A Windows 7 Intel Convertible Classmate PC: First Impressions - Page 2

celtica96 · 12-11-2009, 08:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sweetpea

They don't mention anything about international shipping... But thanks for the link, I couldn't find anything!

Edit:

Finally found it! It's called Classmate in English, but Skoolmate in Dutch...

The price isn't too bad, generally it's $1=€1 for such devices... The price is €399, and that includes W7. It's not for sale yet, but you can reserve it...

(http://www.paradigit.nl/info.php?group=15&art=10021916)

@sweetpea
I'm glad you're looking into one of these. Sorry about the confusion regarding where to buy.

The Mirus Schoolmate Convertible (CT9W7) is manufactured by Equus Computer Systems. Mirus is one of their resellers. When sold by Equus, the unit is referred to as a Nobi 8.9" Convertible (http://www.equuscs.com/default.aspx?id=1669).

General Contact Information For Equus:
CORPORATE OFFICES 800-641-1475
SALES sales@equuscs.com
CREDIT credit@equuscs.com
SUPPORT / RMA techsupport@equuscs.com
FEEDBACK equestions@equuscs.com

Also, keep in mind that Intel's Classmate PC is a hardware reference platform that's manufactured and sold by many other companies. Part of the January 2009 press release list some of these: "...three OEMs in the US alone (CTL, Equus and M&A in the United States, MDG in Canada, CMS in the United Kingdom, NEC in France, Olidata in Chile, ASI in Australia, and Hanvon in China)."

Folks may want to use this link to find where to buy one internationally: http://www.classmatepc.com/where-to-buy/.

I hope that helps.

celtica96 · 12-11-2009, 08:47 AM

I'm going to see whether or not I can get the GPS function of my ADV3500PC moved over to the Mirus CT9W7. I'm concerned that the weakness of the ADV3500's AC/DC adapter port is going to result in a broken connection and my ADV will become a useless brick.

Then, I think I'll use the ADV3500 as a digital picture frame!

I have an old Garmin GPS 10 and I need to add a Bluetooth adapter to the CT9W7. Does anyone have an adapter recommendation?

Also, have people used Garmin Mobile PC? How does it perform?

Thanks in advance.

pphilipp · 12-11-2009, 08:58 AM

Bluetooth is interesting in regards to the Classmate.

Some of the early product releases actually had the hardware built-in (according to a few forums, reviews and youtube videos) but didn't mention it in any press releases. Some folks supposedly implemented the software and the Classmate instantly connected to Bluetooth.

I gave it a try when I received mine... to no avail. It gave the message "bluetooth hardware not available" (not word-for-word quote). So, either the folks who claimed built-in bluetooth either exaggerated (lied?) or the hardware was only in certain units (without manufacturer mention).

But, it's worth giving a try before purchasing a dongle to achieve bluetooth signal.
I too will add a dongle soon.

celtica96 · 12-11-2009, 11:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by deryk

I was actually looking online at the Mirus, and was wondering if you have tried downloading the app from amazon or b&n to be able to read their ebooks on pc to see how well it works? I kinda liek the idea of a tool that has multiple uses myself.

I know what you mean about one device and multiple uses.

I'm using the Kindle app on the Mirus and some other laptops. The viewing angles on the Mirus are more restricted than say on a Dell XT but I don't find that to be a problem.

What are other people's experiences?

Sweetpea · 12-11-2009, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by celtica96

I know what you mean about one device and multiple uses.

I'm using the Kindle app on the Mirus and some other laptops. The viewing angles on the Mirus are more restricted than say on a Dell XT but I don't find that to be a problem.

That's why I'm looking for such a device, both for the Kindle app and the National Geographic Magazine...

ninetynine · 12-11-2009, 04:33 PM

Thanks celtica for the review.

I'm looking at this tablet to take to lecture classes like Physics and Calculus to hand write notes yet be able to type notes down in other classes like Computer Science. Do you think this would be practical for this tablet?

celtica96 · 12-11-2009, 05:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ninetynine

Thanks celtica for the review.

I'm looking at this tablet to take to lecture classes like Physics and Calculus to hand write notes yet be able to type notes down in other classes like Computer Science. Do you think this would be practical for this tablet?

