| Samsung enhances its Q1 UMPC |
May 10, 2007
 Samsung on May 7 unveiled the second generation of its Q1 family of ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs). Among its enhancements, the Q1 Ultra series introduces a unique split-QWERTY keypad, increases display resolution to 1024 x 600 pixels, reduces weight to 1.5 pounds, and adds fingerprint security.
(Click here for larger image)
The Q1 Ultra is a full-featured machine that leaves out little that is available in a desktop. One of the most interesting of these features is the split-QWERTY keypad, which allows the user to input text on the left and right sides of the display. It also features user-defined function keys, as well as mouse buttons.
The Q1 features a unique, split-QWERTY keyboard
(Click to enlarge)
Like its Q1 family predecessors, the Ultra features a 7-inch touch LCD. However, the Ultra's display resolution has been boosted to 1024 x 600 pixels, from the earlier models' 800 x 480 pixels. The new, higher resolution display is also somewhat brighter, at 300 NITS versus the earlier models' 280 NITS screens.
(Click to enlarge) |
In addition to the change in display, the Ultra's weight has been reduced to 1.5 pounds from 1.7 pounds for the earlier Q1 devices; and it's also a bit smaller, measuring 9.0 x 4.9 x 0.9 inches, compared to 9.0 x 5.5 x 1.0 for the earlier units.
Also new is a 300-pixel webcam that, along with built-in speakers, allows the device to be used for video conferencing. The Q1 Ultra is also available with an integrated fingerprint reader, on the high-end model, enabling enhanced security. Another new feature -- also limited to the high-end model -- is an HSDPA Wireless 3.5 G cellular modem.
Interestingly, the Q1 Ultra is based on a somewhat slower processor than its predecessors. The Ultra's Intel "Ultra Mobile Processor A110" is clocked at 600 or 800 MHz, depending on model, whereas earlier members of the Q1 family used 1 GHz Pentium M ULV processors. The lower clock rate and new Intel processor appear to result in improved battery life, which is listed as 4.5 hours for the Ultra (see specs, below), which is around 1.5X that of the earlier models. Battery life has been a consistent complaint from UMPC reviewers.
Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium and Windows XP Tablet Edition serve as the Q1 Ultra's operating system, depending on model.
Key features and specifications of the Q1 Ultra, as listed by the company, include:- Processor -- Intel Ultra Mobile Processor A110, clocked at 600 or 800 MHz
- Chipset -- Intel GMA950
- Memory -- 1GB DDR2 DRAM
- Storage -- 40 to 80 GB hard drive
- Display -- 7-inch, WSVGA (1024 x 600 pixels), 300 NITS LCD with touchscreen
- Input/output ports:
- 10/100 Ethernet
- 2 x USB 2.0
- video output connector
- audio -- HD audio; dual speakers; dual array microphone
- Wireless:
- 802.11b/g WiFi
- Bluetooth 2.0
- HSDPA Cellular Modem (on high-end model only)
- Cameras (except on low-end model):
- front-facing "video chat" -- 300 pixel
- rear-facing video/still imaging -- 1.3 Mpixel
- Expansion -- built-in SD/MMC slot (except on low-end model)
- Biometric security -- Fingerprint reader (on high-end model only)
- Dimensions -- 8.96 x 4.88 x 0.93 inches
- Weight -- 1.5 pounds
- Power -- Li-Ion (Prismatic) battery, 29.6wh capacity (over 4.5 hours)
For the full range of options and specifications of the Q1 Ultra, refer to the data sheet (PDF download) on the company's website.
Four versions of the Q1 Ultra are currently available, according to Samsung. The low-end model is priced at $799.
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