Intel Lauches StudyBook Tablet for Students

Intel has revealed the design of a new tablet PC aimed specifically at students as part of its Intel Learning Series programme.

Using Intel�s low-power Atom Z560 processor running at 1.2GHz, the 7in StudyBook tablet has 1GB of RAM and 4GB internal storage behind a 1024x600 capacitive touchscreen display.

The rear of the device includes a 1.3 megapixel rear-facing camera plus a 0.3 megapixel front-facing camera for video chat functionality, while 802.11n Wi-Fi and 3G mobile broadband equipped models will also be available when the product is launched.

Wired connectivity includes a full size USB port, an external power connector, a full size HDMI port for connection to an external display, a 3.5mm headphone jack, an SD card slot for memory expansion and a SIM card slot on the 3G equipped version.

Thanks to the use of the Atom processor and its x86 instruction set the same architecture used in laptops and desktop PCs. The StudyBook is capable of running either Windows 7 or Google�s Android platform, depending on user requirements. Standard software includes an eBook reader, notepad, drawing application and a web browser.

As befits a device that will be mainly used in schools, the StudyBook is robust: Intel claims it can withstand a fall from 70cm the average height of a school desk-while its single piece plastic body also makes it resistant to minor spills. The internal battery promises a five and a half hour battery life in �active use,� although Intel isn�t saying exactly what this constitutes.

Intel won�t be producing the StudyBook itself. Instead, the company is licensing the reference design to third party manufacturers, with the first devices expected to appear later this year. Pricing has yet to be confirmed, but is expected to sit at the cheaper end of the market.