Friday, June 29, 2007

Hugo Ortega phones his wife using...

I’ve been hiding from you all wanting to scream out “surprise” and yet the only surprise I had this week was on me. It seems FedEX had clearance delays so my new arrival turned into a new debacle. So with several emails, phone calls, attachments and a recent drive to the FedEX warehouse I am proud to say that the HSDPA Raon Digital EVERUN is with me!

I will be posting a GottaBeMobile InkShow later this month regarding the EVERUN and once again am asking for your diligent involvement. Let me know you need me to find out/test and explore. As you’ll see from the video HSDPA is plug and play (at least in Australia).

By the way, thank you for your involvement on yesterday’s post! It’s always fun hanging out with the UberTablet Family!



View it on MyYouTube.com


Tuesday, June 26, 2007

FedEX Man is on his way back

This will be a good one! No hints this time - but possibly another World Exclusive...again, and again! (Now I'm just showing off. LOL *evil laugh*)

Monday, June 25, 2007

TabletKiosk i440D reviewed

My first GottaBeMobile.com InkShow was very popular, in fact it sits 5th overall for most watched on GBM to date. It was a review I posted about the OQO model 02 device and boy was it fun to do. On this occasion I have hit the upload button on my Hardware InkShow number two, this time showcasing the TabletKiosk Sahara i440D.

If you're interested in Slates, or want to get a closer look at one of the more leading edge Tablets available then hop of over to GBM and checkout this new offering by TabletKiosk.


Watch or download the High Res version(29:26 minutes, 225mb, Windows Media streaming or direct download)

How to: Upgrade Q1 Ultra to 2GB RAM

*UPDATE 26th April 2008* Please note that the RAM slot on the latest Q1U released, i.e. the Q1UP is located under the motherboard. The good news is that it is accessible but you need to be willing to pull the entire machine apart. The bad news is that most will not want to do this as you need a high level of technical knowledge to do this. So it is important to note that this video does not apply to the Q1UP. Even if you follow the instructions and pull the case off, you will not be able to get to the RAM easily. *

In favour of a more reliable tutorial than pictures alone I have decided to post a video on “how to” upgrade the RAM on your shiny new Samsung Q1 Ultra. For those of you that own a Q1 Ultra it will make sense for you to perform this upgrade as it will enhance the user experience significantly. For those of you that do not own a Q1 Ultra it may pay to learn a few tricks for next time you decide to perform this upgrade. And for those of you that have never performed an upgrade yourself…go for it! It’s fun!

Since getting the Q1 Ultra in Australia I noticed that the RAM upgrade to 2GB improved the following:



  • Faster boot time
  • Faster shut down time
  • Fast Application launch time
  • Faster data transfer times
  • Better multitasking abilities

Let me know if this videos helps and what improvements you find, after the upgrade, if any?

Download your own copy of the Video

Friday, June 22, 2007

OQO as my primary screen


Looking around my Hotel room I realised that I have the world’s smallest desktop. I took a photo as it is the first time I have been working at length on the OQO model 02 as my main machine without extending the desktop. While mobile I use the OQO a lot but as stated in a previous posts it is usually for mundane and menial tasks. While at my desk I extend onto a 23” Apple Cinema Display as it is at these times I need to have a much richer level of interaction with my applications.


Obviously on this trip interstate I did not pack my 23” monitor, although I would have if I could, so it s the OQO 02 as my main machine and main monitor! So after 48hrs of this type of relationship I am more equipped to comment on this:


  • Screen is too small for late night long hours. As I got to 2am and my 5th hour of normal workflow it is definitely debilitating on the eyes, neck and back.

  • The combination of docking station (even when travelling) and Samsung Q1 keyboard is a must. The mouse I use is cabled (USB) and a great addition for scroll wheel only.

  • The ZOOM feature on the OQO model 02 is Heaven sent.

  • I recommend leaving the OQO screen lifted up and exposing the keyboard for two reasons, i.e. the screen is a little more raised and the keys on the keyboard (especially “show desktop”) becomes very functional.

Just a few quick thoughts as I’m back in Sydney tomorrow and looking forward to seeing my son play soccer! Can you believe they won 10-0 last game?!?!!! I'm meeting fellow MVP and Perth-it, Nick Randolph, for dinner now so gotta run!

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Motion LS800 does 2GB

LS800 intestines...yum!

