Even at $600, Geobook is no bargain
Article Abstract:
Brother International's $600 Color Geobook NB-80C has a lack of power and user-friendliness that recalls earlier times of computers featuring no hard drives. The approximately 5.5-pound machine relies on the relatively obscure Geos OS, instead of Windows, and its flash memory holds only 1MB. Other problems include a modem that cannot receive faxes as well as a 386 processor clone that operates at only 33MHz, which is one-sixth the clock speed of even bargain computers. The Geobook features a 33Kbps modem and 10.4-inch backlit color screen, but its battery life lasts just one hour despite requiring numerous hours to charge it. The Geos OS version contains an adequate number of application programs, but their read-only memory status prohibit upgrades. Problems also occur with converting files into Windows-compatible formats and saving them on PC-formatted floppy disks. Novices will need time to learn the intricacies of Geobook, which also lacks multitasking capability.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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The lightness of being Newton
Article Abstract:
Apple's Newton Messagepad 2000 is a $950 pen-based hand-held computer. The MP2000's price goes up to $1,100 if the case, a keyboard and spreadsheet software is included. The keyboard is recommended, as the handwriting recognition is not accurate enough to recognize most printing unless it is extremely clear and consistent. The machine weighs 1.4 pounds, plus an additional 10 ounces for the keyboard, and requires four AA batteries. Two standard PC Card slots are included on the MP2000 for modems and memory cards. The user interface on the MP2000's operating system is generally confusing and frustrating. There are several design flaws, including the awkward pen and keyboard mixture, which requires the user to frequently remove their hands from the keyboard.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1997
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