Cons
Expensive
Did not perform well in high heat conditions

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Product Description

Exnos 5 Dual-core 1.7GHz processor, 2560*1600 resolution 10” wide-screen display, Android 4.2 OS, 16GB flash (32GB optional) and 2GB RAM, wifi-only

Nexus 10 is the newest tablet from Google. With the world’s highest resolution table display, all new multi-user support, immersive HD content and the Google apps – Nexus 10 has something for everyone.

Samsung and Google teamed up to create a powerful 10” tablet in a nice, sleek package. The Nexus 10 was one of the first devices to receive Android version 4.2. The display is one of the nicest characteristics of this tablet. It rivals the Apple iPad in terms of having a beautiful display. The touch screen is also very responsive and smooth which makes this a very nice device to use.

One of the concerns with this tablet came during the Inveneo Hotbox test when it stopped functioning correctly at 45C, unlike the other tablets that were tested. The Nexus 10 dropped processes and eventually froze. Once it was taken out of the Hotbox, the Nexus 10 could be rebooted and started functioning as expected. The other item of note is that the Nexus 10 is on the upper tier of tablet prices.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Performance The Nexus 10 offers excellent performance and is the fastest of the tablets reviewed. The 1.7GHz dual-core processor and 2GB ram (1GB is typical for a tablet) give the unit plenty of power.
	User Experience The screen of the Nexus 10 boasts excellent touchscreen responsiveness and picture quality. Inveneo engineers called the screen “beautiful”. The unit comes pre-loaded with the latest version of the Android operating system, which is intuitive and easy to use.
	Manufacturer Support Samsung has a solid global presence which means that equipment and products are available worldwide. A 1-year warranty is standard.

Cons
Expensive
Doesn’t use standard MicroUSB

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Product Description

AS6X Dual-core 1.5GHz processor with quad-core graphics unit, 2048 x 1536 resolution 9.7” Display, 32GB Flash (16GB to 128GB options), 1GB RAM

Right from the start, there’s a lot to love about iPad. It’s simple yet powerful. Thin and light yet full-featured. It can do just about everything and be just about anything. And because it’s so easy to use, it’s easy to love.

iPad is the most popular tablet on the market. There are numerous benefits iPad offers due to its popularity including the extensive availability of applications and the wide variety of compatible accessories. A number of rugged cases and other peripherals such as keyboards are made specifically for it. The retina display is beautiful, the battery life is great, and it performed well in the Inveneo Hotbox. The touch screen is also very responsive and intuitive to use.

The main issue with iPad is the price, especially for the 3G/LTE models. It, along with the Nexus 10, is in the higher tier of tablet prices. There are also potential pros and cons when using iOS instead of Android as previously discussed in this report.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Performance iPad is an excellent performer with a 1.4GHZ A6X processor, and while Apple doesn’t publicly publish iPad’s RAM specifications, the memory is more than adequate.
	Reliability iPad features an unmatched set of very high quality applications. Apple’s App Store marketplace brings a high level of quality control and the device offers programs limited access to system functions, both factors leading to very few incompatibilities and program errors. iPad offers unparalleled stability.
	User Experience iPad’s touchscreen exhibits excellent responsiveness and picture quality. The unit’s retina display (2048×1536 resolution) yields exceptionally clear graphics and text, and iPad’s iOS operating system is incredibly intuitive and easy to use.

Cons
A step behind in terms of compatibility with the latest Android OS version
Samsung personalized, non-Google standard, user interface

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Product Description

Exynos 4 Dual Core 1.0GHz processor, 1280*800 resolution 10.1” Display, Android 4.1 OS, Ten-Point Capacitive Screen

Experience a variety of fun mobile entertainment in one convenient, interactive tablet PC that only weighs 1.28lbs. It features a large 10.1in touch screen that lets you easily navigate through the web, through its embedded applications, and many more. It even allows you to download games and other multimedia apps from thousands of selections from Google Play using an Android 4.0 platform and save them inside its 16GB expandable flash memory. For smooth interaction and operation, it runs with a Dual-Core 1GHz processor. Other features include Bluetooth capability, 3.0MP back camera, 0.3MP front camera, and a microSD slot.

Thinking of this tablet, the phrase “jack of all trades and master of none” comes to mind. The Galaxy Tab 2 is pretty good at everything, but not really great at much. The Galaxy Tab 2 has a nice screen and good responsiveness, but did not perform quite as well as the iPad or Nexus 10. It did well in the Hotbox and, in Inveneo’s test, showed significantly longer battery life than the other tablets. The processor is not as beefy as either the iPad or the Nexus 10, however it still is a fairly powerful unit.