Some of you may know that fellow Tablet MVP, Craig Pringle, is now practically a neighbour. He and I are getting together often to geek-out and today he popped by for coffee (a glass of water really) and with time to burn we took a screw driver to his LS800 and upgraded the RAM! So with my motto for the month still ringing in my ears, i.e. “I have 2gigs sticks and I’m not afraid to use them!”, we took apart his device and performed and upgrade. Low and behold RamBo came to the rescue once again as LS8000 does 2038MB also.

Be warned...just don’t call Craig an Aussie! Very bad....LOL.
2038MB (Interestingly Q1 Ultra sees 2048MB)

I could swear the memory scored 4.0 before the operation (from 1GB) and now it only scores 2.9!?!? Craig???

Also interesting that Q1 Ultra scores 2.0 as its lowest score and Motion's LS800 1.0 (Chippy? what do you reckon? more ammunition to go Ultra???)

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Australia’s Tablet Guy takes to the air...again


Don't try this at home folks!

Tomorrow I am off to Perth. Believe it or not Australia is so big that it will take me 5.5 hours to get to Perth and I will cross two Time Zones on the way!!! Yes, it’s that big. The purpose of the visit is to conduct two days training for one of the world's leading mining and exploration companies. They have called me in as “Australia’s Tablet Guy” and boy are they in for a show. I have done lots of these types of events and look forward to conducting it in this unique environment. (Do you think I can talk to them about Al Gore n’ stuff...LOL.)

In brief, I just want to share with you the list of devices I am taking with me: Samsung Q1B, Samsung Q1P (Vista), Samsung Q1 Ultra (Vista), EO i7210 (and Dock), Eo TufTab V7112XT, ASUS R2H, Raon Digital Vega, Sahara i440D, and more...

The family getting some rest before their flight!

(and here)

Monday, June 18, 2007

Samsung Q1 Ultra gets 2GB

I've been posting about my 2Gig sticks of RAM and how I'm finding new homes for them. With the Q1 Ultra now firmly in my claspe what else was I to do bu peel open the back and try it for myself.

Here are the results

Q1 Ultra in Australia


Yesterday some of you contributed to my FedEX Man post (thank you) and today I am pleased to say that the package is in fact the brand new Samsung Q1 Ultra. Stay tuned for a video soon, both here and on GottaBeMobile.com. (Special thanks to GBM for sending me the unit!) I am so excited to have this machine to test and "a little birdie told me" that %he Q1 Ultra will be available in Australia really soon!

2Gig stick and I'm not afraid to use it


With 2x 2GB sticks of RAM in the house I am frantically running around checking what devices can actually see it. I upgraded my slate to 4GBs but unfirtunatley it only sees 3gigs...a Vista thing! Today however one of the machines I tested came up Trumps which was the eo i7209. Considering this is a Celeron based machine I think the fact that it sees all 2GB is really promising. Keep youposted on more developments!

Sunday, June 17, 2007

The FedEX Man is coming again

It's that time again when a little guy named Ben (aka The FedEX Man) stops by and pays a Hugo a visit; and he is on his way with an Australian first!


(If you want to know what it is then try and find the Easter Egg I have hidden in this post.)

Saturday, June 16, 2007

blogging from my lounge

It's Saturday night and I'm catching up on some vlogs and blogs from throughout the week. I've been on the couch (using the OQO model 02) for the last couple of hours and I thought it would be an opportune moment to post my top five Positives and Negatives of the device. I’ve been a fulltime user for several weeks and I’m getting to know its idiosyncrasies pretty well. Maybe some of my thoughts will resonate with OQO owners, or others, so I would love to hear your thoughts.

Time to do a top 5 on the OQO model 02

Thursday, June 14, 2007

OQO Battle: XP vs. Vista


Some of you asked what will happen to my Windows XP based OQO, well it has sold. It sold before I even posted this photo and even before I opened the Vista box itself. The best bit however was that I got to keep both simultaneously for 48hrs and managed to shoot a quick video for GottaBeMobile.com.

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

I missed the WOW


This is not a mirrored image. This is my OQO model 02 (XP Tablet Edition) and my new OQO Model 02 Vista Ultimate. (Some people have more money than sense. LOL)

Because I missed the WOW...I've gone back to Vista. I just love Instant Search, I love the new TIP (Tablet Input Panel) features and I love the look. More soon.

