10” VIA-powered netbook for $185

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Comments Posted on Nov 23, 2009 Posted by Yellow Tiger

Most of the netbook devices we cover on Shanzai.com use Intel’s popular Atom chip. However, it’s worth remembering that Intel’s x86 rival VIA is also operating in this space mainly through their GMB Alliance program and are bringing out some very affordable, functional products. The Phecda PHV102 is an example of this, priced at a very low USD 185.

With VIA trying to gather back the market share it lost to Intel earlier in the year when the Atom chip became widely available in China, you can expect to see more of these low-cost devices appear in an effort to entice customers away from the Intel-based products.

PB190073

Though not in the same league as the new Nano processor, VIA’s older C7 series still stacks up fairly well against the Atom CPU, with of course the added advantage that manufacturers can pick it up substantially cheaper.

PB190102

Specifications
CPU: 1.6GHz VIA C7-M
Chipset: VIA VX855
RAM: 1GB DDR2
HDD: 160GB
Display: 10.2”, 1024 x 600 resolution
Battery: 3-cell 220mAh
Weight: 1.2kg
Ports: 3xUSB, VGA, LAN, card reader
Price: USD 185

Western Opportunity Analysis:

The device seems to be a little thicker than most, which goes against current trends, and I’m not sure what to make of the styling on the chassis when the netbook is opened (a type of textured look achieved with paint), but a sub-USD 200 netbook is going to be popular in any market.