The new Asus 1004DN netbook

The new netbook from Asus uses an Intel GN40 chipset with X4500M integrated graphics card

The 1004DN

The Eee PC 1004DN is supposedly the first in the Eee PC range to feature a Super-Multi optical disc drive, enabling users to read and write optical discs for convenient data back-ups. A power-efficient Express Card slot provides expansion capabilities, along with plug-and-play compatibility and auto-configuration access. They even claimed to be using an in-house technology - the ASUS Super Hybrid Engine (SHE), which should provide users with extended battery life while on-the-go.

Wrapped in a high-gloss UV LCD cover constructed from a combination of cutting-edge alloys, the 1004DN sports a high-gloss bezel frame encasing the 10” LCD display panel with 1024×600 resolution. It supports 720p high definition video playback. It provides a 92% keyboard, a larger Shift key for a “smoother typing experience”. Asus throws in a multi-touch touchpad for intuitive and interactive control over multimedia playback, or surfing the Internet without using a mouse. The digital array microphone and a built-in 1.3 megapixel webcam also help.

On the inside, The Asus 1004DN is powered by the latest 1.66GHz Intel Atom N280 CPU and 720p capable Intel GN40 chipset with GMA 4500M graphics core. It has a 1GB DDR2 RAM (1 x SODIMM socket for expansion up to 2GB DDRII DRAM), up to 120GB HDD, 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity.

The Eee PC 1004DN goes a step ahead with security features like the ASUS Data Security System (ADSM) which not only allows users to log-on using their fingerprints, but also allows him or her to encrypt a single folder with the same security system. The 6-cell 5200mAh battery is good to go for about 5.5 hrs, and Asus claims that with SHE, it can monitor energy usage and can help extend the battery lifespan up to 5.9 hours. The 1.45kg machine has a dimension of 277mm x 194mm x 27.4-34mm.

No price or release date is currently known.