Netbook (mini laptop) computers

Author Message   jimmy Member Username: Jrowland Post Number: 22 Registered: 05-2010 Posted From: 66.8.198.193 Posted on Friday, June 18, 2010 - 05:17 pm:    FYI, the NEX at Pearl Harbor has the model/specs listed by JEB below on sale for $299 (again? still?). Just picked up 4 of them (ouch!) for our 4 teenagers as xmas presents. We had one of the NEX "Scratch Off Coupons" where they scratch off 1 of 3 possible discounts after they ring up your sale. We got the 10% savings, so a total of $270 each. Not bad, and now our xmas shopping is done, and it's not even July! :^) I have an EeeePC from Asus, and have had it for about a year now, and love it. I also run the Ubuntu linux OS, but I dual-boot with Win7 for the occasional use. As the computer guy in the family, I frequently get the trouble calls from my parents or siblings, and I need to walk them through things - being able to bring up Windows so that I can tell them what/where to click makes it much easier. :^) For those who prefer to stick with Windows, I can definitely say that my little netbook runs snappier with Windows7 than it did with XP, and I still have the original 1GB of RAM. For what it's worth. I've had this for about a year, and it has served me well through 3 TDYs and 1 PCS. I also have an iPhone that I "jail broke", so that I can "tether" my netbook to it. I plug the iPhone into my netbook, and use the iPhone's 3G internet connection to surf the internet on my netbook... no need to look around for free wifi hotspots, or pay the fee to get onto an airport's hotspot. My iPhone also becomes it's own wifi hotspot, so that my kids can use their iPod touches and my wife can use her netbook while we're all sitting around the airport terminal waiting to go somewhere. It's an amazing little device.   Bob.B Member Username: Pstd Post Number: 21 Registered: 06-2008 Posted From: 137.9.121.122 Posted on Friday, June 18, 2010 - 02:05 pm:    Agree, that's a great deal. I purchased the same a while back. Always leave my laptop at home these days. I simply carry an 8GB flash drive for transferring files to and from my laptop or desktop to the HP Netbook. The Netbook is one of the best computers developed for the SPAT especially the traveler. On the road I don't miss the cumbersomeness of the laptop. Good luck with yours.   Zee Ty Member Username: Zed350 Post Number: 7 Registered: 06-2010 Posted From: 202.138.162.2 Posted on Friday, June 18, 2010 - 05:27 am:    That's a good deal at that price. I got the 12" MSI though.   JEB Senior Member Username: Wingrider Post Number: 487 Registered: 12-2003 Posted From: 65.4.202.254 Posted on Thursday, April 29, 2010 - 01:24 am:    I finally broke down and bought a mini today. NEX has one marked down this week from $349 to $299 if anyone is interested. It seems to have everything I needed and my money was burning a hole in my pocket anyhow. I looked on the internet but really didn't find a better deal, besides I like supporting the military exchanges...when they have comparable prices. HP Mini 210-1095NR * 6-cell battery provides up to 9 hrs and 45min * 1GB installed memory * 160GB hard drive * 10.1" Diagonal WSVGA LED HP BrightView Infinity Widescreen Display (1024 x 600) * Intel® Atom™ Processor N450 (1.66GHz) * Wireless LAN 802.11b/g WLAN * 5-in-1 integrated Digital Media Reader * 93% full sized keyboard * HP Imprint in matte sonoma red & webcam with integrated digital microphone * Dimensions 10.55 in (L) x 6.9 in (D) x 0.9-1.11 in (H) (2.69lbs) * Microsoft Windows 7 Starter * 1 year warranty   Daniel F. Fraley Member Username: Danfraley Post Number: 7 Registered: 09-2008 Posted From: 217.195.146.89 Posted on Wednesday, March 31, 2010 - 06:20 am:    Hey Lester, What a "DEAL". I am sure you will be pleased and get a lot of use out of your Netbook. Thanks for the note and happy travels. Best Regards, Daniel   Lester Green Advanced Member Username: Rtgreen5 Post Number: 282 Registered: 03-2007 Posted From: 24.255.104.155 Posted on Sunday, March 28, 2010 - 11:30 pm:    Daniel: Thanks for the info on the Lenovo 10 inch netbook. I considered buying it or the 12 inch for a little more money from the outlet store, but before I made the decision, I saw an open box 10 inch Toshiba at HH Gregg for $188 plus tax which came with the Atom 280 processor--1.66g--, Windows 7 and a 6 cell battery.. The rest of the specs are the same as the Lenovo you described in your message. I was told that the reason for the markdown was the fact that the new netbook Toshiba models now have the Atom 450. Since this was not a refurbished model, the deal was too good to pass up. The XP models are also priced around this figure as the stores and mail order houses appear to be unloading their inventory of 270 processor models with the 3 cell batteries.So netbook deals abound for the informed purchaser.   John David Brooks Advanced Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 304 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 - 09:07 pm:    Greetings, Dakota: Pretty cool, but the size and shape would make it a challenge to conveniently pack in my Space-A "Go" bag! :-) Give me a good old-fashioned 10" flat netbook any day! I'm really waiting to see how well Apple's new MaxiPad sells. rofl   Dakota Ray Advanced Member Username: Rhammer Post Number: 377 Registered: 05-2007 Posted From: 69.62.147.217 Posted on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 - 08:47 pm:    Slightly off the subject of this string but interesting and it is still computers. Who is going to be the first one to get this?? http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=7H0K1k54t6A   Stephen W. Harvey Member Username: Swharvey Post Number: 19 Registered: 05-2004 Posted From: 68.197.205.165 Posted on Monday, March 08, 2010 - 05:03 pm:    Check out http://www.techforless.com for netbook refurbs. I bought a Samsung from them last year. I like it better than the Acer. This was my third major purchase from them. Excellent customer service and tech support. I loaded the D: drive with bunch of movies for our trips. Skype worked great for our video calls back to the states and phone calls in Germany for car rental and hotels.   Daniel F. Fraley Junior Member Username: Danfraley Post Number: 6 Registered: 09-2008 Posted From: 217.195.146.209 Posted on Sunday, March 07, 2010 - 04:27 am:    Checkout Lenovo outlet @ http://outlet.lenovo.com/laptops.html IdeaPad S10 (Refurbished)List Price: $550.00 Outlet Price: $220.00 •Intel® Atom™ N270 (1.60 GHz, 512K L2, 533 MHz FSB) •Genuine Windows XP Home •160GB, 5400RPM Serial ATA 2.5" Drive •1GB PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM 667MHz SODIMM Memory •Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 •Optical Not Included •10.1” WSVGA (1024 X 600)TFT, W/ Camera   John David Brooks Advanced Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 281 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 116.50.167.3 Posted on Wednesday, March 03, 2010 - 06:12 am:    This does nothing to help Richard with his Acer problems, but reiterating what I've previously stated: I have now owned an Asus 1000HE for a full year and have extensively traveled with it...all over the planet under various conditions and in not-so-great environments...and it has never failed me. Bought it online at Amazon...installed the upgraded 2GB RAM in it...XP...160GB hard drive...N-standard Wi-Fi...built-in Bluetooth 2.0...still getting almost 7 hours of battery life during normal Internet activity...paid $389. I know everybody has their personal preferences and favorites but, for me, I am in love with this very specific Asus model and now can't imagine traveling without it. Ever.   