Hello everyone, this is a review on the very first transformer from ASUS. I purchased this device a year ago, then I had no idea how to use the Android system, because I had a Toko Symbian and Nokia S40, so the desire appeared to try this system. Not a particularly ceremony with the choice, I went to the store and acquired this model. Causes why I did not bought another or more newer model, of course, because of the price, functional keyboard And the discounts of which they offered me. A year later, I regretted that I bought this device.
Characteristics
Let's start with the set of this device:
Pretty standard set (sorry, but the box threw off with all the manuals)
Now consider the device on the sides:
From the left side of the case, we see the volume control and power button
And here we see the tray, in the closed state for a 3G SIM card and Dimanik
Tray for the SIM card, in open state
From above Antenna: WiFi, 3G, GPS
On the right side we see a slot under map, speaker, mini-HDMI output, microphone, output 3I5 for headphones and microphone
2. And so we met the tablet, now get acquainted with its charging and Wire USB.Comitically, I am not delighted with the quality and assembly of USB wires:
That's what I say, the plastic body of the USB is simply removed, in addition I gave a crack, I had to stack tape.
3. Charging:
The charging case itself, it seems to be durable, but terribly heats up. There is an assumption that because of it and cracked the plastic USB case
4. And finally, we consider the docking station or keyboard for Transformer TF101:
I was satisfied with the keyboard, that I am more pleased in this model, so that it has an extended battery, which allows the device to work in reading mode up to 14 hours. Also available 2 USB ports, Card Reader, for external drives and USB accessories and useless touch pad. (by personal experience Almost all USB accessories work, including computer mice and keyboards, but the exception is a portable CD or DVD ROM, here Android is to blame, it does not know how to recognize wheels)
Now we go to the program part, because of which I regretted that I bought this model. On board Android 3.2, you can say the perfect software for this model, you're better not to install, officially the tablet is updated to 4.0.3, but this is a terrible firmware in work, Not stable, buggy. After the update, I suffered a month and after did Root- and was stitched to 4.2.2, it became more stable in the work, but the keyboard functionality decreased, he simply did not see the drives, thought that they were all damaged. It became so to speak, it is not comfortable to work. I began to look for an alternative, a day to 5 firmware put (I still think I don't think my tablet), and decided to return everything as it is. Of course 3.2 not the perfect firmware, sometimes slows down, but I can safely use all the functions of the keyboard. And yes sound louder on official firmware.
To stable new applications and games went to dispersed the processor and put the SEEDER program, here are the screens of Android and Benchmark:
I do not know if many can agree with me, but Android 3.2 is very beautiful. This is the first experience I gave me this tablet, I learned how to make rout and flashing and smeared on this model. underwater rocks about Android. I do not advise you to buy this model now, it is already outdated.
In general, if you are unstable to close your eyes, then we can say that it is not a bad device with a dual-core processor from NVIDIA Tegra 2. Game keeps, one is good, alone badly, but the benefit of applications and games in Android Market. A lot, so you will not be bored with this tablet.
Those people who read to the end, thanks for your attention (It was my first review). I give advice: Please, before buying devices, you need to ask what you would like to take, you may have to share more money, but for you get a good thing (although this tablet is not quite bad, but for such money you can buy better) . Thanks to all!
We have already written many times that creating a universal mobile device is almost impossible. Therefore, it is not necessary to present to the tablets and netbooks of high demands - you just need to understand what situations and for what you are going to use these devices. And then there is a chance that you will pick up the device for yourself. However, many manufacturers are still trying to satisfy several user expectations at once and create products that expand our ideas about typical use scenarios mobile devices. As a rule, such products are interesting in terms of ideas, attractive to the researcher, but unsuitable for use in real life. But exceptions are also happening. Today we will have to study just such an exception: an extremely unusual product that not only pleases with its originality, but also causes a strong desire to use and at the end of the first acquaintance. We are talking about the transformable tablet asus Eee Pad. TRANSFORMER TF101.
This device clearly indicates the "pedigree" - the netbooks of the EEEPC series. As you know, ASUSTEK Computer Inc. It was one of the pioneers in this area, and - almost the most fortunate. And when last year, there was talk on the wave of popularity of the tablets that they will displace netbooks from the market, engineers and stories asus, we must assume, decided to prove that, firstly, netbooks early to write off the bills, and secondly, quite You can combine the advantages of a netbook and tablet in one device. Such a device just became ASUS EEE PAD TRANSFORMER.
For the first time, information about him appeared at the end of last year, and then it was clear that this is a very serious and promising application. And at the end of March of this year an official announcement took place. At the time of writing this article, ASUS Eee Pad Transformer was well represented in Russian stores, but it is worth noting that we are talking only about the version without 3G. A version with a 3G module will appear only in August. But, of course, it does not prevent us from getting to know ASUS Eee Pad Transformer and make a general impression about him. Fortunately, the 3G version of no significant differences (in addition to, of course, the presence of a cellular module) does not offer.
