[Q] GPS-gate: fixed? - Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime

Hi all!
I just bought a Transformer Prime... and I find that I have a GPS-broken one (I know, it's not really broken, but it doesn't work).
I have read that Asus is branding an external GPS unit to fix the problem, but I'm not sure if they will send it to me here in Spain. In adition, is there any review of the external GPS? Is it compatible with charging/dock?
The newer Primes, have the GPS problem fixed or they are still broken? I don't know which would be better: if trying to buy a new Prime from another store or wait until the newer tablets without that kind of problem...
Thanks in advance

It has good reviews from the users who got it so far, but it's not compatible with the dock (in fact, it replaces it). ASUS should send it in Spain; AFAIK only Italy, Greece and Iceland are left out.
I don't think it will be fixed in a future Prime review, since the problem seems to be the aluminum backing.

Thanks cm0901.
I don't remember where I read it, but I have supposed that the newer Primes have the problem solved...
I think I will retrieve my money back and wait until a new Asus tablet (without GPS problem) are available.
Thanks a lot

The lower cost model of the Transformer the TF300 is already out and its full plastic, that means not as sturdy and thin as the TP but the GPS works
See the thread and/or google for more info on it. Or use the dongle. Hope they start shipping in europe soon...

clouds5 I already know this tablet, but some questions:
Is it launched and on sale? I can't found it on Spain :-(
The differences between Prime and Pad300 are ony the internal ROM size (16 vs 32), the aluminum/plastic cover?
On the Asus specs the TP is promoted with "SuperIPS+" screen specifically, and the Pad300 only as "IPS"... laziness or a real difference between screens?

Lk2 said:
clouds5 I already know this tablet, but some questions:
Is it launched and on sale? I can't found it on Spain :-(
The differences between Prime and Pad300 are ony the internal ROM size (16 vs 32), the aluminum/plastic cover?
On the Asus specs the TP is promoted with "SuperIPS+" screen specifically, and the Pad300 only as "IPS"... laziness or a real difference between screens?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Real difference, means that the Prime's screen can reach more brightness level in SuperIPS+ mode. TF300 lacks the flash led for the camera as well

If it was available, possibly I would change my TP for a 300, but it's not available on Spain (or maybe worldwide, I don't know).
I will take the Asus-solution... I don't think that I will need to use GPS and keyboard at the same time... I hope so

I've also just bought a Prime and apparently there is really a GPS problem. However, after installing the GPS status app, I could find 6 satellites. My One X is much faster finding them though.

Ivanthompson said:
I've also just bought a Prime and apparently there is really a GPS problem. However, after installing the GPS status app, I could find 6 satellites. My One X is much faster finding them though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could find 100s for all that it matters. It won't keep a lock while moving.

So far I have used an external GPS, namely a QST QUARTZ 1000 by bluetooth with no problem and today I have received the kit from Asus GPS dongle and runs smoothly, almost like the aforementioned bluetooth GPS.

sure some primes are ok, i think mine is. just been out for a drive and testing with and without the asus dongle and very little difference. both locked in a timely fashion and tracked well.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app

Lk2 said:
clouds5
The differences between Prime and Pad300 are ony the internal ROM size (16 vs 32), the aluminum/plastic cover?
On the Asus specs the TP is promoted with "SuperIPS+" screen specifically, and the Pad300 only as "IPS"... laziness or a real difference between screens?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also noticed that the 300 doesn't have an LED flash.