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

For the record

While I was away I it seems as though another mate of mine has decided to have a dig (that’s Aussie speak for launch an attack). First it was Frank Garcia, and now Chippy!

Before you all get too carried away with my opening comment you need to know that this is all in good jest. Both Chippy and I are good mates, and in fact Frank and I are too. What occurs – often – is that we have-a-dig in order to see if the other is awake/listening/asleep or not. So on this occasion I thought it was important to fill in some blanks and go on record for Chippy's sake. At this point you may want to note that my videos are shot unprepared, unedited and unintentional. They are really about a geek spontaneously having fun in the moment. LOL.

The following is an extract from Chippy’s blog and in RED text are my thoughts.

Chippy said:

  • It's significant that a tablet MVP has dropped pen input. I've said before that I think handwriting input is going to become less important. Especially for mobile and mass market consumers. It will still be useful for a niche segment but its not important for devices that are not targeted at this segment. Oops Chippy...your first "what tha!" Unquestionably I chose the OQO for its PEN features far and beyond most other compelling reasons; it is after all the smallest Wacom Enabled UMPC on Market (which makes it the best for inking). The only other feature that comes close to the importance I hold for the pen on my Model 02 is the form-factor itself. Have a listen to this podcast I recorded with the GBM Team (May 22nd) which should show you that this is not an off the cuff remark I am making but something I feel stands true. I don't believe there is any such thing as a Tablet MVP losing their love for the pen...especially not me. I believe you are entitled to your comment (regarding the demise of the pen) and it sounds like you have a great ally in JKK too. There is a great deal of merit in Touch Technology and your argument but I believe it should never be as black or white as one or the other. The choice will empower many. If we lose one or the other then we lose so much flexibility.
  • The Samsung Q1 organizer keyboard is not cramped. Its one of the best quality mini keyboards that I've ever used. I'm using it right now and have no need to attach a full size keyboard. Have you got farmers fingers mate? Good point mate (not about the fingers). Allow me to elaborate...The Q1 Keyboard is most useful in a static position, i.e. not standing, not car, not walking. IMHO the Organiser Pack, which I love so much, is inconvenient when actually static (as I prefer a "real" keyboard then) and also inconvenient when I am mobile (as I prefer a smaller one). As I stated in my video these are benefits I did not realise I would appreciate until I got the OQO in my hands. Subsequently I have had to make myself flexible enough to accept the changes that are occurring in the Tablet space and learn to implement them into my routine without falling trap to previous addictions.
  • Do you need that Dopod any more? You've pretty much said that the OQO does everything that the Dopod does and better. If I were you I would move down to a feature phone. Absolutely makes more sense now. In fact I am not using it as much any more at all. I'm not sure what to get though?!?! Any Mobile Phone Dudes want to recommend a phone for me. I need HSDPA, touch, Windows Mobile 5.0 or 6.0, and small. The Dopod 810 springs to mind but I think it’s still a bit big.
  • Pocketing an OQO Model 02 is going to be 1 - awkward 2 - going to rip your pockets. I used to carry a lot around in my suit when I worked in London but I ended up at the tailors every three months! (I think you're reading too much into this comment of mine.) Ironically pocketing the OQO is NOT something I do often. My video was designed to highlight that it CAN be done SHOULD the need arise. In fact one of my readers even pointed out that I might not be able to pull it out of my pocket when sitting! Good point. LOL. As an FYI normally I pull it out of my pocket well before my bum hits any seat. LOL.
  • Is it really your desktop PC or do you have a larger desktop that you use for video editing? It is my desktop replacement for Business functionality, i.e. everything other than ripping podcasts and editing videos. Don't forget I own over 17 Tablets (including UMPC) so I'm a little spoilt. The Model 02 has however, for the record, replaced my desktop; podcasts and videos are a hobby for me and I don’t consider them as part of my day-to-day desktop requirements. For this reason I see these tasks as vertically oriented rather than directly related to my desktop activities – so I use a dedicated device for those tasks. I think we all know that editing a movie on a C7M would be futile (unless left as its only task).
  • Numeric keypad. How many numbers are you putting in per day? really needed? Oops...I thought it was my video, about me. LOL. WRT the number pad I use it a lot. My passwords for almost everything are alphanumeric so daily I would use it between 30 and 60 times a day. Not to mention when I am working with numbers on an Excel spreadsheet or putting Contract entries into Outlook.
  • Q1 organizer pack is a table-top solution I agree. Not a sofa, standing, car, bed solution. Here what you said in point number two "The Samsung Q1 organizer keyboard is not cramped." Now you come back with a contradictory comment. For the record it is cramped, in some instances, and not cramped, in others. I stand by my reply to your point number two. I think it’s about choice.
  • I agree. Windows is not optimized for touch but there is a lot of software that is. Navigation for example. Touch is important. I just don't miss Touch on a 5" device. Sorry.
  • I use the Q1b as a desktop replacement but its not quite good enough. Intel based devices make far better desktop replacements. XP on 1.2Ghz VIA is probably about the entry point so yes, I agree it can be used as a desktop and yes, you have to change your working style a little. So true.
  • What battery life do you get with your extended battery. Is it a full day like with the other two solutions or did you sacrifice some battery life? No sacrifice due to a little beauty of an accessory named the Battery Charging Adapter. All that has happened is that I carry two fully charged extended batteries instead of one 6 cell plus an 8 cell power bank.
  • We know that the keyboard on the OQO isn't much faster than on screen typing/handwriting. Would you be happy to lose 4-8mm on the depth of the device (or have a bigger battery capacity) without a keyboard and use an on screen keyboard? Personally it is much faster than the use of the software keyboard embedded in the TIP (Tablet Input Panel). Once again personally it is slower than ink-to-text using the TIP. So it is dependent on what you/I am doing. I would favour this device with a keyboard more so than without it. At least it is there on the 30% of the time I need it (% based on overall usage). Batteries would not be a reason to lose the keyboard as much as weight and thickness would. If it did not have a keyboard I don't think I would have bought it as I would rather go back to the Q1P with OP. Because my keyboard usage (as stated previously) is somewhat dynamic, i.e. sit/walk/run, then it has merit here; take it away and it might change the hole HUGOMETER balance.
  • Don't forget to highlight that the OQO Model 02 with docking station is around double the cost of a Q1b with organizer! You have to be tech-savvy and also be able to justify saving minutes per day to balance the extra cost. You just did. Well done.