It's been years since my last physics and calculus classes . . . .

LOL. If I remember right, they have something to do with . . . math?

You'll be glad to know that Windows 7 has improved handwriting, inking, and math input.

Take a look at this link to learn more: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/libr...8VS.85%29.aspx.

Yes, I do think this device would be a terrific tool for these applications.

This weekend I'm going to let this body remain at rest unless it is operated upon by an external force (spouse)!

rgeorg · 12-11-2009, 06:25 PM

I've had the XP version of the Classmate for 6 months now. I wasn't too pleased at first, but now I find it very convenient for reading .lit and .pdf ebooks in tablet mode. The screen is a bit bright and doesn't dim very well, but I installed a pgm that automatically reduces the glare in evening hours. I haven't tried using the handwriting or pdf editing features. The Classmate is a reasonable size/weight although it runs very hot - good in the winter! I've been using Open Office for editing and some spreadsheet work which is comfortable on this size screen.

My husband bought a 13.3" Toshiba convertible PC which is MUCH nicer and only a few hundred more. It's larger, but about the same weight.

ninetynine · 12-11-2009, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rgeorg

My husband bought a 13.3" Toshiba convertible PC which is MUCH nicer and only a few hundred more. It's larger, but about the same weight.

Can you clarify on this? The only Toshiba convertibles I know of are the Porteges and they start at $1200 and have a 12.1" screen. By convertible do you mean the same style as the Intel Classmate? Or did you mean normal laptop clamshell?

@celtica thanks for the response, I'll keep those features in mind

pphilipp · 12-11-2009, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rgeorg

My husband bought a 13.3" Toshiba convertible PC which is MUCH nicer and only a few hundred more. It's larger, but about the same weight.

The Toshiba? It's been a couple years since I used a Toshiba tablet, and was far from impressed. Quite overpriced for what it could do. It's a pound and a half heavier, not as durable, and inferior touchscreen.

Buck for buck there's no comparison.

celtica96 · 12-11-2009, 08:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ninetynine

I'll keep those features in mind

Here's a clarification.

Windows 7 Starter (found on the CT9W7) does not include the Math Input Panel. The CT9W7 needs to be upgraded to Windows 7 Home Premium for $80.

When I wrote the post, I was working on a machine with Windows 7 Premium, verified the Math Input Panel under Accessories, and I wrongly assumed that it also would be on the CT9W7.

There is something like the Text Input Panel with the MyScript Stylus 3.0 software on the CT9W7.

Keep that in mind as you search for the right device.

pphilipp · 12-11-2009, 08:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ninetynine

I'm looking at this tablet to take to lecture classes like Physics and Calculus to hand write notes yet be able to type notes down in other classes like Computer Science. Do you think this would be practical for this tablet?

I've used tiny little computers in classrooms for several years. The size is a big plus, but the small keyboard has it's limitations and might be hard to adjust to.

I love to use it in tablet mode where it can easily be held even when reclining, standing, on a lap, or on a table. For fast text input I use a 'gesture' app (MessagEase) which is quite small and inputs text faster than a screen keyboard or handwriting method. Only drawback is there's a learning curve... but well worth the effort.

ninetynine · 12-11-2009, 09:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by celtica96

Here's a clarification.

Windows 7 Starter (found on the CT9W7) does not include the Math Input Panel. The CT9W7 needs to be upgraded to Windows 7 Home Premium for $80.

When I wrote the post, I was working on a machine with Windows 7 Premium, verified the Math Input Panel under Accessories, and I wrongly assumed that it also would be on the CT9W7.

There is something like the Text Input Panel with the MyScript Stylus 3.0 software on the CT9W7.

Keep that in mind as you search for the right device.

Thanks a lot for clarifying. I was already wary of Windows 7 Starter Edition, it has so many bottle necks in its software. I'm thinking of just buying the cheaper XP version and then reformatting with a Windows 7 Pro license from MSDNAA.

@pphilipp How bad do you find the keyboard? What is the lengthiest type of document you could find yourself writing out with it?

I looked into the MessagEase, looks interesting.

pphilipp · 12-11-2009, 10:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ninetynine

How bad do you find the keyboard? What is the lengthiest type of document you could find yourself writing out with it?

