PCD To Show Netbooks, Android MID, Tablet

By Joseph Palenchar -- TWICE, 3/22/2010

LAS VEGAS — PCD plans to show its first two cellular-connected netbooks and first cellular-connected mobile Internet device (MID) as part of its plan to expand beyond cellular handsets. All three models, targeted for sale through cellular carriers, feature Wi-Fi and are designed to incorporate either a CDMA 1X EV-DO cellular module or an HSDPA cellular module.

Privately, the company will a show a full-fledged tablet PC without hard keyboard to generate feedback from potential customers.

One of the netbooks is the Haier-made X220 netbook, which features 10.1-inch LCD screen that flips open for use like a traditional laptop, but the screen also pivots and folds over to create a tabletstyle device with touchscreen.

The Windows-based 1.13-inch by 7.3-inch by 10.3-inch X220 will run either Windows XP or Windows 7, depending on carrier preference. It features Intel Atom N270 533MHz processor, 160GB hard drive, 1GB memory (with optional 2GB), embedded microphone and Web camera, and SD/MS/MMC card reader.

The second netbook, the Haiermade X210, offers similar capabilities and the same CPU but lacks pivoting touchscreen display.

The MID is an Android 1.5-based touchscreen-only device with 5- inch 800 by 480 display. The Wi-Fi equipped device can be outfitted with embedded HSDPA or CDMA EV-DO wireless module.

The HSDPA-embedded tablet features 1,024 by 800 10-inch touchscreen, Windows 7 Home Premium OS, 1GB RAM, 160GB hard drive, HDMI output, three USB ports and Wi-Fi 802.11a/ b/g/n. It lacks cellular voice but could be used with VoIP programs. A leather portfolio that protects the screen doubles as a kickstand. The tablet is targeted to carriers that see potential in leveraging Apple’s iPad visibility with a device that features removable battery, memory expansion, and HDMI output, said marketing VP Joe Cufari.

In other products, PCD will show a device that transmits cellphone content, including videos and games, via non-cellular wireless technology to a TV screen. Details were unavailable.