Contents of delivery
The tablet came to us for a test along with the Docking Station (docking station, which is a keyboard with a touchpad, an additional battery by 24.4 W · h, the reader of SD cards and a pair of USB ports 2.0). In two large boxes. Why not in one? Because the docking station is sold separately. However, there are configurations that imply the presence in one kit and a tablet, and the docking station, but we had "separate" options on testing.
Brief user manuals were discovered in the boxes, as well as a charger and a cable to connect to a computer.
At the same time, the package cannot be called perfect: it is a pity that there is no cover for the tablet.
| Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. | Acer. Iconia tab. A500 | ASUS Eee. Pad Transformer | Apple iPad 2. | |
| Screen (size in inches, matrix type) / resolution, pixels | 10.1 ", pls / 1280x800 | 10.1 ", MVA / 1280x800 | 10.1 ", IPS / 1280x800 | 9,7 ", IPS / 1024x768 |
| CPU | 2-nuclear, 1 GHz (platform NVIDIA Tegra 2) | 2-nuclear, 1 GHz (platform NVIDIA Tegra 2) | 2-nuclear, 1 GHz (Apple A5) | |
| Oz | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 512 MB |
| Flash Memory | From 16 to 64 GB | 16 or 32 GB | 16 or 32 GB | From 16 to 64 GB |
| Memory card support | no / MicroSD in 3G version | microSD. | microSD. | no (through the accessory only for downloading a photo) |
| Wireless connection | Wi-Fi (802.11b / g / n) / 3G (in some models) / BT 3.0 | Wi-Fi (802.11b / g / n) / BT 2.1 + EDR | Wi-Fi (802.11b / g / n) / 3G (in some models) / BT 2.1 + EDR | |
| Camera (photo) | Frontal (2 MP), rear (3 MP) | Frontal (2 MP), rear (5 MP) | Frontal (1.2 Mp), rear (5 MP) | Frontal (0.3 mp), rear (0.7 MP) |
| Dimensions (mm) | 256.7 × 175.3 × 8,6 | 260 × 177 × 13 | 271 × 171 × 12,98 * | 241.2 × 185.7 × 8.8 |
| Mass (g) | 565 | 760 | 680 * | 601 |
| Price ** (rubles) | From 18990. | From 14990. | From 16290 (without docking station) | From 18990. |
* - Mass and dimensions are indicated only by the tablet, without docking station. The mass of the docking station is 640 g, dimensions: 271 x 185 x 28 mm.
** - Prices are at the time of publication of the article.
Design tablet
Now let's look at the appearance of the tablet. It looks strictly and very solid. Metal (and not aluminum) Edging immediately causes respect, and thanks to the corrugated plastic back surface, it is very nice to keep the tablet in the hands.
Although he is very weighty (apparently due to metal). It pleases that ASUS designers did not imitate Apple - the "transformer" there is an individuality, his face.
With connectors and buttons on the tablet itself, the situation is as follows: on the left - the volume swings and the on / off button (all from metal). There are no connectors and buttons on top, headphone jack, mini HDMI and a microSD memory card slot.
From the bottom - the Dock Connector connector: the docking station, the charger, and the tablet to the desktop can be connected via it using a complete cable.
On the right and to the left of this connector, we see slits for latch locks. So, all the most necessary (in terms of connectors) is. In general, the design of the tablet is worth recognizing one of the best models of the same class.
But the appearance and functionality of the device can be radically transformed due to the docking station. Let's plug it and see what we did.
Dock Station Design
The docking station looks like a keyboard with a touchpad and is made of the same materials and in the same color solution (a combination of black and dark bronze). The mass of the docking station is 640 g, dimensions: 271 x 185 x 28 mm.
The entire surface of the keyboard is metallic, and the bottom is the corrugated plastic, completely similar to what we see from the back of the tablet.
Therefore, the appearance of the whole design (tablet + docking station) is great.
This should look like a business netbook (if such a phrase is possible). Yes, yes, it is the netbook! At first glance at the ASUS Eee Pad Transformer with a connected docking station, you will not even think that it is based on the tablet! The only thing that issues the "composite" origin of this device is a metal cradle (CRADL), in which, in fact, a tablet is installed. In the cradle there is a latch that automatically triggers when the tablet is set. If you want to pull out the tablet, then simply assign the latch lever to the left - and the tablet is easily disconnected!
Now about connectors. As we mentioned a little earlier in the text, the docking station is also equipped with some ports and slots that complement the ones on the tablet. So, on the left side, this USB 2.0 port and client Dock Connector (it is needed to recharge or connect to a computer when the main Dock Connector is activated on the tablet when connected to the docking station).
There is nothing on the front to the user's face, and on the right there is a slot to work with SD cards (supported work with MMC / SD / SDHC) and the second USB 2.0 port. Note that both uSB ports They are protected by plugs, so you can not worry that dirt will be broken there. True, when you want to connect a flash drive, these plugs interfere - you can't connect the flash drive with one hand.
When the tablet is connected to the docking station, the "Dock Station is connected" appears on the screen in the lower right corner, and when the text set language is selected not only virtual keyboardBut the Asus keyboard.
Laying keyboard and positioning devices
A separate conversation deserves a keyboard layout. The manufacturer quite rightly judged that the standard laptop layout here will not cost, you need to adapt the keyboard to the Android OS. And this adaptation succeeded in fame.