Friday, June 08, 2007

Why the OQO Hugo?

The best bit about writing a blog is the community that has built around me. It really is kind of like family and like family often we get crazy uncles, funny aunties and pesky cousins. If UberTablet were a family I guess Frank Garcia (Ctitanic) would sure be part of it. He recently picked on me for downgrading from a perfectly good Samsung Q1P to the OQO model 02. In my defence I posted some thoughts yesterday and I seemed to have pleased the little guy with my response. Having said that I believe my job as head of the family remains unaccomplished until the entire family is debriefed and up to speed with Frank and me.

So what better way but to post a video? This video is testimonial my journey from Fujitsu T4215, to Samsung Q1, to Samsung Q1B, to Samsung Q1P and finally ending up with the OQO model 02. In brief I find the form-factor so aesthetically compelling that its pocket-sized appearance was just about irresistible. Now you might say that my decision to swap to the OQO model 02 has had its fair share of obstacles and you would be right. However after jumping into my third machine I can safely say that it is worth it.

I will do my best to post my experiences often and let you all know what is good and what is not about living in a 5” world. So far…I like it.

Play Video [210 MB, 26 minutes]


Watch it on MyYouTube:

Thursday, June 07, 2007

Because I can

I think it is great that everyone (the UberTablet Family) are carrying on the threads without me. Admittedly I am inundated with work so all I can do is post some pictures and some thoughts at present. I saw Frank’s comments (Ctitanic) and with that in mind I asked my wife to take this photo of me before I went into the city for a meeting. This photo not only describes a little bit about why I believe in the OQO model 02 but it also showcases just how discrete my new desktop really is. LOL.


Thanks Frank for your great post on why??? I promise I will answer the question clearly and concisely. Until then I will let this picture paint a thousand words.


Is that an OQO on my belt or am I just happy to see you.

I'm Back

“I’m back”

In 1993 when Michael Jordan first announced his (first) retirement the United States Shoe giant, Nike, saw an instance drop in share price. In 1995 when Michael Jordan made the announcement that he was returning to the game of basketball not only did season tickets of the Chicago Bulls become famously sold out for years to come but once again the Nike Shoe Giant witness a change in their Share Price; to put it simply, IT SPIKED!