Richard Krakauer Intermediate Member Username: Rickrak Post Number: 126 Registered: 03-2005 Posted From: 67.169.133.43 Posted on Wednesday, March 03, 2010 - 02:14 am:    Actually I did talk to Costco, but they said they could only accept returns or replacements the first three months. Costco give a 2 year warranty, and the concierge service for life, which is why I bought it there instead of Amazon. However, the Costco Concierge techs can talk you through all kinds of procedures to try to cure or identify the problem, and we had four different techs, the last being the best because he told the Acer Tech, who wanted to start trying all the same stuff again, that it really needed the be seen by them. Also, he stuck with us calling every week to see what had happened. (this was after 5 weeks of various techs) The computer has only had minimal use. Purchased in late April, we took it to Europe. Hand carried padded case in a backpack that was never checked or crunched in an overhead. We were gone a month, but it cruised 9 days in our cabin, and it never left the hotel in Paris or Rome. It was basically used for email, to check Pepperd flights, to call Space A in Naples, book a few hotels, and came home in fine condition. The next two trips were equally easy going, and when it started acting up in October in Hawaii, I assumed it was because we were sharing the wireless with all those other vacationing computers in the large resort. However, when my iMac died in December, (Apple immediately replaced the hard drive with no hesitation, free of charge even though it stopped a few days after my 3 year extended warranty ended). While the iMac was out of commission, I got out the Acer to use, and it had some of the same problems and new ones until the qqqqqqqqqqqqs took over the whole screen. Started our conversations with the Costco techs after the holidays, and they tried for weeks, until the last guy said Acer needs to take care of this. After the first couple of times, I had to wait until our computer son was around, because it was just too complex for me to do in any reasonable amount of time. So tonight, when the Acer tech said send it back, I just said to my son, "I'm not paying again!" Turns out since it was less than 90 days after the first repair, they pay shipping. Didn't think to take the phone back and say six weeks of trying already is too long, time for a replacement! Probably should have. As to whether we did something to the computer, the paperwork they send spells out the charges you will pay (all) if they find something that is not their fault. Neither the Costco techs, or the Acer people found any damage...just some strange happenings which they apparently did not fix yet. At least we have no big trips planned...it was a jewel when it worked! Ann   Lester Green Advanced Member Username: Rtgreen5 Post Number: 268 Registered: 03-2007 Posted From: 69.143.222.224 Posted on Wednesday, March 03, 2010 - 01:36 am:    Richard: I was under the impression that your Acer was warranted for a year by the manufacturer. I know that you have sent it back once for repair. What is to prevent you from doing this again or asking Acer for another machine if Costco refuses to replace it or take it back? If Costco took it back, they most likely would return it to the seller for a credit since it was defective. Was the machine running perfectly at any time and can you conclude what, if anything, you might have done to cause the machine to act up outside of the norm? Why are you not also pursuing a replacement with Acer?   Richard Krakauer Intermediate Member Username: Rickrak Post Number: 125 Registered: 03-2005 Posted From: 67.169.133.43 Posted on Wednesday, March 03, 2010 - 01:29 am:    Thanks! After another hour with the Costco tech and the Acer tech, Acer is having us send it back (this time at their expense). During one of the procedures, my son ran an Acer program to restore, it came out OK, but the program prompted to reinstall Windows, and that just gave us a black screen and alarm buzzer. So perhaps Windows is one of the problems as you suggested John. I have only had iMacs, so happy to have my son to run all the stuff Acer wanted to try. The Acer tech seemed to recognize what happened. But why it would happen when the paperwork said "thoroughly tested" after they replaced a few things is puzzling. Really wanted them to just say send it back, we'll send you a new one. Ann   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2400 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 208.81.157.86 Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 10:48 pm:    Richard/Ann: I'm sorry you're having problems with your Acer Aspire One. I also have an AspireOne (10" netbook). Have had absolutely no problems. Of course, we stripped out the Microsoft and installed Ubuntu as the operating system. Your problem may be just a bad unit or possibly a software issue (Microsoft is a four-letter word around here). I'd start with the local Cosco...see if they'll let you trade it in...then escalate if no satisfaction. Happy Travels, John   Earl Senior Member Username: Myramstein Post Number: 652 Registered: 11-2007 Posted From: 68.243.123.123 Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 09:54 pm:    Richard, did you consider going on line and see if others have the same problem(s) you have? Then consider joint legal action against the company? Keep all receipts, letters, e mails, parts, computer etc for your case.   Richard Krakauer Intermediate Member Username: Rickrak Post Number: 124 Registered: 03-2005 Posted From: 67.169.133.43 Posted on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 - 09:40 pm:    On January 31 I wrote in this thread about our Acer Aspire One that started printing qqqq uncontrollably. After perhaps 5 sessions with the Costco concierge techs, they finally called in Acer. As we had already tried all the restore techniques the Acer tech recommended, he finally approved sending it in. Shipped it Feb. 5, got it back March 1. The Costco Concierge kept checking in with me, and today he called back to see it we had the netbook. It still has problems, he and my son tried all different things, he called ACER and an Acer tech put in his 2 cents worth,and the Costco guy is due to call back in a few minutes to see if the last process worked. It didn't. The alarm buzzer went off, and the computer froze again. Now Costco says no returns after 3 months, but this is ridiculous. A new computer shouldn't self destruct after less than 6 months. I am considering just packing it up and taking it back to Costco with my documentation of all the hours spent on the phone reinstalling this or that, plus a couple of months of no computer. Actually, we usually don't use this computer except when traveling, but that is even more reason for it not to go bad so soon. So, my question is, would it be better for me to write the head of Costco, as we have always been happy with Costco, to request refund or replacement, or just take it in? Even my son, who knows alot about computers, and enjoys fiddling with them, is ready to throw it out! He has been doing the more complicated stuff with the techs. Thanks for any advice. We loved the computer, and have taken it on three trips, but to last only from April until October is not acceptable.   Jack T. Paxton Senior Member Username: Jpaxton Post Number: 773 Registered: 07-2003 Posted From: 24.27.231.67 Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 08:45 pm:    Larry: When I weighed my Acer is was 3.1 with big battery. My key board weighed: 15.05 ounces or total, about: 4 pounds. My large laptop much more than that. To me, the Acer and keyboard a better value...   Larry Cranford Advanced Member Username: Larrycranford Post Number: 275 Registered: 06-2006 Posted From: 64.160.119.107 Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 02:11 pm:    When you combine a 10" net book with a folding keyboard, don't you end up with as much bulk and weight as carrying a standard sized laptop? Larry   Jack T. Paxton Senior Member Username: Jpaxton Post Number: 772 Registered: 07-2003 Posted From: 24.27.231.67 Posted on Monday, February 01, 2010 - 01:36 pm:    For those of you with the 10.1" (and other) Acer netbooks and stubby fingers let me recommend the folding standard keyboard made by Matias Corp. I bought mine prior to my last European trip and it made the sending of emails and trip repors easy. The keyboard connect to the netbook by a USB cable. About a month ago the port where the cable enters the keyboard gave way. I called Matias thinking their tech reps could help me repair it. Their customer rep (Barb) said: Why don't I just send you a new one. I was floored. While I didn't have my original receipt Barb suggested I check my credit card statements and copy one to her. Their guarantee is for a year. Long/short, thanks to a great customer service rep I had a new keyboard sent second day UPS.   Richard Krakauer Intermediate Member Username: Rickrak Post Number: 120 Registered: 03-2005 Posted From: 67.169.133.43 Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 05:01 pm:    Thanks! I thought I'd read here there was a Costco three month return policy, but I may try the store first just in case they are feeling my pain about trying for a month to get it fixed by phone. Happy to hear the keyboard problem was fixed by Acer! Will report the outcome. Ann   William Standage Senior Member Username: Charlie13 Post Number: 991 Registered: 07-2004 Posted From: 75.172.84.1 Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 03:22 pm:    Richard, My Costco purchased Acer developed a problem with the keyboard after about 6 months. I took it back to Costco, but they said I needed to send it back to Acer for warranty service. You need to registered your computer with Acer, and you are responsible for sending it to them in TX. The registering and getting a job ticket authorization can all be done on line. The total time to repair my machine was less than two weeks and I'm happy with the service. Costco told me their electronics policy only allowed exchange of computers if done within 90 days. Beyond that, you use the factory warranty.   