Related

Do you think ASUS knew about the GPS WiFi issues prior to release

Is it just me or does anyone else think that ASUS knew about the GPS WiFi issues prior to release and just thought
You know what lets take a chance and release it anyway
My thoughts round this are more believable now the TF700 has been announced and physically shown.
How long does it take ASUS to build a fully finished and working TF700 ?
a week ?
a month ?
This has been on display at CES
Now the Prime has only been on sale worldwide for a few weeks
So why would they totally redesign the back of the TF700 if they weren't aware of any issues with the GPS / WiFi etc. with the Prime
Sounds fishy to me
If it aint broke why all of a sudden fix it !!
Does anyone else agree here or is it me just thinking about the whole fiasco too much.
Dean
(ex-Prime owner, returned due to pretty pointless feature of GPS on prime that I paid for but didn't receive)
Again, not everyone has a wifi problem. For instance, my wifi works great.
Again, the TF700 is a different product aimed at people who want the best. It's their high-end model. The TF201 is the middle of the road and cheaper for it.
_Gir_ said:
Again, not everyone has a wi fi problem. For instance, my wifi works great.
Again, the TF700 is a different product aimed at people who want the best. It's their high-end model. The TF201 is the middle of the road and cheaper for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can appreciate your comment on Just Wifi, but the GPS is pretty much an issue on all Primes (i.e No GPS without Wifi - pointless GPS solution)
But Why redesign the Beautiful Spun Aluminium Back from the Prime with a Plastic window on the new TF700 if they didn't think there was a problem with the Primes Design.
jester27 said:
I can appreciate your comment on Just Wifi, but the GPS is pretty much an issue on all Primes (i.e No GPS without Wifi - pointless GPS solution)
But Why redesign the Beautiful Spun Aluminium Back from the Prime with a Plastic window on the new TF700 if they didn't think there was a problem with the Primes Design.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The OG prime was highlighted for wifi problems back in November which would allow more than enough time to make one prototype.
Agreed
So don't you think ASUS would have held off releasing the prime being as they probably knew what they were letting themselves in for
Sent from my LG-P920 using xda premium
Everyone has the same issue, not everyone notices or or has the same wifi situation. We're talking about physics. Your prime doesn't alter the physical properties of aluminum.
Did they know? Absolutely. Did they gamble on early adopters? You bet.
The proof should be either in the driver configs on our primes or in the fcc certification application.
You'll find it.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
jptech said:
Everyone has the same issue, not everyone notices or or has the same wifi situation. We're talking about physics. Your prime doesn't alter the physical properties of aluminum.
Did they know? Absolutely. Did they gamble on early adopters? You bet.
The proof should be either in the driver configs on our primes or in the fcc certification application.
You'll find it.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well said.
I just think we have been cheated by asus
Removing the spec from the website mid ship
To stop new buyers from having the right to complain
And to rub salt in bringing a new fixed prime out so soon
I could accept that after a few months
But hell they haven't even fulfilled this order yet!
Sent from my LG-P920 using xda premium
Do you think ASUS knew about the GPS WiFi issues prior to release?
100% for sure
jester27 said:
Is it just me or does anyone else think that ASUS knew about the GPS WiFi issues prior to release and just thought
You know what lets take a chance and release it anyway
My thoughts round this are more believable now the TF700 has been announced and physically shown.
How long does it take ASUS to build a fully finished and working TF700 ?
a week ?
a month ?
This has been on display at CES
Now the Prime has only been on sale worldwide for a few weeks
So why would they totally redesign the back of the TF700 if they weren't aware of any issues with the GPS / WiFi etc. with the Prime
Sounds fishy to me
If it aint broke why all of a sudden fix it !!
Does anyone else agree here or is it me just thinking about the whole fiasco too much.
Dean
(ex-Prime owner, returned due to pretty pointless feature of GPS on prime that I paid for but didn't receive)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes they knew about it and yes they shipped them out anyway just like any business they just want to make money and took their chances I don't know how well it's paying off for them.
Non-conspiracy theory reason for different backplate: 3G version planned, which requires an RF window.
My HTC Desire HD is pure Aluminum back and inside a case mate tough case never had any problems with GPS that Fasterfix from the market didn't fix. I am rooted on my Prime now on ICS with Prime Time just got my Prime today as well so haven't properly tested GPS. If any issues I will be trying out Fasterfix and setting it on UK pool as that's my location and seeing if it improves in any way.
Might be worth others giving Fasterfix a go too if your rooted.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
The DHD doesent hade å solid aluminium back in got three plastic pieces for the antennas the GPS antenna is located under the led flash
Sent from my Desire HD using Tapatalk
ASUS certainly knew about the problem and went ahead anyway. Many posters here explain why; "my $500+ plus tablet does not function the way I expected it to but it's still awesome and I didn't need those features I paid handsomely for anyway...and so on and so forth". Too many rationlizations for a subpar device.
It's even more scary to think ASUS DIDN'T know about the problem. If that's the case they need to get out of the business.
Maybe not before release but for sure before they told us about it. It is clear from the new uglier, more functional design of the 1080p tablet they announced and apparently have built.
I still want to see a gps test with the back removed before making a final judgement on Asus statement about it.
Im getting an instant GPS fix with Fasterfix.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201
ToneyEricsson said:
Im getting an instant GPS fix with Fasterfix.
That's an AGPS application that uses wifi to help isn't it? Won't help you without wifi I think.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That uses AGPS does it not?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
The prime.behaves pretty normal GPS wise. IMHO. I don't have one yet but every device with agps has some problems when not connected to wifi/3g. Its the same with my dhd when i don't have a signal. But phones usually have a signal to assist GPS.
Most wifi only devices don't have GPS at all because of that. I think its cool asus put it in anyway. If you didn't knew that before the purchase and are unhappy because of that return in it. What's the big deal?
They knew but GPS was not their primary design goal! If you want that functionality use your phone or buy a standalone GPS! The ipad 2 wifi model doesn't have GPS either!
There goal was to give you a slim light tablet and be the first to the market with a quad core! With an exceptional battery life! (GPS slaughters battery life BTW!)
Remember you get to chose 2 good cheap or fast!
Asus seems to have chosen cheap+ fast!
Apple on all their products chooses good twice as their products come out almost 6-12 months after other. Equvilant products but they do not have issues at all! But you pay up the butt for them!
But remember its better to buy something that does one task perfectly (a garmin) then buy something that does multiple tasks well (the prime!) stop *****ing!
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
Wordlywisewiz said:
They knew but GPS was not their primary design goal! If you want that functionality use your phone or buy a standalone GPS! The ipad 2 wifi model doesn't have GPS either!
There goal was to give you a slim light tablet and be the first to the market with a quad core! With an exceptional battery life! (GPS slaughters battery life BTW!)
Remember you get to chose 2 good cheap or fast!
Asus seems to have chosen cheap+ fast!
Apple on all their products chooses good twice as their products come out almost 6-12 months after other. Equvilant products but they do not have issues at all! But you pay up the butt for them!
But remember its better to buy something that does one task perfectly (a garmin) then buy something that does multiple tasks well (the prime!) stop *****ing!
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And what do you have to say about the poor WiFi performance? Was that also not a "primary design goal" for their WiFi only tablet?
The original transformer, which I owned, did quite well with GPS. I don't know why we take a mistake from ASUS, giving us less functionality than the earlier model, so lightly. The idea that a manufacturer can toy with the spec's of a product AFTER they start selling it and not get called out for it is a dangerous precedent.