On this occasion, like Michael Jordan I have represented my country in Basketball. Also like Michael Jordan I also announced my retirement back in 1995. Unlike Michael Jordan I can confess to being one-eyed Geek. Recently I yet another retirement but this time from the use of the OQO model 02; way back on May 30th 2007! So it is with great pleasure that I announce the return of myself to the one device I fell utterly enamored with…the OQO model 02.

I wonder what will happen to OQO share price? LOL.

OQO model 02

Windows XP Tablet PC Edition

Wednesday, June 06, 2007

Does your Slate have 4GB inside? Mine does.

A lot of you know that I have received the latest TabletKiosk offering named the Sahara Slate. The one I have is a device that will not be released as it has been made specifically as a Demo Unit for people like me…whatever that means. LOL. It is based on the same design as the i440D but instead of the Core Duo Processor it has the Celeron. The most unique feature of the i440D is that it offers (D)ual input, i.e. both pen and touch. While it does not do it simultaneously like the Lenovo X60 it does it via a button toggle – very clever.


Without going into too much details – as I will be doing a GottaBeMobile InkShow shortly – one additional benefit of this device is that you can slot in two sticks of 2GB and take the System total to 4GB of RAM! Which is exactly what I did today! This is not the first time I have taken a screw driver to a TabletKiosk device (See: Tablet PC Surgery) but it sure is one of the most exciting. So for your pleasure I have some naked photos to post, ala my mate Kevin C Tofel.


Operating Tablet: Step One

Incision made: Organs now exposed

Defunct patient waiting for Donor replacement

Microsurgery needed: second RAM slot on underbelly or mainboard

Patient making full recovery: 4GB stronger

Are you the next Copycat Hugo Ortega

In doing in a little Ego Surfing on Technorati I noticed an alarming trend. Not only has the Hugo Ortega brand grown but so too have Copycat Hugos. They’re springing up everywhere!

  • First was fellow Aussie Paul Stanway with his shout-out to Hugo Ortega via his Papier-mâché iPhone and HTC Shift rendition.
  • Then came MYLYDY ~ my library diary with a special shout out to Hugo Ortega with his interpretation of the famous Hugo style. The irony in this video is that even this chap admitted just how hard Vlogging really is.

So this causes me to pose the question, who is next? What if we turn our sights to France? Not only does this chap put on a brave face from his little French enclave (in Paris) but he also puts on a Tie (ala Hugo) and yields a remote control too (also ala Hugo).

Who is next?

French Hugo Ortega

Library Hugo Ortega


Papier-mâché Hugo Ortega

Sunday, June 03, 2007

How to buy a UMPC or Tablet PC

If there is one question I get asked more often than anything it would have to be “Which is the best Tablet PC?” For those of us watching this space closely we tend to agree that there is no such thing. It seems that each and every time I cough up cash for a new Tablet I think loooooooong and haaaaaaaaaaaaard smaaaaaaaaart about my choice. At present I am in between Tablets (in between 17 of them to be exact) so I thought I would take this opportunity to express, or put done on blog at least, some of my thoughts regarding the buying process. I know some of you own Tablets already and perhaps are looking for a second one; while I know many of you are still contemplating your first. So for all of you reading this post…the following is a definitive account of how to buy a Tablet PC. (I’ve even prepared a special spreadsheet for you to use when you’re done reading.)

In this post I will cover off many of the burning questions and hopefully empower you enough to make the most educated purchase your money can buy. Before we begin there is something I need to make understood right off-the-bat, i.e. that there is no one BEST Tablet - there is only the BEST Tablet for YOU!

With that in mind let’s begin.

Buying a Tablet PC is one of the most exciting and emotionally charged decisions you will make in your life (similar to buying a Home, getting married or having children). Now I can hear some of you laughing already but we need to admit that if you’ve bothered reading this far then you also need to admit that Tablet PC means something more to you than “just another notebook.” My mate Dennis Rice puts it well by suggesting that Tablet PC “provides choice”. The choice to be mobile; the choice to ink, or not to ink and ultimately the choice to sit, stand, walk or run. These are not often the choices attributed to the purchase of a regular notebook so right from the offset the purchase of a Tablet PC becomes potentially transformational.

