Intel, CTL launch convertible Classmate PC tablet
updated 12:45 pm EDT, Mon April 26, 2010
Intel, CTL begin shipping new NL2 Classmate PC
CTL has teamed up with chipmaker Intel on yet another convertible Classmate PC, the NL2. Teased early in March, the device has a new 10.1-inch touchscreen with a 1024x600 resolution and gets powered by a newer 1.66GHz Intel Atom N450 processor. It otherwise has a 160GB hard drive preloaded with Windows XP Home and 1GB of RAM.
A four-cell battery powers the NL2, and the chassis is ruggedized like previous Classmate PCs to withstand the abuse of students. The system is relatively heavy for children, however, as it weighs about 3.7lbs.
The new screen only supports resistive touch, and a stylus is included. In choosing the older technology, however, Intel has also chosen to make the screen scratch- and water-resistant. An accelerometer will rotate the screen as needed between its modes, and there is also an anti-bacterial keyboard and a rotating 1.3-megapixel webcam.
Intel's Blue Dolphin interface makes it easier for kids to operate the Windows operating system, allowing for one-finger program launches.
Base versions of the NL2 are priced at $499 and now available. For regular users, CTL offers a 2go Convertible version with Windows 7 Professional, priced at $599.