Android keys on the Eee Pad Transformer keyboard are placed in the lower and upper rows. Below - the "Home" button (in the same place where it is usually located windows button), Next to it - "Search", and on the right side of the row - "Menu". And in the top row, these are "Back" buttons, "Enable / disable Wi-Fi", "Enable / disable Bluetooth", "Enable / disable a touchpad", "Reduce brightness", "Enlarge brightness", "Automatic brightness", "Remove Screenshot "(very valuable in Android button!)," Browser "," Settings ", three playback control keys, three sound control keys (" disable "," Reduce "and" Enlarge ") and the output button waiting mode.
The key of the key is pleasant, with the Asus keyboard, it is much more pleasant to work than with the keyboard of most netbooks that I saw - here ASUS has retained that quality standard that is characteristic of laptops of this company.
There is also a touchpad - to it, like the keyboard, there are no complaints, works without problems.
Screen
The tablet is equipped with a 10.1-inch screen, which is based on the IPS matrix. Resolution - 1280 × 800. Thus, the owners of ASUS Eee Pad Transformer will receive a picture of no less high-quality pictures than iPad owners. And, by the way, ASUS is one of the few manufacturers who use screens in their tablets. iPS matrix. This is a very big plus. As for the subjective impressions of the ASUS Eee Pad Transformer screen, they are the best: colors are saturated, the stock of the brightness is sufficient (although the sun has to unscrew it to the maximum), there are no complaints about the screen of the screen.
In connection with the screen, we note a curious feature relating to issues of ergonomics. As you already understood, the tablet with the connected docking station can be controlled (that is, perform some commands - for example, the output in the main menu) four ways: using the function keys on the keyboard, using a touchpad connected via a USB mouse, as well as Using the touch screen. And in this, at first glance, there is some redundancy. But you get used to such opportunities very quickly. And then, replanting with a regular netbook or laptop, constantly catch yourself thinking that I want to skip the web page on the screen, click on some icon, etc.
Operating system and software
ASUS Eee Pad Transformer TF101 is running the new version of the OS Google Android - 3.1. On the Russian market, this is the first tablet with 3.1 - Samsung plates with the same version of the OS will be later, and Acer iconia Tab A500 Sold with 3.0 (however, users are available to 3.1 users). By the way, TRANSFORMER holders can already be updated to version 3.2, but we studied the tablet with the default version 3.1.
Of the differences, version 3.1, we call, first of all, the wider possibilities of multitasking. In version 3.0, the number at the same time open applications (They are displayed as a vertical series of thumbnails on the left side of the desktop) was limited to five, now it is removed. It became possible to connect various devices, joysticks, gamepads, etc.
In addition, a step forward is made in part of the support of various video formats, although the situation is still not quite clear here: where is the "border" between the "responsibility zones" of the operating system, the program player (with a set of codecs) and the device itself? We will definitely return to this issue in future articles. And, moreover, be sure to study cloud features ASUS Eee Pad Transformer - They are provided by a number of exclusive pre-installed ASUS applications. This is a MyNet that allows you to transfer multimedia wireless files. home network, and MyCloud, providing access to digital content on the Internet and allows you to implement remote access Computer (PC or Mac).
Browser in Android 3.1 supports Adobe Flash. And quite correctly displays sites with a variety of multimedia content. Perhaps, by convenience, the Android 3.x browser exceeds Safari on the iPad. What to talk about functionality - in iOS is still missing adobe Support Flash.
We also note that a Polaris Office is installed as an office package on ASUS EEE Pad Transformer, which is becoming more and more popular and soon, it is necessary to assume that Documents to Go.
But, of course, you can install another office package, as well as the most diverse additional software. As it should be, in ASUS Eee Pad Transformer has an Android Market.
In addition, there is another Tegra Zone game store. As already seen from the name, it is designed specifically for mobile devices using the NVIDIA Tegra 2 platform and is supported by NVIDIA. The big plus store for the user is that the games in it are optimized to work on the NVIDIA Tegra 2 chip (it will be discussed below).
We note another moment. For current version ASUS Eee Pad Transformer has an unofficial firmware that allows you to connect to a 3G modem to the tablet. A minus such a decision is obvious, but if it is very necessary, it is worth it to keep such an opportunity.
Performance and autonomous work
In the plan of the ASUS EEE Pad TRANSFORMER used, it's keeping up with the main competitors: this is SOC NVIDIA Tegra 2, which includes a dual-core processor with a frequency of 1 GHz, as well as 1 GB of RAM. NVIDIA Tegra 2 chip has become a de facto standard for 2011 tablets - now it is already possible to say for sure. Almost all novelties large manufacturers Based on the Tegra 2 platform 2. But, of course, with the exception of the iPad 2. However, the Apple A5 chip on which iPad 2 works, has the same characteristics (dual-core processor with a frequency of 1 GHz) and architecture (ARM). Therefore, there is no one to speak about the superiority of one or another (and there are different applications, so it is even adequate to test it problematic, which we have already written in the Acer Iconia Tab A500 tablet).
