14 DAY TRIAL // Even though computer makers usually try to build upon an existing product or concept, or listen to consumer demand and then decide what to bring out next, there are still some instances where PC suppliers take matters into their own hands. In such situations, companies experiment with unique and innovative concepts that may or may not prove successful but that are interesting nonetheless. In ASUS' case, the most representative product currently in the works is the Eee Keyboard PC, an electronic that puts all components of a PC inside what looks like an ordinary keyboard. A keyboard with a screen, that is.
ASUS' Eee keyboard is one of those products that, for whatever reason, be it related to marketing conditions or development issues, have been delayed for long periods of time. In this case, the launch was initially going to occur about a year ago, but the hardware maker decided to postpone it several times. Now, after the device was shown off at CeBIT, a report made by Engadget reveals that consumers may finally witness the Eee Keyboard's grand entrance by the end of the ongoing month.
Basically, the keyboard is, in fact, a keyboard-shaped mobile personal computer with a stylus-supporting, 5-inch touch panel on the right, which boasts a resolution of 800 x 480. When the PC/keyboard hybrid is used stand-alone, that display (with stylus support) will allow consumers to connect to the web, check their mail and chat online. Of course, performing PC-specific tasks is also within possibilities (Windows XP is installed), but such actions are more convenient when connecting the keyboard computer to an existing display.
End-users interested in the actual hardware specifications will be glad to know that they were revealed by an FCC filing as far back as October. At the heart, there is an Intel Atom N270 CPU and the 945GSE/ICH7-M chipset. This processor is backed by 1GB DDR2 and 16GB or 32GB of flash storage. There is also a Broadcom AV-VD905 video decoder, Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, an HDMI output, a VGA connector and a battery pack lasting four hours on a charge. There are also three USB 2.0 ports and an external WiFi/UWB antenna, which will allow 720p video to be played wirelessly on a TV within five meters of ASUS' device.
When it comes out, the ASUS Eee Keyboard will have a price between $500 and $600.