The Asus Transformer Prime TF201-B1-CG 10.1-Inch 32GB Tablet is an interesting hybrid as it combines the convenience of an Android-based tablet with the utility of a keyboard docking station which makes it a quality netbook computer.
The Asus Transformer Prime TF201-B1-CG 32GB Tablet, puts it into the same category as Apple's iPad is far more versatile as it opens the world of Android-based computing to the user. The Transformer's 10.1-inch display is slightly larger than the Apple display and is driven by the Nvidia Tegra 3 Quad-Core Mobile processor. The processor is interesting in that it is a power-miser as you have up to 12 hours of battery. Adding the docking station turns the Transformer tablet into a netbook-style PC and does add up more six hours of power to the mix so that one can use it, with the docking station, for up to 18 hours, a valuable extra.
Powered by lithium-ion batteries, the Asus offers 1 GB DDR memory, which, judging by the way tablets are made today, is equipped with the Android v3.2 operating system, upgradeable to v4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), and 32 GB of eMMC microSD flash memory, expandable to 64 GB. Of note is the slightly recessed on/off switch that can sometimes be hard to access and, once one has accessed it, the switch can be equally hard to shut down. Over time and with us, one should become able to use this feature easily. Once it is mated to its docking station this should become a moot issue as most docking stations allow powerup from the keyboard.
Internet-ready, the Transformer recognizes WiFi standards 802.11 b/g/n. This means that, with the right Android-based app installed, one should be able to recognize local hotspots so that the Transformer is seldom, if ever, out of touch with the Internet. Since it also recognizes WiFi b/g, it should also be compatible with one's home router so that it can be used as part of a small home network. The Transformer also makes use of Bluetooth technology so that one can sync up a mobile phone or any other Bluetooth device as Bluetooth will recognize up to 12 devices. Interestingly, if one has a Bluetooth-enabled PC, one should be able to sync the PC to the tablet quite easily, expanding the use of Bluetooth.
Since the Transformer is equipped with Android V4.0, one now has access to over 200,000 apps, however, one should be aware that even with large amounts of memory, the more apps and pages you install, the longer it will take to boot up and use. In initial startup mode, the Transformer boots quite quickly, however, adding apps means the operating system has to work through them and since it is running only 1 GB of DDRR memory which also probably supports the high-resolution screen, as well, it will take a bit to have things running. Once they are running, though, the Asus is very quick.
The Transformer's screen resolution is 1280 by 800, making it easily interfaceable with high-definition video devices. Indeed, one of the connectors available is a microHDMI. Using the proper adapter cable, one can interface the Transformer with any HDMI-compatible device. There is also a microUSB output available that is used as part of the charging system.
A capable videography device, the Transformer is equipped with front and rear-facing camera lenses. The front-facing camera offers 1.2MP resolution so the tablet can be used for videoconferencing. The 8MP rear-facing camera with 2X and 3X zoom ability offers excellent image quality and the ability to take and push your images directly to the Internet. One interesting item to note is that in the last year or so there seems to be a resolution race going one among tablet makers to determine which one can deliver the highest resolution so that now tablets are becoming very capable videography devices, especially with 64 GB of flash memory installed.
Closely bound to social media, the Transformer offers Google's full range of built-in social networking features that should include the recently introduced Google+, as well as access to Google maps and Google earth. These features will work well with the built-in GPS feature so that, with the proper app installed, one can use the Transformer as the heart of a navigation system.
Sound output is good, using SonicMaster technology and built-in speakers. There is also a built-in headphone output so you can interface a topnotch set of headphones such as those offered by Bose with the Asus.
The list of features for the Transformer just goes on and on as it offers, as noted, high-definition video compatibility, as well as WXGA standard video. The tablet also has angle-sensing technology so the video will appear normal at no matter what angle you are holding it at. The screen, itself, is a sensitive touchscreen that features tough Gorilla Glass so it should resist most normal use. The screen is viewable at up to 178 degrees off center which makes provides a wide-angle view and makes it highly visible.
The add-on keyboard/docking station will actually complete the Transformer by providing a standard QWERTY keyboard, making it much more convenient to use.
At 10.35 inches by 7.12 inches by 0.33 inches and weighing slightly less than two pounds, the Asus Transformer is one of the hottest-sellers on the Tablet market today and with the range of features it offers, there's little wonder why.
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