Devin and Cheryl Burbank New member Username: Devcher Post Number: 3 Registered: 12-2009 Posted From: 67.182.124.96 Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 07:31 am:    Richard, take all data you want to keep off of it and walk it into a Costco with your warranty info. They are very good about exchanging when you do it that way, no questions asked. We did it after 20 months and exchanged with no problems!   Richard Krakauer Intermediate Member Username: Rickrak Post Number: 119 Registered: 03-2005 Posted From: 67.169.133.43 Posted on Sunday, January 31, 2010 - 06:17 am:    Our Acer Aspire One which we purchased from Costco last April performed admirably in Europe. However, it has had problems since October, and after 4 calls to Costco Concierge ( over the phone they've had me reinstall the driver, try another keyboard and it still prints qqqqqqqq uncontrollably when it feels like it. We don't usually use it at home, but this has been going on for a month. What does one need to do to get them to let me take it back, or let someone else try to diagnose it? It has the Costco two year warranty, and it started having problems at about 6 months. Any experience with Costco items purchased online? We have had excellent experience with Costco in the past, but these people can see how often I have called in, and the service techs have even heard the alarm going off when the qs start marching. Any advice? Thanks. Ann   Roger Curry Senior Member Username: Rcurryastro Post Number: 758 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 63.173.58.141 Posted on Thursday, January 21, 2010 - 04:42 pm:    Thanks, Ted, Thought my word for it was wrong. Roger   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3843 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.80.143 Posted on Thursday, January 21, 2010 - 03:41 pm:    Roger, Just a clarification of terminology - I think you're referring to disabling your netbook's built-in wireless "function" (or card) and not disabling the "router." The router (wireless or wired) is the device that your computer may use to interface with the internet through a broadband (cable or DSL) connection.   Roger Curry Senior Member Username: Rcurryastro Post Number: 756 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 63.173.58.141 Posted on Thursday, January 21, 2010 - 03:11 am:    Hi, Ted, thanks for your addition to this wireless thread. I have the feeling that my Acer only has the B router due to it's slow speed on my home G network I am at North Island and my Acer will not connect with the WiFi network here (3 out of 5 bars) but my Itouch connected right away. Thanks for the tip on disabling the internal router on my Acer. Clear skies, Roger   Jack T. Paxton Senior Member Username: Jpaxton Post Number: 752 Registered: 07-2003 Posted From: 24.27.231.67 Posted on Thursday, January 14, 2010 - 07:11 pm:    In answer to Ted M: My device was purchased at the Navy Exchange in Jacksonville, if memory serves. While I have not used it with my net book I had a situation this week in New Orleans where I wish I had brought it with me. I was using my new FLIP vidcam (see post Off Topics) to video the various hotel sites I was looking at (see today's post in Lodging) for a future conference. After each days videoing I downloaded directly to my netbook so I would have good reference points when I returned to Florida. The netbook only has three USP portals and I could have used one more.   William Yates Advanced Member Username: Byates Post Number: 155 Registered: 11-2006 Posted From: 68.159.109.76 Posted on Saturday, January 09, 2010 - 01:43 am:    Intel has officially announced the next generation of its popular Atom CPUs for Netbooks. http://ces.cnet.com/8301-31045_1-10417487-269.html?tag=mncol;txt   Ted_M Advanced Member Username: Ted_m Post Number: 285 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 74.97.208.92 Posted on Friday, January 08, 2010 - 10:34 pm:    Actually, it is a Win-Star product, Model WS-WNU680N. However, doing a search on the device, all I can find are the product manufacturers and Asian supply places. I know that Jack Paxton bought one - Jack if you're out there, do you have records as to where I may have suggested that you purchase that adapter at, or, if you are not using it any longer, maybe contact Roger? Thanks! Ted_m   Ted_M Advanced Member Username: Ted_m Post Number: 284 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 74.97.208.92 Posted on Friday, January 08, 2010 - 09:46 pm:    Roger- If you remember when I was in JAX for the picnic, I had a wireless N adapter which I used. It is a small USB type that just plugs into the USB slot. I had also bought a small USB hub there at NAS that I plugged into the USB slot on the computer, then plugged in the wireless N adapter to the hub and disabled the onboard wireless on the Acer. BTW I think that both your model and mine came with a wireless B and G built in, so if you are buying a wireless G it would be about the same. Most wireless adapter are backwards compatible meaning that they will still pick up the signal from a B or G transmitter. If I can get a website that sells the one that I have, I'll post it in another post to this thread. Sincerely, Ted_M   Edgar Inocentes Senior Member Username: Traveler88 Post Number: 443 Registered: 01-2005 Posted From: 209.242.132.226 Posted on Friday, January 08, 2010 - 09:00 pm:    For your future reference: http://www.testfreaks.com/blog/information/best-of-2009-netbooks/   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3784 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.80.143 Posted on Friday, January 08, 2010 - 10:15 am:    Roger, I suspect the "64 gig" ITouch spec you are referring to is storage space (not RAM) - different animal.   Roger Curry Senior Member Username: Rcurryastro Post Number: 739 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 76.123.106.110 Posted on Friday, January 08, 2010 - 05:23 am:    Thanks, John. I guess that I could buy one from CompUSA and return it if I am not satisfied. Hard to think that an I-Touch would have more RAM to work with (it is a 64 gig but I don't know how much is allocated for processing and how much for storage). I think I will start a new topic on useful apps for the IPhone/ITouch since they are becoming very popular. Roger in Jacksonville, FL   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3782 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.80.143 Posted on Friday, January 08, 2010 - 03:48 am:    Roger, yes, the G-adapter should work fine. Keep in mind the "slowness" may not be the wifi connection but may be caused by other factors (slow processor, low ram, low available hard drive, .....)   Roger Curry Senior Member Username: Rcurryastro Post Number: 738 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 76.123.106.110 Posted on Friday, January 08, 2010 - 02:59 am:    Sorry if this has already been asked and answered. I have an Acer netbook with built-in WIFI. I run Wireless-G at home and it appears that the wifi adapter in the computer is Wireless B. Does anyone know if I bought a USB Wireless G adapter if I could use that in preference to the built-in Wireless B? The Acer is very slow compared to my new IPOD Touch which, I assume uses Wireless G. Thanks in advance. Roger in Jacksonville, FL   Edgar Inocentes Senior Member Username: Traveler88 Post Number: 442 Registered: 01-2005 Posted From: 209.242.132.226 Posted on Thursday, January 07, 2010 - 08:50 pm:    Here's the latest from HP - HP Mini 5102 - $399 http://www.infoworld.com/d/mobilize/hp-revamps-mini-netbooks-touchscreen-363?sou rce=rss_infoworld_news   Leland Senior Member Username: Leland Post Number: 5563 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 98.218.147.237 Posted on Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 07:48 pm:    I was thinking the same thing.   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3778 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.80.143 Posted on Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 07:21 pm:    Darn, why didn't I order one now that I think about it!!!   Leland Senior Member Username: Leland Post Number: 5561 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 98.218.147.237 Posted on Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 06:26 pm:    Yep, looks like they just changed it. It was the price given by John D about an hour ago, but now it is $319. Somebody must have goofed. I wonder how many they sold at $127.   D.B.M UK Senior Member Username: Overlandrover Post Number: 5519 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 88.108.6.156 Posted on Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 06:19 pm:    John D, just checked the site, and it was coming up at $319.00, I did notice in the BX at Lakenheath yesterday, they had some Net books for just under $290.00. First time I have seen any in stock for a while.   