However, the justice of the sake of the sake of the results of two tests running on ASUS Eee Pad Transformer: Quadrant Standard (Application for Android) and Sunspider 0.9.1 (Web Test). The QUADRANT STANDARD The Asus Eee Pad Transformer tablet showed a very strange, implausible result - only 1528 (while other tablets on Tegra 2 are gaining more than 2000). Probably the fact is that at the time of testing the tablet, the QUADRANT developers have not yet managed to optimize their test under the Android OS 3.1. But Sunspider reported on quite logical results: at different starts, they ranged from 2158 to 2143 ms (the smaller the number of milliseconds in this test).
As for Time autonomous workHere, here ASUS Eee Pad Transformer without a connected docking station may well compete with BlackBerry Playbook and even with iPad. In the active mode (online video, installation of applications, etc.) Its Li-Polymer batteries 24.4 W · h is enough for almost 7 hours, but in the "simplified" web surfing mode (without launching a "heavy" content ) ASUS Eee Pad Transformer will live for about 10 hours. Recall that there is an additional battery in the docking station, and in the minimum load mode (thoughtful reading and editing text) battery life almost doubles (according to ASUS application with a connected docking station tablet Eee. Pad Transformer can work up to 16 hours). It is clear that this is an incomparably the best result than "ordinary" netbooks.
Cameras
Again, in full accordance with modern trends, the ASUS EEE Pad Transformer tablet is equipped with two chambers - 1.2 MP (frontal) and 5 MP (rear). The quality of photos taken by the rear camera is not bad, but not outstanding.
But the video pleased: first, the resolution of 720r (however, it also becomes the standard), secondly, the lack of serious artifacts (even small moving objects are completely distinguishable). For the video, the H.264 codec is used. The 30-second roller weighs 39.5 MB.
conclusions
In general, the ASUS EEE Pad Transformer TF101 tablet should be recognized as a very successful and interesting product. Moreover, this moment This is perhaps best tablet On the basis of Android OS 3.1. And there will be a 3G version of the tablet with a docking station with particularly successful acquisition. True, the cost of such a purchase will probably in the area of \u200b\u200b26 thousand rubles, but for versatility, good design and excellent quality is quite an adequate price for our market. And let us still seem that the desire for versatility in the field of mobile devices is the path of unreliable and not always appropriate, ASUS managed to prove that sometimes on this path can be achieved excellent results.
However, if you only need a tablet and precisely on the basis of the Android OS, not a netbook, then as ASUS Eee Pad Transformer looks great, and there is no reason to not deliver this product in the first rows of the list of applicants for the purchase.
For excellent implementation original idea, wide functionality and representative appearance. We are awarded the ASUS EEE Pad Transformer tablet (in configuration including docking station) Award Original Design.
In the segment of tablets under android management 3.x are represented key companies IT market. The ability to choose among competing options is unconditional advantage for the buyer, however, it should be ready for a high degree of similarity of proposals among himself. So, most of them have the NVIDIA Tegra 2 chip, which provides comparable performance by results. And the use of the same software platform Guarantees identical (or close to it) functionality.
It is not surprising that for conviction in the superiority of its model manufacturers implement additional featureswho distinguish it from competitors. For example, Samsung makes a bet on Touchwiz UX, LG tries to attract the attention of 3D functions of the tablet. ASUS has concentrated on the design.
The result was the appearance of two Android tablets - Slider and Transformer. Both devices obtained a physical QWERTY-keyboard, the form factor is reflected in the names. In Slider, the keyboard is installed in the sliding case, and the Transformer is placed on the docking station disclosure.
The appearance of such an accessory makes the tablet much more versatile. It is no coincidence in the full name of the ASUS model. Communication with netbooks, a real boom for which has passed a little earlier. Will a device, similar to overlooking, replace netbooks, with high levels Sales? Or will be a niche product? Let's try to figure out.
Appearance
First consider the TF101 separately as the tablet. Due to the use of a 10.1-inch display, it is large and also weighty. The weight of the device (without a connected docking station) is equal to 680 g, which is more than 100 g heavier compared to Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. On the other hand, another competitor of the tablet review, Acer Iconia Tab A500, weighs 760. Keep the Transformer in one hand will be inconvenient and hard just because of the impressive weight.
The form of the tablet is determined by the matrix. Since the latter is a widescreen, the case, repeating the proportions of the display, elongated, the width is significantly greater than the height. For this reason, it is much more comfortable to use the tablet in the landscape orientation, and not in portrait.
The housing is made of plastic, but the design of the material during the first acquaintance leaves the "metal" impression (as it will be mentioned a little further, the metal elements in the design are really present, but are not basic). The tablet as a whole is pretty "expensive", effectively. The TRANSFORMER color execution is unusual, plastic has a bronze tint. Such a choice is simultaneously neutral (not catchy, not causing) and unusual, rarely found.
The back side of the device (in a netbook mode, it performs the role of the cover) has a corrugated surface, which manages to avoid sliding. In addition, such a surface makes it less noticeable possible physical damage. Practical design is the indisputable advantage of the model. The assembly is performed qualitatively, the case produces the impression of strong and stable external influences. Strengthens the design of the metal edging used on the ends of the case.
