The other, real reason to stay away from the is that it has the Atom Z520 processor, which, like all Z-series, uses the GMA500 chipset, codenamed Poulsbo. Sure, you can buy the Mini 10 with Ubuntu already installed, but it's Ubuntu 8.04 (Hardy) with a video driver that isn't ported to Ubuntu 9.04 (Jaunty). Blueprints and indicate that there's no movement forward on this.
What does that mean? It means that lots of folks have bought the 10v with the intention of re-installing Ubuntu (maybe UNR) and getting 9.04. Unfortunately, they're left trying to import old packages and make them work. Hours are wasted.
Instead, you can get the Mini 10v, which ships with the N270, a chip which will drain your battery much faster than the Z520. It also comes with the ancient and extremely well supported GMA950 chipset (also a power hog). Installation, though, will be a breeze, and everything will work out of the box.
"V for Victory" I say!
Update: Well, it turns out that there's a new PPA open. Add the following to your sources:
deb http://ppa.launchpad.net/ubuntu-mobile/ppa/ubuntu jaunty main
deb-src http://ppa.launchpad.net/ubuntu-mobile/ppa/ubuntu jaunty main
Then,
apt-get update
apt-get install xserver-xorg-video-psb
Unfortunately the 10v doesn't support bluetooth - so I can't tether it to my 3G phone.
Replyjust get a bluetooth usb dongle
Replyand I dont know about the z series giving you much more battery life than the n
Replynor the 950 eating up your battery much more than the 500
Just add $20 to your order and get the internal bluetooth installed with it. That's what mine is going to have when it arrives later this month.
ReplyThe Dell mini 10v is a very affordable unit! Buy a refurbed model from DellOutlet. I have been using Dell refurbs (at work and home) for over five years - never had a problem. The mini 10v has a better keyboard than the mini 9, a btt more video real estate, and a slick Dell design.
ReplyI graduated from an ASUS 7" to a Dell Mini9 and now to a 10v. Te mini 9 was nice for a month in Nanjing, China, but The eyes are getting less flexible!
Go for the mini 10v on the outlet sight.