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Asus Eee PC 1005HA-PU17-BK 10.1-Inch Intel Atom Netbook Computer (Crystal Black) Review

15:36, Posted by David S Calvert, No Comment

Asus Eee PC 1005HA-PU17-BK 10.1 inch Intel Atom Netbook Computer
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
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October 28 (most recent update June 23, 2010 below)
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I received the ASUS EEE PC Seashell 1005HA-PU17-BU 10.1-Inch Blue Netbook two days ago. My initial impression is that this is a great computer. Below are more specific comments.

1) OS: Windows Starter
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Runs really well without any problems. I think another 1GB of RAM would make it faster, but I can easily live without it for my main purpose of taking research notes, writing papers, and using the Internet.

I have not had a chance to try out all of my software yet, but Windows Office 2007, bLADE Wiki, Chrome, and other programs I frequently use work just fine. Windows 7 Starter does run more than three applications. I have four open now.

Thankfully, I had no difficulty enabling language support (IME) for Japanese and Chinese. In general, I have also found some things a little more intuitive than XP or Vista. At this point, I see absolutely no reason to buy an upgrade.

The inability to change your desktop image is a mean-spirited marketing decision that I hope Microsoft will reconsider. Not only that, but the wallpaper makes it look like you have a crack or dust on your screen. You can get around this and speed up your computer a little bit in the process. In your start menu right-click on computer, select properties, advanced system settings, performance, and "Adjust for best performance." Your background will be solid blue.

2) Screen
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Surprisingly crisp and clear. Yes, it is small, but so is the computer :)

3) Keyboard
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I have no trouble at all typing on it. Some owners of past Asus models have complained about a warped space bar. Indeed, the space bar is slightly elevated on the left side. However, I believe this was intentional. When you press the function key with the blue "running man" mark on the left it switches power settings (see comments below for an update on the keyboard).

4) Battery
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I am not sure yet how to get the advertised 10.5, but I am easily getting 9+ hours out of it on the power saver mode. It is incredible. The power adapter is quite small and seems to charge it up very quickly.

5) Sturdiness / Quality
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The computer feels surprisingly solid and less flimsy than more expensive computers I have bought in the past. It is not the most elegant computer out there, but it seems well-built. It has a wonderful lack of annoying lights. The only one remaining is the power light in the upper right. The blue LED is annoying (as it is on most computers made nowadays), but much less of a problem than others out there. If computer manufacturers would put the power light back on the bottom right under my hand with the rest of the lights I would be grateful.

6) Partitions
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My memory was partitioned into a C and D drive. There are good reasons to have a partition, but personally I prefer none. It is relatively easy to change the partition.

7) Bloatware
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One or two programs (as far as I can tell) that I was able to quickly remove. Nothing at all like my last computer that had over a dozen.

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November 5, 2009 UPDATE
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It is a fabulous computer and I wouldn't hesitate to buy it again if I had the chance. At this size (10.1 inch) and with these specs (battery life, memory, etc.) it seems to be the best computer on the market. I still give it 5 stars.

However, I have had concerns with the keyboard. Be sure to inspect it thoroughly when it arrives. I ordered the same model for someone else and it arrived with what looked like melted keys next to the spacebar. We sent it back to Amazon for a replacement and the new one that arrived is just fine.

My "w" key was sticking the other day. I sprayed some compressed air under it and it started working again. I never eat or drink near the computer, so I cannot imagine what it was. That is the first time I have had something like that happen on any computer. It has been about a week since that happened and has been working fine.

After looking at last year's models in the store, I can see that my "warped" space key was probably not intentional. It doesn't hit the screen and is barely noticeable, so I have not shipped it back for a replacement. I remain pleased with the product overall, but I think they really need to work on quality control for their keyboards.

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November 17, 2009 UPDATE
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I remain extremely pleased with the product. I just wanted to write another update here to encourage potential buyers to make sure that the reviews on Amazon for this product are written by people who have actually purchased and/or used THIS product. Those who owned the previous model have had power supply, battery, and keyboard issues. I encourage you to read reviews of earlier models to learn more (I did before making this purchase), and I appreciate that people are willing to share their experiences, but it seems unfair to the company and misleading to consumers when reviews are posted here for another product (no matter what the apparent similarities are).

