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5 out of 5 people found this review helpful
4.5 stars
"Exceeded my very high expectations!"
Pros: An excellent piece of engineering. Incredible function in a small package.
Cons: Single memory slot. Battery life makes extended sessions away from an AC outlet a challenge.
Summary: This is an innovative shot at a compromise between small physical size and large, comprehensive function. The touch screen allows effective use as a tablet in a very limited space. I found the 8.9 inch touch screen easy to use, sharp and clear and about right for me (with glasses). The keyboard was significantly more than adequate for an ultra-portable. I find 3.5 and 4.5 inch screens, and miniature cell-phone-like keyboards, too small. As the Editor observes, if you do not require small size, larger is better and probably less expensive.
This is not the best choice for your only computer. However, running XP Professional on a device this size is a kick. I chose the next-to-smallest standard Fujitsu configuration with XP Professional Tablet Edition, 512K memory and a 30G disc. I passed on Bluetooth since I had no urgent need. The USBs permit convenient use of a flash drive, and a USB/Bluetooth device if it becomes necessary. This results in a cost saving of around 25%. I also passed on the extended life battery, since I use pure battery operation only when an AC outlet or car battery is not available. I feel that extended life battery technology has a long way to go. XP is quite comfortable in this hardware environment, and although I required the option, I?m not sure I?ll move to Vista for the chores I need to do on an ultra-portable.
I always tear a bit when I purchase technology and soon see better, faster, cheaper coming from all sides. I don?t think that?s going to happen soon in this case. It appears that there are few of us out there who have determined that they are willing to spend $2K for a device this size. It will not be trivial for the competition to come up with a comparable device at reasonable cost. This is not a PDA although it can be used as one, and not a Windows Mobile device but a fully capable mobile Windows XP professional (Tablet Edition) laptop computer that easily converts to a tablet.
Other factors that made this expenditure a good experience were, the generous collection of features all worked out of the box, and the few questions I had were quickly answered by a very courteous and competent technical staff. One call for help was made around Midnight and another was on Christmas day and someone was there without being placed on hold till my ear hurt.
I normally intend to provide positive reviews, but rarely follow through. In this case, I feel that the Editor?s review, while technically accurate, did not properly value the innovative design and physical attributes of this device. An internal optical drive would add size, and an external USB optical drive (probably mandatory for most) functioned flawlessly. An 11.1 inch or larger screen and a larger keyboard would add more size and negate the very reason that I chose to purchase this device, over the internet, untouched and unseen.
I recently have found consumer reviews of diverse products extremely useful and feel obliged to ?return the favor?.
I obviously recommend this product for anyone who is comfortable with Windows XP and needs an ultra-compact computer footprint.
