14 DAY TRIAL // Netbooks have generally been described as low-cost ultra-portable devices that enable on-the-go computing and web surfing. Also, because they lacked gaming capabilities, which essentially made them unappealing to gamers, they became more popular on the business sector, as an easy-to-carry device for handling business work. Still, it seems ASUS has discovered a new purpose for such laptops, namely as computing companions for children worldwide.
Among the many Eee PC models that ASUS had on display at CeBIT, and which didn't exactly get as much attention as they could because they were overshadowed by the RoG motherboards, there was a distinctively colorful model. Known as the Eee PC 1001PQ, the netbook is, unsurprisingly, powered by the Intel Pine Trail platform and has a LED-backlit LCD screen measuring 10.1 inches. This display has a maximum resolution of 1024 x 600 and receives video input from the integrated Intel GMA 3150 graphics controller.
The exact processor used by the device is the same as the one generally used in most recent netbooks, namely the Intel Atom N450, with a frequency of 1.66Ghz. This CPU is paired with 1GB Ram and a hard drive whose storage capacity is of 160GB. Finally, at least as far as the hardware is concerned, the mobile PC boasts WiFi, 10/100 LAN connectivity and a 6-cell battery. The time that a battery charge can last is, regrettably, still unclear.
In order to make the netbooks safe for children, ASUS has already pre-installed a special browser that kids can easily understand. This browser also comes with parental controls, making sure that parents can restrict access to sites they deem as inappropriate. Unfortunately, as has been the case with the larger part of computing products showcased at the Hanover expo, the price and release date of this particular netbook are not yet known.