Looking back at the day I met my first Tablet PC I remember being stunned by its beauty and left in awe of my new found abilities. Not only had I never seen or heard of Tablet PC prior to this date but even worse I was totally naïve to the potential of mobile computing in general. As I prodded and fumbled my way around the device I realized that this was not only the future for me but it was something I wanted to devote a BIG portion of my time to.

The first Tablet PC I ever owned (and still own to this date) was the TabletKiosk i213 Sahara Slate - and I must admit that I was totally an utterly enamored. As I got to know the Sahara I also began to understand Tablet PC idiosyncrasies and inefficiencies. Because my first Tablet was a Slate I was instantly challenged with how to input keystrokes without actually having the ability to stroke keys, and so my journey had begun. Since then I have bought twelve other Tablets and currently looking for a fourteenth. This purchase has caught me a little by surprise so instead of internalizing the process I thought I would share it with you. In the hope that it might empower you (as stated above) I want to share with you a little of my brain.

Normally the first question revolves around “Convertible or Slate” but I prefer to leave that till later on.

Here’s my first thought when buying a Tablet PC:

“Working on a scale of 1 -10 on the HUGOMETER ™ (10 being the highest) how important is it for me to replace a desktop with my new Tablet PC.”

Replacing a desktop may often sound focused on Processors and RAM, when it should actually be focused on ports and docks. At this early stage of the buying process it is a good idea to take inventory of your present hardware setup, and hardware habits. Take a close look at your phone (and how it syncs to your PC), look at your camera (and how it talks to your PC), and look at your printer, your peripherals, your hubs, routers, expansion cards and dongles too. I remember the Sahara and being really comfortable with the Slate design as a desktop replacement because of its clever Dock solution. While the Sahara itself would never have replaced my desktop properly, with the Dock, I actually replaced my desktop and built upon it too.

So on a scale of 1 to 10 for me the need to physically replace a desktop is at least a 7. Because I use my Tablets as my primary computing device then I base a lot of my decision on how well I can extend my desktop onto larger monitors, how easily I can dock and undock, and how well it talks to the plethora of hardware I carry with me. It’s obvious that while replacing a desktop is not all about the external hardware but I wanted to take this opportunity to get you to think a little differently about the situation.

[At this stage I like the Fujitsu T4215 for its port replicator bundle; and the Slates with Dock combos like the TabletKiosk or Motion.]

Once you’ve done this properly, i.e. analyzed your hardware companionship, then, and only then do I begin to think about the Processors and RAM. At this stage once again I give myself the same sliding scale as a benchmark, of 1 to 10. Number 10 being “I need it to tear shreds off a jet airplane with my Tablet’s blistering speed,” and 1 being “I’m happy with zero multitasking and willing to linger upon each click.”

On this scale I might surprise you but I actually peak at a 6 on the HUGOMETER ™. You see for me computing power mostly revolves around multitasking, and not so much around gaming or precision rendering. So with my six I might still consider a Pentium M based UMPC (because of the L2 Cache) or a Core Duo, but I would not need a Core 2 Duo and would probably steer clear of a Celeron based on a 6. Because multitasking is affected dramatically by the quantity of RAM you pack inside your device. Here I tend to consider expandability of RAM more so than Core2Duo n’ stuff.

[At this stage I like the Toshiba R400, because it accepts lots of RAM and just has enough computing power; or the Q1P SSD, fast read/write speeds.]

Here’s my second thought when buying a Tablet PC:

“Working on a scale of 1 -10 on the HUGOMETER ™ (10 being the highest) how important is it for me to utilize the Pen features of a Tablet PC, or are am I buying it for the form-factor, and perhaps end up focusing on my finger?”

In the last few years owning a Tablet PC has become synonymous with mobility. This may sound obvious to most of you but to others that still remember Microsoft’s “think in ink” campaign you will remember that Tablet was originally all about the pen. More recently the introduction of the Ultra Mobile PC has emphasized this distinction and in fact created two camps, i.e. those that drive with pen and those that drive with finger – hence starting to move away from the pen all together.

While I started my Tablet PC experience based on “thinking in ink” now it seems as though mobility has slowly pushed its way forward on my list. So on my scale the pen has gone from a 10 to about an 8.5, and mobility has gone from a 4 just three years back to a healthy 9 today. Why the change you might ask? I guess it’s because my needs have changed. While I respect the Pen, and will always remain loyal to everything it has given me, I now enjoy the freedom I get from the Tablet PC and Ultra Mobile PC form-factor more than anything else. Because the Pen is still so high I find it hard to settle on a fulltime device like the Samsung Q1P SSD, as its pen features are so poor, but I like it a lot for mobility. This is why the algorithm I have developed is so important.

