Product review – The Asus Transformer Pad TF7101T.

If you are in the market for a hybrid device that adds versatility to your everyday tasks, Asus recently released an Android version of the Transformer Pad with new tech upgrades and features.

For fans of Asus tablet devices, it may be worthwhile to take a look at the new Asus Transformer Pad TF7101T hybrid tablet PC. The TF7101T has carried over a lot of the features included in previous versions of the Transformer, with new features that include more power and a higher resolution screen.

What is the Asus Transformer Pad TF7101T?

The Transformer Pad TF7101T is the latest hybrid device from Asus that offers sleek styling and versatility. The TF7101T has also hit the market with a higher performance tablet and detachable keyboard dock that provides a second battery, resulting in an impressive battery life. Asus has also returned to the Android operating system after offering Windows 8 in some of its previous devices.

When you look beyond the stylish chassis, the TF7101T is designed with performance in mind with a more powerful processor than previous Transformer Pads.  The tablet portion of the device is designed with a higher resolution IPS capacitive touchscreen which brings images to life with vivid colors and exceptional contrast.

In terms of design and aesthetics, there is a lot to like about the stylish look of the TF7101T.  The tablet is finished with a classy brushed aluminum backing with a texture that displays flashy circles when you move the device at different angles.  The keyboard dock has the same upscale brushed aluminum finish with full-sized keyboard that converts the Transformer Pad into a portable Android laptop.

The hinge that connects the keyboard dock to the tablet is a standout feature due its strength and durability.  When used as a laptop, this allows you to hold the device at virtually any type of angle without having to worry about damaging the hinge mechanism.

Asus has also kept the plastic materials to a minimum with a plastic frame around the camera lens.  This is not a bad feature since a completely aluminum chassis can compromise your Wi-Fi signal and potentially interfere with GPS performance.

What are the Technical Specifications?

The new Asus Transformer Pad TF7101T is designed with a new and improved 10.1-inch display with 2560 x 1600 resolution and 299 ppi.  The 10.1-inch screen size has been carried over from other Transformer Pads however, there is a noticeable difference in the display which is designed with IPS (In-Plane Switching) and a 16:10 aspect ratio. The IPS panel also uses Super IPS plus which is the same technology used in the Apple iPad.  This feature produces a stunning display that surpasses the Transformer predecessors with an impressive viewing angle of up to 178 degrees.

Another interesting feature in the display screen is the inclusion of IGZO (Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide) technology which produces a higher than normal Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) with lower power consumption.  IGZO technology is created by Sharp and uses an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) approach which produces a wider scope of colors at a lower cost with a thicker and more durable screen.
Other specifications include:

Processing Performance:  The Transformer Pad TF7101T is equipped with a NVIDIA Tegra 4 T40X chipset and ARM Cortex-A15 quad-core processor running at 1.9GHz with 2GB of DDR3 Random Access Memory (RAM). There is also 32GB of internal storage and a 72 core GeForce ULP Graphics Processing Unit (GPU).

Port Connectivity:  The TF7101T is equipped is equipped with one USB 3.0 port for connecting USB peripherals, microSD card slot which supports up to 64GB of storage, micro HDMI port for video output to a flat screen TV, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.  The USB port and microSD card slot are located on the keyboard portion of the device.  There is no microUSB port for charging the battery or transferring data since there is a proprietary one located on the bottom of the device near the hinge stabilizers.

Wi-Fi Connectivity: Internet connectivity is achieved with dual band Wi-Fi that operates on the 802.11 a/b/g/n standards and Miracast for wireless delivery of video from your mobile phone or other device.  The Transformer Pad TF7101T is also equipped with GPS capability for convenient use as a GPS device in your car, and Bluetooth 3.0 capability for connecting Bluetooth-enabled devices.  There is no mobile 3G or 4G Internet connectivity included in this model.

Keyboard:  The TF7101T keyboard features a full-sized QWERTY keyboard with keys that are slightly smaller than what you would find in a conventional keyboard design.  There is also a generously sized touchpad constructed of a durable plastic with mouse buttons on either side.  Although the touchpad is plastic, it still provides great response and functionality which is paralleled with the glass touchpads on other similar devices on the market. The mouse buttons are a bit stiff at first and its take a little time to adjust to their performance.

