CloudingClarity

Recently, I learned of a new product available for netbook computer called MIMO Companion. The MIMO Companion allows a netbook computer to be hooked up to as many monitors as you are willing to buy. You can have dual screens, triple screens, or more if you would like. The 8″ monitor attaches to the computer through USB ports. The MIMO Companion produces 800 x 600 resolution at best, which is kinda disappointing. The premium models even have touch screen capabilities and a USB port on the back. The purchase price of these little screens isn’t terrible, however, it is a bit steep for the average netbook consumer. The non-touch screen model runs $130, while the premium touch screen edition costs $200.

A few days after learning about the MIMO Companion, I was flipping through the pages of my “Computer Shopper” magazine when I discovered an even better product called EVGA UV Plus. The UV Plus allows external monitors to be connected to a computer through its USB ports as well, however, it allows you to hook up any monitor you like. Also, it is capable of producing extremely high resolutions. The best part of the UV Plus is that it costs $30 with a $10 mail in rebate.

If are looking to add some screen real estate to your netbook, the 8″ MIMO Companion could make sense for you if you are going to be traveling a lot or if you would benefit from touch screen capability. Since the MIMO Companion is so costly and has extremely unimpressive 800 x 6o0 resolution, I would prefer to purchase the cheaper EVGA UV Plus and a new 17″ monitor for the money. The bottom line is that the MIMO Companion is a great idea, just not fully realized. The EVGA UV Plus offers flexibility at an affordable price, making it the superior choice.

MIMO Monitors

EVGA UV Plus