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3772 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.80.143 Posted on Wednesday, January 06, 2010 - 05:12 pm:    If anyone is on the fence looking for a travel netbook then consider this one for $127.49 http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=10007149-OP   neil littlefield Member Username: Littleneil Post Number: 12 Registered: 09-2009 Posted From: 65.35.196.192 Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 01:32 pm:    I agree John. I guess because it's so thin, ASUS couldn't (or didn't) put a RAM access hatch on the bottom of the 1008HA - like some other ASUS eee' models have. The ASUS eee moderator posted a You Tube link showning how to upgrade the RAM by removing the keyboard, disconnecting a bunch of stuff etc. etc. - scarry and something I would not try on a bet. I think doing so also breaks seals and probably voids the warranty. The good news for ASUS seashell lovers is that they will soon ship with a 2 Gig Ram version.   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3748 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.80.143 Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 07:03 am:    Upgrading RAM in most laptops is, as John D B says, fairly straightforward. However, upgrading the RAM in the Asus model Neil has is not straight forward. You need to remove the keyboard and split the case. Sure, 2GB RAM may be better but not at the risk of damaging the unit and 1 GB Ram should be sufficient for your traveling needs.   John David Brooks Advanced Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 176 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 06:54 am:    By the way, installing the 2GB RAM module on my 1000HE was very straight-forward...unscrewed one screw on the bottom to remove the cover plate...released the "native" 1GB module...replaced it with the upgraded 2GB module...then reattached the cover plate. Bios recognized the added RAM without any issues. Simple stuff. Nothing that should intimidate anybody.   John David Brooks Advanced Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 175 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 06:50 am:    Bought an Asus Eee 1000HE in March 2009 for $379. It came with 1GB RAM running on XP. At the same time, I bought a 1GB RAM upgrade module, just because I'm that kinda guy. I loaded all the software I wanted on it...played around with it for about a week without installing the extra RAM so I had a decent point of reference for its "native" 1GB performance...then installed the extra 1GB module. There was a noticeable boost in reaction speed across various applications, but I wouldn't call it a "significant" boost, perhaps in the area of a 10% - 15% performance increase. I'm enough of a geek to appreciate the difference, but maybe most casual users wouldn't notice or care. It is now my most important travel companion. Almost 10 months later, after pretty constant use, I still get 6+ hours of battery life from a single charge...plenty enough to last me between available AC outlets.   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3742 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.80.143 Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 05:49 am:    Neil, I have a Dell Mini 12 and I find that 1 GB is enough for normal web surfing and email on Windows XP.   Larry Cranford Advanced Member Username: Larrycranford Post Number: 257 Registered: 06-2006 Posted From: 64.160.119.107 Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 02:47 am:    Neil, I haven't really used it yet. I got it for my wife and she hasn't had time to use it due to Christmas, New Year's etc. The one I ordered for me will not be here until the 7th of January. Once I get it updated, I will give it the test. I'll report my findings then. The one I ordered for myself will be blue so I'll have to go looking for a matching bluetooth mouse as I don't like the finger pads. The reason I don't like finger pads is that I am not very good at operating them. Something to do with coordination and manual dexterity or something like that. Larry   neil littlefield Member Username: Littleneil Post Number: 11 Registered: 09-2009 Posted From: 65.35.196.192 Posted on Friday, January 01, 2010 - 02:40 pm:    Larry, I just ordered a 1008HA - a great machine by all accounts. I'm a little concerned that you can't upgrade it's 1 GB RAM without cracking open the case and probably voiding the warranty. A You Tube shows you how to but not me. Are you finding 1 GB is enough to run everything you want to on XP?   Edgar Inocentes Senior Member Username: Traveler88 Post Number: 439 Registered: 01-2005 Posted From: 209.242.132.226 Posted on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 - 03:40 pm:    Larry, I want one too especially with that "unique" feature. Enjoy!   Larry Cranford Advanced Member Username: Larrycranford Post Number: 256 Registered: 06-2006 Posted From: 64.160.119.107 Posted on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 - 12:12 am:    Earlier this month, I bought my wife an ASUS Eee PC, 1008HA, white, netbook. I spent a great deal of time setting it up for use. It comes with Windows XP which was put out in 2002. That means you have to do 7 years of updates which takes a long time. Anyway, I like the netbook so much that I just decided to get me one for my Space-A travels. Some of you already know that I have an iPhone and I really love it. It does everything the netbook will do except make things bigger. At two and one-half pounds, it will not significantly weigh down my backpack so that will not be a problem. I did a search and came up with Adorama Camera, http://www.adorama.com/AS1008HAPU1L.html. Their price is $339.99 with a $50 mail-in rebate. That effectively makes the purchase price, $289.99 plus $10.75 shipping. Not too shabby. It has a unique feature that I think I will enjoy. It reads your mind when you are Space-Aing and finds out the base you want to go to. It then transports you to the base that is flying to your destination and gives you 59 days on the sign-up roster. What'll they think of next? Larry   E.L.Fink Member Username: Yahootie Post Number: 46 Registered: 08-2009 Posted From: 70.196.180.120 Posted on Monday, December 21, 2009 - 08:53 pm:    Earlier I mentioned, I pruchased an HP Mini with Verizon service. The service is a bit pricy, but I can log-on anytime there is cell phone service. It is faster than Wi-Fi, cable, or hi-speed telephone. It is more reliable. I am impressed! I use it all the time without exception.   Paul Allen Member Username: Paulallen Post Number: 47 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 174.18.7.38 Posted on Monday, December 21, 2009 - 07:53 pm:    Wi-Fi is an international standard for wireless communication and should work across all platforms. If the notebook manufacturer says that it is wi-fi compliant then it should work. T-mobile hotspots (wi-fi) require an add on subscription to your regular t-mobile cell phone account or a separate payment for use.   Melinda Birck Intermediate Member Username: Melinda Post Number: 51 Registered: 02-2009 Posted From: 72.12.123.87 Posted on Monday, December 21, 2009 - 03:37 pm:    John-Yes, I am trying to go from my internal wifi. Called t-mobile, they said it wouldn't work, called asus, they couldn't help. This has only been an issue once, so maybe won't worry about it, just like to be prepared. Only use the notebook for travel. Also will try the firefox approach. Will watch for any other suggestions. Thanks again John   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2220 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 79.206.26.161 Posted on Monday, December 21, 2009 - 04:12 am:    Melinda: I checked the t-mobile pages and, indeed, they say that they require XP, Vista or Mac OS 10.4 operating systems. Assuming you are running Firefox on your Linux, it may or may not work. I have found very few applications that say they require XP, that don't run from Firefox. This may be one of them. Are you trying to access from your internal wifi or do you have the propriatary "stick" from t-mobile? This may not be an OS incompatibility issue. Maybe someone with more expertise could jump in now... Happy travels, John   Melinda Birck Member Username: Melinda Post Number: 50 Registered: 02-2009 Posted From: 72.12.123.87 Posted on Sunday, December 20, 2009 - 02:53 pm:    Yet another question...is there a 'pay as you go' service that works for Linux? I'm not sure I'm using the right term but in a hotel recently there was no wi-fi and T-moble came up but required Windows.   Melinda Birck Member Username: Melinda Post Number: 49 Registered: 02-2009 Posted From: 72.12.123.87 Posted on Sunday, December 20, 2009 - 02:13 pm:    John-Thanks, you are always a great source for help.   