When you type on the keyboard the action is rather stiff with limited traveling space.Still you get a nice response with a tactile click with each keystroke. In addition to typing, there is also access to a variety of functions on the top row of the keyboard including Android shortcuts, adjustments for screen brightness, Wi-Fi controls, and quick access to your web browser, multimedia controls, and more.
On the tablet portion of the Transformer Pad, there is a virtual onscreen keyboard which allows you to type faster, thanks to the main panel which displays both numbers and letters together.This saves time and hassles with switching back and forth while you enjoy improved productivity with ultra-responsive keyboard functionality.

Camera:  There is one front facing 5 megapixel camera on the tablet portion of the Transformer Pad TF7101T which provides average performance.  There is no flash capability but images come out relatively decent when you use the camera in well-lit environments.  The camera also functions well for video chats with video capability that is average for this type of device.

Audio:  The TF7101T features just one speaker which is located on one end on the back of the tablet.  The speaker is drilled into the aluminum casing which allows for some sound reverberation before it exits through the grille. The result is a relatively decent sound quality for a tablet device. There is also a control panel for adjusting the audio for playing games or listening to music. The audio panel is also installed as an overlay which means you can access it from any location.

Battery Life:  The Transformer Pad TF7101T offers two batteries which provide an exceptional battery life.  The tablet is equipped with a 7820 mAh (Milliamp Hour) battery which provides up to 9 hours of life with normal usage, even when you are streaming video.  The battery life is about 3 hours less when you engage in processor-intensive video games.  When the keyboard is connected, the battery adds up to four more hours of battery life which is somewhat less when engaging in video games. The keyboard dock also charges the device with a complete charge for both the keyboard and tablet achieved in less than three hours.  There is also a selection of power and audio modes to allow you to get more out of the battery life.

Dimensions and Weight: The keyboard dock adds a bit more weight to the Transformer Pad at 1.3 pounds or 585g.  This is not exactly bulky but slightly weightier than other hybrid devices of this caliber. Dimensions are 10.40 x 7.10 x 0.40 inches (L x W x H) or 180.8 x 263 x 8.9 mm.

In terms of price, the Transformer Pad TF7101T is priced at a lower cost than the previous Transformer Pad Infinity at approximately £430 depending upon where you make your purchase (business usersd can get a discount - this IT Vendor in London for example offers discounted Asus products). The price is also competitive with the iPad and other higher end tablet devices on the market.

What Operating System Does It Use?

The Asus Transformer Pad TF7101T runs on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean with the option to upgrade to Android 4.3.  The interface has undergone a few minor changes which allow you to run a series of apps simultaneously, thanks to a utility tray that can also function as widget overlays. The utilities include a video player, calculator, countdown, unit converter, compass, dictionary, stopwatch, and audio settings.

There is also a quick launch tool which is accessed by holding down the Home button.  After you press the button down, a circular icon appears that allows you to quickly access your favorite apps in addition to an app menu.  Asus has also added some of its own apps and graphical elements such as SuperNote (see the play store) which is a note taking app and App Locker, which allows you to control access to specific apps according to user.

The multimedia experience in the operating system is also rather pleasant with minimal latency for processor-intensive applications.  The loading of web pages is speedy and smooth and high definition videos run seamlessly with immaculate viewing on the high resolution screen.

What are the pros and cons?

The Transformer Pad TF7101 is a very functional and versatile device with an impressive battery life which sets it apart from its competitors. To help you learn more, here are a few pros and cons:

Pros

Improved processing power with Tegra 4 provides a pleasant computing and multimedia experience.
The design and finish is top quality and mimics some of the top end devices on the market.
GPS function is speedy and accurate.
Impressive screen with super sharp colors and images.
Keyboard and tablet provide top-notch fast response.

Cons

Asus still needs to improve the outdated thick screen bezel.
Inconvenient speaker location for audio.
Highly reflective screen may make viewing difficult in certain environments.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a hybrid device that is versatile with a sharp screen, faster processing performance, and great battery life, the Transformer Pad TF7101T is a remarkable device that will meet your expectations. It is also offered at a great price point which is less than the Transformer Pad Infinity and competitive with the iPad. Plus, you get the versatility and improved performance.

If design is of extreme importance, you may find the thick screen bezel and other features to be slightly outdated.  Asus has not changed much in this area but, perhaps future devices will be sporting a new design to maintain competitiveness in the design department.