The location of the elements on the main Module EEE Pad Transformer is implemented as follows. At the top of the left end, on a short distance From each other, the shutdown key and the volume adjustment rocker are placed. It is convenient to press them with an index finger if you keep the device with both hands on weight. On the right end is a microSD card slot (without a plug), MiniHDMI port and 3.5-millimeter audio jacks.
On both described ends there are dynamics. Built-in stereo speakers differ in very high volume, on maximum values The sound is shrill, and under the condition of a quiet situation - even uncomfortable loud. The use of maximum volume is not reflected negatively on the quality of playback - noise or other audio discs noticed.
The top end is free from any additional items, but on the bottom you can detect the proprietary connector, designed to connect the cable, charger or docking station. On both sides of it are grooves that serve to attach the tablet actually to the docking station. We will tell about it in more detail.
Dock station
Thanks to the docking station, the device under consideration takes the form characteristic of an ordinary netbook with a diagonal of a 10-inch display. The plot to which the tablet is connected is provided with a hinge. Due to this, you can adjust the degree of inclination of the screen with respect to the keyboard, as well as fold the TF101 like a laptop. This can be very convenient when transporting compared with the wearing two parts of the case separately. For example, a similar accessory was presented for the popular SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab 10.1 tablet. However, the fastening in the docking station at the last fixed, fold both parts into a solid body will not be possible.
Fastening the tablet to the station is reliable, in the folded state of halves of the housing are not flawed relative to each other. To detach parts it is necessary to use a special lever.
Thanks to the docking station, the owners of the TF101 receive a physical QWERTY keyboard. In terms of its design and parameters, it is as much as possible with the corresponding blocks in netbooks. The keys are square, slightly separated by each other. They are located more dense than in ordinary laptops, so the first time when set to blindly (without prior experience of using netbooks), the likelihood of false presses of the adjacent buttons is high.
In addition to digital signs, both the function keys adapted for the Android platform are provided. So, the "Home", "Search" and "Menu" button is placed in the bottom row to make appropriate actions.
Function keys are filled with a whole top number of buttons. With their help, you can enable wireless modules, control the player, change the volume and brightness of the backlight, go to the settings or browser, and screenshots.
The touchpad placed under the keyboard unit has a small area, this may cause discomfort. When the touch panel is used, an unusual pointer appears on the screen - a small ring instead of a mouse. Since all the elements of the Android 3 interface are large, it does not cause inconvenience when controlling the "transformer" and, according to a subjective opinion, it looks very stylish.
The keys, however, are not the only advantage of the docking station. It is installed in it additional batteryextending battery life (this is written in more detail in the relevant section of the review), as well as additional ports. Two USB are the greatest interest. The interface is useful for connecting other accessories: mouse (on the display when using usual cursor is displayed), an external drive. Other portable devices (players, smartphones) will also be able to eat from the tablet when connected via USB. In addition, an SD format memory reader is located at the end of the docking station and another Jack for connecting the branded cable.
Display
The EEE Pad Transformer tablet boasts the IPS matrix installed. This gives models aide before Android competitors, most often using TFT displays. An objectively assessing the screen, you can see the advantages of IPS technology (the best contrast or resistance to the sunshine), but it will be wrong to say that they leave competitors behind.
With the direct comparison of the TF101 and iPad 2 displays (both are made using the same technology) the latter quality is somewhat higher. It surprises a little, because according to formal signs (pixel density, for example) the ASUS version looks more attractive.
When viewed by the EEE Pad Transformer screen, it leaves extremely positive impressions and is characterized by natural color reproduction, a large brightness margin, maximum overview angles, sensitive capacitive sensor. Among the actual proposals in the class of Android-tablets, this is definitely one of the best matrices.
Functionality
The TF101 model is running Android 3.2. The interface and most of the functionality correspond to standard set This platform. In fact, the differences from the original possibilities of the previously tested Acer Iconia Tab A500 - another current offer among Android-tablets - no. Therefore, it is advisable to meet key features The operating system (desktop type, menu, widget management, standard applications) in the review of the Competitor mentioned. Here and now we will study the distinguishing features of Eee Pad Transformer.
Branded additions, frankly, not so much. The base of the widgets is practically not expanded, Asus suggested otherwise decorated windows with information about the time, non-tried letters. A more interesting mini-application is myzine, in which several blocks of information collected: new images from the gallery, links for the transition to calendar, mail, weather forecast, library, audio player and a newly running program.
The MyLibrary library combines directly "reader" stored in the tablet books and text documents, as well as an online kiosk with a periodic PressReader. The latter allows (though on a fee) to subscribe and download issues of world-famous newspapers and magazines. The list of supported editions is quite large. Loaded issues can be viewed both ordinary newspapers (suturing pages) and opening adapted for electronics texts of individual news or articles.
Another functional addition from the manufacturer was the MYCLOUD app, which combines several utilities. So, MyContent is associated with the ASUS netbooks known to the WebStorage service - a remote drive. On WebStorage servers you can download and store your files and access access using various devices. MyDesktop utility helps remotely control the conjugate PC.