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December 12, 2009 UPDATE
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I've had the computer for about two months now and I would still give it five stars. The battery indicator tells me I have 10 to 11 hours after a full charge, but I have never had that many hours of straight use to actually test it. All I can say for sure is that I am very happy with the battery life.

Windows 7 Starter is great. It hasn't crashed once since I purchased the computer. I always liked XP (disliked 98 and Vista), but given time I might end up liking this OS even more. It seems pretty snappy, even with just 1GB RAM.

The trackpad has raised bumps and seems to work best with a delicate touch. It's OK, but personally I prefer smooth surfaces. If any ASUS engineers are reading this, I recommend a trackpad like the one on the Panasonic Lets Note R8 CF-R8WWLAJP.

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June 23, 2010 UPDATE
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COMPUTER EXTERIOR AND ACCESSORIES:
Keyboard, display, and everything else is in perfect shape. Power cord is fine and absolutely no issues with it (previous models apparently had an issue with the power).

BATTERY:
As expected, battery performance has dropped over time. This is NOT an issue unique to this product, but a problem with any battery in any computer. I have used it every day since I bought it and I estimate I get about 7 hours after a charge in the power saving mode. This is still fabulous, and about 6 hours more than what my previous laptop was getting, so I am pleased.

RAM:
I ended up installing extra RAM. I don't know for sure if it got faster, because I changed how I use the computer. I decided to stop using my desktop completely, so I have been using memory hogs like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat Pro, Dragon Naturally Speaking, and so forth. Memory is relatively inexpensive, so I would recommend getting it no matter what you are doing.

OS:
I believe this is a Windows Starter issue, but my operating system slowed down considerably over time. A couple of weeks ago I backed up everything and re-installed the OS. Now it runs snappy again. I have had to re-install Windows operating systems regularly in the past for other computers, so I would say this is no big deal. It is a relatively painless procedure with the Asus. I plan to do it about every 6 months.

COMPARABLE PRODUCTS:
There is a newer version of this with longer battery life and a different keyboard. I would recommend giving the ASUS Eee PC Seashell 1005PE-PU27-BK 10.1-Inch Black Netbook (Up to 14 Hours of Battery Life) a try. Asus still seems to be the best small computer manufacturer around.

If I were deciding between this and an ipad (assuming I couldn't get both!) I would choose this one. I've played around with the iPad in stores, but as a machine for getting work done, it does not even come close to having the features I need. It's an exciting technology, but would be just a toy for me in its current state.

BOTTOM LINE:
I may be done with desktop computers after owning this netbook. I originally had a desktop for home and the netbook for outside the house, but not anymore.I sold the monitor, and the desktop is now hooked up to the TV for streaming video. Asus has made a convert out of me.

Sometimes I carry the Asus alone with me when I go out (I am still amazed by how lightweight it is!), and other times I bring a riser to lift the computer up to about the same level as a monitor would be (Logitech Notebook Riser (N110)), a bluetooth mouse (Microsoft Bluetooth Notebook Mouse 5000 Mac/Windows), and a bluetooth keyboard (Apple Wireless Keyboard (Retail Packaging)). All of this is portable (fits in my backpack), so I can have a pleasant work environment no matter where I go.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Asus Eee PC 1005HA-PU17-BK 10.1 Inch Intel Atom Netbook Computer (Crystal Black)

Product Description:
The Best has just gotten better! - Mobility has Evolved with the Eee PC 1005HA-P.
The 10.1-inch Eee PC 1005HA-P Seashell, with Windows 7 Starter Edition and enhanced storage, shines as the ideal netbook for the traveler looking to have it all.

It is encased in a smooth pearlescent shell to captivate any onlookers or passers-by.But the Eee PC 1005HA isn't just looks; inside it features a higher-capacity storage than its predecessors.

Plus, it offers great user comfort and convenience with its 92-percent scaled keyboard, multi-touch trackpad, and convenient instant keys – granting you quick access to Wi-Fi and control of the ASUS Super Hybrid Engine (SHE).

