NecLavieLight
Latest
PLX USB Duet: your netbook is now a cumbersome iPad keyboard
We preface this post by saying we don't know how practical this really is, but PLX's idea of using a netbook's keyboard to type on the iPad is definitely an intriguing one. How does it all work? Well, it relies on the company's USB Duet technology, but the setup isn't exactly what we'd call streamlined. You'll need a netbook like the Fujitsu MH380 or NEC LaVie Light with the built-in PLX chipset / mini-USB port, an iPad with the camera connection kit, and of course the applicable USB Duet software. Regardless, the demo we saw today at the Netbook Summit worked fairly well. When all was said and done, we laid the iPad on top of the netbook's screen and we were able to use the keyboard to type in Safari and in Notes faster than when we were pecking on the virtual keyboard. Additionally, PLX says the same USB feature enables you to use the netbook's speakers as well as transfer files from the iPad to the laptop without iTunes (we should note here that USB duet also allows you to hook up a netbook to other laptops to transfer files, etc.). Truth is, we could debate the value of this iPad hook-up for quite a few hours, but instead we'll just direct you to the video and press release after the break, and then let you duke it out for yourselves in the comments. %Gallery-93616%
NEC debuts new hybrid storage LaVie Light netbook
Netbooks with hybrid storage are still pretty few and far between, but it looks like NEC is set to offer one more option with its latest LaVie Light netbook (the BL350/TA6), which also offers a few other improvements over the previous model. That includes a slimmer form factor (1-inch at the front, 1.4-inches at the back), an improved 10.1-inch LED-backlit display, an Atom N280 processor, 1GB of RAM, 802.11n WiFi, an optional high capacity battery and, of course, those dual 16GB SSD and 160GB hard drives. No word on a release 'round here, but folks in Japan should be able to pick this one up this month for a hefty ¥70,000 (or about $730), or they can save a few thousand Yen and grab one of the non-hybrid models.[Via Portable Monkey]
NEC LaVie Light gets the hands-on treatment, looks better in person
NEC's new LaVie Light netbook didn't exactly do much to make itself noticed when it was first announced, but our pals at Engadget Chinese say the pictures of the device are a tad deceiving, and that it's actually a pretty solid little number in person. That's apparently partly due to some solid fit and finish all around, and some fairly unique features like a screen that tilts back a full 180 degrees. They still aren't sold on that over-sized bezel though, or the device's thorougly ordinary spec list. Hit up the link below for a closer look.