On a desktop computer I type 60 words a minute. 40 on a laptop. About 30 on this.

Use it alot and you get use to it.

I love the trackpad... better than those on my last six laptops.

deryk · 12-12-2009, 03:37 PM

I was thinking about one of these ASUS Eee PC Touch T91 8.9-Inch Black Tablet Netbook- 5 Hour Battery Life ... I have an asus laptop and Im very happy with it. Seems like a good idea. I didn't think about them getting warm or hot from use, but Im guessing if its made to be a tablet that it wouldn't get too hot. 5 hours is not a huge amount of time but I would never read for that long in 1 sitting anyway... and being able to get on the net is a big plus. Im probably going to be getting a blackberry and can tether it to get internet if no wifi is near by.

12-11-2009, 08:47 AM	#17
celtica96 Zealot Posts: 105 Karma: 24 Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Texas, USA Device: Nokia N800, Kindle 2, Kindle DX, SmartQ 5 & 7, Mirus CT9W7	Adding Bluetooth For GPS I'm going to see whether or not I can get the GPS function of my ADV3500PC moved over to the Mirus CT9W7. I'm concerned that the weakness of the ADV3500's AC/DC adapter port is going to result in a broken connection and my ADV will become a useless brick. Then, I think I'll use the ADV3500 as a digital picture frame! I have an old Garmin GPS 10 and I need to add a Bluetooth adapter to the CT9W7. Does anyone have an adapter recommendation? Also, have people used Garmin Mobile PC? How does it perform? Thanks in advance.

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12-11-2009, 08:58 AM	#18
pphilipp Addict Posts: 219 Karma: 156088 Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Smokies Device: Apple iPad 3 (I have owned many other tablets)	Bluetooth is interesting in regards to the Classmate. Some of the early product releases actually had the hardware built-in (according to a few forums, reviews and youtube videos) but didn't mention it in any press releases. Some folks supposedly implemented the software and the Classmate instantly connected to Bluetooth. I gave it a try when I received mine... to no avail. It gave the message "bluetooth hardware not available" (not word-for-word quote). So, either the folks who claimed built-in bluetooth either exaggerated (lied?) or the hardware was only in certain units (without manufacturer mention). But, it's worth giving a try before purchasing a dongle to achieve bluetooth signal. I too will add a dongle soon.

12-11-2009, 04:33 PM	#21
ninetynine Member Posts: 15 Karma: 10 Join Date: Dec 2009 Device: none	Thanks celtica for the review. I'm looking at this tablet to take to lecture classes like Physics and Calculus to hand write notes yet be able to type notes down in other classes like Computer Science. Do you think this would be practical for this tablet?

12-11-2009, 06:25 PM	#23
rgeorg Guru Posts: 675 Karma: 3314796 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Europe & USA Device: K3/3G(2x), Glo HD, Amazon Voyage	I've had the XP version of the Classmate for 6 months now. I wasn't too pleased at first, but now I find it very convenient for reading .lit and .pdf ebooks in tablet mode. The screen is a bit bright and doesn't dim very well, but I installed a pgm that automatically reduces the glare in evening hours. I haven't tried using the handwriting or pdf editing features. The Classmate is a reasonable size/weight although it runs very hot - good in the winter! I've been using Open Office for editing and some spreadsheet work which is comfortable on this size screen. My husband bought a 13.3" Toshiba convertible PC which is MUCH nicer and only a few hundred more. It's larger, but about the same weight.

12-12-2009, 03:37 PM	#30
deryk Junior Member Posts: 9 Karma: 10 Join Date: Dec 2009 Device: none	I was thinking about one of these ASUS Eee PC Touch T91 8.9-Inch Black Tablet Netbook- 5 Hour Battery Life ... I have an asus laptop and Im very happy with it. Seems like a good idea. I didn't think about them getting warm or hot from use, but Im guessing if its made to be a tablet that it wouldn't get too hot. 5 hours is not a huge amount of time but I would never read for that long in 1 sitting anyway... and being able to get on the net is a big plus. Im probably going to be getting a blackberry and can tether it to get internet if no wifi is near by.