http://www.teardown.com// This channel delivers analysis reports of home networking, notebook computer, information appliance, and entertainment products. These products reflect the growth and co-mingling of always-on Internet access, television, gaming, telephony, and mobile computing for the wired (and unwired) environment of home and work. Significant discounts are available with the purchase of a Channel License . © 2012, UBM PLC en-us Fri, 6 Jan 2012 12:19:00 -0500 Fri, 6 Jan 2012 12:19:00 -0500 Mobile Computing and Connectivity Channel 60 ]]>The Kindle Fire is Amazon’s tablet entry targeted at the e-Reader market but with capabilities to go well beyond those of previous Kindle devices. The Fire’s width is smaller than the Kindle DX and comparable to the smaller e-Ink Kindles, which makes it easy to hold in one hand. Its 7” touchscreen display has over 16 million colors and utilizes the in-plane switching LCD technology seen in other tablets such as the infamous iPad. The modified Android 2.3 OS runs on a dual-core processor with 8 GB of user memory storage. The Fire does not currently have cellular or Bluetooth options, relying only on WiFi 802.11n for web browsing with Amazon’s Silk web browser. Apps, games, and e-books are all available for use, play, and reading through Amazon, and apps directly from the Android market are possible as well through sideloading. The Fire has a 16WH Li-Polymer battery with a reported use time of 8 hours. The battery is charged using the micro-B USB port. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=2065 Jan 6, 2012 12:19:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=2065 ]]>The Sierra Wireless 313U is a USB modem that’s LTE enabled, allowing for true 4G connectivity. With the included software from the service carrier, the modem also allows using a host PC with WiFi capability as a hotspot for connecting other WiFi-enabled devices. The 313U also has GPS functionality and a microSD card slot (expandable to 32GB). http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=2011 Oct 28, 2011 11:44:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=2011 ]]>The latest iteration of the Apple MacBook Air, released on July 20, 2011, provides upgrades to both processor performance and connectivity. The base model has an 11.6-in. display in the same form factor as the previous model, but it’s now powered by the new 1.6 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor with 3 MB of shared L3 cache, 2 GB of onboard 1,333 MHz DDR3 memory, and a minimum of 64 GB flash storage. Connectivity includes 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, two USB 2.0 ports, and the new Thunderbolt port, which combines high-speed I/O and a Mini DisplayPort that can simultaneously support peripheral expansion and an external display at WQXGA (2560 x 1600) resolution. The backlit keyboard that was previously removed as a feature has returned in this latest model. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1975 Oct 24, 2011 16:09:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1975 ]]>The Samsung SCH-LC11 operates on Verizon’s 4G LTE wireless network and is the first standalone 4G mobile hotspot on the network. Typical speeds quoted from the website are 5-12 Mbps downstream and 2-5 Mbps upstream, although up to 20 Mbps downstream and 10 Mbps upstream has been demonstrated. The SCH-LC11 can connect with up to five WiFi-enabled devices at the same time, and is backwards compatible with Verizon’s wireless 3G network. The compact hotspot measures roughly 90x59x11 mm and weighs only 82 grams with battery. The replaceable 5.55Wh Li-ion battery provides a standby time of 9 hours and an active use time of 3.6 hours. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1954 Sep 20, 2011 11:32:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1954 ]]>The HP TouchPad tablet features a 9.7-in. multi-touch capacitive touchscreen and runs HP’s webOS operating system. This WiFi-only version supports 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth. Other features include a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, microUSB port, 3.5 mm headset jack, and front-facing 1.3 MP camera. The TouchPad is available in both 16 GB and 32 GB versions. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1958 Sep 15, 2011 12:56:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1958 ]]>The ASUS Eee Slate (EP121) is a Windows 7 Home Premium personal computer featuring a 12-in. multitouch backlit display with a 178º viewing angle and WXGA (1280 x 800) resolution. The Eee Slate is about the size of a laptop, but is considered a tablet (or slate) with a separate Bluetooth-enabled QWERTY keyboard. The Eee Slate also comes with a digitizer pen for writing on the display (the touchscreen is disabled when the pen touches the screen) and a carrying case (or folio) that can be used as a stand for the display. Other features include 802.11n WiFi, Bluetooth 3.0, a card reader, 2-megapixel camera, two USB ports, and a mini-HDMI port for connecting to an external display. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1853 Sep 13, 2011 13:12:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1853 ]]>The Blackberry Playbook was released in April 2011 to over 200 retail outlets in the US and Canada. The tablet weighs less than a pound and is less than ½-in. thick, but it incorporates a 1GHz Dual-Core Applications processor from TI for system compute power. The device is married to a 7” 1024 x 600-pixel display overlaid with a capacitive touchscreen and operates on the Blackberry Tablet OS. There’s a forward-facing 3 MP teleconferencing camera and rear-facing 5 MP camera, both with the ability to record and play back 1080p HD video. Integrated sensors include an accelerometer, 6-axis gyroscope, and magnetometer. This tablet also features WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS capabilities and is powered by a 20-WHr battery. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1909 Jul 21, 2011 10:31:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1909 ]]>The Dell Streak 7 is an update of the original Streak 5 and is the first 4G-compatible tablet (via T-Mobile). This new Dell tablet features a 7-in. touch-sensitive display that provides a convenient, portable size for easy navigation using the thumbs, in either landscape or portrait orientation. The Streak 7 runs Android 2.2 and is powered by a 1 GHz dual-core Tegra T20 processor and 16 GB of internal memory. A 5.0-megapixel camera with flash is mounted on the back, and a 1.3 MP camera is used on the front for video chat. The device streams music, plays HD videos and movies, displays local weather, provides e-mail, and runs Google Latitude and Navigation Maps as well as the Kindle e-reader. It also supports social-networking sites and includes hardware for 802.11b/g/n WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1868 Jul 7, 2011 16:53:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1868 ]]>This Quick Turn Teardown provides a first look at HP's recently-launched TouchPad, based on the WebOS operating system and featuring a 9.7" 1024x768 LCD with capacitive touchscreen . This report covers key component identification and product construction. A follow-on full teardown to be completed in the coming weeks for Mobile Computing and Communications and Tablet Channel customers. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1951 Jul 1, 2011 14:16:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1951 ]]>The Motorola ATRIX docking station is a “dumb” laptop and only operates with the ATRIX handset docked to it. The docking station allows the user to use the ATRIX handset in a Laptop style environment complete with full keyboard, multi-touch mouse pad, and 11.5 inch display. The docking station also charges the handset while docked and provides 2 standard USB ports for connecting external devices. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1947 Jun 24, 2011 13:29:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1947 ]]>The Huawei E367 is a Quad Band GSM and Dual Band W-CDMA (900/2100MHz) USB modem for wireless connectivity. Download speed (HSDPA) is reported to be at 28.8Mbps while upload speed (HSUPA) is reported to be 5.76Mbps. The USB connector is hinged so that the modem can be turned to adjust the two internal antennae for optimum reception. An internal microSD card slot supporting up to 32GB is present for upgrading user memory. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1921 Jun 17, 2011 12:30:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1921 ]]>Apple’s iPad 2 was released to the market on March 11, 2011, sporting two new cameras. The rear-facing 0.7 MP (960 x 720) camera is capable of HD video recording, while the front-facing VGA camera is video-call ready, using Apple’s FaceTime application. Apple again uses the same multi-touch capacitive touchscreen overlaid onto a 9.7” TFT-LCD display (16M colors; 1024 x 768), using IPS technology to enhance the viewing angle. The large three-cell battery (3.8 V, 6.58 Ah) provides a claimed use time of 10 hours using WiFi and 9 hours with 3G Data, while the standby time remains the same as for the previous iPad at 730 hours. In addition to being available in three different memory capacities (16 GB, 32 GB, & 64 GB) and three different network types (WiFi, GSM 3G, & CDMA 3G), the iPad 2 now comes in either black or white, for a total of eighteen different combinations. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1893 May 20, 2011 15:31:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1893 ]]>The Xoom is Motorola’s entry into the full-featured tablet market. Released through Verizon, the Xoom currently has dual-band CDMA capabilities (850/1900 MHz) with an LTE upgrade planned for mid-2011. The Xoom sports a 10.1-in. TFT-LCD that’s slightly larger than that of the iPad. The display has a multi-touch capacitive touchscreen overlaid on top. Other features include two cameras - a 5 MP main camera that supports up to 720p video recording and a 2 MP secondary “web cam” for conference calls - and VoIP support. The Xoom runs the Android 3.0 (“Honeycomb”) OS, allowing for the download of the full suite of Android-based applications. Power is supplied by a 24.5 W/h Li-ion battery pack. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1892 May 18, 2011 12:33:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1892 ]]>The HP Slate runs the Windows 7 Professional OS and is powered by a 1.86 GHz Intel Atom Z540 processor. Memory consists of 2 GB of on-board RAM, 64 GB of flash through the SSD card, and expandable memory via an SD card connector. The tablet also incorporates a HD accelerator for handling 1080p video, which can be viewed on the 8.9-in. LED backlit display overlaid with a capacitive touchscreen and equipped with a digitizer pen. WiFi and Bluetooth are the provided paths for connectivity. The Slate has a 3 MP camera located on the back and a VGA teleconferencing camera on the front, both capable of recording still photos and videos. The device ships with a charging with integrated HDMI-out for direct viewing on a TV. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1847 Apr 28, 2011 14:02:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1847 ]]>Extending the crowd of LTE 4G “data dongles”, Huawei released the world’s first 2G/3G/LTE modem - the E398, capable of operating on GSM, W-CDMA, and of course, LTE bands. With a press release at the 2011 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Huawei displayed the E398 modem, identifying Qualcomm’s MDM9200 chipset for the triple-mode processor. The E398 has been initially released in Sweden, operating on Net4Mobility’s shared LTE/GSM mobile network. The E398 operates on the 2600MHz band for LTE. At the time of this writing, specs were scarce for the E398, identifying only the mobile networks and the operating systems the modem would operate on. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1858 Apr 11, 2011 12:56:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1858 ]]>The Viewsonic g-Tablet, with a 10-in. touch-sensitive TFT display, runs Google’s Android 2.2 “Froyo” operating system and weighs under 2-pounds (799 grams). This slim tablet is powered by a 1 GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual-core processor and uses Bluetooth 2.1 and WiFi 802.11b/g/n for networking and wireless communication. The device also offers full support for Adobe Flash player 10.1 and is ideal for viewing multiple apps, browsing web pages, watching videos, playing games, and sharing entertainment or photos. A front-facing 1.3-megapixel webcam is provided along with speakers and microphone, a card slot for expanding memory, and an internal 7.2V/3.65 Ah Li-ion Polymer battery capable of supplying a claimed 8-10 hours use time. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1856 Apr 5, 2011 17:03:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1856 ]]>Released just before the end of 2010, at the same time as the LG VL600, the Pantech UML290 is Verizon’s “other” LTE modem device. It has a fold-out USB connector that rotates 180° in both the X and Y axes. The UML290, like the VL600, is backwards compatible with Verizon’s 3G CDMA networks. The modem requires an LTE SIM card, which allows the modem to automatically switch between 3G and LTE networks, depending on availability. Not surprisingly, the UML290 is very light, weighing just under 52 grams. It has external antenna connections and comes with a USB extension cable. It’s also VPN compatible and supports dial-up. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1833 Mar 22, 2011 13:50:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1833 ]]>The Apple iPad2 Quick Turn teardown provides a first look at the construction and components for the company's Gen2 entry into the currently-hot tablet market. The unit analyzed is provisioned for Verizon's 3G service and features the iPad2's top-tier 64GB memory capacity. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1872 Mar 12, 2011 08:35:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1872 ]]>Marketed as a drop-in replacement for the typical 2.5” hard-disk drive (HDD), the MZ-5PA128 is a 128 GB solid state drive (SSD) from Samsung. The unit is part of the “470 Series” SSD family, with 64 GB and 256 GB variants also available. With the manufacturer boasting 250 MB/s Read and 220 MB/s Write rates, the MZ-5PA128 may be seen as a performance upgrade from the traditional HDD or, in a desktop machine, as an option for a faster additional drive. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1852 Mar 8, 2011 12:48:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1852 ]]>This Quick Turn Teardown provides a first look at Motorola's recently-launched Xoom Tablet for Verizon. Along with key component identification and product construction, we provide an early estimate of the Xoom BOM and hardware-only Cost-of-Goods Sold (COGS). http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1864 Feb 25, 2011 17:02:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1864 ]]>2010 came to a close with the release of the LG VL600 LTE modem from Verizon Wireless. With LTE currently covering only 38 cities, the VL600 will switch automatically between 3G and LTE, depending on the availability of an LTE network. The VL600’s 3G/LTE speeds are improved by its EV-DO Rx Diversity and claimed LTE MIMO 2x2 enhancements, with download speeds of 5-12 Mbps on a 3G network and at least 50 Mbps on LTE. The modem can also send and receive text messages using Verizon’s VZAccess software. An LTE SIM card is required in order to use the modem, regardless of which network is available. The VL600 connects via a USB connector to any computer or laptop and is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1840 Feb 24, 2011 13:59:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1840 ]]>Sierra Wireless announced the MC8700 back in February 2009 as their first embedded mobile broadband HSPA+ module. The MC8700 is a PCI Express MiniCard for broadband customers using either GSM or W-CDMA networks, allowing them to access the Internet anywhere in the world there’s cellular coverage. Sierra Wireless claims download packet speeds of up to 21 Mbps and upload speeds of 5.76 Mbps. Also, as with other Sierra AirPrime MC modules, the MC8700 has W-CDMA receive diversity. However, as of December of 2009, the MC8700 is the only AirPrime module that does not have GPS. It is supported on the Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Linux operating systems. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1735 Dec 7, 2010 12:13:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1735 ]]>NEC’s Aterm WM3200U is a WiMAX USB dongle for network connectivity using MIMO technology. The Aterm WM3200U allows users with a USB port to connect to WiMAX wireless networks for total mobility without the proximity limitations of WiFi. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1740 Nov 24, 2010 12:36:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1740 ]]>The Viliv X70 EX 3G is a Mobile Internet Device (MID) and ultra-mobile personal computer from Yukyung of Korea. The X70 features a 7-in. WSVGA (1024 x 600) display with touch-sensitive screen, 32 GB solid-state drive (SSD), and 1.33 GHz Intel Atom Processor. The hardware supports 720p HD video and includes a GPS receiver, integrated WiFi, and Bluetooth. An integrated HSPA cellular data module provides 3G broadband. The X70 uses an on-screen keyboard with haptic feedback and has a large battery that provides up to five hours of movie playback. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1697 Nov 11, 2010 14:32:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1697 ]]>The Sierra Wireless Overdrive uses Sprint’s cellular data network to deliver 3G and 4G speeds at home, work, or on the go. Up to five WiFi-enabled devices can be connected to the Overdrive simultaneously, including laptops, phones, gaming devices, or even a TV. Device capabilities include WiMAX at 2.5 GHz, WiFi 802.11b/g, and GPS for mapping the user’s location and points of interest. To supplement 4G WiMAX, the device supports 3G CDMA EV-DO Rev. A 850/1900 MHz for 3G connectivity. A microSD card slot allows up 16 GB for user storage, and the included Li-polymer battery provides mobility with a claimed active use-time of 3 hours and 36 hours of standby. Average 4G speed is 3-6 Mbps. However, 4G service is not available in all areas; and, at present, this device is only offered in the U.S. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1767 Nov 4, 2010 13:10:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1767 ]]>Qualcomm adds to their line of Internet-anywhere Gobi solutions with the Gobi 2000, a quad-band GSM and CDMA / W-CDMA embedded wireless card allowing Internet access almost anywhere in the world through multiple cellular networks. The Gobi 2000 is one of two Gobi products offered by Qualcomm (as of 3Q 2010) and both are follow-ups to the company’s first Gobi product, the UNDP-1 from 2008 (see TechInsights product teardown report: Qualcomm UNDP-1 #11000-081117-DCf). The Gobi 2000 adds HSDPA/HSUPA to the coverage protocols and frequencies. It also supports standalone GPS, A-GPS, and gpsOneXTRA location technologies. Gobi 2000 application software is compatible with systems running the Linux, Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7 operating systems. Several OEMs offer laptops with pre-installed Gobi products, including HP, Dell, and Lenovo. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1760 Oct 22, 2010 14:33:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1760 ]]>This Quick Turn Teardown (QTT) provides an intial look at Apple's latest cellular phone, the iPhone 4. Teardown sequence photos along with component identification and vendors are provided along with summary comments on our findings around continuity of design and the changes implemented in the iPhone 4. This QTT is being provided to all channel licensees and will be updated with new findings as they become available. A full teardown of the iPhone will follow in the weeks ahead. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1721 Jun 24, 2010 17:15:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1721 ]]>As a follow on to the Apple WiFi model, the cellular-data enabled iPad 3G was released to market on April 30, 2010. As with the WiFi version of the iPad, it appears to be a an oversized - but more capable - iPod Touch, and features WiFi 802.11n, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR connectivity and the added 3G capabilities for true cellular data portability. The large 9.7” TFT-LCD display (16M colors, 1024 x 768 pixels) uses IPS (in-plane switching) technology to enhance the viewing angle. The display is overlaid with a multi-touch capacitive touchscreen containing a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating. The large two-cell battery (3.75V, 6.61Ah) provides a claimed use time of 10 hours and standby time of 730 hours. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1696 Jun 24, 2010 11:23:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1696 ]]>The USBw25100 “USB dongle” adapter, offered exclusively through CLEAR Wireless, is a 4G WiMAX data modem from Motorola. The USBw25100 offers wireless 4G WiMAX connectivity and internet access on-the-go anywhere within CLEAR’s coverage area. The USB adapter is compatible with Windows XP/Vista and Mac OS 10.5 or higher operating systems, is small in size, measuring slightly more than 90 mm in length and weighs just under 25 grams. CLEAR claims and average download speed of 3-6 Mbps and (as of 2Q 2010) has coverage in major cities in 10 states. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1650 May 11, 2010 16:52:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1650 ]]>Apple once again shifts technology in a new direction with the introduction of the iPad in early April 2010. The WiFi-only version is analyzed in this report but the 3G version which became available at the end of April 2010 will be coming soon in a follow-up teardown report. The iPad appears to be a an oversized – but more capable - iPod Touch, and features WiFi 802.11n and Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR connectivity. The large 9.7” TFT-LCD display (16M colors, 1024 x 768 pixels) uses IPS (in-plane switching) technology to enhance the viewing angle. The display is overlaid with a multi-touch capacitive touchscreen containing a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating. The large two-cell battery (3.75V, 6.61Ah) provides a claimed use time of 10 hours and standby time of 730 hours. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1648 May 7, 2010 14:21:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1648 ]]>Offered through Verizon Wireless, the UMW190 from Pantech is an ultra-small form-factor USB modem for use in laptops. Tagged as “Global Ready,” the UMW190 can be used anywhere in the world with the provided Vodafone SIM card. Protocol bands include Dual-band CDMA 1xEV-DO Rev. A, Tri-band W-CDMA with HSDPA / HSUPA, and Quad-band GSM with EDGE. Other functional features available include 2-way Text Messaging, Auto Connect, USB Connectivity (swivel type A), Diversity Antenna, and External Antenna Connector. The user can even insure the UMW190, which supports both the Windows and MAC operating systems. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1618 Apr 29, 2010 17:05:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1618 ]]>The Passport 9500ix is the top-tier radar and laser/LiDAR detector from Escort, able to handle all speed-measurement microwave bands and equipped with GPS to help in location-aware threat identification. This Quick Turn Teardown takes a detailed look inside, identifying devices which power the GPS, digital and analog back end, and specialized microwave design used for detection circuitry. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1655 Apr 16, 2010 12:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1655 ]]>Housed in a stylish aluminum alloy enclosure, the Intel Atom-based Booklet 3G from Nokia is a feature-rich netbook with quad-band GSM and tri-band W-CDMA Data Connectivity. The 1.6GHz CPU is supported by a 120GB hard-disk drive and 1GB DDR2 SDRAM, and runs Windows 7 Starter. The unit has a 10.1" TFT-LCD display, built-in 1.3MP webcam, and stereo speakers. The Booklet 3G also features Bluetooth, A-GPS, and 802.11b/g/n wireless LAN. The manufacturer claims 12 hours active time from the 14.8V/3840mAh battery. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1582 Mar 24, 2010 13:43:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1582 ]]>The Samsung GT-B3710 USB dongle for wireless data supplies connectivity for the world’s first LTE (Long-Term Evolution) 4G commercial network for TeliaSonera in Stockholm, Sweden, and Oslo, Norway. According to Samsung, the next version of the GT-B3710 will also support both EDGE and HSPA. The built-in software provides the interface for connecting to the cellular network. Other notable features include a multi-color status LED and a pivoting USB connector that allows more flexibility in placement and could improve connectivity when a more vertically oriented antenna position is used. http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1632 Mar 19, 2010 15:02:00 -0500 Report http://www.teardown.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1632 ]]>The Huawei UMG1691 USB dongle for wireless data supplies connectivity for both HSDPA and EDGE networks. The UMG1691 also supports both quad-band GSM and W-CDMA (Band IV) networks. The built-in T-Mobile software provides the interface for connecting to cellular networks as well as WiFi. (Although WiFi is not part of the unit, the software will serve to control an external WiFi source.) Other notable features include an external antenna connector and a microSD card slot enabling the device to be used as a memory stick. The pivoting USB connector allows more flexibility in placement and could improve connectivity when a more vertically oriented antenna is used. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1581 Dec 30, 2009 17:03:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1581 ]]>The dual-mode U300 USB Modem offers WiMAX 2.5GHz and CDMA-EVDO RevA 800/1900 MHz service for Sprint customers. The WiMAX service coverage is limited to relatively few US cities as of late 2009 but the 3G access, with claimed download speeds from 3 to 6Mbps, is available nationwide at a cost of $70/month with a two-year Sprint contract. The device is free to the consumer after a price reduction and $50.00 mail-in rebate. The EV-DO (CDMA) service is limited to 5GB of data transfers per month, but no such limit is imposed on WiMAX usage. The U300 modem is compatible with Windows Vista, XP, and 2000. The USB connector can be rotated to several different angles or clipped to the top of a laptop display screen using the included accessories. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1569 Dec 28, 2009 13:44:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1569 ]]>The MiFi 2200 Mobile Hotspot combines a 3G modem and WiFi router in a battery-operated, wireless, portable device that’s smaller than an iPod Touch. Once the device is activated and registered, a mobile broadband connection to the Verizon 3G network (where available) can be established by simply pressing the power button. The device allows wireless access to the Internet for up to five simultaneous WiFi-enabled users. The MiFi has an internal antenna and operates on 800/1900 MHz CDMA (EV-DO Rev. A) with 802.11b/g WiFi. The 1150mAh battery provides up to 4 hours of operation between charges (with one WiFi client) or 40 hours standby time. A service contract with Verizon Wireless is required. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1503 Sep 21, 2009 17:23:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1503 ]]>The Huawei UMG181 USB dongle for wireless data supplies connectivity for HSDPA and EDGE networks. The UMG181 includes support for both Quad-band GSM and W-CDMA as well as GPS though the GPS is not implemented in the T-Mobile configuration. Other notable features include an external antenna connector and a microSD card slot enabling the device to be used as a memory stick. The pivoting USB connector allows flexibility in dongle placement and could improve reception quality with a vertically-oriented antenna. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1515 Sep 21, 2009 11:54:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1515 ]]>Released in Europe in Q2 2009, the Nokia CS-10 Internet Stick is the approximate size of a USB thumb drive. With a laptop, the device allows connection to the Internet over both GSM and W-CDMA protocols. The device is preloaded with the required software, which automatically loads once the device is plugged into a USB 2.0 port on the host computer. A status LED on the exterior indicates if the device is functioning properly. The Internet Stick enables claimed download speeds of up to 7.2Mbps and upload speeds to 2.0Mbps. The W-CDMA/HSDPA frequencies are 850/2100 MHz, and the GSM/EDGE frequencies are 850/900/1800/1900 MHz. The device is compatible with the Windows XP, Windows Vista, and MAC operating systems. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1501 Aug 11, 2009 12:33:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1501 ]]>Announced by Sierra Wireless in 2008, the Compass 885 USB wireless modem, also known as Mercury at ATT, supplies connectivity for both HSPA and EDGE networks. The device was first released in the UK as the Compass 885 in July 2008, through O2. However, in September 2008, the device was released in the US under a new name: the USBConnect Mercury, via ATT. ATT reports maximum uplink and downlink speeds of 1.7Mbps and 1.2Mbps, respectively for the 885. Receive diversity for all three W-CDMA/HSPA frequencies is available. Other notable features include an external antenna connector that allows for signal bolstering and a microSD card slot that adds portable storage capability. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1293 Jun 17, 2009 14:07:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1293 ]]>At PT/Wireless and Networks Comm China 2007, ZTE rolled out several new products that operated on China’s new TD-SCDMA 3G network. One of those products was the MU318, a USB 2.0-based data card that functions on both the TD-SCDMA and GSM networks. The TD-SCDMA operating frequency is 2000MHz, with a download data rate of 384Kbps. The GSM/GPRS operating frequencies are 900MHz and 1800MHz, with a download data rate of 85.6Kbps. This compact unit measures 90.4 x 35.0 x 12.5 mm in closed position and weighs 35 grams. Also part of the design are the retractable USB connector and External Antenna. The unit is shipped with a USIM card and a shielded Power and Data Cable. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1348 May 27, 2009 13:18:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1348 ]]>The Inspiron Mini 9 (initially known as the Inspiron 910) is Dell’s answer to the ASUS Eee PC. This Dell netbook is about the same size as others in the netbook class uses the same processor (Intel’s 1.6GHz Atom), but is available with only a solid state drive. The unit analyzed is the base version, with a 4GB drive; 8GB and 16GB options are available with $100 upgrade to 32GB over the 4GB option. The unit also includes 512MB DDR2 SDRAM, an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator, and a wireless 802.11g Mini Card, and is powered by the Ubuntu 8.04 operating system. All units come with an 8.9” WSVGA LED (1024 x 600), a full keyboard, and a 4-cell, 32Wh Li-ion battery. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1325 May 1, 2009 12:33:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1325 ]]>The Samsung SWC-E100 is a WiMAX device that plugs into the ExpressCard slot of a laptop (or other host PC) to provide a mobile broadband connection. The SWC-E100 ExpressCard analyzed here is designed to work on the Sprint-Nextel/Clearwire XOHM network, though it may function on the very limited set of WiMAX deployments elsewhere. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1349 Jan 30, 2009 13:33:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1349 ]]>The UNDP-1 (Universal Notebook Data Platform) is a wireless card that enables data connectivity for notebook computers. It uses the PCI Express Mini Card format and supports WWAN connectivity for the CDMA2000 1x, 1x EV-DO, W-CDMA (HSDPA and HSUPA), and GSM/EDGE protocols, all in a single package. It also supports GPS position location (although this feature was not enabled in the unit tested). The UNDP-1 is a single-module solution for world travelers needing to maintain wireless connectivity while hopping between continents, carriers, and their geography-dependant bands and protocols. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1319 Dec 16, 2008 13:48:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1319 ]]>The Huawei E169 USB dongle for wireless data supplies connectivity for HSDPA, EDGE, and GPRS networks. Frequencies of 900/2100 MHz for HSDPA/W-CDMA are supported, along with 850/900/1800/1900 MHz for GSM/GPRS/EDGE. The highlight of the device is its claimed maximum data rate of 7.2Mbps for HSDPA services. The E169 also includes receive diversity for the 2100MHz frequency. Other notable features include an external antenna connector that allows for additional signal boosting. The E169 is also capable of being a memory stick, with the inclusion of a microSD card slot. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1310 Dec 1, 2008 12:27:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1310 ]]>The Huawei E160 USB dongle for wireless data supplies connectivity for HSDPA, and EDGE networks. Frequencies of 850 / 1900 / 2100MHz for W-CDMA / HSDPA are supported along with 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900MHz for GSM/EDGE. The highlight of the device is its claimed maximum data rate of 3.6Mbps for HSDPA services. E160 also includes receive diversity for the W-CDMA frequencies. Other notable features include an external antenna connector that allows for signal bolstering. Also included is a microSD card slot enabling the device to be used as a memory stick. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1303 Nov 26, 2008 12:39:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1303 ]]>The SATA7525-32 is a 2.5-inch, 32GB solid-state drive (SSD) offered by Mtron as part of their Pro 7500 series of flash drives. The Pro 7500 line was first shown at the IFA 2007 Consumer Electronics Fair in Berlin, Germany. The drives are available in 2.5- or 3.5-in form factors with storage capacities ranging from 16GB to 128GB. At the heart of these drives is 32GB of Single-Level Cell (SLC) NAND flash memory surrounded by an all-metal casing. Mtron claims to have the fastest solid-state drives on the market to date, with a reported average access time of 0.1msec, maximum read speed of 130MB/s, and write speed of 120MB/s. With no moving parts, lower power, and growing storage capacities, SSDs are becoming attractive to laptop and desktop users in both the enterprise and personal computing worlds. While the price of SSDs remains relatively high, newcomer Mtron seems to be a serious player in the SSD market alongside rivals Toshiba and SanDisk. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1284 Nov 11, 2008 11:33:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1284 ]]>The Chinese Academy of Telecommunications Technology, along with Siemens AG, has developed and now launched the TD-SCDMA (Time Division-Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access) protocol in China. During Q2 of 2008 Datang Mobile (also known as DTmobile) began releasing a line of products that will operate on the new TD-SCDMA network, including the DTM5722 aircard featured here. The device is a PCMCIA Type II form-factor data card for use in laptops. Targeted at both individuals and enterprise users, the DT5722 achieves a claimed downlink data rate of up to 384Kbps on the TD-SCDMA network while also supporting GPRS for GSM-based data communications. An internal antenna is integrated into the unit along with a USIM card slot located on the side. The DT5722 comes with its own software. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1151 Sep 10, 2008 12:15:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1151 ]]>The Option GT Max 3.6 Express is a cellular network connection card used for wireless Internet access. The card works with newer laptops having an ExpressCard/34 form-factor slot, and is powered by ATT’s 3G-enabled Broadband Connect network. Global compatibility outside the US is available in countries where 3G UMTS or GPRS/EDGE networks are employed. Wireless downlink speeds of 3.6Mbps are claimed using HSDPA Category 6. The card features both an external flip-up antenna and an internal antenna, and uses advanced receiver diversity and equalizer technology for improved 3G performance. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1207 Aug 22, 2008 14:58:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1207 ]]>Sierra Wireless introduced the USBConnect 881 Laptop Aircard in November 2007. The 881 connects to laptops through a USB port and is designed for full compatibility with ATT’s 3G data network. The unit is shipped with ATT’s Communications Manager software preloaded, for plug-n-play installation and setup. The unit draws power from the USB interface, backed by a 3.7V Li-Polymer battery internally. Network specifications for the USB Connect 881 include UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA (850/1900/2100MHz) and GPRS/EDGE (850/900/1800/1900MHz). Software enabled switching allows the user to move easily to the laptop’s WiFi interface if need be. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1087 Aug 6, 2008 13:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1087 ]]>The Asus Eee PC line of inexpensive "subnotebook" computers combines WiFi connectivity with a basic array of computing functions and peripheral support, all in a package smaller and lighter than many a college textbook. The 2G "Surf" model is, as the name implies, aimed at the user who wants easy Internet features and a few popular functions. Equipped with a 2GB solid-state hard drive and 512MB DDR2 memory, this is clearly not a machine for computation-intensive applications. It is, on the other hand, a Linux-equipped, Windows XP-compatible terminal with a 7-inch color display (480 x 800), full QWERTY keyboard, and touchpad. Three USB ports, an Ethernet connection, and a VGA external-monitor port enable the unit to work well with a host of other devices. The 2G "Surf" adheres to the self-contained approach by providing a small microphone and a pair of stereo speakers, but also features external jacks for audio output and external microphone. Additional memory is accommodated via the SD/MMC card slot. Asus claims approximately 2.8 hours of active use from the rechargeable 4400mAh battery pack. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1113 Jul 16, 2008 14:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1113 ]]>Advertised as the world's thinnest notebook, the MacBook Air has a 13.3-inch widescreen LED-backlit LCD display, full-size keyboard, and large multi-touch trackpad. The ultra- thin design of the MacBook Air is the result of numerous size- and weight-shaving innovations, including a slimmer hard drive, no optical drive, strategically hidden I/O ports, and a lower-profile battery. The MacBook Air’s wireless capabilities include an 802.11n WiFi and Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR. Other features include a built-in iSight camera, microphone, built-in rechargeable battery and 45W MagSafe power adapter. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1031 Apr 8, 2008 13:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1031 ]]>This QuickTurn Teardown examines Gyrations Gyrotransport wireless free-space pointing and control device where a unique gyro transducer combines with Wireless USB devices and high-density NAND to deliver a useful and technically intriguing PC accessory with applications beyond just the PowerPoint presenter. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1063 Mar 31, 2008 13:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1063 ]]>The Merlin EX720 by Novatel Wireless is one of two Express cards that operate on the EV-DO Network and the only one using the Express Card 34 connector. The Express 34 (34mm wide) is the latest industry-standard connector for use on laptops. The Express 34, with its single row of 26 pins, replaces the 68-pin PC Card connector (two rows of 34 pins) and is smaller and lighter. Service for the EX720 wireless modem is offered through Sprint. Average upload speeds are 350 to 500 Kbps; average download speeds are 600Kbps to 1.4Mbps. The EX720 is A-GPS capable and outfitted with two antennas: a flip-up external antenna and an internal diversity receive antenna. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1012 Feb 29, 2008 13:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1012 ]]>The XO laptop – targeted at developing countries around the world- has a pivoting, reversible display that may be used in a tablet PC format. The display itself, is a color 7.5” dual-mode TFT display that can function in a monochrome mode allowing for longer battery life and better visibility in sunlight. The XO is housed in a dirt and moisture resistant enclosure which utilizes no fan or mechanical hard drive but instead all solid-state memory. At the heart of the XO is a 433MHz processor running a Linux based operating system. An integrated VGA camera, microphone and WiFi module allows for sharing images with other XO users. Powering the XO is a 6V, 3.8Ah LiFePO4 removable battery. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1009 Feb 28, 2008 13:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1009 ]]>The DWA-130 Wireless N USB Adapter from D-Link is designed to provide “a better wireless signal for your computer than existing wireless 802.11g technology.” It maximizes the speed and range of a wireless signal through the use of multiple antennas. Packaged as a “Wireless N” product, the DWA-130 adapter is compliant with IEEE draft 802.11n specifications and has data rates up to 248Mbits. It is also backwards compatible with legacy 802.11g and 802.11b systems. The DWA-130 plugs directly into the USB 2.0 port of a desktop or laptop computer, and may also be connected via the included USB cradle accessory for optimal positioning. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1000 Feb 25, 2007 13:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1000 ]]>The D-Link Xtreme N DWA-643 is an 802.11n series wireless card in the 34mm, ExpressCard format. It is claimed to have fourteen times the speed of 802.11g (that is, 756Mbps vs. 54Mbps) and six times the range. Reportedly, this is due to the implementation of the MIMO architecture and the new baseband/transceiver chipset. The DWA-643 also supports WEP, WPA, and WPA2 security encryption and is hot swappable. http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1014 Feb 21, 2007 13:00:00 -0500 Report http://www.portelligent.com/AllReports/product.aspx?reportid=1014