Archos has released its first netbook, based on a Linux-compatible Hasee design, but offers it with Windows XP only. The “Archos 10” has a 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270 processor, 160GB hard drive, a 10.2-inch display, WiFi, and 1GB of RAM, according to the company.

(Click here for a larger view of the Archos 10)

The release of a plain-vanilla, x86-based netbook comes as something of a surprise from Igny, France-based Archos, which has been making Linux-based PMPs (portable media players) for years, and which recently announced plans to release an Android-based Internet Media Tablet (IMT), based on an ARM Cortex-A8 processor. Apparently, however, Archos was unable to resist the lure of booming netbook sales, and has released a device that's reportedly a rebadged version of the MH125, manufactured by Hasee in Shenzen. The Archos 10 does not ship with Linux, but the device is compatible with the open-source operating system, according to Hasee.

The MH125, aka Archos 10, has mainstream netbook features, including Intel's 1.6GHz Atom N270 CPU, 82945GSE northbridge and ICH7M southbridge, 1GB of non-upgradeable DDR2 RAM, plus a 5400rpm, 160GB HDD (hard disk drive). The device has a 10.2-inch display with LED backlighting and 1024 x 600 resolution, plus a 1.3 megapixel webcam, says the company.

Other cited ingredients — all entirely typical for the breed — include 802.11b/g wireless networking, three USB 2.0 ports, a 10/100 Ethernet port, a VGA output, plus headphone and microphone ports. The Archos 10 also has a larger-than-average touchpad. However, its keyboard doesn't extend to the edges of the device and appears relatively cramped.

Features and specifications provided by Archos for the Archos 10 include the following:

• Processor — Intel Atom N270 clocked at 1.6GHz
  
• Memory — 1GB of RAM (non-expandable)
  
• Display — 10.2-inch LED-backlit display with 1024 x 600 resolution
  
• Camera — 1.3 megapixel webcam
  
• Storage — 160GB hard disk drive
  
• Networking — 10/100 Ethernet port
  
• Wireless — 802.11b/g
  
• Other I/O:
  • VGA port
    
  • Audio headphone out and mic in
    
  • 3 x USB

• Expansion — “4-in-1” card reader (SD/MMC/MS/MS Pro)
  
• Battery type/life — Three-cell or six-cell (optional) battery, life n/s
  
• Dimensions — 10.2 x 7.4 x 1.1 inches (258 x 189 x 28mm)
  
• Weight — 2.8 pounds (1.3kg)

Further information

A review of the Archos 10 by Laptop magazine concludes that while “Archos's first netbook has a full software stack and a fast hard drive, its battery life and keyboard are lacking.” To read the review, see the publication's website, here.

The Archos 10 is available now for approximately $400, with Windows XP. More information may be found on the Archos website, here.

 
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