[At this stage I like the OQO model 02, for being shipped with an Electro Magnetic Active Digitizer; and the Slates for the extra mobility they provide.]

Here’s my third thought when buying a Tablet PC:

“Working on a scale of 1 -10 on the HUGOMETER ™ (10 being the highest) how important is it for me to be connected, and maintain expandability.”

At this stage the camps really start to shed their skin. Not only do the answers vary intensely but at this point in the algorithm you need to be quite introverted to get the most out of your purchase. Let me give you my example to see if it makes more sense.

I use my phone (Dopod 838 pro) to connect to the internet as my preferred modem. I pair it to my Tablets via Bluetooth which in turn allows me the ability to interchange my Tablets without being too concerned about Drivers, PCMCIA slots or even worse, integrated SIM card slots. Because I carry my phone every day the last thing I need is to carry my modem too. Most people’s phones support this form of connectivity so it instantly voids the need for a separate modem. While the connection speeds are not as fast as a dedicated modem they are often “good enough” for most surfing and emailing required on the road.

When it comes to expandability the first thing that comes to mind is my camera. I use a Sony still camera at present which uses the Sony Memory Stick. My plan is to transition to a more common SD memory card based camera so that I can create an interchangeable ecosystem for my phone, camera and Tablet to coexist in. I do like my Tablets to have a PCMCIA slot as it allows me lots of flexibility when it comes to connectivity but as stated above it is not a must for me. Given what I’ve mentioned with regards to SD memory I also hunt for a device with at least an SD Card Reader included too.

On a scale of 1 to 10 on this scale I am not very concerned. I sit proudly on a 4 as my hardware is flexible enough to not need to demand expandability or connectivity out of the box. While everyone’s criteria will be different for me at I am afraid my low score will not help me narrow down my preferred device at all. As you begin to witness it is the highest scoring results which will help dictate one device over another when using the HUGOMETER ™. Low scoring results, like on this occasion, must be entered into the algorithm as they will play a crucial role in the end result on the HUGOMETER ™.

[At this stage I like the Fujitsu T4215, the P1610, the Toshiba R400 and possibly the ASUS R1F, although I’m not a fan of this device.]

Here’s my fourth thought when buying a Tablet PC:

“Working on a scale of 1 -10 on the HUGOMETER ™ (10 being the highest) how important is it for me to see my screen”

Confusing as it might sound today view-ability has moved away from talk of screen resolution and moved closer towards conversations of screen size and screen brightness outdoors. As unheard of as it was two years back to discuss fully functioning handheld PCs today we have several devices capable of throwing up full blown Windows onto 4”, 5” and 7” screens. Whereas previously we thought bigger was better, today we are just as likely to want to place a device in our back pocket!

At present this decision is a hard one for me. I am torn between two devices…two very different devices. The first is the OQO model 02; a device which has to be one of the most thought provoking and awe inspiring devices that exist today. While the 5” screen is considered small for Windows it pulls no punches and throws up 1024 x 600 as good as anything else I have seen on the market. I love this device for the convenience it gives me and for the manner in which it allows me to compute on the road. However the other device I am leaning towards is the Toshiba R400. While it is at the opposite end of the spectrum to the OQO model 02 it is also a magnificent beast. Its screen brightness is almost unparalleled (in the non-outdoor readable market) and its wide angle display is something that makes instant desktop replacement almost possible right out of the box.

With such a degree of difference between the two you would think the choice would be clear, but regrettably it’s not. With one I have a pocket sized notebook killer, and with the other I have a notebook sized pocket killer! LOL. On this scale for screen view-ability I sit at a 9. My screens need to be bright and be able to display the highest resolution possible. Both the OQO model 02 and the Toshiba R400 score a 9 here so – for want of repeating myself – this is why the use of the HUGOMETER ™ is so important.

[At this stage I like the Toshiba R400, the OQO model 02, the Lenovo X60, for its higher resolution; and the Motion LE1700, for its higher resolution.]