All tablets are similar to each other. And with this nothing can be done - this genre due to many reasons implies minimalism in the design. So with decorative elements, do not become particularly walking. The front side design of tablet computers is actually canonized. A black glossy frame - an indispensable attribute of these devices, and the narrow edging around it does not very much diversify the appearance.
For all experiments, the designers remain the rear side. In life, it is not so important how it is framed, - no one else will consider it anyway. Even on the shelf of the store, the tablet will be deployed to the buyer the face of the face, so that the formed sizes will not play roles. Nevertheless, so that it is not very boring, the designers of most tablets try to make anything original with the back.
Election EEE PAD TRANSFORMER case is a single metal part of light brown. Rear panel - plastic with a fairly intricate embossed pattern, also brown, but a darker shade.
Color gamma on an amateur. Perhaps it would be more reasonable to use any standard colors: black, gray, silver, white, finally. Because the most attractive feature of this device in any case is not an appearance, but completely different - the ability to connect the docking station that turns the tablet into the smartbook.
What is good, the whole mechanic, with which the half of the tandem is fastened to each other is at the bottom. On the tablet there is only a 40-pin connector and two grooves in which latches are included.
Well, this is because it allowed to make the tablet part relatively light, and the lower is heavy enough so that the device transformed into the smartbook is reliably stood and did not turn over. In general, from the point of view of Mechanics Eee Pad Transformer is very good: the lid deviates with the correct effort, the latches reliably close the halves - use pleasantly and conveniently.
The upper part of the docking station, like the edging of the tablet case, is made of metal. Lower plastic. With exactly the same embossed pattern.
The keyboard is quite convenient - most of the buttons actually used in Android have large sizes (keystrokes - 17 mm). Slightly got "arroges", but this is a justified victim - in the "robotic" OS from them still quite a little sense.
At the site of the usual series F1-F12, the buttons control the various functions are placed: turning on and off wireless interfaces, a change in volume or brightness and so on. Separately pleased the presence of a button that allows you to take screenshots - usually for this in the devices on Android you have to make dancing with a tambourine.
The sensory panel is large (80x48 mm), it has the right coating and is equipped with convenient buttons. True, it is necessary to use the buttons with caution: right in Android works like back / exit, so it is random to it better not to fall.
As for the interfaces, they acted very cunning with them in ASUS. On the body of the tablet, the ports are very small: the HDMI output (not quite standard, in the "mini" version), a combined audio jack and a slot for microSD cards. And, of course, a 40-pin communication connector with which the tablet connects to a computer, charger and docking station.
If there is a desire to work humanly to work with external drives or periphery, as well as full-sized memory cards, then the volley-noilies will have to fork out to the docking station. But on it, the USB ports are immediately two - one on the left, the other on the right, both are covered with neat lids.
Positive moment: The volume of the total disk space can be increased to a very impressive. After all, you can use two memory cards at once and two flash drives. In addition, the docking station has a second battery, exactly the same as in the tablet itself. That is, in the smartbook mode, the Eee Pad Transformer works as long as longer.
Negative moment: In a full-featured version, the Eee Pad Transformer will cost very sweaty 24 thousand rubles. Moreover, only a 32-gigabyte version of the device is available with the docking station.
The ASUS tablet turned out to be quite large: it is almost a centimeter wider than Acer Iconia Tab A500, but 7 mm below. This Taiwanese couple is noticeably larger than most modern tablets.
| Comparison of galleries of tablet computers | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | Display | Width, mm. | Height, mm. | Depth, mm. | Rough estimate * volume, cm 3 |
| Acer Iconia Tab A500 | 10.1 "1280x800 | 260 | 177 | 13,3 | 612 |
| Apple iPad. | 9.7 " 1024x768. |
243 | 190 | 13 | 600 |
| Apple iPad 2. | 9.7 " 1024x768. |
241 | 186 | 8,8 | 394 |
| Archos 101 Internet Tablet | 10.1 " 1024x600. |
270 | 150 | 12 | 486 |
| SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S 10.1 V1 | 10.1 " 1280x800. |
246 | 170 | 10,99 | 460 |
| SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S 10.1 V2 | 10.1 " 1280x800. |
246 | 170 | 8,6 | 360 |
| ASUS EEE PAD TRANSFORMER TF101 | 10.1 " 1280x800. |
271 | 171 | 12,98 | 602 |
| * The value is obtained by simple multiplication of the sizes and, by virtue of the complex shape of the enclosures, does not fully correspond to the real volume. | |||||
With the mass, everything is a bit better, although Eee Pad, as well as all the other modern tablets, still will not hurt to lose weight.
The main trouble is that the docking station weighs almost as much as the tablet itself.
As a result, the mass of the device with a fastened keyboard is very large - the Eee Pad Transformer is harder than netbooks with the same display size. Why there, even some laptops weigh comparable!
Partly cuts out an extremely compact and lightweight power supply - even with a massive British fork, it weighs less than 100 grams. But such a phora does not help the Eee Pad Transformer to defeat the closest competitors from the PC mill.