Take the Eee PC 1005HA wherever you choose with all-day battery life and enjoy the brilliant clarity of its 10.1-inch LED-backlit display for comfortable computing for hours on end. And its generous 250GB HDD with 500GB of ASUS WebStorage** enables you to store, share, and access your important data anytime, anywhere.

Miles ahead of its competition, the Eee PC 1005HA-P provides multi-tasking performance and superior portability, liberating you from wall chargers and bringing you into the future of mobility.

Key Features


    10.5 hours of unplugged all-day computing with ASUS' exclusive Super Hybrid Engine
    Incredibly spacious 750GB Hybrid Storage for convenient storage on-the-go (250GB HDD + 500GB ASUS WebStorage**)
    10.1-inch LED-backlit WSVGA screen (1024 x 600)
    92-percent full-size keyboard for comfortable typing
    Multi-touch trackpad for effortless control
    Easy mobile wireless connectivity via built-in Wi-Fi 802.11n (draft 2.4GHz n) and Bluetooth V2.1
    SRS surround sound for premium audio
    Stunning looks and convenient mobility with seashell design weighing a mere 2.8 lbs
    0.3MP webcam and microphone for simple and clear communication
    Windows 7 Starter for a more intuitive and reliable interface
    F9 easy recovery for convenient and easy system reinstallation
    1 year global warranty
    30-day Flawless Display Guarantee


Learn More

Inspired by Nature, Innovatively Crafted

Flawlessly smooth, the Eee PC 1005HA Seashell draws its inspiration from the curvature of an ocean seashell.

Its lustrous and glossy exterior is crafted by In-mold Roller (IR) technology, giving it a stylish yet scratch-resistant surface that's perfect for everyday use.

It's specially designed to be ultra-compact so you can take it anywhere with you, and its eye-catching style will easily catch the eye of passers-by.

The Eee PC 1005HA Seashell is a joy to use and an excellent companion for long trips.

Note: This Eee PC features a glossy finish chassis. Reflections in photos may vary. Color of the chassis is single-toned.

Battery and Performance Boosting Features You'll Only Get with Eee PC

ASUS has produced an innovation in PC mobility with the ASUS Super Hybrid Engine (SHE) to give you ultimate control of your Eee PC 1005HA.

With a hot key above the keyboard, you can instantly command the processor to run faster for more performance or reduce speed to increase battery life.

Backed with a high density Lithium Ion battery, the Eee PC 1005HA packs more power per charge for up to 10.5 hours of unplugged use when you are out and about.

The Eee PC 1005HA Seashell is powered by the Intel Atom N280 processor. Built with the world's smallest transistors, the Intel Atom N280 processor uses only 2.5 watts of power, which is less than 1/10 of the power consumption of ordinary desktop processors.

Even More Storage

The Eee PC 1005HA-P hard drive has been expanded to give you 250GB of storage capacity and comes with an additional 500GB of ASUS WebStorage**, a free and secure database to store your treasured data.

ASUS WebStorage** allows you to easily share and safeguard your movies, music, and files, so you can access them anywhere that has an online connection.


Get the Big Picture in a Small Frame

A brilliant 10.1-inch LED-backlit display makes reading documents and surfing the Web comfortable and easy.

The Eee PC 1005HA features the latest generation of LED-backlit technology for ultra-thin, ultra-bright, and energy-efficient portability and versatility.

With a 1024 x 600 resolution screen, you can coast through most of your favorite web pages without having to resize your browser or scroll left and right.

The 1005HA-P also features a brilliant Color-Shine glossy display normally found on high-end notebooks. With Color-Shine, your movies, games, and photos are displayed in true and vibrant colors.

Markedly Comfortable. Perfectly Concise.

The Eee PC 1005HA Seashell comes with a 92-percent full-size keyboard that's ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue and offer a more comfortable experience during prolonged use.

The Eee PC 1005HA also features a user-friendly multi-touch trackpad that helps you navigate documents and web pages.

With a simple touch of your fingertips you can effortlessly scroll up and down, and zoom-in and out, so that every detail is brought front and center.

Easy Connectivity to Nationwide Hotspots

The Eee PC 1005HA Seashell connects you to your wireless world with built-in 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi and Windows 7 Starter to deliver ultimate wireless accessibility.

Plus, its integrated Bluetooth V2.1 gives you the flexibility and convenience to sync your most commonly used Bluetooth devices.

