Asus Eee PC 1000H Netbook

Storage, Graphics, and Connectivity

The Intel Atom N270 processor and 945GME chipset are connected to 1 GB of DDR2 memory, which runs at DDR2-667 speeds. The memory modules run at high 5-5-5 latencies, but given that this is not a performance oriented product, it should not be an issue. Asus does give you access to the single SO-DIMM socket, so you can replace the standard 1 GB memory module for a larger 2 GB model if you need an extra boost. Interestingly enough, Asus bundles 2 GB of system memory for their Linux-based version, but 1 GB is standard for Windows XP systems. It certainly seems like the opposite memory / operating system scnearios would have been a better fit.

Easily accessible memory and hard disk...

... along with WiFi antennas.

Unlike other members of the EEE PC family, the 1000H model does not rely on a solid state hard disk for its data storage. Most will immediately see this as a negative aspect, as traditional platter based hard disks tend to draw more power, are less rugged, and actually create noise and heat. However, as the 1000H is aimed at someone who wants to get casual web-class work done on the unit, having data storage capacity beyond 20GB is needed. Asus equips this model with a 2.5" 80GB hard drive from Seagate, the Momentus 5400.3. This hard drive runs at (not surprisingly) 5,400 RPM and has 8MB of cache, a SATA interface with NCQ support, and is based on modern perpendicular recording technology - so all in all, it's not a bad drive in here. This drive can run at speeds of about 35 MB/s sustained disk read speed, so it's definitely speedy enough to handle netbook-class needs.

The move to use 2.5" platter based hard drives has been greeted with enthusiasm from potential buyers, and we have already seen Asus move to expand their lineup with full hard drives. We do know that a version of the 1000H with a 160 GB hard drive is on its way shortly, which will replace the current 80 GB model while stock-levels change. We believe that there will be a small price difference upwards, although the difference should be almost minimal.  So if you can wait a week or two, go for the 160GB model.

One of the biggest drawbacks of a Netbook today is that you are absolutely forced to use Intel's GMA-series integrated graphics engine. These graphics chips are designed to handle basic desktop tasks, and certainly are enough to handle most Windows-level applications without any problems. The 1000H has a maximum screen resolution of 1024x600, so the graphics chip doesn't have to draw that much, but even still, we noticed spots where a little power boost in the graphics department would be helpful. The system also is equipped with a VGA output port, which can output to a higher-resolution display if needed.  You can also force in a 1024 x 768 resolution, although the top and bottom of the display will not be displayed - nice. This graphics chip has minimal video acceleration technology, and is more or less useless for any modern 3D application. Asus/Intel never promised otherwise for the Netbook market, but it's worth noting that this won't give the 3D / graphics / gaming performance levels of a modern desktop, not even close.

The 1000H can run Spore - barely.. at its lowest settings...

While the 1000H lacks in the graphic department, it makes up for it in terms of connectivity options. This little notebook is jammed with connectors and antennae for connecting to just about any source. Not only do you have a hard-wired RJ45-jack (10/100 only, unfortunately), but you also have BlueTooth and 802.11 B/G/N support, which gives you compatibility with nearly all Wi-Fi routers out there at the latest generation speeds. Unfortunately, there is no hardware-switch on the notebook for turning wireless support on and/off, which would be nice for those who easily wanted to save a little more battery life. These functions can however be easily disabled using the Asus "Eee PC Utility.

The Eee PC can also control the integrated 1.3 Megapixel camera, which is located at the top of the unit. We are all for integrated cameras which conceal nicely into the bezels - however, in terms of image quality, the 1000H's integrated camera isn't top-tier. For simple web-chats and video messaging, the camera is sufficient.