However, compared to laptops, Eee Pad Transformer has one important advantage. The display is best of all that you can find in any, even most expensive laptop, including Apple products. The Eee Pad matrix belongs to the type of IPS and provides excellent contrast, bright colors and maximum viewing angles.
| Specifications ASUS EEE PAD TRANSFORMER TF101 | |
|---|---|
| CPU | NVIDIA Tegra 250: ARM Cortex A9 MPCore, frequency of 1 GHz, two nuclei |
| Graphic controller | NVIDIA GeForce ULP integrated into the processor |
| Screen | 10.1 ", 1280x800; IPS technology; Capacitive touch screen |
| RAM | 1 GB |
| Flash memory | 16/32 GB Free annual subscription to ASUS Web Storage with unlimited disk space |
| Interfaces in tablet | 1 x MicroSd. 1 x Mini HDMI 1 x Headphone output / Microphone Login (MINI-Jack 3.5 mm) 1 x 40 Pin Connection Port |
| Interfaces in docking station | 1 x SD / MMC 2 x USB 2.0 (Host) 1 x 40 Pin Connection Port |
| Wireless connection | Wi-Fi 802.11b / g / n Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR |
| Sound | Two speakers, microphone |
| Food | Battery Li-Pol 24.4 W * h Additional battery LI-POL 24.4 W * h in docking station Power supply 18 W (5V, 2 A or 15 V, 1.2 A) |
| Other | Docking station with keyboard and touch panel, front webcam 1.2 megapixel, webcam on the back of 5 MP, rotation sensor, light sensor, GPS module |
| Size, mm. | 271x171x13. |
| Mass, G. | Tablet - 680. Dock Station - 630 |
| Operating system | Google Android 3.0 (Honeycomb) |
| Official manufacturer's warranty | 12 months |
| Recommended prices for Russia | 15 990 rub. per version with 16 GB flash memory 19 990 rub. per version with 32 GB flash memory 23 990 rubles. per version with 32 GB flash memory and docking station included |
Like most tablet computers 2011, ASUS Eee Pad Transformer TF101 is based on the NVIDIA Tegra 2 platform and running the Android 3.0 Honeycomb operating system. The amount of preset flash memory is also standard: 16 or 32 GB. As already written above, the drive can be significantly increased in the amount by maps of MicroSd. or even a full-sized SD / MMC in the presence of a docking station.
The tablet has a motion sensor, a full-fledged GPS module and a light sensor, adjusting the brightness for external conditions. True, it works not quite adequately. If you entrust the case of automation, then it turns out dark. And adjust the base level, relative to which the brightness will be automatically adjusted in the future, it will not work.
A set of wireless interfaces is exactly the same as in Acer Iconia Tab A500. On the this moment Available Wi-Fi 802.11b / g / n and bluetooth 2.1. According to the staff of the Russian representative office, ASUS, the version with 3G will not be until July. But all three modifications without 3G will appear on the shelves, including the configuration with the docking station.
Of course, there is a camera. The front is quite weak, for video calls - and rear, 5 megapixel. About the first one somehow shame to speak. As for the second, the quality of the pictures of the same level as in the Iconia Tab A500, - that is, no. In addition, there is no flash. So the only thing for such cameras genre - "We are with friends in the bath" - it turns out to be limited. Well, it did not hurt something.
Programmers ASUS added to standard interface Android 3.0 somewhat extremely useful features. For example, it should be noted the possibility of more convenient work with external drives. When the device is connected, a small window appears in the notification area, which allows you to safely remove the drive or go to view its contents in the pre-installed (and sufficiently sane) file manager.
What is nice, the external storage devices are mounted not in an uninterrupted folder for normal people with the name "MNT", but in a more meaningful and much better noticeable in the list "Removable" folder. You can connect not only flash drives, but also hard drives - And there is support file System NTFS (in Tablet computer Acer. About her forgotten).
If the docking station is connected, the virtual keyboard stops appearing on the screen during text input. Switch the layout at the same time most conveniently using the standard CTRL + SHIFT key combination. However, you can switch to another way - by pressing the icon in the notification area.
With the appearance of several years ago, solutions from Nvidia, in the face of "Tegra" with full-fledged support for the Android platform, half of the masts of mobile gadgets rushed to conquer the segment of tablet computers.
The recipe was blissing simple: we take the most optimal modification of the video screen - "Temp 2", we adapt the interface and a regular software under the "Android" of the fourth version, and the rest leaves at the discretion of designers. In the recent thoughts and plans, as always, walked, therefore, with the originality of problems, it seems like it did not arise.
The pioneer of tablet computers can be considered a series of xoom from "Motorole". The first damn, as they say, came out with a com, but the idea was picked up other brands and, already taking into account the experience of American (now Chinese) company, they began to get quite decent devices.
One of the bright representatives of this segment can be called the ASUS Eee Pad Transformer TF101 model. The gadget is presented in several modifications that differ from each other with the amount of RAM and the version of the composite keyboard. The latter just allows you to turn an ordinary mobile device in the similarity of a netbook.