D.B.M UK Senior Member Username: Overlandrover Post Number: 5447 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 88.108.91.198 Posted on Sunday, December 20, 2009 - 06:33 am:    Not sure about the Mac D in England, don't go in them, but most likely they do, plus have lots of Coffee places that are wifi. Starbucks etc.   Leland Senior Member Username: Leland Post Number: 5478 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 98.218.147.237 Posted on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 08:45 pm:    French McDonalds have had free WiFi for several years. It's the US branch that is running a little behind.   GJZ Advanced Member Username: Candleinthesand Post Number: 257 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 71.38.211.27 Posted on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 08:16 pm:    Okay, thanks! Yes, have done that too, gotten code/key before to access network. Also, just read today where McDonalds here in the states is going to have free WiFi in all of its locations. Heck you can always find a McDonalds! Now if only the European McDonalds would follow suit!   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2215 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 79.206.26.37 Posted on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 01:29 pm:    GTZ/Don: Often we can "see" any number of wifi networks that we could log onto. For example, at the Bob Hope Center on Mildenhall, you can see the Bob Hope wifi and several wifis from troops in the barracks. Bob Hope's is unlocked (doesn't require a key), most of the ones in the dorms are locked (require their key to access). If one of the dorm wifi networks is unlocked, you could log on to that network (referred to as "hi-jacking" and not approved!). If you were in the Pax Terminal at Mildenhall, the system is locked and, as Don said, you must get the key from the PaxReps. On commercial wifi, you are usually brought to a company page, invited to invest with your credit card, in order to log on. Happy travels, John   D.B.M UK Senior Member Username: Overlandrover Post Number: 5444 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 88.108.91.198 Posted on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 01:13 pm:    GJZ, what I think John meant was ask someone that works in the area, they might give you the password,(key) I know at Mildenhall, I had to ask a Pax Rep for the password to log on with my Mini laptop the last time.   GJZ Advanced Member Username: Candleinthesand Post Number: 256 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 71.38.211.27 Posted on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 01:09 pm:    John, thanks for the info. It's said there are no dumb questions, only questions that have not been asked! Understood everthing but what you said on "If you chose a "locked" network and you have the "key". What key? How do we know if we have it and where can we get it if we have it but don't know it? Thanks!   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2213 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 79.206.8.43 Posted on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 04:35 am:    Melinda: I'm in Germany right now with my ASUS netbook running Linux over wifi. Here's the steps: 1. Go to your "Wireless Networks-Visible Access Points" icon (in your tray or from the Internet tab). Double click to launch. This will tell you which wifi networks are within range. Choose one in the color green (good signal) that has an unlocked lock (unless, of course, you have the key). 2. Go to your "Network Connections" icon (again in either your tray or from the Internet tab). Double click to open and scroll (highlight) the network you chose from step one. 2.a. If you chose an "unlocked" network, click on the drop down "connection" menu and click on "connect" After a few minutes you should be connected. 2.b. If you chose a "locked" network and you have the "key", click on the drop down "Properties" menu, go to "wireless", "X" the enable encription box, Choose "WPA" (rather than "WEP"), type in the "key". Click "OK" and "OK" then click on the drop down "connection" menu (as above) and click on "connect" After a few minutes you should be connected. That should get you connected. Happy travels, John   Melinda Birck Member Username: Melinda Post Number: 48 Registered: 02-2009 Posted From: 72.12.123.87 Posted on Saturday, December 19, 2009 - 01:14 am:    Being very new to using my lynux ops mini notebook, I tried to get wi-fi in germany. All I could find seemed to be based (mostly t-mobile) for windows and I was unable to figure out how do get service with lynux. Can anyone help me out with how to go about this? Thanks for any LOW TECH advice.   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2155 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 79.206.31.70 Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 06:23 am:    There is a great deal on a 10.1" Acer Aspire One bundle at several locations (Tiger Direct, CircuitCity.com, etc). For less than $310, you get the netbook, sleeve, mouse and DVDR/W: Here's the TigerDirect: http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/searchtools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=52608 02&SRCCODE=WEBLET03ORDER&cm_mmc=Email-_-WebletMain-_-WEBLET03ORDER-_-Deals Happy Travels, John   John McClellan Advanced Member Username: Mccljp Post Number: 199 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 157.127.124.15 Posted on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - 12:15 pm:    PR - they also make a module that is a car adapter (cig lighter) to USB.   PR Senior Member Username: Pretzlaff Post Number: 1465 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 67.190.52.82 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 07:27 pm:    I actually got to thinking about it and all I have that won't charge from a usb is my phone. So, I ordered a usb charging cable from amazon.com for $6 for my phone. I also travel with a 120volt to usb adapter, so I don't have to use my Acer to charge things.   PR Senior Member Username: Pretzlaff Post Number: 1464 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 67.190.52.82 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 07:15 pm:    Another thing is that alot of what needs charging now can be charged from a usb port on a computer. My Ipod Touch with Skype charges that way. Also, my Garmin can be charged by connecting it to a usb port. So, the world is quickly becoming a usb based system. I was also just at Target. I looked at some of the power plug adapters. While several had 3 prongs to go into overseas recepticals (sp?). They were all just plastic on the third prong. So, my small, cheap adapter is basically the same.   PR Senior Member Username: Pretzlaff Post Number: 1463 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 67.190.52.82 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 01:45 pm:    My 'cheater" plug/ adapter takes the 2 american prongs and converts them to only 2 round pins. If there is a third ground plug on my equipment, it does not connect to anything. The 2 round pins seem to fit into many overseas recepticles (sp?). Often you do not use a third hole which is probably also a ground. Looks like this one: http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=211421348&listingid=46269457 All the stuff that I charge is dual voltage electronic stuff, so I never bother with the transformers.   John McClellan Advanced Member Username: Mccljp Post Number: 197 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 157.127.124.15 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 01:32 pm:    Most exchanges and even Radio Shack carry kits for overseas travel. This kits contain several 'adapters' for various wall outlets around the world and a converter to step down/up the power. We have two our $10 one we got at the exchange in 2000 finally died, but we kept the adapters. The other one was more at Radio Shack.   William Yates Intermediate Member Username: Byates Post Number: 150 Registered: 11-2006 Posted From: 68.159.109.76 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 01:27 pm:    Amazon has one called Universal International Travel Power Plug Adapter Black - 2 Pack   dinotars Senior Member Username: Dinotars Post Number: 6201 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 173.169.151.24 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 12:01 pm:    Some interesting discussions on this topic at: http://bose.