Australian computer retailer Pioneer Computers has trotted out two new tablet PCs today with this smaller 10.6-inch model the more affordable of the two.
Starting at $AUD599, the DreamBook ePad A10 has a look not too dissimilar to some of the promotional shots of the original HP Slate before it was pulled.
The new A10 features a standard 10.6-inch widescreen touch LCD panel with 1024×600-pixel resolution, Intel Atom N450 processor and support for solid state drives (SSDs) up to 32GB. You also get 1GB of DDR3 memory (expandable to 2GB).
Although the press release states the unit runs Microsoft Windows 7, it doesn’t actually come with any operating system at the $599 price tag. The cheapest option listed on the Pioneer Computers website is Windows XP Home Edition SP3, which will cost an extra $39, taking the real base unit cost up to $638.
Given the promotion of Windows 7 however, battery life from the three-cell Lithium-polymer pack is said to be “up to five hours” or about half the life of the Apple iPad. The unit weighs in at 900grams, which is around 250grams heavier than the iPad as well.
Interestingly, the unit comes with a combo HDMI socket that Pioneer Computers says offers VGA and Ethernet connectivity – no mention if HDMI is actually offered as well.
The base unit price is $599 for an 16GB SSD and no 3G connectivity. A 3G modem will set you back an extra $99 with connectivity support with Optus and Virgin Mobile.
Specifications
| LCD | 10.1″ LED Multi-Touch Panel WSVGA 1024*600 Pixel |
|---|---|
| CPU | Intel ATOM Processor N455 (1.66GHz) and N475 (1.83GHz) |
| Chipset | Intel NM10 Express Chipset |
| Memory | DDR3: 1066/1333 MHz with 1 SODIMM Socket. Max. 2 GB |
| HDD | Support SATA Port SSD 8G/16G/32G Card and Mini-PCIe SSD Card |
| Network | 10/100 Mbps Ethernet |
| Wireless | 1 Full Card Mini PCI-E V1.2 Slot, Support 802.11 a.b.g |
| Dimension | 267mm*173mm*8-17mm |
| Weight | 900g |
| Card Reader | 1 Micro SD Card Reader |
| Web Camera | 1.3M Camera on Front Panel |
| Audio | 2 Stereo Speakers, Built-in MIC |
| I/O Ports | 1* Combo HDMI Connector for VGA and RJ45 Adaptor Port, Support Cable Detect Function to Save Power 1* Headphone out 1* DC-in 1* Mini-USB port 2* Standard USB2.0 Ports |
| I/O Internal | 1 full Size Mini PCI-E V1.2 Slot, Support 802.11a/b/g 1 full Size Mini PCI-E V1.2 Slot, Support 3G, 3.5G |
| Battery | 3 Cells Polymer Battery Pack, Up to 5 Hours |
| A/C Adapter | Input AC 110~240V Output DC 12-20V @ 40W |
| Support OS | MS Windows 7 |
| Other | G Sensor for Orientation Detect and Screen Rotation |