So, we present to your attention the review of the tablet computer - ASUS TF101. Characteristics of the gadget, its advantages and disadvantages, as well as the expediency of buying will be considered in our article. In the preparation of the article, the views of the experts of this area and the reviews of the ordinary owners of this model were taken.
Equipment
The device goes in a pretty and stylish box of dense cardboard with dark design. On the front part, the ASUS TF101 transformer itself is depicted, and the characteristics in the form of a brief specification are located on the back of the side.
Interior decoration is made very competently, the accessories are "not swear" with each other, and neatly arranged around the perimeter. This allowed not to inflate the packaging to the size of the laptop, therefore it can be transported in a small bag or even easier - under the arm.
Contents of delivery:
- aSUS TF101 itself;
- nutrition (memory) of composite type;
- keyboard;
- micro USB cable for synchronization with PC and recharging;
- documentation with warranty coupon.
The package can be called standard, some additional accessories like covers, handbags or headsets you will not see here. But, judging by the reviews of users, it is also for the better, because such items are always bought "to their taste and color", and the excess thing bundles largely adds the cost of the gadget.
Appearance
The cover of ASUS Eee Pad Transformer TF101 is made of corrugated plastic and has a matte coating. It is pleasant to the touch and does not collect fingerprints like a vacuum cleaner, and to scratches more or less stable.
The ends received metal inserts, which adds a gadget not only protection, but also solidity. Frames, boundary screen, are a bit thick, but the total stylistics do not spoil and reflected on ergonomics only the best way. Users in their reviews about others. tablet computers more than once complained about too thin frames, where during watching a video content or games were frequent random clicks. Here the plants for the fingers are quite enough.
Operating characteristics asus TF101 At quite an acceptable level and the quality of the assembly can be called excellent: no gaps, it does not crush anything, it does not embroidered. In a word - a good apparatus with which you can travel without extreme.
Interfaces
On the right end, a classic mini jack is located 3.5 mm for the headset, a mini-HDMI video output, a slot for external memory cards and one of two speakers. On the left side there are volume swings, a shutdown key and another speaker.
The bottom part of the ASUS TF101 tablet is assigned to the docking station, and in our case, the keyboard. It can also be used both to recharging the device and for connecting another periphery. The interface itself is exactly in the middle, and the heading grooves for the keyboard are located on the sides.
The ASUS TF101 interface characteristics allow you to quietly synchronize with other mobile gadgets and a specific periphery, so the model can be called the most universal. Judging by user reviews, many service masts use a model for their professional needs.
Screen
The 10-inch "Android" -Plash received a pretty good IPS matrix, which calmly copes with a resolution of 1280 per 800 points. As such pixelization is not visible here, but if you look so much, then, maybe it turns out to consider individual points. At least a good half of users in their reviews, the presence of this effect did not notice.
The matrix provides excellent color depth, good brightness and contrast, as well as maximum viewing angles. Therefore, you can safely see any photo or video content in the company of one or two like-minded people.
It is also worth noting that the "Android" screen is protected by glass from Mastita Gorilla. At least for some kind of oleophobic coating, the manufacturer did not rip off, so the display surface as a magnet collects fingerprints, they are well removed without any special problems and very quickly.
Performance
The performance corresponds to the dual-core processor operating in the tandem with the aforementioned "tagra" of the second version from Nvidia. Random access memory On board the modern standards is not enough - only 1 GB, but it is enough for the ideal work of the interface and full-time applications.
By the way, about the latter. Pretty many distributors and unclean sellers add to hand operating system Your advertisement, and remove it in conventional ways, as a rule, it fails. The only iron option to get rid of it is stock firmware for ASUS TF101. You can find it both on the official resource of the developer (Jelly Bean) and on specialized Forums Like 4pda.
Concerning gaming applicationsThe launch of "heavy" toys may have problems. The modern software of such a plan is rather demanding, besides intentionally adapted precisely under high-performance processors to increase the sales of the latter. So in many applications you will have to reset the graphics settings to medium, or even the minimum values, provided that they will nevertheless.
Keyboard
Judging by the reviews of users, nothing bad, and good, they can not say about the regular keyboard. Here we have a completely adequate analogue of the familiar work area of \u200b\u200bthe laptop. On it you can like the texts plenty to be used, and play.
The keyboard is fastened, it is also a docking station, not as simple as it seems at first glance, so this procedure will have to be adopted. It is also worth noting that it is equipped with additional USB interfaces and a cartrider.
Autonomy
With good load, and this is included the Internet, viewing video in high resolution And toys, the device will work for about six hours. In the mixed mode, autonomous work time can be significantly stretched to one, or even two days, unless to get involved in "heavy" applications and video content.
With the docking station (fully charged), the device adds in autonomy by about twice. That is, at the maximum load, you can work almost all day. Users leave completely positive feedback on the autonomous part of the device. Conventional plates to such indicators are very far away.
Summarizing
Despite the rather mediocre in modern standards, a set of chipsets, the tablet is in demand from a wide range of consumers. Naturally, gamers are not included in it. The model is perfect for surfing over the network and to solve some professional tasks. So the money invested into the model, and this is a little less than 10 thousand rubles, it works on full and not philonite.