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/6806048934/m/1171031006   Cherry C. Senior Member Username: Cherry Post Number: 5929 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 96.241.127.69 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 11:13 am:    I thought the CHEATER plug is designed to convert the 3-pronged plug on the end of a modern American electric cord so that it can be plugged in to an old-fashioned American wall socket that has only the 2 slots for the flat prongs, with no hole for the round 'ground' prong. But an entry below is describing what I would call an ADAPTOR plug -- one that takes our standard U.S. end-of-cord 2 or 3 pronger, and has outgoing prongs or slats to fit into any one of the many different styles of receptacles found in foreign parts. (Not to be confused with a CONVERTER, that changes the wall voltage into that required by the appliance, for appliances that do not have converters built in to them. A "travel" appliance such as a hair dryer should have this feature built in but you might need to push a button to access it. Most modern small computers automatically do whatever is needed in this department.) Words, words, words... BUT they have a purpose!   Leland Senior Member Username: Leland Post Number: 5366 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 68.34.15.249 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 01:42 am:    GJZ, I am pretty sure a "cheater plug" is a plug adapter that converts the US 2-flat-prong power plug into a different configuration, for instance for UK or continental Europe. Make sure your appliance is dual voltage before using one, or you will have crispy electronics.   dinotars Senior Member Username: Dinotars Post Number: 6197 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 173.169.151.24 Posted on Monday, November 23, 2009 - 12:06 am:    GJZ, "Also would like to get a car charger for our Acer. Where can they be found?" Try COMPUSA or Radio Shack.   GJZ Advanced Member Username: Candleinthesand Post Number: 252 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 71.38.211.27 Posted on Sunday, November 22, 2009 - 11:04 pm:    Our Acer will be going with us everytime we travel. What exactly is a "cheater plug" and it sounds like we do need one so where can we buy one and what do we ask for? Also would like to get a car charger for our Acer. Where can they be found? Thanks!   PR Senior Member Username: Pretzlaff Post Number: 1462 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 67.190.52.82 Posted on Sunday, November 22, 2009 - 10:24 pm:    Cherry-- I have an Acer with a '3 hour' battery. The battery is smaller and lighter than the '6 hour' one. I have never found the small battery to be a problem. If I am just looking something up on the internet, I just turn it on. When I am using the computer for several hours, I am always someplace where there is a power outlet. Overseas you can just use one of those 'cheater plug' things because the charger is dual voltage. The plugs are usually only 1 euro. The only place I can see a problem is if you want to use the computer on a plane for several hours. A C17 would be OK because it has outlets. Other planes might be a problem. I, like others posting here, love the netbook. It pays for itself while traveling by being able to book planes, cars, and hotels on the web.   Ed Crews Member Username: Ed_crews Post Number: 13 Registered: 09-2009 Posted From: 70.191.249.124 Posted on Sunday, November 22, 2009 - 08:13 pm:    I always rent a car, so a mini-inverter keeps mine charged.   John David Brooks Intermediate Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 134 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Sunday, November 22, 2009 - 07:50 pm:    I have an Asus Eee 1000HE netbook with a rated 9-hour battery, but in reality it actually lasts around 6 hours for normal Internet usage. I upgraded the RAM to 2GB when I bought it for just a little performance boost. It is now my closest traveling companion...no way I would ever go anywhere without it. Yes, bring your chargers...you never need one until you REALLY need one! I paid $369 for my Asus six months ago. Best money I've spent this year. I recommend purchasing from Amazon...big box stores are notorious for selling netbooks with fewer features than the machines you buy on Amazon yet charging you the same price.   D.B.M UK Senior Member Username: Overlandrover Post Number: 5337 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 88.108.108.254 Posted on Sunday, November 22, 2009 - 07:48 pm:    Cherry, I haven't had a problem. I have the Acer Aspire One. Batt life after a year last about 2 hours. It doesn't take to long to charge it up. Works fine for me to just check mail and look at this site. I guess if it played Videos it would go down faster.   Cherry C. Senior Member Username: Cherry Post Number: 5927 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 96.241.127.69 Posted on Sunday, November 22, 2009 - 07:20 pm:    Questions: How important is battery life? Is the advertised battery life usually accurate, especially if reading mostly text (with a little HTML thrown in), not complicated graphics, games or videos? If a netbook comes with only an "up to 3 hours" battery, can that readily be replaced with a 6 hour or 9 hour battery? (for a fee, I realize) Or do travelers find there are enough power outlets normally available so that battery life is not a problem? Many thanks to one and all for advice!   Charles Heffernan Intermediate Member Username: Speagle Post Number: 53 Registered: 01-2007 Posted From: 96.250.225.238 Posted on Wednesday, November 04, 2009 - 08:34 pm:    Thanks, John for that link. All the best, Charlie   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2103 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 208.81.157.86 Posted on Wednesday, November 04, 2009 - 03:02 pm:    Charles: Quick answer is no. But, here's an article that expands on that answer (to a maybe??): http://www.ubergizmo.com/15/archives/2009/03/in_apples_mind_it_is_not_building_a _netbook.html Happy Travels, John   Charles Heffernan Intermediate Member Username: Speagle Post Number: 52 Registered: 01-2007 Posted From: 96.250.225.238 Posted on Wednesday, November 04, 2009 - 02:54 pm:    We switched to Macs last year and are happy with them. I can't find any info as to whether Apple plans to issue a netbook. Anyone out there have any word on that?   ander Intermediate Member Username: Ander Post Number: 93 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 208.38.116.75 Posted on Sunday, November 01, 2009 - 01:44 am:    We bought a Dell Mini-9 via AAFES a year ago and have been very happy with it. However, for warantee work, Dell thinks we live at AAFES headquarters. For the Mini, last winter bought a LiteOn external DVD writer from TigerDirect. During initial startup it crashed the Mini operating system (XP) and we had to send to Dell to reestablish. Have not used the LiteOn, or TigerDirect since.   neal floyd Intermediate Member Username: Nfloyd Post Number: 108 Registered: 09-2007 Posted From: 67.233.160.41 Posted on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 - 02:46 pm:    If you want to buy one check Woot.com Acer Aspire One 10.1” Netbook $219.99 * + $5 shipping Condition: Refurbished Product: 1 Acer Aspire One D250 10.1” Intel Atom 1.6GHz 1GB DDR2 160GB 3 Cell XP Home color: Red, Blue   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 136 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 70.138.14.1 Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 10:23 pm:    Well the Acer Aspire One AOD250-1584 showed up today. So far I am impressed, keyboard is close enough to full size to make it fairly easy to use. I would definitely recommend one to anyone looking. Mike   Paul Allen Member Username: Paulallen Post Number: 45 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 174.18.13.149 Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 04:20 pm:    Just bought this netbook at buy.com for $269.95 including free shipping. Acer Aspire One Ultra Thin AOD250-1026 10.1" Netbook Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz, 1GB, 160GB HDD, Webcam, Windows XP Home (Sapphire Blue).   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3425 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.72.23 Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 04:43 am:    E.L, Of course we're getting off topic but around that time period you're probably thinking of the business versions of Windows NT and its successor Windows 2000. To continue the Windows history discussion please start another thread.   Denny Knott Senior Member Username: Degause01 Post Number: 1034 Registered: 07-2005 Posted From: 98.183.26.167 Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 02:53 am:    You left out Windows 3.1   E.L.Fink Member Username: Yahootie Post Number: 24 Registered: 08-2009 Posted From: 70.218.212.229 Posted on Monday, October 26, 2009 - 01:22 am:    Well, let's see, there was 95, 98, 98SE, 2000, ME, XP, Vista, and now 7. Seems I missed one, wasn't there another OS somewhere around 2000for business? OS2?   