Acer Aspire One Low Cost Linux Subnotebook

The Acer Aspire One low cost Linux subnotebook has appeared in Australian stores with little fuss compared to the ASUS Eee PC. A flyer in my letterbox is offering the model with an Intel Atom 1.6GHz processor, 512MB RAM and 8GB flash memory for $AU399 (after a $100 cash back). There is also a Windows XP, 1GB RAM, 120 GB hard disk model offered on pre-order. All the units so far have a 8.9 inch screen, WiFi and web cam. There is a wide bezel around the screen suggesting later models may have a larger screen. The Aspire One got mixed reviews, having a bigger keyboard than the ASUS Eee 901, but shorter battery life.

ASUS have created a problem for all notebook makers with the Eee PC. The other makers have to bring out low cost sub notebooks to compete with the Eee PC, but then these also compete with the own company's other products. ACER are describing the Aspire One as a "Netbook" and "Internet Centric Device" to distinguish it from their commercial and home notebook ranges.

Processor and Chipset Intel® Atom™ processor N270 (1.60GHz, 533MHz, 512KB L2 Cache) Mobile Intel 945GSE Chipset (DDR2 400/533MHz)

Operating System Linpus™ Linux®, Genuine Microsoft® Windows XP® Home

LCD Type & Size 8.9" WSVGA High-Brightness LED Backlight Widescreen Display, support 1024 x 600 pixel resolution

Memory Up to 1GB DDR2 533MHz SDRAM

Storage 8GB Flash Drive (Linpus™ Linux®) 120GB Hard Drive (Microsoft® Windows XP® Home)

Storage Bay Dedicated SD™ Carder reader for storage expansion

I/O Interfaces 1 x 5-in-1 card reader (SD™, MMC, MS, MS PRO, xD)
3 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x External display (VGA) port
1 x Headphone/speaker/line-out jack
1 x Microphone-in jack
1 x Ethernet (RJ-45) port
1 x DC-in jack for AC adapter

Audio High-definition audio support, two built-in stero speakers, MS-Sound compatible, built-in microphone

System Power Battery Type: 24W 2000 mAh 3-cell Li-ion battery pack
Battery Life:Up to 3 with a 3 Cell Li-ion battery**
AC Adapter:3-pin 30W AC adapter

Weight and Dimensions 249 (W) x 170 (D) x 29 (H) mm 985 g

Compliance C-Tick (AS/NZS 60950)

Standard Warranty Australia - 1 Year Courier Pickup and Return ...

RRP (incl. GST) From $599

From: Product Specification Aspire One, ACER, 2008