the stats:

Hardware Specifications1.86GHz Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core Mobile Processor T2130 (1MB L2 Cache, 1.86GHz, 533MHz), 120GB Hard Disk Drive, 512MB DDR2 667 SDRAM, DVD+/-RW, Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator GMA950, Realtek ALC268 High-Definition Audio, (1) 10/100/1000 Ethernet Port, (1) DVI-I Port, (1) S-Video Port, (1) IEEE 1394 Port, (4) USB 2.0 Ports, (1) 2-in1 Media Card Reader, (1) Headphone/Line-Out Port, (2) Microphone/Line-In Port

Additional Preinstalled and Linked SoftwareMozilla Firefox, gMail, Meebo, Skype, Wikipedia, GIMP, Blogger, YouTube, Xing Movie Player, RythemBox and OpenOffice.org 2.3 (includes WRITER, IMPRESS, DRAW, CALC, BASE)

TigerDirect.com has Asus Eee 2G for $299

So I seem to have a thing for the Asus Eee PC...I found this deal while scouring for good deals on laptops.

This seems to be the best deal in town...for now. It is only the 2G model, but for $299, that is a good deal for someone not wanting to invest serious capital in a technology venture.

Here is the link.

They also have the 4G model for $350. Below are the specs for the 2G model.


Condition:
New
Operating Systems:
LINUX
Platform:
Notebook PC
Expansion Ports:
N/A
PS/2 Keyboard Connectors:
N/A
PS/2 Mouse Connectors:
N/A
Serial Communication Ports:
N/A
Parallel Ports:
N/A
USB Ports:
3
FireWire Ports:
N/A
Fast Infrared Ports (FIR):
N/A
LAN Ports:
1
Modem Ports:
N/A
Audio Out Jacks:
1
Line In Jacks:
N/A
Microphone Jacks:
1
VGA Ports:
1
S-Video Connectors:
N/A
DVI Video:
N/A
Port Replicator/Connector:
N/A
Processor Brand:
Intel
Processor Class:
Mobile CPU
Memory Type:
DDR2
Memory Size:
512MB
Memory Speed:
N/A
Memory Slots (Total):
N/A
Memory Slots (Available):
N/A
Maximum Memory Supported:
N/A
Capacity:
2GB Solid State Drive (SSD)

Fedora 9 is on It's Way!

According to the Fedora Wiki, Fedora 9 will be released on the 29th of April. This is big news for Linux fans, especially those of you who love Fedora.

I have not used Fedora since Fedora 5 was out, so I am a little behind the learning curve for what's new in Fedora releases.

Here is the link for the Fedora release schedule.

Dell Laptop + Pubes = NASTY!

OK, I found this story on Gizmodo and thought it should be spread.

I guess someone bought a laptop from Dell and when they received it, it had human (don't know how they know, don't care,) pubic hair in or on it.

I would be a might pissed off too! At leas the person got a replacement for it.

The original article has photos of the curlies on it.

Click here for the original article.

Kohijinsha SR8KPO6S is 7-Inch UMPC With Optical Drive

I have never heard of this company or of anything that they make. But this little devil here is sweet 'n pretty!

I am assuming that this guy is more general laptop than Eee. It has a DVD burner and runs Vista. That is not, to me anyways, the same market as the Eee PC or the cloudbook.

Anyways, I didn't see a price for it, but I bet it's hefty.

Click here for the link.

Asus Lineup of Laptops

I was checking out the Asus International website and ran across this page describing the different variations of the Eee PC. I think the site maybe older because the latest news update was from mid-march of this year.

I know it is not news, but I have until know not seen the different models lined up against one another.

They range from 2 Gigs to 8 Gigs in hard drive space. There are not many models, but the details are nicer than most of what you will find floating on the Internet.

There is also a page that will show you US retailers. This would be handy, say if anyone actually wanted to buy one. I would love to have one. I am just not sure about dropping $300 - $500 on a laptop that may be limited in it's functionality or usability.

I also did not know that Asus sells bare bones laptops. This seems to be a new (to me anyways) concept on the market.

If anyone has one of these laptops, I would love to hear your take on them.

Intel Classmate 2 UMPC

If you have ever wondered what the heck an UMPC is or why on earth anyone would want to buy one, this article may be of assistance.

This article details some information about Intel's upcoming Classmate 2 notebook. It seems to be a direct competitor with the Asus Eee PC, and the Everex Cloubook.
These notebooks are smaller than typical notebooks. They also lack a lot of the power of their larger counterparts. They are geared for people who need a cheap, on-the-go notebook that has some of the functionality of a work PC. Wifi, network ready and Windows XP can be found on some models. Plus they are cheaper...around $400.