John David Brooks Intermediate Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 108 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Sunday, October 25, 2009 - 06:29 pm:    Windows 7 will now quickly become the netbook standard OS...shame, really, because most of the reliable OS testing on current netbooks have shown Windows 7 to be slower than XP.   PR Senior Member Username: Pretzlaff Post Number: 1427 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 67.190.52.82 Posted on Sunday, October 25, 2009 - 01:34 pm:    Looking at all the ads in the Sunday paper, it looks like all the netbooks have gone to Windows 7 from XP.   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 133 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 70.138.14.1 Posted on Saturday, October 24, 2009 - 11:12 am:    I ended up going with this one from Acer: Acer Aspire One AOD250-1584 Netbook - Intel Atom N280 1.66GHz, 1GB DDR2, 250GB HDD, 10.1" WSVGA, Windows 7 Starter, Bluetooth, 6-Cell, Blue Ordered from Tiger Direct. Had to pay for expedited shipping to get it here in time for the trip, but still seems to be a better machine for about the same money as the ones in the local stores. I will eventually order the 2GB RAM, and we also picked up a 500GB portable HD from Best Buy to fill with music and movies to occupy the wife. She hates flying. Thanks for all the help, Mike   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3412 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.72.23 Posted on Friday, October 23, 2009 - 04:00 am:    CTMike, Before you go looking at models decide on what features you require (e.g. Bluetooth, camera, # of USB ports etc...) as it sounds like you are undecided). Once you've decided on the "must have" features then you can compare apples among the different models on sale.   John David Brooks Intermediate Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 106 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Friday, October 23, 2009 - 02:46 am:    Mike: It's the same model "series" and $50 more, but shipping is free and it's tax-free...take a look here: http://www.amazon.com/ASUS-1101HA-MU1X-BK-11-6-Inch-Black-Netbook/dp/B002JINFS0/ ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1256269280&sr=8-1 I personally don't like the Z520 processors, but the rest of the features are pretty darn good. The RAM is upgradeable to 2GB (I've done it), and it's an upgrade I recommend. Installation is easy.   Denny Knott Senior Member Username: Degause01 Post Number: 1030 Registered: 07-2005 Posted From: 98.183.26.167 Posted on Friday, October 23, 2009 - 02:03 am:    Mike, take a look at these links: http://eeepc.asus.com/global/product1101ha-spec.html http://event.asus.com/eeepc/comparison/eeepc_comparison.htm   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 132 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 206.53.157.91 Posted on Friday, October 23, 2009 - 01:20 am:    The problem with getting it somewhere else is that this seems to be a best buy only model. It doesn't show up on the asus website and the only google results for that model number seem to be on best buy's website. Should that be reason for worry?   John David Brooks Intermediate Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 105 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 08:55 pm:    I've had several bad experiences buying netbooks from Best Buy. My advice is to take a look at the same make and model on Amazon and compare prices...if price is the same or close to it, I recommend the Amazon purchase.   Denny Knott Senior Member Username: Degause01 Post Number: 1028 Registered: 07-2005 Posted From: 98.183.26.167 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 07:33 pm:    Mike I also meant to check and see if the 1GB of RAM is upgradeable to 2GB of RAM... Sounds like a machine worth the cost...   Denny Knott Senior Member Username: Degause01 Post Number: 1027 Registered: 07-2005 Posted From: 98.183.26.167 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 07:32 pm:    Mike, is it XP, VISTA OR WIN7?   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 131 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 70.138.14.1 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 06:36 pm:    The 1101HAB has 802.11b/g/n ATOM Z520 processor, 160GB HD, 1GB RAM, and built-in webcam.   Denny Knott Senior Member Username: Degause01 Post Number: 1026 Registered: 07-2005 Posted From: 98.183.26.167 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 05:54 pm:    Any NETBOOK you purchase should have the latest in wireless technology, such as, 802.11n which is the fastest at this time. Also, built-in webcam and the best processor speed offered.   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 130 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 70.138.14.1 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 05:45 pm:    I was thinking that BT capability would be nice for using Skype or a wireless mouse and keyboard. I know my over-the-ear BT headset for my blackberry is much smaller than wired headsets I have seen.   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3410 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.72.23 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 05:08 pm:    CTmike, Do you want Bluetooth?   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 129 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 70.138.14.1 Posted on Thursday, October 22, 2009 - 04:52 pm:    Anyone have any experience with the ASUS 1101HAB-RBLK001x sold at Best Buy for $349? Seems like a decent deal, but doesn't seem to have bluetooth capability like the 1101HA does. Looking to buy a netbook tomorrow. I can't seem to find the 1101hab-rblk001x anywhere but at Best Buy. Posssibly a BB only model? Doesn't seem to be listed on ASUS's website either. Thanks, Mike   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2039 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 208.81.157.86 Posted on Friday, October 16, 2009 - 02:10 pm:    Vista, Windows 7...All of which can be avoided if you use Linux! Happy travels, John   Jack Wanless Senior Member Username: Jack646 Post Number: 1404 Registered: 02-2007 Posted From: 122.20.207.104 Posted on Friday, October 16, 2009 - 03:12 am:    Any of y'all see this Yahoo! article on Vista? http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/152476 I guess if the bossman sees it that way, it must be true...   Cherry C. Senior Member Username: Cherry Post Number: 5764 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 96.241.127.69 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 11:27 pm:    Funny thing about XP vs. Vista... In our area anyway, new Dell and many other brands of computers in the stores claim they are being sold with a Vista OS but also with an option to download XP instead -- but then when you actually get the computer you find that XP is what's already on it, no sign of Vista. (Apparently the manufacturers realize the general public is not at all sold on Vista...)   John R Garrison Senior Member Username: Majorg Post Number: 2037 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 208.81.157.86 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 06:13 pm:    I have had the ASUS EEEPC 900 (8.7" screen running Linux) for almost a year. Love it for travel and use it for my main home computer (I added a mouse(USB), standard keyboard(USB), and screen it to my 22" TV (VGA) for any heavy work at home). If I had to do it over again, would opt for a 10" screen and 90+% keys (I have small hands, but still would have liked the spacing on a larger keyboard). Harder to find Linux systems these days, but would opt for Linux over M/S any day. Agree with TigerDirect.com, but also have had good service thru NewEgg.com and JR.com (work thru USAA Membershop for additional discounts). Happy Travels, John   PR Senior Member Username: Pretzlaff Post Number: 1414 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 67.190.52.82 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 05:58 pm:    In general, these netbooks come with XP. Microsoft sells it to the builders of the netbook for only $50 per computer. Vista and 7 cost $100 to $200 for the builders to install depending on the version. That is partly how they keep the cost of the netbooks down. Also, they tend to put limited memory and processing in the netbooks to save money and battery life. Vista and 7 require more memory and processing speed than most of these netbooks have. Given that you will mostly be surfing the internet with the netbooks, I would stick with XP for cost, stability, and speed.   