[Q] This or iPad 2?

Hey guys...so i had a galaxy tab 10.1 and its now in pieces (a heavy chair fell on it) but amex is going to refund me the $499 that i paid. I want to know if i should get a transformer prime or the iPad2.
I don't need reasons for the iPad2...just for this one.
Are the wifi problems still there? (i don't care about GPS)
I played around with it and i see that the lag is completely gone...is that right? (the galaxy tab had HUUUGE lag everywhere)
thanks guys!!
iPad 2? You need to keep up with your tech news son, the ipad 3 is coming out in like a week.
ezcats said:
Hey guys...so i had a galaxy tab 10.1 and its now in pieces (a heavy chair fell on it) but amex is going to refund me the $499 that i paid. I want to know if i should get a transformer prime or the iPad2.
I don't need reasons for the iPad2...just for this one.
Are the wifi problems still there? (i don't care about GPS)
I played around with it and i see that the lag is completely gone...is that right? (the galaxy tab had HUUUGE lag everywhere)
thanks guys!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are hundreds of threads about this^^ Anyway. In my opinion the prime is superior to the ipad in every way. And there is no lag. You cant compare it to the galaxy tab, it has a completely new chip and brand new android 4.0 on it Depends on what you need it for but 16:10 is just better in almost all situations. Unless you like black bars when you watch movies. It has HDMI out, an SD card slot, is thinner and lighter than the ipad, has a much better display, (IPS+ is really amazing, i never had a situation so far where i couldnt read the display, USB&full size SD card on the dock. And these are only hardware advantages. We just had a thread in the general forum: If you used android for some time you cant go back to iOS.
There are/were some people with radio issues, but there only a few - my wifi is perfect and the same as on all the other devices we have around here.
There's only a few reasons to get the ipad imho.
1. you need apple
2. there is a specific app that will only be available for iOS.
[e] before you ask, yes i think the prime is also better than the iPad 3. Yes it has a higher resolution but thats not making up for all the other stuff thats missing compared to the prime. again IMHO.
Get a Prime. End of story if you want reasons look at the thread in my signature called positive transformer thread.
Buy the prime - no question
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
Well it depends. to be honest. I've had the Galaxy Tab 10.1 (Its my fathers now, gave it to him as a gift), iPad 2 which essentially i paid for it but my sis uses it regularly. But i just ordered the iPad 3/HD whatever (sold the iPad 2). But it really comes down to what you really need the tablet for. Is it entertainment (Movies, Videos, not gaming though) because if those are your basic needs i'd say TFP now or wait for the TFP Infinity. But if your basic needs are gaming i'd say iPad because there are plenty of more games out there for the iPad than Prime obviously.
thanks guys...i say the ipad 2 because its $399 now (you would be stupid to buy the new one)
i actually was mainly asking about wifi issues...this is rated 3 starts on amazon and that concerns me that that many people have issues...just wanted to make sure that the wifi works and i can use netflix all around my house. (5000 sq ft)
Amazon ratings for this device is flawed. Over a month ago we had several members and people who didnt even own primes go to amazon site and give prime bad ratings. Anyone can leave a rating there. Reason was because the bootloader was locked. So it messed up its rating on Amazon and it can't be changed.
Wifi n Netflix works great for me. Still possible to run into issue with ipad2 as its wifi is not that strong also and had several issues with it. Just Google ipad2 wifi issues and pages n pages of hits will pop up on it.
demandarin said:
Amazon ratings for this device is flawed. Over a month ago we had several members and people who didnt even own primes go to amazon site and give prime bad ratings. Anyone can leave a rating there. Reason was because the bootloader was locked. So it messed up its rating on Amazon and it can't be changed.
Wifi n Netflix works great for me. Still possible to run into issue with ipad2 as its wifi is not that strong also and had several issues with it. Just Google ipad2 wifi issues and pages n pages of hits will pop up on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks...this is what i needed. I know that ipad has wifi issues. Like really bad issues (it cant connect to my network)
ezcats said:
thanks...this is what i needed. I know that ipad has wifi issues. Like really bad issues (it cant connect to my network)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're going to use a tablet for mostly emails, quick internet browsing and netflix/youtube/videos/movies i would honestly say wait for the new asus transformer prime infinity which fixes wifi issue with new hardware i believe and a better rf window. Also with the 1920x1200 resolution your movies are going to look great... iPad 2 at my house roughly half yours (2500 sq ft.) Gets reception everywhere, but at the size of your house you might want to buy some wifi extenders or have two routers. If your going to get the iPad 2, also why not buy a used iPad 2 off something like ebay/craigslist? since you don't want the new iPad many others do and their selling it for pretty cheap. I see on a local site such as craigslist a 64gb iPad 2 Wifi only going for as little as 500 in pretty good condition.
reNeglect said:
