ACER Aspire One Mini-netbook

I have had an ACER Aspire mini-notebook for a couple of weeks now and am pleased with my purchase. It is the smallest thing I have ever seen and sometimes websites don’t display perfectly because the screen size is too small – for example the Jasper Conran website is built for at least 800px. However, this thing could conceivably fit into a large pocket or medium size handbag. It is definitely perfect for on the road if you only need the basics.

The Linux operating system is very similar to the basic functions of Windows – without the horrendous problems associated with Vista. I’m told that Linux can’t get viruses in the same way that Windows does. I haven’t yet tried downloading any additional programs to the Linux system, but for browsing the web and doing straight forward web editing, the teeny-weeny computer is absolutely fine and certainly a head turner.

The are two small issues that I have noticed. The wi-fi seems to go off sometimes but sorts itself out again within no time. Also, there’s a Chinese keyboard function which I keep accidentally turning on. All you have to do in order to switch it off again is go to the bottom right and click on the red Chinese symbol, then click “English keyboard”.

The real test for this miniscule computer is when I go to London next week and try to use it for mobile working – check back to see how the ACER Aspire fares in the cafes of the capital!

The Acer Aspire One AOA110-Ab Netbook comes complete with Intel’s Atom N270 Processor (1.6 GHz, 533MHz, 512MB cache memory) and a Linpus Linux Lite operating system, not to mention 1 GB memory, so you’ll be able to run applications smoothly. A spacious 16 GB hard drive provides plenty of space for storing photos, videos, music and documents, while its compact design (just 1 kilo in weight and 294mm thick) makes it extremely portable.

The Aspire One AOA110-Ab Netbook boasts an 8.9″ CrystalBrite LCD screen, with LED backlighting, which makes for consistent brightness. Resolution goes all the way up to 1024 x 600 pixels.

You’ll be able to carry this laptop everywhere with you: you could even use it to stay on top of work while you travel. The Aspire One AOA110-Ab works as a portable storage device, too, which makes it ideal for photographers or budding film directors. It has a sizeable, expandable hard drive capacity and Acer InviLink 802.11b/g wireless technology, allowing you to hook it up to any available network for immediate broadband internet access. You’ll be able to use WiFi hotspots to check e-mails, or surf the internet at places like airports, hotels and cafes across the globe!

This model has a smart design and a useful 5-in-1 memory card reader, as well as three USB ports for easy connection to external devices. If you’re looking for a computer that will cover all your mobile computing needs, then the Aspire One AOA110-Ab Netbook should be on your shortlist!

• General Information RAM 1 GB
• Operating System Linux Linpus Lite
• Cache memory 512 KB
• Processor Intel Atom Processor N270
• -1.6 GHz
• -533 MHz
• -512 KB Cache
• Hard drive 16 GB SSD
• Graphics card Intel GMA 950 Dynamic Video Memory Technology 3.0
• Screen type 8.9″ CrystalBrite, LED-backlit TFT, 1024 x 600 ( WSVGA ) 16:10
• Memory card reader 5 in 1 card reader
• Optical disk drive None
• USB 3
• Modem/Ethernet 1 x network – Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX – RJ-45
• FireWire No
• TV output No
• Wi-Fi Acer InviLink 802.11b/g
• Bluetooth No
• Extension card slot 1 x SD card expansion slot
• Additional features Integrated 0.3 mp Camera, Built-in numeric keyboard
• Size 249 x 195 x 36mm (W x D x H)
• Weight 985g
• Accessories included Rechargeable battery, power adaptor, user guide

I bought the ACER Aspire One from Pixmania where there is currently a 12% off discount being offered – price down from £193 to £169.