Ted_M Advanced Member Username: Ted_m Post Number: 271 Registered: 04-2005 Posted From: 64.147.217.139 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 05:25 pm:    CTMike- Remember, one of the advantages of a netbook computer is that of weight. The Compaq computer that is advertised is a regular laptop and does carry some weight (probably as much as a current laptop would weigh - 5 to 6 pounds maybe, and SHOULD be available on October 22, 2009- I couldn't find any specs on that model as it came up with a MALWARE 'invitation' that my computer was infected and to download some software and run a scan - NOT!!!) compared to that of a netbook, which is about 2.5 pounds or so. Take a look at both the 8.9 inch and 10.1 inch screens and compare weight to conventional laptops. Recommend tigerdirect.com and also purchasing a new one, vice a refurbished (opinion runs about 50/50 pro/con on that). One thing that I did on our Germany trip this past summer was to get an inexpensive WalMart backpack ($16 or so) with a computer sleeve sewn in, and then found some small insulated lunch boxes at Big Lots and packed my USB hub, card reader, wires and mouse in them (one was for my digital SLR camera and lens). I also found a heavy duty small plastic bag to put my netbook into which makes it much easier to slide it into and out of the sleeve. Both of the insulated lunch boxes fit into the bottom of the backpack side by side. Still had room for some snacks, toothbrush, change of skiivies, and used the straps for securing a blanket and jacket/raincoat. Sincerely, Ted   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 125 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 70.138.14.1 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 04:20 pm:    Only question is, will I be able to find one of these Compaq's in stock somewhere next week in time for our trip to Normandy on the 28th?   CTmike Intermediate Member Username: Ctmike Post Number: 124 Registered: 05-2008 Posted From: 70.138.14.1 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 04:17 pm:    Just saw this article: http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/152839 Might pick one of these up next week instead of the Netbook I was planning on, don't see many negatives, except the size.   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3376 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.72.23 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 04:14 pm:    Agree, I'd wait for Windows 7 - I've managed to leapfrog Vista entirely.   Leland Senior Member Username: Leland Post Number: 5248 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 68.34.15.249 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 03:48 pm:    And Win7 is due out on the 22nd. I would wait. XP is all right and the early reviews of Win7 are good, but Vista has problems.   mike~p Senior Member Username: In_japan Post Number: 483 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 75.57.243.130 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 03:45 pm:    I don't recommend buying anything with Vista unless it comes with a free upgrade to Windows 7.   John D. Moderator Username: John_d Post Number: 3373 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 95.208.72.23 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 04:01 am:    Decide on what features you want in a netboolk and then compare models. Dell Mini 12 with Windows XP and 1gb ram has worked like a charm for me. If you get one with Windows Vista make sure you get at least 2gb ram.   E.L.Fink Member Username: Yahootie Post Number: 22 Registered: 08-2009 Posted From: 12.11.239.226 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 02:30 am:    I have the HP Mini 1000 (for $200) which came with the Verizon Wireless service. It has no harddrive, no floppy. It does have 11 GB memory. It uses Mobile Broadband. It has a cell phone number. There are two billing rates, 250,000 MB and 5 GB. As hard as I try I cannot go beyone 1.25 GB of use per month. It used about 250,000 MB bandwidth to download upgrades/upgrades. But it's fantastic, except when the cell phone signal drops off to low to be received, then it defalts to National or Global Access at an extra fee. I just spent a month in Hawaii with it. The only problems were signal reception. It would switch to National Access with full mobile Broadband reception. I complained and problem went away.   John David Brooks Intermediate Member Username: Johnb6597 Post Number: 93 Registered: 04-2008 Posted From: 121.55.235.75 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 01:23 am:    I love my Asus Eee 1000HE netbook. Excellent battery life, built-in webcam and microphone, 160GB hard drive, Bluetooth, and 102.11n Wi-Fi. Windows XP. Purchased an Asus external DVD drive to go with it. I've had it for six months now and have been back and forth between New Mexico and Guam 3 times with it without any issues/problems. Word of advice: Don't buy a netbook from Best Buy (store or website). For reasons not completely clear to me, netbook manufacturers produce several different versions of the exact same model of netbook...and the ones manufactured for Best Buy are almost always NOT the same full-featured versions offered on Amazon. I recommend making any netbook purchases on Amazon after a very careful review of the product specifications listed.   Jeffrery W Holder Member Username: Armyman55 Post Number: 10 Registered: 06-2009 Posted From: 98.26.224.10 Posted on Thursday, October 15, 2009 - 12:45 am:    I recently purchased a HP netbook. Works great for email, viewing the web and Skype. Our son in Kodiak, AK and it is nice to talk and see the grandkids. I would not purchase one to do a lot of word documents or major projects. Very good for email and web. Small and compact and they travel well. Most come with trial versions of Word and other software. Overall, we are pleased with our netbook.   GJZ Advanced Member Username: Candleinthesand Post Number: 246 Registered: 05-2006 Posted From: 97.119.169.30 Posted on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 - 11:11 pm:    We really enjoy our red Acer 10.1 Aspire min-laptop that we've had for over 6 months now. We have used it for everything Cheryl said she'd like to use it for. Have gotten used to the touchpad but if able to put it on a flat surface we do use the mini-mouse that came with it. We too got the external CD/DVD Drive. Can't wait to try it in Europe, come Spring perhaps!   mike~p Senior Member Username: In_japan Post Number: 482 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 75.57.243.130 Posted on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 - 10:44 pm:    The netbooks are great for me. The screen size is not much of a problem if you are truly using the computer while it is sitting on your lap. Depending on your finger size, the somewhat smaller keyboard can he a problem if you do a lot of typing but then you can use a USB keyboard which would get you up to full size. None of the netbooks I know of have CD/DVD drives but you can use an external USB drive which will give you better capablility then the ones in most laptops. Also those internal drives are the first to fail and replacing them is expensive. Most have built in cameras which allow for video conferencing over Skype and other online services. Battery life is up to 10 hours and the weight is around 2.5 lbs which make then great for traveling. The only thing I would change is the touch pad on my model. They define the pad area with small bumps on an otherwise smooth plastic area under the keyboard which I could not get used to so I placed a piece of clear packing tape over the area and it reduced the feeling of those annoying bumps. I also placed a piece strip of tape along the right side to better define the pad area for scrolling. Did the same to the left side of the touchpad button to better define it. My comments are based on my ASUS PC eee 1005HA-P with a 10.1 screen. XP operating system but you could load LINUX or Windows 7 if you so desire.   Cherry C. Senior Member Username: Cherry Post Number: 5759 Registered: 06-2003 Posted From: 96.241.127.69 Posted on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 - 10:09 pm:    May I add my inquiry to William's? I, too, will be getting a netbook or notebook computer within the next month or two. I'd be using it daily while traveling to read and write emails, and catch up on this website and certain blogs that I regularly read. Also -- maybe -- I would get Skype service. So it'd be important for me to know which computer would have the appropriate features to connect to the latter. Other important features are battery life, screen size and clarity, and keyboard usability. P.S. I am not a tekkie by any means, so please keep any responses as much in standard English as possible! ;-D   William Yates Intermediate Member Username: Byates Post Number: 144 Registered: 11-2006 Posted From: 68.159.109.76 Posted on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 - 09:21 pm:    I’ve followed the Mini notebook thread from June-September and think it may be time to buy one. Many of you have used one for a while so how do you like your netbook now and what would you change about it? I’m interested in screen size, operating system and other features.