If you're going to use a tablet for mostly emails, quick internet browsing and netflix/youtube/videos/movies i would honestly say wait for the new asus transformer prime infinity which fixes wifi issue with new hardware i believe and a better rf window. Also with the 1920x1200 resolution your movies are going to look great... iPad 2 at my house roughly half yours (2500 sq ft.) Gets reception everywhere, but at the size of your house you might want to buy some wifi extenders or have two routers. If your going to get the iPad 2, also why not buy a used iPad 2 off something like ebay/craigslist? since you don't want the new iPad many others do and their selling it for pretty cheap. I see on a local site such as craigslist a 64gb iPad 2 Wifi only going for as little as 500 in pretty good condition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i looked it up and saw that the prices are going to be about 600-800 which is too much for me....i'll stick with the prime.
ezcats said:
i looked it up and saw that the prices are going to be about 600-800 which is too much for me....i'll stick with the prime.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If that is the case wait a few more weeks, someone posted that asus willl do some hardware changes on the current model which supposedly fixes weak wifi and the wifi-bluetooth issue
reNeglect said:
If that is the case wait a few more weeks, someone posted that asus willl do some hardware changes on the current model which supposedly fixes weak wifi and the wifi-bluetooth issue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No hardware change.
2. As to the rumors of a hardware fix for WiFi/BT dropouts, the actual fix is just ensuring that the hardware utilized in current units is performing to tested standards. Basically to ensure this level of compliance we are replacing components within the WiFi subsystem on an as needed basis and then testing the units before shipment.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1537260
bluewr said:
No hardware change.
2. As to the rumors of a hardware fix for WiFi/BT dropouts, the actual fix is just ensuring that the hardware utilized in current units is performing to tested standards. Basically to ensure this level of compliance we are replacing components within the WiFi subsystem on an as needed basis and then testing the units before shipment.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1537260
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah thanks for the correction =) i just read it somewhere, definitely not that thread though.
reNeglect said:
Ah thanks for the correction =) i just read it somewhere, definitely not that thread though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know the thread, but that was all speculation, and it came shortly after the announcement of the TF300 and Infinity, so some people theorized that it'll be using the hardware from those instead.
ezcats said:
Hey guys...so i had a galaxy tab 10.1 and its now in pieces (a heavy chair fell on it) but amex is going to refund me the $499 that i paid. I want to know if i should get a transformer prime or the iPad2.
I don't need reasons for the iPad2...just for this one.
Are the wifi problems still there? (i don't care about GPS)
I played around with it and i see that the lag is completely gone...is that right? (the galaxy tab had HUUUGE lag everywhere)
thanks guys!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From a price perspective, you can get a refurbed 16GB iPad 2 directly from Apple with the same warranty that a brand new one comes with for $350. So if you are looking for the less expensive option the iPad 2 would be the way to go as it is going to be about $300 cheaper (that is if you get the dock for the Prime). If you go this route though, you have half as much storage as the Prime and have no way to expand.
Personally, I love my Prime. I don't have any problems with my wifi at all. IMO the Prime is a better tablet overall when compared to the iPad 2 or even the new iPad. The Prime will arguably provide the best user experience, mainly because of the keyboard dock.
jordache16 said:
(that is if you get the dock for the Prime).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not a valid comparison. I'd say they'll save $150, then have to buy keyboard (either way).
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
If you do not need to take notes effectively on screen by hand and you do not need Music production applications such as multitracking, amp and effects simulation for guitar and base then get the Prime, absolutely. Even with a few potential hardware issues the Prime is a lovely beast.
WhateverGetsTheJobDone said:
If you do not need to take notes effectively on screen by hand and you do not need Music production applications such as multitracking, amp and effects simulation for guitar and base then get the Prime, absolutely. Even with a few potential hardware issues the Prime is a lovely beast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cannot tell if you are trolling or genuinely believe this.
OP,the iPAD 3 is out, get it is you want an iPAD.
As for the prime, look into the new ones, as much as I love my current prime I will be looking at new ones when they come out.
Oh, and how exactly did you get AMEX to refund you your entire purchase price for a product that you dropped a chair on?
flyingwolf said:
Oh, and how exactly did you get AMEX to refund you your entire purchase price for a product that you dropped a chair on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Believe AMEX automatically puts some kind of protection on items purchased with their card. Time to read your cardholder agreement.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk

Thinking of buying a transformer prime have questiond

I thought I'd ask:
I've read that there are gps issues... Is that fixed now?
Are there different models numbers to avoid.. I know some are dual and some are quad core but do roms lack support for different devices?
Any other issues with the device?
Gps is a design problem with the device. Its not even advertised as having GPS anymore.
At this point you should wait for the acer A510
http://www.amazon.com/Acer-Iconia-A...1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1332962137&sr=1-1
GPS most likely won't work at all and ASUS already removed it from their specs list. I suggest you worry about the weak wifi instead. Probably better to wait for the 700 or look into another tablet.
Hmm he acer is in a week with similar stats... I'll wait and check that out thanks
Rekzer said:
Hmm he acer is in a week with similar stats... I'll wait and check that out thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also would suggest that you look at the tablets apps on Android vs the tablet apps of the iPad. Needless to say, there isn't even a tablet section for Android. So if tablet optimized apps are important to you....
The Transformer series remains unique in that they offer the integrated keyboard dock. If navigation-quality GPS is important to someone, then yes, the Prime is not currently the best option. Personally, I've found wifi performance to be perfectly acceptable, but some others haven't. Otherwise, the Prime is an excellent tablet offering great performance, excellent battery life, a nice (and uniquely bright) screen, and the ability to be used as an Android netbook when placed in the dock. And then, there are the intangibles such as the fact that ASUS has so far been much, much better at updating their Android tablets than anyone else, by far.
The Acer might end up being a decent enough Tegra 3 tablet, but I'd not be willing to say it's a better option for someone who doesn't care about using his tablet as a navigational device. I'd say, try the Prime, and if wifi works acceptably for everywhere it's needed, then keep it.
Rekzer said:
I thought I'd ask:
I've read that there are gps issues... Is that fixed now?
Are there different models numbers to avoid.. I know some are dual and some are quad core but do roms lack support for different devices?
Any other issues with the device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, this tablet rocks!!! In my case the GPS works like a charm and the device it self is quite solid!!! the Keybar add on is amazing and adds a lot of extra battery. My two cents.
xGary said:
GPS most likely won't work at all and ASUS already removed it from their specs list. I suggest you worry about the weak wifi instead. Probably better to wait for the 700 or look into another tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont know about your Prime man, but I got one with C2 serial and everything just works, GPS signal may be a bit weaker than other devices I've used, but it works and Iget a lock without WiFi under 30 secs.
Wifi is also strong.. i lose some power once BT music starts streaming but I still have good speeds. Attached some screens:
- Internet while streaming A2DP audio
- Internet without Bluetooth on
- GPS Status with GPS lock
Zephyrot said:
I dont know about your Prime man, but I got one with C2 serial and everything just works, GPS signal may be a bit weaker than other devices I've used, but it works and Iget a lock without WiFi under 30 secs.
Wifi is also strong.. i lose some power once BT music starts streaming but I still have good speeds. Attached some screens:
- Internet while streaming A2DP audio
- Internet without Bluetooth on
- GPS Status with GPS lock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have to disable wifi to get a lock?
Cozmo85 said:
Do you have to disable wifi to get a lock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mmm no, it works with or without wifi. Its just faster to get a lock with WiFi on because of aGPS .
xGary said:
I also would suggest that you look at the tablets apps on Android vs the tablet apps of the iPad. Needless to say, there isn't even a tablet section for Android. So if tablet optimized apps are important to you....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats very true, im considering leaving for the iPhone 5 to when thats out, software updates on android are a joke, and app quality is huge...
FYI
There is only one model of the Prime. It's the Transformer Prime TF201 Quad Core Tegra 3 CPU
ASUS also makes the Transformer TF101 which is a Dual Core Tegra 2 CPU.
Both offer the docking keyboard but are two complely different animals.
theandies said:
FYI
There is only one model of the Prime. It's the Transformer Prime TF201 Quad Core Tegra 3 CPU
ASUS also makes the Transformer TF101 which is a Dual Core Tegra 2 CPU.
Both offer the docking keyboard but are two complely different animals.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its actually the Asus EEEPad Transformer Prime TF201-B1
I plan on buying a prime Friday, could some one explain to me how they use the prime as a GPS unit while driving so I can test this out when I get mine. Also I currently have an HTC EVO with GPS would using the prime as a GPS unit over the EVO offer any advantages?
ill1 said:
I plan on buying a prime Friday, could some one explain to me how they use the prime as a GPS unit while driving so I can test this out when I get mine. Also I currently have an HTC EVO with GPS would using the prime as a GPS unit over the EVO offer any advantages?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