Overall, the Asus Transformer Pad TF701T offers everything that you may like about the Infinity if you are a fan of that device, adds updates and improved performance, and at a lower price.  This makes for an all-around decent hybrid that is both functional and affordable.

Helpful resources.

The official Asus Transformer Pad page – click here
Claire is an IT enthusiast with now over 5 years’ experience writing articles and product reviews for blogs across the UK and overseas. In her spare time, Claire likes to spend time on her new xBox One!

Top 10 - Chat Tools For Effective Communication

We live in a fast track world with various options in improving our system of working with the help of advanced technology. In the present scenario where communication takes priority in every system of working, technology plays a very important role in the overall system with the internet giving way to the quickest means of communication anywhere across the globe and for an efficient way of working it is essential to stay in touch, coordinate and implement the necessary output needed for smooth functioning. With the choice of various options now made available for better communication, we have some of the best and popular communications tools which include old as well as new tools that can help to stay in touch from any location of the world and since each communication tool differs from the other one can make the choice in selecting the best way suitable to stay in touch with effective communication.

Google Chat Service
 
Google Chat presently is one of those popular chat services and is directly integrated with Gmail and Google Apps inbox. Users can also add Google Talk to Pidgin or other popular chat application or their desktop app though it works amazingly from the browser. Moreover the user can also engage in voice as well as video call from Gmail in their browser where their chat logs can also be saved in Gmail inbox.

Skype Communication
 
Skype, best known for cost cutting voice calls over the internet to traditional phones is also great for video chats. One can have the option of group video chats up to 10 individuals at a time and this is one of the most favored choices among many users. Another feature of Skype text chats is that the user can send messages even when the other is offline bringing the convenience of email to IM.

HipChat Applications
 
Another fast growing option for team collaboration is HipChat which offers more than a chat interface. One can share files with the help of this application for mobile, web or desktop computers. Moreover the group chat is also beneficial since users can embed photos or various other media intending to be shared.

Yammer Private group communication
 
Users who do not want their communications to be public will find the Yammer tool appropriate for their private group communication which permits only people with company email addresses to sign into their network. Once it is set up, the user can engage in its simple micro blogging services by updating the status, send messages and even form groups for private team communication within the company.

Jaconda – a Classic team Chat Solution 
 
Jaconda is a good choice for a classic team chat solution which is free for thirty days though it does have some costs along with a paid account. Their services feature a number of chat rooms with support for very large teams and medium to large company.

Podio – Full backend Management Suite
 
Podio another solution is a full backend management suite for project which needs to handle various users where the signup is free under a five member team. Users can try out their large number of application using the free account where apps like, to do task, calendars and chatrooms are available.

Twitter Connect 
 
Twitter is increasingly gaining popularity helping many to get connected with most of them joining Twitter to follow popular writers and celebrities besides friends, family and coworkers. It is a great way of keeping in touch and getting to know quickly on what is going on or even to send a private direct message for things which need not be public, to see what is being said about products and services and an opportunity to directly support customers.

Azendoo Free Personal Service
 
Azendoo is a free personal service with a project management service enabling a full company-wide group managing individual projects where the chat system is the same as Facebook wherein users can get private messages as well as notifications. The user also has the options to leave comments based on certain projects within the group.

Hall – Solution for Project Management
 
Hall is an appropriate choice in solving project management and the application is free for personal account which is worth signing up and getting familiar with the interface. Hall offers both group chat as well as private chat together with video conferencing where all the products of the chats are saved. In advanced paid plans, users can also search through chat logs for any specific keywords and the first five users have the facility of free accounts, with 1 GB free storage and one on one video.

Flowdock – Constant means of Communication
 
Flowdock is branded as a `team inbox with chat’ offering desktop and mobile application. It has some good features which helps to work as a constant means of communication and is very slim with features in comparison to full project management tools. Below five users, in the team can use this app for free and once the user limit is crossed, a charge of $3 per head per month is applicable which can work well for medium sized team.

How to backup data with EaseUS backup software

What if the worst happens and you lose all you important data, images, videos, and documents from your computer. The thought is scary, right? Thinking of such a situation is so dangerous, what will happen if it happens to you? For this purpose, there is an option called the backup of the file that automatically make the copies of the documents, files, images, videos and whatever it is and stores them elsewhere on your hard disk or any other device. So that in case on any accident, you do not lose your important data. The reasons of data loss may be virus attack, hardware failure, human error or any potential danger. So it is better if you have already made a backup of your files timely. Backing up your system file is really easy but only if you choose the backup software wisely. There is a number of software in the market that will promise to create a safe backup of your file but, are not trust worthy and reliable. Some of the software is paid while the others are free backup software. So why you need to waste money if it is available for free. We are here with the best backup software that will guarantee the best backup of all your files.

