China-based Menq has launched a smartbook/mini-netbook that runs on an ARM9-based Samsung S3C2450 processor, and offers WiFi, Ethernet, SD storage, and a 7-inch 800 x 480 display. According to one review, the Menq EasyPC E790 costs only $80, and though it ships with Windows CE, can also run Android.
The Menq site offers little in the way of description on the EasyPC E790, but lists a fairly complete set of specs (see below). The "Mini PC" does not come with a pricetag, but according to a sometimes hilarious, sometimes tedious YouTube video review by Danish video blogger Charbax posted on Techvideoblog, the 8.4 x 5.7 x 0.8-inch netbook is available now for only $80, making it in his estimation, the world's cheapest laptop.
As both the spec list and Charbax note, the EasyPC is currently available with Windows CE 5.0, but Charbax claims that Menq told him that Android can run on it, and he suggests that a firmware upgrade enabling Android should be available in a month or two.
According to Charbax, the mini-netbook, which with its 7-inch screen, ARM processor, and Android compatibility, might also be considered a low-powered "smartbook," or large UMPC (ultra-mini PC), is a version of the earlier Alpha 400 (pictured at right), which has turned up as the basis for a number of different netbook brands, and which sold for $250 when it was introduced in early 2008.
Whereas the Linux or Windows CE-ready Alpha 400 is based on a 400MHz, MIPS-based XBurst CPU from Ingenic Semiconductors, the EasyPC E790 switches to a Samsung S3C2450 clocked to 400MHz or 533MHz. Like the Alpha 400, it offers 128MB RAM and 2GB of internal flash. Storage options include 32GB of flash via the provided SD card slot, or a connected hard disk drive via one of the three USB ports. The EasyPC E790 also shares the Alpha 400's 7-inch 800 x 480 display, Ethernet, and WiFi.
Somewhat misleading photo of EasyPC E790 by Techvideoblog, showing Android image running on Windows CE
As demonstrated by the video, the device supports a web browser, video, and Skype. About halfway through there is a highly amusing Skype call, and the enthusiastic review is peppered with comments like "It's crazy cheap," and "It's kind of basic, maybe a little bit too basic." For the latter problem, Charbax suggests that an ARM Cortex-A8 would fit the bill, although it is unclear whether this is part of Menq's roadmap, or just his own wishful thinking.
Color choices available with the EasyPC E790
Specifications listed for the Menq EasyPC E790 include:
Processor -- Samsung 400MHz to 533MHz S3C2450 processor
Memory -- 128MB
Flash -- 2GB
Flash expansion -- SD card slot for up to 32GB
Networking -- 10/100 Ethernet (RJ45)
WiFi -- 802.11b/g
USB -- 3 x USB ports
Display -- 7-inch 800 x 480 TFT, 65,536 colors
Audio -- Speaker; 3.5mm stereo headphone jack
Other features:
Power and reset buttons
LEDs for power, battery status
Skype, YouTube support
Battery -- 4,000mAh battery
Dimensions -- 8.4 x 5.7 x 0.8 inches (213.5 x 145 x 32mm)
Weight -- 1.8 lbs (0.8 k)
Operating system -- Microsoft Windows CE 5.0; appears to support Android
Techvideoblog EasyPC E790 review by Charbax
Availability
The Menq EasyPC E790 appears to be available now, and according to Techvideoblog, costs $80. More information may be found at Menq, here.
The Techvideoblog review should be available here.
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