It was a bit disappointing that Samsung decided to implement this tablet with its own front-end interface, called TouchWiz that does not provide much value to the user from the standard Android interface. The tablet also uses an unusual special USB cable to charge and connect to your PC, unlike the other Android tablets tested. Unfortunately, these cables are less likely to be found in developing countries.

Overall, the Galaxy Tab 2 is the middle of the pack in terms of quality and performance and its price reflects this.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Value The Galaxy 2 is a jack of all trades that does almost everything well. This makes it a solid mid-tier tablet, available at a great price.
	Performance The Galaxy 2 offers good performance when compared with most tablets on the market. Expandable memory (uncommon in tablets) means there is room to grow.
	Manufacturer Support Samsung has a solid global presence, which means that equipment, and products are available worldwide. A 1-year warranty is standard.

Cons
Expensive

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Product Description

In 1998, Panasonic created the first semi-rugged computer. Now, Panasonic introduces the latest generation, the Panasonic Toughbook® 53. With a 14″ HD LED display, 2nd gen Intel Core™ i5 vPro™ and i3 processors* and an oversized multi touch touchpad, it performs like a desktop. Options for a sunlight-viewable Panasonic CircuLumin™ touchscreen, backlit keyboard, 4G LTE mobile broadband, an integrated webcam and enhanced connectivity, make this the most versatile semi-rugged PC ever.

When working in difficult conditions that require high performance in a mobile computer, the Panasonic Toughbook 53 may be a perfect match. This is a member of Panasonic’s “semi-rugged” line of the popular Toughbook series. Semi-rugged laptops are built to withstand difficult environments, but also capable of holding more data on larger hard drives and providing good performance. Unlike the expensive fully rugged laptops that Panasonic offers, you probably would not want to use these laptops in the middle of a rainstorm, but these laptops are certainly capable of handling dusty, hot conditions.

After unboxing the laptop, it was immediately evident that Panasonic was intentional about covering with covers all of the points on the laptop that could be poorly affected by dust. This protection is vital for computers that will operate in typical environments in which global development projects are performed. Also immediately evident is how big this laptop looks in comparison to other units with a comparable screen size, but this is expected due to the ruggedization process. It is not nearly as heavy as it looks and has a very nice handle that allows for easy carrying.

Another interesting feature of the laptop is the monitor. It doesn’t provide spectacular crispness, but it is designed to be used in direct sunlight, which could be a valuable feature for some.It is also very easy to change to a spare battery if traveling or if needed due to inconsistent grid power.

In the Inveneo Hotbox, the Toughbook 53 performed very well, playing high definition video at temperatures up to 45°C over three days.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Performance Very high performance. The 53 comes with an excellent processor and chipset, featuring Intel’s i5 dual core processor. The i5 is a dual core, but also supports multi-threading that allows it to perform like a quad core CPU.
	Ruggedness / Durability Extremely durable. The Toughbook 53 is the most rugged laptop tested, easily passing all physical and environmental tests. High build quality has given the Toughbook line the solid reputation it deserves.

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Product Description

Innovation in design, safety and resistance of the equipment and the performance efficiency make Pupil 103 the ideal tool for children to attain further knowledge.

The Intel Classmate PC is a budget-conscious series of machines that can be used in challenging environments while maintaining full performance When first looking at this machine, it’s clear that this laptop is quite a bit smaller than most standard laptops. The size actually influences the keyboard layout and it’s slightly non-standard positioning of the “shift” key and other non-alphanumerical keys. As seasoned touch-typists, Inveneo found that the smaller layout is not usually a problem after the first day or two when the user becomes accustomed to the new layout. For users who are entirely new to typing on a computer keyboard, or for those who use the common two-fingered “hunt-and-peck” or “Columbus” method, the smaller keyboard should not be a problem.

It’s important to note that while the ClassmatePC laptops may look small, they are capable of running Windows 7 very effectively. The laptop has built-in hard drive protection features and a solid body that allow the machine to withstand drops safely of up to 80cm (31in).

This computer is a great value, especially for basic internet and Office applications. However, it is important to note that, if the laptop is going to be used for highly processor-dependent applications, the Classmate may not be the best choice. In addition, the screen size is a bit small at 10.1 inches on the diagonal.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Value The 103 is inexpensive for a semi-rugged computer.
	Performance The battery performance of the 103 is excellent, giving 7 hours of normal use in real-world situations. Typically, laptops in this price range will last just 3 to 4 hours.
	Ruggedness / Durability The Pupil 103 is a very rugged machine, extremely durable compared to similarly priced laptops. The unit featured drop detection and is water resistant. Excellent build quality.

Cons
Too large to be mounted on the back of any but the very largest monitors.

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Product Description

A smaller form factor that can be placed vertically or horizontally. Pre-configured with upgraded processor to handle your more demanding business tasks. Intel 3rd Generation i5-series processor.