Here’s my fifth thought when buying a Tablet PC:

Working on a scale of 1 -10 on the HUGOMETER ™ (10 being the highest) how important is it that I look good?”

Now this may sound Narcissistic, and to a degree I hope it does. I will be the first to admit that the marriage between me and my device begins with looks. This may come across all wrong but here goes any way…

I started dating my wife because when we first met I was physically attracted to her – (in my defence, and in case my darling wife reads this) I fell in love with her for much more than that and subsequently married her for more than that again. When it comes to the Sahara Slate Tablet PC that I first owned, I physically lusted after it way before I even cared if it could iron and cook ink and connect to stuff. So when it comes to choosing a device we are spoilt for choice at present. They’re all relatively “good enough” for “most” of us to use so beginning with looks is not as silly as it might sound. After all, you’re the one that has to sleep with it look at it spend the most time with it.

On this sliding scale I am an overzealous 7.5. I would have placed this criteria top of my list but I haven’t for fear of total retribution from the UberTablet family. LOL.

[At this stage I like the Toshiba R400, the OQO model 02, the Toshiba R400, and the Sahara i440D Slate and did I mention the Toshiba R400?]

In Conclusion

Completing the selection process is easy. Add up the numbers above, i.e. 6 for desktop replacement, 9 for Pen Features, 4 for connectivity and expandability, 9 for screen view-ability and lastly 7.5 for aesthetics, etc., which gave me a grand total of 51, and divide it by the number of criteria to get your average score out of 10? (See spreadsheet for full working sample of the HUGOMETER ™.)

So in order to select my next Tablet PC it needs to score a minimum of my average score (or above) to even show up on my radar. While the actual criteria I use may vary, change, or adapt as the years clock over, I believe that you should use as many criteria as possible for your own algorithm. As with any survey designed to provide feedback REMEMBER TO BE AS HONEST AS POSSIBLE. Now go and visit Mr. Excel to complete your task.

Friday, June 01, 2007

Raon Digital anounces the EVERUN UMPC


Click to enlarge


There surely is one massive advantage to living in Australia, i.e. the time difference. We are one of the first nations to see the sun and one of the first to see the moon too. On this occasion the orientation of the Globe has allowed me to scoop a bit of news regarding Korean based manufacturer, Raon Digital.



Raon Digital rose to fame by launching the Vega UPPC (Ultra Portable PC) in mid 2006. While not officially a UMPC (Ultra Mobile PC) the Vega still ticked a lot of boxes for users, i.e. resistive touchscreen, full Windows XP Operating System, 7 hr battery life and more. Where it fell dramatically short was its lack of inbuilt Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and its poor array of input methods, namely no keyboard.


On this occasion it seems as though Raon Digital has heard many of the requests made by first generation owners of UMPC and UPPC as they have gone back the drawing board with their latest release. So it is with great pleasure that I can provide specifications and pictures of the new Raon Digital entrant, dubbed the EVERUN! (Cool name)


· 4.8 Wide VGA 800 x 480 resolution / Touch screen / Auto rotation & brightness control


· AMD 600MHz Geode LX900 Processor or 500MHz LX800


· Microsoft Windows XP Home


· Various storage options including a 60G / 30G HDD and/or 6G SSD


· Integrated full QWERTY keypad


· Integrated 802.11b/g WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0


· Integrated HSDPA with Data & Voice or WiMAX (optional)


· Over 7 hours of real battery life with the standard battery (Max 12 hours with large battery)


· Easy to hold or pocket (170(W) x 83(H) x 25(D)mm) 460-500g (with standard battery.



I’ve heard that the initial release will be targeted at the Korean market (obviously) in the middle of July with overseas markets to follow shortly after. I for one think this looks awesome. I still remember unboxing the Vega and just loving the screen quality and overall size and functionality of that device. The EVERUN looks far superior and will be worth a look at by any discerning buyer. The great news about Raon Digital is that often their devices are priced rather aggressively in the UMPC/UPPC market...so here's hoping.



Here is what the Raon Digital VP said:


“More information is available at our home page www.raondigital.com and also from the attached file. This new model will be available for delivery middle of July and the retail price will be fixed soon. You can see the actual working model at Computex (June 5~9, Taiwan) at AMD Booth (HALL 4, booth #TF1I+T105)


I hope you like this machine and do not hesitate to contact me for any question.”



More Photos
everun (2).pdf (1.22 MB)