Although Windows Vista has been
scrutinized in just about every aspect
imaginable, Asus threw out a clever deviation to Microsoft's
SideShow functionality when it unveiled the
ScreenDUO-equipped desktop motherboards. Unlike SideShow on a laptop's auxiliary display, this bundled in module connects directly to Asus' motherboards and includes the firm's own proprietary software to offer up useful extras on your handheld screen that Gates and Co. aren't likely to supply. The kind folks over at TechReport were able to give us a first-hand look at the stylish display, and also offered up a few suggestions of how it's best utilized. The unit itself measures about 4- x 2.5- x 0.75-inches, rocks a 2.5-inch QVGA screen, a directional pad, rear kickstand, USB port, and several buttons placed along the top and front. It was noted that Asus' software catered more towards desktop needs, and rather than providing easy access to "things like email," it offered up customized iTunes / media player controls, calendar views, photo viewers, Outlook contact lists,
RSS readers, hardware monitoring applications, etc. Interestingly, the ScreenDUO was dubbed less like a secondary display and more like a "secondary interface," and while the initial list of widgets are respectable, the company's future support of the display will likely make or break its usefulness -- but honestly, where's the
touchscreen support, Asus?
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Jim Williams @ Feb 14th 2007 11:59AM
Two words:
WUSB = Wireless USB
John @ Feb 14th 2007 2:10PM
The screen is awfully small in relation to the unit's size.
Pete @ Feb 14th 2007 3:25PM
So does sideshow work with my main LCD monitor? It would be useful to check my email, etc without fully powering up, but these tiny screens seem a bit pointless when I have a 19" monitor right here...
blaQ @ Feb 14th 2007 6:11PM
Apple should hire MS to design their interfaces.
Kev50027 @ Feb 14th 2007 8:41PM
This thing looks really great, I can't wait until they come out with something like this that works off USB, so that I can have one without having anything proprietary. Using it to check stocks, email, and other stuff without booting would be awesome, but even when the PC is on, it would be great to use it to control movies, music, slideshows, and everything. A really great idea.
blaQ @ Feb 16th 2007 12:29PM
Apple should hire MS to design their interfaces.
Greg Trounson @ Mar 14th 2007 9:23PM
If it relies heavily on proprietary software I'm guessing this unit will be a paperweight on Linux systems?