Specifications:

* up to 1.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo ULV SU9400 processor with Montevina chipset
* Intel integrated GMA 4500MHD graphics
* Windows Vista Ultimate on down
* 12.1-inch LED backlit capacitive touch-screen with EM Digitizer pen
* up to 5GB of DDR3 1066MHz (1x1GB, 1x4GB DIMM)
* up to 120GB 5400RPM SATA disk or 128GB SSD
* 802.11a/g/n WiFi and gigabit Ethernet
* SATA ODD
* 3.78-pounds (1.72-kg) with 6-cell battery
* eSATA, 2x USB 2.0, firewire, and ExpressCard 54 slot

Researchers at Rice University developed a new microchip that promises to run seven times faster and consume 30 times less electricity than today’s “best technology”. The project, which is supported by Intel and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency could result in new processors for cellphones that would enable users to recharge their phones not every few days, but every few weeks, the scientists said.The new processor shown discussed at the International Solid-State Circuits Conference (ISSCC), uses common CMOS technology, but drops Boolean logic mathematical rules and adopts probabilistic logic, a new form of logic developed by Rice University professor Krishna Palem and his doctoral student, Lakshmi Chakrapani.

Called PCMOS, the chip runs on standard silicon, which means it can be produced with standard chip manufacturing equipment. Palem claims that the use of probabilistic logic results in 30 times less power consumption and an overall increased speed of 7x. (continuare…)

Increases of up to 20 per cent on all products take effect March 1

ASUS has announced an increase in prices of up to 20 per cent on all existing and upcoming notebooks and Eee Family products, effective March 1, 2009.

The current financial climate and an increase in the cost of computer parts and manufacturing operations were cited as reasons behind the price hikes.

The company said it is also restructuring its channel strategy, but offered no further comment.

ASUS recently debuted its ultra-thin netbook S121, and its latest Eee PC, the T91 which includes a touchscreen that swivels.

According to December findings by research firm, DisplaySearch, the global netbook market increased by 160 per cent from the second to third quarter of 2008. Acer enjoyed the top global spot in netbook sales, taking 38.3 per cent of the market to Asus’ 30 per cent.