Dude I got a Dell! Thanks to my work I was able to get a Dell Mini 10 fully loaded for around $125. Because I was buying two other very expensive computers they were giving away a Mini for 50$. After I added extra features it ended up costing me $125.
Here are the quick specs.
- Dell Inspiron 1010
- Inspiron 1010, Intel Atom Processor Z530, 1.6GHz, 533MHzFSB, 512K L2 Cache
- 1GB RAM
- 10.1 Inch High Definition Widescreen Display (1366×768)
- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 500
- 160GB, 2.5inch, 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive
- Genuine Windows XP Home Edition SP3
- Dell Wireless 1510 802.11n Half Mini Card
- Integrated 1.3M Pixel Webcam
-
56WHr Lithium-Ion (larger batter)
What is a Netbook?
A Netbook is simply a really small and low cost computer. Now if you are telling yourself that sounds really good, there is a catch. Its really slow by design. They should only be considered a good idea if all you do is browse the web and check your email. Even installing office on a Netbook may be too much for it to handle.
So how slow is it?
Well it seemed very sluggish but Dell had loaded a lot of junk software on it. It definitely could be used for the home research terminal. You know, looking up stuff on Google, keeping some recipes, that kind of thing.
Why the Dell Mini?
It was Dell because of the deal I got, however, I had my choice of the Dell 9, 10, or 12. There was two reasons why I picked the 10. First was that it’s a Netbook and the smaller the better. The only reason I didn’t pick the 9 was that it doesn’t have the function key row and the keys are too tiny for my fingers. The second reason was because it has an HDMI port.
What did I want it for?
My plan was to use it with a software called Boxee to watch Hulu and other internet TV. However the Video card (Intel GMA 500) just isn’t strong enough to stream video. Real bummer.
Other bad things?
Yeah the touch pad sucks, the buttons are built into it and because of that you keep moving the mouse by accident.
The bad video card really sucks, and the other downside is it’s the only Netbook in the world with non-removable memory. With most you can take out the 1GB stick and upgrade to 2GB.
What now?
Well its useless to me for what I really wanted it for but I got lucky. I found out they make a Dell Mini 1010v which ironically is cheaper and has a better video card (the Intel GMA 945) and can be upgraded to 2GB. The only downside? Can’t get the HD screen, but if my real goal is to hook it to the TV then I am cool with it. I will be returning this one and should have the new one next week.
Below is a comparison between the two.
Definitely interested in your observations on performance between the 10v and the 10. Thinking about getting the 10 with the HD screen.
I really like the 10v better. When it comes to performance the 10v can be upgraded to 2GB which is really needed. Ether model though will not be a great solution if you want to watch hulu. Also that video card (the GMA 500) on the 10 is awfully slow. The GMA945 on the 10v is almost a full notebook video card. I have to say, after a few weeks with the 10v its my new buddy, just wished it had that HD screen for more screen resolution.
Wanted to watch Hulu with the 10 but it was basically useless. Took it back and traded up to a notebook.
Interesting post… Looks like flash memory is finally beginning to become more popular. Hopefully we’ll start seeing decreasing solid-state drive prices in the near future. Five dollar 32 GB Micro SDs for your DS flash card… sounds good to me!(Posted on OperaMod for R4i Nintendo DS.)