A spring-loaded Plug-and-Play flash card slot (MMC/SD/SDHC) expands your storage capability so you can view and share your digital photos, videos, and external data files instantly.

A built-in 0.3 megapixel webcam and a microphone combine to give you clear video conferencing so you can have clear on-the-go video chats with family and friends.

Note: This Eee PC features a glossy finish chassis. Reflections in photos may vary.

Quick Recovery with Just One Key

No more scrambling to find restore discs, the Eee PC 1005HA features a quick built-in recovery program that can restore your system to its original factory settings by simply pressing F9 three times during start-up.

Coupled with ASUS WebStorage, this means you can now easily back-up your data prior to system recovery so you can pick up wherever you leave off without issue.

Eee PC with Windows 7 –Life Made Easier

Explore the great new features of Windows 7 Starter with the Eee PC 1005HA-P.Featuring optimized energy-saving features and easy-to-use shortcuts, the Windows operating system is redesigned to give you an enhanced user experience making your everyday tasks simpler than ever before.Plus, Windows 7 has easy networking sharing that helps connect you instantly to Wi-Fi hotspots and networking hubs.Share more with friends and surf the Web better with Windows 7 and the Eee PC 1005HA-P.

Windows 7 Starter makes small notebook PCs easier to use because it puts less between you and what you want to do – less waiting, less clicking, less hassle connecting to networks. Starter combines the latest in reliability and responsiveness with the familiarity and compatibility of Windows.

Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade.A small notebook PC running Windows 7 Home Premium is even easier to use. The new taskbar and advanced navigation features make launching programs, opening files, managing windows, and getting around your PC faster and easier. Personalize your PC to be just the way you want it with helpful gadgets and desktop themes – even turn your desktop into a slideshow of your favorite photos.You get the best entertainment experience on a PC; with Windows Media Center, you can watch, pause, rewind, and record TV.

Don't forget... Microsoft Office is not part of Microsoft Windows. In order to get the most out of your new PC, don't forget to purchase a Microsoft Office suite.

Learn more about Microsoft Office 2007

* Internet access required.Free TV content varies by geography. Some content may require additional fees.

Warranty

Customer Warranty –The Industry's Most Complete Netbook Care Package


1 Year Global Warranty
6 Months Battery Warranty
30-Day Flawless Display Guarantee: If you discover one defective bright dot within 30 days of purchase, ASUS will replace the panel at no cost.
Free one-way standard shipping
24/7 technical support

What's in the Box


Eee PC 1005HA-P Seashell (Black)
Travel Sleeve
Power Adapter †
User Manual
Warranty Card
Recovery DVD / Support CD

Specifications


Operating System: Genuine Microsoft Windows 7 Starter
Display: 10.1-inch 1024x600 LED-Backlit Widescreen LCD (Color-Shine/Glossy Screen Technology)
Intel CPU: Intel Atom N280
Wireless Data Network: WLAN: 802.11b/g/n (draft 2.4GHz n) & Bluetooth V2.1 + EDR
Memory: 1GB DDR-2 (Memory size is upgradable to 2GB)
Hybrid Storage: 250GB HDD + 500GB ASUS WebStorage**
Camera: 0.3M Pixels
Audio: Stereo Speakers, High-Definition Audio CODEC, Built-in microphone
Storage Cards: 2-in-1 MMC, SD(SDHC) flash card slot
Input/Output: 1 x VGA connector, 3 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x LAN RJ-45, 2 x audio jacks: Headphone & Mic-in
Battery: 10.5 hours* Li-Ion battery †
Dimensions: 10.31 (W) x 7.01 (D) x 1.02~1.44 (H) inches
Weight: 2.81 lbs (with battery)
Color: Black

*Operation lifetime subject to product model, normal usage conditions and configurations.
**ASUS WebStorage is a complimentary trial service for 1 year after registration. Actual storage capacity varies by model.
† To recharge using the AC power adapter, power plug must be fully pushed into the power socket on the Eee PC until it clicks firmly into place.

All specifications and terms are subject to change without notice. Please check with your supplier for exact offers on selected models. Products may not be available in all markets. Product may not be exactly as shown in images.

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