EaseUS free backup software
 
EaseUS free backup software is the best backup software available in the market and is trusted by many users across the world. It is available for free whether you want to create a backup of the PC or the server. Billions of home users have already used it and they seem to be quite happy with the results. For the professional purposes, the paid version of the software is also available as they need a much more accuracy as compared to the home purposes. So whenever any tragedy occurs, you just need one single click to restore all your data back.

Top features
 
The most important feature of EaseUS backup softwareis that whenever you want the data back from the backup, you do not need to reinstall the windows as in the case of some other backup software. There are many different modules to create a backup such as system, hard disk, partition or individual files backup. So you are the one who can decide what kind of backup you want to create. Now the new features has been added to the software in which you can even backup your contacts, call logs, documents and even images and videos in the android devices. In just few simple steps, you can create a backup and recovery back your files without any skill required. So it is easy to use, can be automatically updated for free, available in multiple languages and even work automatically if the backup job is assigned to it.Even after that if you encounter any sort of problem, the technical team is available day and night to help you out. You can contact the customer care anytime you want.

Razer Launched Their Own Mechanical Switches For Gaming Keyboards

With the new technology the Razer has busy - and develops new switches that are optimized especially for gamers. But it can be also useful for other PC users. Most of the higher-quality keyboards very often come from the German manufacturer Cherry’s switches and Razer also use the same in his keyboards to date on the technology of the Upper Palatinate company.

It turns Razer just before a new design for the interior of the buttons, called switches. Razer has developed two slightly different versions of the switch: the clicky Razer Green Switch requires triggering a force of 50 g, while the rather quiet Razer Orange Switch needs a force of 45 g to trigger. The signal point to be achieved in both models compared to 1.9 mm, while two competing models used for comparison 2.2mm and 2.0mm need - Razer does not mention any manufacturer, but probably they are the products of Cherry.

The reset point is the green switch by Razer 0.4 mm long and the orange Switch 0.05 mm. With these values Razer sees his keyboards especially for use in computer games at an advantage, for example when it comes to fast double clicks. But the lifetime should be longer than the nameless competitors.

The green and orange Razer indicates 60 million each clicks, the competitor creates depending on the model only 20 million or 50 million. Razer can produce its switches from a third party, but they are having their own experts to ensure the quality on site.

The two new keys should be used for the first time in the series keyboard Black Widow 2014. Other manufacturers of keyboards should be able to install keys in their models. A reader has alerted us that the 2014er models of the Black Widow keyboards already in the online store of Razer on pre-order. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in mid- March 2014, the cheapest model costs around 100 Euros.

LG 34UM95, Cinemascope Screen With 34 Inches

LG has unveiled a 34 -inch display with an aspect ratio of 21:9, on which, for example, several documents can be displayed side by side. The displays have replaced by two screens in the 4:3 format. The 34UM95 is not LG's first display in 21:9 formats.

Already in 2012, the company launched such a screen on the market. The new 34UM95 achieves a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 pixels and is equipped with an AH - IPS panel with a contrast ratio of 1,000:1. The brightness is given with 320 candelas per square meter. The display offers a DisplayPort 1.2, two HDMI ports and two Thunderbolt connectors as well as USB 3.0.

With stand, the screen measures an impressive 829.9 x 468.9 x 173 mm and requires about 80 watts in operation. The price is about € 1,000. In April, the LG should 34UM95 will be available in the market. In addition, LG still offers the UM65, which is also held in 21:9 formats and is available in three sizes 25, 29 and 34 inches.

The smallest model has a resolution of 2,560 x 1,080 pixels and a brightness of 300 candelas. The AH - IPS display is selectively connected via DisplayPort 1.2, two HDMI inputs or DVI-D Dual Link to the computer. The LG UM65 with 29 inch and 34 inch with 34UM65 are larger, but the other hardware detail remains the same.

The LG 34UM65 costs about 610 Euros, the 25UM65 to be offered for 280 Euros and 450 Euros for the 29UM65 model.