Buy a laptop for US$98

Move aside OLPCs and Intel Classmate PCs, there is a new cheapo notebook in town. For a mere US$98, Chinese manufacturer HiVision is offering a Linux-based laptop, the NB0700, which makes even Netbook buyers look like big spenders.



There is a catch, though. The 400MHz processor is based on the MIPS architecture, meaning that it is unlikely to be able to run Windows or any x86 programs. But if it's based on the Loongson chip, there is a chance that it might simulate the x86 environment. However, this would mean a serious performance hit as well.

But for those comfortable with the Linux operating system, the HiVision machine offers a feature set competent enough to handle most productivity needs. The NB0700 comes with 64MB RAM, Wi-Fi radio, Ethernet, three USB ports, 1GB flash storage and even an SDHC card slot. The 7-inch screen is nothing to shout about, though for this price, we kind of expect it. The unit should be in available in Mainland China from October, though it remains to be seen if it will be launched elsewhere in the world.

You can catch a video after the break.
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Sony Reader event October 2: New product coming?

Just got an invite to a Sony Reader event in New York on October 2. No word on whether this involves launching a next-gen electronic book reader or just promoting some new capabilities for the current model, the Reader Digital Book PRS-505, as we head into the holiday buying season.

Either way it seems clear that Sony isn't quite ready to cede the e-book market to Amazon's Kindle. Sony's got the better design, but the wireless download capabilities of the Kindle clearly give it an advantage. Anybody wanna predict what Sony's next move is?

Via Crave CNET

HP EliteBook hits 24-hour battery life

Not long after Dell wowed us with the Latitude E6500 and its 19-hour battery life, HP is quick to follow by declaring that the EliteBook 6930p can run the course of an entire day (24 hours) on a single charge.

But a quick disclaimer. Both models require LED-backlit displays and SSD storage options, which can raise the price by over S$1,500 (US$1,018.33). In addition, the Latitude requires the S$232.19 (US$157.63) nine-cell battery combined with a S$444.05 (US$301.46) Extended Battery Slice. The HP is a little more pocket friendly in this aspect and needs only the addition of the external Ultra-Capacity Battery (which is available only in certain Asia-Pacific markets for US$189) to complement the bundled six-cell. Another factor to consider is that the claimed battery life is unlikely to take into account Wi-Fi consumption and other computing loads.

So with a 5-hour lead over the Latitude E6500, is getting an EliteBook a no brainer? Well, not really. If you are a frequent flyer who needs a laptop to survive the rigors of travel, then the semi-rugged EliteBook is perfect. However, for those requiring a larger screen and discrete Nvidia Quadro graphics, then the 15.4-inch Latitude is the one to go for. Furthermore, the Latitude can also be equipped with an FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standard) fingerprint reader for even more security.

The EliteBook 6930p starts at S$2,800 (US$1,900.88) and is available in stores throughout Asia.

DisplayLink powers new Sony notebook dock

DisplayLink has just announced that its network display technology is now available in the new Sony VAIO USB Docking Station VGP-UPR1.
The DisplayLink technology that allows users to connect multiple monitors to their systems via USB 2.0 is embedded in the docking station. The dock is compatible with Sony VAIO notebooks as well as other notebooks that have USB 2.0 connections. This could be useful for mobile users and travelers that have the rather rare and unique need of using more than one monitor to do their work.
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iBikeConsole: Get a grip on your tunes

Two activities that don't generally mesh well: Ripping down a bumpy bike trail and toggling between songs on an iPod.

TigraSport's new iBikeConsole makes it easier to juggle those actions by letting bikers change iPod nano selections and adjust volume without removing their hands from the handlebars. We're not sure why this product is exclusive to the Nano, but we still like its emphasis on safer riding.

Basically, the device acts as a docking station for the iPod while providing a weatherproof and shockproof case. It also combines a remote control system with a cycle computer so riders can monitor their distance and speed while listening to their tunes.
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