using prime as GPS navigation device is not optimal. it won't be better than your evo, as far as GPS goes. there will be a big announcement though so stay tuned
advantage of prime, when GPS working properly, would be the larger and higher quality screen size.
don't feed into all the issues hype so much. when you get your device. use it as you would normally any other device you own. then see if and where it falls short at. If you so bent on looking for something wrong, you'll convince yourself its there. even if it isn't.
i'm actually in the same boat you are and i am currently asking the same questions. my issue is price. the ipad2 is going for $360 right now! the transformer prime 32 GB (lowest model) is going for $499. the ipad3 is going for $499. The acer iconia A510 is up for preorder on amazon for $450 for the 32gb model no gps and 5MP camera back 1MP camera front @ 1280 x 800 and this will come out shortly.
http://www.amazon.com/Acer-A510-10k...TWPU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332977290&sr=8-1
so i'm kinda stuck. tegra 3 is much better than the apple ipad2 A5. I'll have to seriously consider the acer iconia but acer has always lacked dev support so i'll be looking to xda developers for help yet again like i am with LG. Thats not necessary a bad thing but it helps when the company supports their own products like asus. I'm also hoping that once asus sees the price on the iconia they will drop the price on the transformer prime to $450 aswell.
demandarin said:
using prime as GPS navigation device is not optimal. it won't be better than your evo, as far as GPS goes. there will be a big announcement though so stay tuned
advantage of prime, when GPS working properly, would be the larger and higher quality screen size.
don't feed into all the issues hype so much. when you get your device. use it as you would normally any other device you own. then see if and where it falls short at. If you so bent on looking for something wrong, you'll convince yourself its there. even if it isn't.
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Click to collapse
Thank you kindly demandarin, that actually was my point. But I thought I might just ask to possibly gain an idea as to how the tablet would be more beneficial or even practical than using my phone. I don't mean to start some forum war over GPS, but can't see the level of importance that has been placed on it that has been made in the various Prime forums. I figure if apple can sell millions of tablets without GPS like an Android tablet has, then the vast majority of the tablet buying public could care less about that feature.
I look forward to the big announcement and thank you again for your response.
If you get the transformer get it for the dock. Its a unique and awesome experience. No other tablet will ever come close in that regard. That's the reason to get a prime IMHO and its a damn good reason.
If you just want any tablet you can get the tp as well. Its awesome just as a tablet, but take a look at the other ones such as the ipad as well. If you compare the ipad and the transformer without a dock they're both good tablets with its pros and cons. But if you add the functionality of the dock the prime is on another level.
clouds5 said:
If you get the transformer get it for the dock. Its a unique and awesome experience. No other tablet will ever come close in that regard. That's the reason to get a prime IMHO and its a damn good reason.
If you just want any tablet you can get the tp as well. Its awesome just as a tablet, but take a look at the other ones such as the ipad as well. If you compare the ipad and the transformer without a dock they're both good tablets with its pros and cons. But if you add the functionality of the dock the prime is on another level.
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QFT.
The dock is what made me buy this tablet without even thinking. Being able to manually take notes in College + Keyboard when needed + Extra battery + USB and ANOTHER SD card slot just sealed the deal.
jblah said:
i'm actually in the same boat you are and i am currently asking the same questions. my issue is price. the ipad2 is going for $360 right now! the transformer prime 32 GB (lowest model) is going for $499. the ipad3 is going for $499. The acer iconia A510 is up for preorder on amazon for $450 for the 32gb model no gps and 5MP camera back 1MP camera front @ 1280 x 800 and this will come out shortly.
http://www.amazon.com/Acer-A510-10k...TWPU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332977290&sr=8-1
so i'm kinda stuck. tegra 3 is much better than the apple ipad2 A5. I'll have to seriously consider the acer iconia but acer has always lacked dev support so i'll be looking to xda developers for help yet again like i am with LG. Thats not necessary a bad thing but it helps when the company supports their own products like asus. I'm also hoping that once asus sees the price on the iconia they will drop the price on the transformer prime to $450 aswell.
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And I was kinda in the same boat as you, I was told that the prime was in stock so I sold my OG transformer to get it. I also looked at the new ipad. I look at it like this if I want the most apps and games then I it's ipad. But for functionality, not only is it android but transformers in particular. I want the 32gb , the HDMI , the dock (for typing and game controllers), Onlive for games. Also, and I guess this is more subjective I dislike itunes and the ipad UI