The Dell OptiPlex 3010 Small Form Factor is a powerful, energy efficient desktop computer. This desktop is capable of running applications of all types, and comes in a small package. Even though Dell states the desktop operating environmental requirements is rated for temperatures ranging from 10° to 35°C (50° to 95° F), the desktop performed well in the Inveneo Hotbox, fully operating at 45°C for 3 days. The Optiplex desktop also has plenty of USB ports on both front and back of the machine. It performed quite well in both processor and graphics performance tests.

In comparison to the ASUS EB1007P, the Dell is a bit bigger but it has significantly higher performance and capacity. The Dell PC will take up more room on a desk than the ASUS EB1007P. It is worth also noting that, while the Dell is energy efficient, it uses 2X to 4X the power of the Intel Atom-powered ASUS EB1007P, i.e. from 30W typical to 60W maximum.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Performance The 3010 performs at a very high level compared to other systems tested, including when subjected to hot conditions.
	Power The 3010 is relatively power efficient compared to standard desktop systems, partially owing to its efficient, effective cooling system.
	Manufacturer Support Dell is a Fortune 500 with a global footprint. They have a reputation for good support and a solid warranty.

Pros
Very low power consumption
Small and lightweight

Cons
Lesser-known manufacturer, based in London
Lack of distributors in developing countries

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Product Description

The affordable, Aleutia T1 computer can fit in your hands, offers great performance, is completely silent, and uses so little power you can run it on solar-charged 12V battery power. It includes a Dual Core Intel Atom N2800 processor, 2GB RAM, The T1 is available with either SSD storage (No Moving Parts) or a 250GB hard drive. The T1 is completely fanless and is works well in hot, dusty environments.

Reliability of No Moving Parts
The T1 was designed from the ground up to work in rural Africa. A special heatsink design and steel case allow the new T1 to work without fans even in high temperatures, making it ideal for dusty environments. Though the T1 includes an external AC power adapter, its built-in voltage regulator can operate on any DC voltage from 10V to 19V, allowing it run directly from a 12V battery without a regulator.

The Aleutia T1 PC, when teamed up with a low power monitor such as the 20” Asus VS208, makes an excellent performing computer system. The combination needs just 16W for normal operation with SSD storage, or about 21W with a 250GB hard drive. Performance is quite good for both general computing and full screen video due to the dual-core Intel Atom N2800 processor.

The Aleutia can be supplied with Windows 7 pre-installed and licensed, but only at Microsoft’s retail price. However, the manufacturer can offer a deployment image for the two storage devices that allows the client organization or end-user to enter their own Windows 7 license key. Linux is also an option.

This is the PC to use for truly harsh environments, or where 12VDC low-power battery operation is required.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Value desc
	Performance The T1 performs exceptionally well for a low power computer.
	Power The Aleutia T1 uses very little power compared to other comparable options, owing in part to the fact that it uses a solid-state hard drive.
	Ruggedness / Durability The T1 not only comes with a solid-state drive, it also has no moving parts whatsoever, significantly increasing the unit’s durability. It also performed well when subjected to temperature tests.
	Reliability desc
	User Experience desc
	Manufacturer Support desc
	Standalone / Dependencies desc

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Product Description

The ASUS Eee Box EB1007P is a flexible 1L-sized energy efficient commercial PC that is easy to use, low on power consumption and provides excellent connectivity. The EB1007P comes with Windows 7 Professional installed.

The EB1007P is an excellent choice in power-constrained, moderately harsh environments. While not suited for processor-intensive applications (CAD/CAM, video editing, etc.), the EB1007P is an excellent choice for schools, offices and rural health clinics. Incredibly low-power (using a maximum of 16w), light and small, the EB1007P can be mounted on the back of a display to create a desktop computer that uses just 22w of power and takes up very little desk space.

The unit does have a fan and may not be the best choice for truly harsh environments (Sahara, etc.), but for most rural deployments the EB1007P is an excellent choice. Visit inveneo.org/products for information on harsh environment equipment recommendations.

Our recommendation is especially based on the following criteria:

	Power An EB1007P-based desktop computer uses just 22w during operation. Less than most laptops, 22w is half of what a typical low-power desktop uses and just 20-30% of the power required by donated computers we typically find in the field.
	Ruggedness / Durability While the EB1007P Does use fans, they are small and feature a bottom-to-top flow that is less likely to become clogged by dust when compared to larger front-to-back systems. The small size of the EB1007P also means that it can be mounted to the back of a monitor where it’s less likely to be damaged.
	Reliability The EB1007P is extremely reliable. We experienced a very small number of failures with thousands deployed in the field.
	Manufacturer Support As a manufacturer, Asus is very responsive when dealing with warranty issues, working specific with Inveneo to make sure that the warranty is valid in developing countries.