The Tablet Stakes are hotting up!

PentoPad Models (Australian Prices) Here is a rundown of the PendoPad’s specifications and my impressions of this tablet. Features:

• Android 4.0 Operating System
• 10 MM Ultra Slim Profile
• All winner Cortex A8 1GHz CPU
• 7″ WVGA Capacitive Multi-Touchscreen
• 1GB RAM
• Built-in 4GB Flash
• Micro SDHC Card Reader (Up to 32GB)
• Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
• Front Facing VGA 0.3MP and Rear Facing 2.0MP Camera
• Built-in Microphone
• Audio Output, 3.5mm Headphone Jack & Speaker
• Video Output, High Speed HDMI, type C (mini), Supports 1080P and 720P
• USB 2.0 Port

NOTE – This model comes with GetJar app which allows access to more than 350,000 Google Android apps. My thoughts: Sometimes I wonder how many apps do we really need. The name of the android operating system is called Ice Cream Sandwich. What a curious name? [caption id="attachment_31000" align="alignnone" width="640"] PentoPad 7 Features[/caption]

PentoPad 7 Features

Putting the PendoPad through its paces! The touch screen is responsive to the usual touch commands –

• Touch and Hold
• Drag
• Swipe
• Double-tap
• Orientation

The Orientation Sensor works well changing from Landscape to Portrait and vice-versa in no time.

Charging the PendoPad

This took quite some time, not like the Surface tablet which was fully charged and ready to go. When fully charge the battery life was pretty good around eight hours.

Micro Card Storage

Another feature worthy of note is the expandability of this product. You can add a micro-SHDC card boosting storage up to 32 gig allowing you to store videos music etc.

Switching On

When you switch on the tablet the screen is locked but by swiping to the right you unlock it. Rather than remember a password I soon found out how to add a pin number. This was a much more efficient way of getting going.

Switching Off

This requires you to press the Power button and answering the question: “Would you like to shut down? “ Then select OK and shutdown commences.

USB Support

The addition of the USB port (2.0) and the attachment cable enable me to try out a mouse and keyboard. It makes me wonder why Apple never added a USB port to their iPad. Was this because of Steve Job’s intransigence or pure stubbornness?

The Manual

The tiny hard to read handbook surely tested my ageing eyes but I visited the Pendo website www.pendo.com.au and access their Support. I downloaded the PDF manual and found it contained identical information to the tiny handbook but more readable.

Summing Up!

• Apps – there are plenty of them including OfficeSuite. I think this is a Google product!
• Widgets – numerous
• Connecting to the Internet – Wi-Fi, no problem
• Browsing the Web – a breeze

Considering the price and the usability of this device it’s worthy of consideration although some users will no doubt suggest even better alternatives but as far as I’m concerned I’m pleased I bought it.]]>