The reason I have had an interest in them is for a slightly different reason. If you know someone who refuses to get on the Interweb bandwagon, yet wants to see the online baby pics, or see a team's schedule that's not in the paper, than this may be a good alternative for them.
The cost effectiveness of these is not as good as it could be. Roughly $100 or so cheaper than a larger, better equipped machine. But they are good for first time users.

Beware though! Some of these machines contain a Linux distribution! That is a bonus to some, like me, but a hindrance to those that have never used Linux.
Another reason I dig these machines is the trend of notebook pricing. As these machines flourish, the cost will go down. As cheaper, faster processors come out (Intel's Atom processor, for example) the price of the UMPC's and of regular notebooks will go down as well.
At least that is my thought!

Windows XP Asus Eee PC Now Available from Best Buy, Still $399

This is a good deal. Typically these PC's come with a version of Linux. The one here comes with XP, and for the same price!

I wish I had the money to buy one of these...maybe. for about $100 more, you can get a better, faster nicer laptop. So why buy this one? Cause it's cool! Just kidding.

LINK

'The Grid' Could Soon Make the Internet Obsolete

This is very impressive. The story covers the developers of the original Internet and their achievements in creating a super fast 'Grid' system to capture data at extremely high speeds. The article boasts of speeds surpassing 10,000 times that of typical broadband speeds.

If what is contained in this article is true, then the Internet could get a very large boost in speed in the next five or so years (my speculation.)

The next question would be when the hardware for modems and routing devices will become available to the corporate and government arenas. After these groups get the original hardware and software, the consumer market won't be far behind.

Is this the next Internet? Is this a replacement for the fabled www2? Hopefully we will live long enough to see this system in it's commercial form and be able to judge it's personal worth for ourselves.

LINK

HP 2133 UMPC Reviewed

I'll have to say that I didn't know this was even coming out. It is impressive, yet out of what I would consider to be the Eee or Cloudbook price range (speculation). There is not hard pricing set. But if you look at the spec, you can see where it would be $100 - $200 more.

It also runs SuSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10. I do not believe that this version of SuSE is free either. The screen shot looks like Vista to me.

Hopefully more will be available soon on this machine. But as for now, I feel it to be close to the Eee / Cloudbook market. LINK

Via Artigo PC

This a mini PC from Vai. It looks pretty sweet. I am not sure if you buy it as a kit or piece it together yourself from purchased parts.

The manufacturer claims the PC as portable. If the pics are any representation of that fact, then they must be true.

Here is a quick spec list:

CPU
VIA C7 1GHz Processor
Chipset
VIA VX700 Unified Digital Media IGP Chipset
Memory Support
1 DDR2 533 SODIMM Socket, Up to 1GB
Hard Disk Support
1 IDE Connector (2.0mm 44-pin Header) for 2.5" Hard Disk
Operation System Support
Windows 2000 / XP, WinCE, XPe, Linux
USB Ports
4 USB 2.0 ports
LAN Port
1 10/100Mbps RJ-45 LAN port
Audio
Build-in High Definition Audio
Audio Ports
1 Microphone-in jack1 Line-out jack
Display Port
1 VGA port
Dimensions
5.9"(L) x 4.3"(D) x 1.8"(H) (15cm x 11cm x 4.5cm)
Average System Weight
1.14 lbs (520g)


Click here for the weblink.

Asus Essentio CS5110

Another Asus desktop to be purchased!

I am not sure how good this PC is, the article makes it sound like a good buy for a Blu-ray player, but it looks nice...very nice!

I would like to know what OS they run and a bit more about hardware and specs. Still sounds like a cool machine, though.

Click here for article

Another article on the Asus CS5110

Dell Joins UMPC Race

I am a little surprised at this move, if it becomes a reality. Dell is know for fairly modest prices on decent machines. So why UMPCs'?

They will competing with Asus, Everex and Intel. Asus has been in the game for awhile now and seem to be the leader. Everex has had some issues, and not very good reviews. Intel has yet to actually release a PC in this market, just talk so far.

So why is Dell jumping in? Are they partnering with Intel? It seems this market is going to explode in the next few years. That can only benefit consumers.

Click here for the article.

IBM Mixes Water, Chips to Make Supercomputer

This is a very new, cutting edge technology.

Leave it to IBM to help pave the way for brand new processor technology and systems.

Click here for the article

Welcome to Computer Dimentia!

This blog is dedicated to the pursuit of computer technology and news. Computer reviews, information and updates will be posted as soon as found! Check back frequently for new posts!

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