With the rise of the tablet on the horizon it was only fitting that I pick up one to try and use for my needs. But I wanted something that was different. Not something with a traditional operating system. I picked up the Archos 5 with the android operating system (which you can’t put other OS’s on it) and I have to say my initial response was, “WOW.” I will place the specs down below my review for you to take a look at. I’ve often wondered what kind of functionality and place a touchscreen tablet device would have in my world. Not so much the IT field or computer repair. But my world. I’ve found at first that I could easily replace my iPhone for a cheap no name phone that simply makes phone calls and carry around the Archos 5 for everything else. But why carry two devices? I’ve heard people using the iPhone for everything and from, videos, music, and even remote support, which sounds unreal simply because the iPhone only has a 3.5″ screen. Where the Archos 5 has a High resolution screen, 800×480 pixels, 4.8” TFT LCD, 16 million colors. How does that even compare to the iPhone? At first launch the Archos 5 has a down fall. Unable to work in a Mac OS X environment which is bad because that’s pre-dominetly my main operating system.

I had to utilize it through VMware on my Macbook Pro and share folders to transfer files to it. Out of the box the CD software for the GPS was corrupt and I had to download the software. The first initial setup was over complicated. The fact that I can hook up this little unit to my HD television is a bit incredible. Especially since I can send 720p videos from the device to my television. They say this unit utilizes all the apps and functionality of the Android OS which I beg to differ. There are apps you can run on Android which you can’t run on this. It has a built in accelerometer which, if any of you have used and iPhone will see the response is terrible. The touch response on the screen is just as bad no matter how you calibrate it. With the lack of having a “glass” screen, leaves this device open for scratches and also too much give while trying to navigate on the screen. I’ve found myself after spending $300 for this unit, using it less and less each day. As it’s becoming a permanent fixture on my desk or even a Glorified portable video player for my daughter. My final verdict? If you don’t own an iPhone or a Zune. Then this is for you. Otherwise you will be most likely finding yourself in the same situation as me. Until next time, Keep it buzzin’

Specs:
Display characteristics High resolution touch screen, 800×480 pixels, 4.8” TFT LCD, 16 million colors
User interface Ttouch screen, ON/OFF, vol+ and vol- buttons, retractable virtual keyboard
Processor(s) Central Unit:
Main processor: ARM CortexTM-A8, 32 bit, In-order, dual-issue, superscalar core @ 800 MHz
Additional processor: 32 bit DSP @ 430 MHz
RAM memory 256 MB* (Low-Power Double Data Rate SDRAM)
Mass storage memory • Flash Memory: 8 to 32 GB* + Micro SD Slot (SDHC compatible)
• Hard Drive: 16 GB
Operating system Android v1.5 Cupcake – enabling application installation or development