Buy or wait for the infinity

Hi
I'm considering to buy a tablet. (Hesitating between Prime / Infinity / Iconia A510 or A700)
To the owners of a prime, any known problem which haven't been fixed yet ?
I've read some words of prime owners which returned them due to "hardware problems"
I'm planning to use it on the field to watch/sort DSLR raw files (Canon 5DII) any of you tried this ? Is the Tegra fast enough to do this or will I be disappointed ?
Thanks in advance
Well if u pre order the a700 it only costs a little more than the a510 so I would rule out the a510. The prime tablet does have some issues with GPS and wifi. I haven't had any random reboots lately but I have been having troubles with games freezing. If u have the money and dont need a tablet right away go with the infinity. However, I am so fed up with Asus customer support that I recommend that if u don't need a keyboard go with the a700 for sure
Thanks.
Then I think it will be a no go for the prime. One less choice!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
Also there is a new Lenovo k2010 that is coming out. You might want to check that out also.
Jut ordered mine today
I really wanted the keyboard dock so the TP seemed like the way to go. As far as waiting for the Infinity, its going to be basically the same device but with a better screen (which doesn't justify the extra price at least for me) and the plastic strip for the antennas which is supposed to cure the signal issues.
As far as the A700 goes....well, i just don't "pre-order" anything. For all we know, it may end up having all the same issues as the prime...or not...but with no track record there is no way to tell. If I was going to wait for something that isn't out yet, I'd wait a while longer after it's released to let the rest of you beta test it for me http://forum.xda-developers.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
Just say no to pre-orders.
Do you have any info about the Lenovo, I did not manage to find a release date.
The specs are great, but as far as release date goes, its only going to be released in China as of now. Hopefully it will come to the US but no one knows
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
laloutre said:
Hi
I'm considering to buy a tablet. (Hesitating between Prime / Infinity / Iconia A510 or A700)
To the owners of a prime, any known problem which haven't been fixed yet ?
I've read some words of prime owners which returned them due to "hardware problems"
I'm planning to use it on the field to watch/sort DSLR raw files (Canon 5DII) any of you tried this ? Is the Tegra fast enough to do this or will I be disappointed ?
Thanks in advance
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Click to collapse
my prime has been almost flawless from the very beginning...so i can't really comment on if there are fixes that need to be done
i still highly recommend it as it's still a beast of a performer...and the option of the keyboard dock is great
the wifi "problem" is almost non-existent...very few reported an actual problem..meaning they couldn't get signal... most are fine and the range has been much better with recent updates
i haven't really had the gps problem...but asus has been pretty good for the customer service regarding that. There was a asus tech following our issues on the boards and a free gps dongle was sent out if you requested it (like i said, i didn't have any problems...but free upgrades? i'll take it)
like someone else said, it's kind of hard to justify paying more for the infinity for just a better resolution...the tf300 is as good of a bet, but doesn't look nearly as nice/sexy
so...fingers crossed, my tablet has been great so far and i definitely would still recommend it

[Q] Transformer Prime TF201 + Dock for $200 - Good deal?

