Archive for February, 2010
Wat is a Smartbook?
At the time of this article, a smartbook is a class of mobile device that combines certain features of both a smartphone and netbook. Smartbooks use ARM processors which deliver features including always on, all-day battery life, 3G and/or WiFi connectivity and GPS (all typically found in smartphones) in a laptop or tablet-style body with a screen size of 5 to 10 inches and a physical or soft touch screen QWERTY keyboard.
ARM processors are more energy-efficient than traditional x86 processors that are typically found in desktop and laptop computers. They are not as fast but are quick enough for smooth video playback, rich web browsing and other apps.
Smartbooks are currently designed more for entertainment purposes than for productivity purposes and typically are targeted to work with online applications and may be also sold subsidized through mobile network operators, like mobile phones, along with a wireless data plan. We’ll see more and more smartbook like devices coming out throughout 2010.
What is Snapdragon?
What is Snapdragon?
Snapdragon is the name of the architecture of a family of chipsets with an ARM-based 32 bit CPU. The architecture was developed by Qualcomm (which calls Snapdragon a “platform”) for use in smartphones and mobile computing devices. The Snapdragon platform is designed for real time ubiquitous computing with low power consumption for day-long battery life.
So what?
Does this mean it basically performs like 2002 computer? Yes and no. It is a slower processor which uses very little power. It isn’t designed for gaming, it is designed for always-on use. Most Snapdragon powered devices will run for 10+hrs on a battery charge and smoothly play back 1080p video, support GPS, 3G, etc. Snapdragon CPUs run cool and do not require a heat sink or fan.
You can learn more about Snapdragon here:
http://www.qctconnect.com/products/snapdragon.html
MacBook Repair Extension Program for Hard Drive Issues
Apple has determined that a very small percentage of hard drives that were used in MacBook systems, sold between approximately May 2006 and December 2007, may fail under certain conditions.
Affected models:
13-inch black and white MacBook models with the following processor speeds and hard drive capacities:
* Processor speed – 1.83GHz, 2GHz, or 2.16GHz
* Hard drive capacity – 60GB, 80GB, 100GB, 120GB, or 160GB
Read more about this on Apple support here:
http://www.apple.com/support/macbook/hd/repairextension/
What is Lenovo Skylight?
What is Lenovo Skylight?
As Lenovo puts it: “Skylight is a sleek, stylish 10″ mobile HD device with a web-optimized interface that lets you enjoy the web and rich media everywhere you go.”
Specs include: under 2lbs, Snapdragon CPU, 20GB, 10hrs battery life.
Read more about it at Lenovo’s page here:
http://shop.lenovo.com/us/landing_pages/info/10/skylight
What is Lenovo Personal Systems Reference?
Question:
What is Lenovo Personal Systems Reference (PSREF)?
Answer:
Personal Systems Reference (PSREF) sheets reveal comprehensive information on the features and technical specifications of Lenovo products.
Go here for the latest PSREFs:
http://www.lenovo.com/psref/
Where can I get a DV9000 Manual or Schematic?
Question:
Where can I get a DV9000 Manual or Schematic?
I need to replace the lid, but first I need to figure out how to take it apart.
Answer:
The DV9000 is plagued with problems, more of which will be covered here shortly.
But the quick answer to your question is, get the manual from HP’s site here:
http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c01311536.pdf
Lenovo ThinkPad X100e Netbook
Dual pointing devices & a great keyboard. ThinkPad qualities in a netbook!
The X100e starts at $449.
Read a hands on review over at PCMAG.com:
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2357584,00.asp