I'm looking at buying a Transformer Prime TF201 + dock from an online buddy. On paper, it checks all the boxes, but it's pretty old. For $200, is this a good deal, or am I going to be disappointed?
I currently have an iPad 2 that I use constantly - it's a work machine, so Exchange email is a primary function, and I take notes with Penultimate using a stylus - both of these are required functions.
Aside from that, I use it for content consumption - web browsing, Twitter/Google+/etc, and sometimes for watching movies/gaming (casual gaming, I've got an Xbox for more hardcore gaming).
I originally wanted a Nexus 7, but the lack of microSD card slot and the smaller screen had me concerned. The Transformer Prime seems to cover off on both of these, plus the specs are decent and it's got Jelly Bean, which was another requirement.
Ask him for the serial number. If it's one of the earlier TF201s (serial numbers starting with BC, C1 or C2), I would think twice about it since those used to have some stability issues. Not all of them, of course, but it may account for the price. Jellybean may have fixed those issues, though.
phnx452 said:
Ask him for the serial number. If it's one of the earlier TF201s (serial numbers starting with BC, C1 or C2), I would think twice about it since those used to have some stability issues. Not all of them, of course, but it may account for the price. Jellybean may have fixed those issues, though.
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Thanks, that's helpful. He said he never had an issue with GPS or WiFi, which seems to be a common issue, according to the forums here, but it's good to have a specific thing to look for.
200$ is nothing for prime +dock. Just check the prime's price on ebay... if its not convince you, you can sell it without loss..
Android gives a lot more customiseable environment.
Im 100% satisfied with mine..
Usage is almost the same as yours, exchange mails and content consumption.. i can only say thats perfect..
The integrated email client is excellent!
No speed issues.. its enough for almost everything.
And you will get a docking station with extra battery life, usb slot, card slot, touchpad, keyboard...all of these missing from apple..
Only con for me is the weakness of wifi.. where my phone has 90% signal strength prime has about 40-50%..
I didn't have any experience with ipads but i think i dont need it!
If you are not interested i would be happy to buy it for my mom
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app
Picked up the Transformer Prime this weekend. It's a C2, but everything *seems* to be working OK (WiFi, GPS, haven't tested BT yet).
Interestingly (and conveniently), he included the original receipt (the guy I got it from is the 2nd owner) showing that it was purchased on 2/25/12, and that the original purchaser bought it at MicroCenter, and bought the 1 year accidental damage plan. From my initial research, it LOOKS like this is completely transferrable and covers EVERYTHING. It also seems as though MicroCenter (like other retailers) is replacing the Prime with the Infinity.
So.....I might be able to get MicroCenter to swap this bad boy out for a brand new Infinity. I'd still have to buy the keyboard dock (apparently the TF201 keyboard dock isn't compatible with the TF700?) but I'd have bought it all for ~$350 (depending on what I could get the TF700 keyboard dock for and how much I could sell the TF201 keyboard dock for).
Not a bad haul, IMO.
$200 is a steal, is it bricked?
So.....I might be able to get MicroCenter to swap this bad boy out for a brand new Infinity. I'd still have to buy the keyboard dock (apparently the TF201 keyboard dock isn't compatible with the TF700?) but I'd have bought it all for ~$350 (depending on what I could get the TF700 keyboard dock for and how much I could sell the TF201 keyboard dock for).
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Dock for TF201 and TF700 is the SAME!
m-xxxx said:
dock for tf201 and tf700 is the same!
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even better!
the orange bandit said:
Not a bad haul, IMO.
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Sounds like what a bandit would say. your plan is despicable.
How so? He gave me all the documentation, which means he's had all the documentation himself for as long as he's owned the tablet. He even mentioned the receipt and warranty when he handed me the boxes. There is documented issues with the WiFi and GPS on this device, and I have noticed the WiFi issue specifically on this unit. It's not completely useless, but it's also not what I would call full support (Based on my other WiFi devices and their reception in my home and work).
Not that it's any of your business, but he offered up the unit, I asked how much, he said $200, I said sure. We even had to delay our meetup because he hadn't touched the thing in several months, so the battery was dead, and he even had lost the charger, so he bought a new one before handing it over. Not exactly his daily driver (he also has a Surface RT and a Nexus 7).
I appreciate that you're welcome to your opinion, but effectively calling me a thief is a bit rash, and quite rude.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app

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