Toshiba Mini NB305-N440BN 10.1-Inch Netbook (Java Brown) on sale

deasonp@zianet.com Say: Toshiba Mini NB305-N440BN 10.1-Inch Netbook (Java Brown)
Wireless connectivity less than desirable, 2010-08-06
This review is for: Toshiba Mini NB305-N440BN 10.1-Inch Netbook (Java Brown)
I purchased the Toshiba NB305 when my previous Lenovo gave up the ghost and I needed a device for use at the Boy Scout National Jamboree. Although the fit and function of the keyboard is just right, and the brightness of the screen more than adequate, three gripes surfaced. Minor was the inability to upgrade the memory to 2GB due to inaccuracy of the part specification. Second, the battery life went for 10 hours indicated after first charge to 4 hours after the second charge, and the device has remained at 4 hours since. But most aggravating and damning was the inability to connect to the proffered WiFi at the Jamboree staff site. While all around me were connected with their Apples, HPs, Dells and some older Toshibas, there I sat with my new NB305 and nary a trace of a signal. Chagrined, wiser, and with an opportunity to trade sleep time for internet time. If faced with a marginal signal issue again I shall probably opt for an external antennae/wireless.

Donald C. Lumagui Jr. Say: Toshiba Mini NB305-N440BN 10.1-Inch Netbook (Java Brown)
Good durability, Affordable Price, 10X7 Size,, 2010-07-25
This review is for: Toshiba Mini NB305-N440BN 10.1-Inch Netbook (Java Brown)
This is the first time I bought a cheap computer in my life. This is my 7th Computer and I could say that this has a good performance for a cheap laptop.I use this in school and work as a Paramedic and it works fine. It is handy in my job. Also, it is scratch resistant which the first thing that I got attracted it does not have the shiny skin which I hate because I do not like scratches. The speaker is too small for this laptop which I did not like. I also put games in it such as Fate. I haven't try to put more games in it because this is not a gaming PC. Battery life is good enough to stay longer in school and work.

S. Gable "Nikon Nerd" Say: Toshiba Mini NB305-N440BN 10.1-Inch Netbook (Java Brown)
A Fantastic Netbook - Functional and Sturdy, 2010-10-11
This review is for: Toshiba Mini NB305-N440BN 10.1-Inch Netbook (Java Brown)
My new Toshiba Netbook NB305-N440BL rocks!I read all the top reviews and I came up three Netbook manufacturers that caught my eye: Asus, Toshiba, and HP. As I continued to look at user's reviews and comments I finally narrowed my decision to get a Toshiba. A few reviewers that caught my attention were Mac users and they selected a Toshiba netbook. I made up my mind and decided to go with the NB305-N440BL model. It has the latest N455 processor and uses the newer memory DDR3. This combination gives the system a slight increase in speed. Also, having a 250GB hard drive is a much needed feature for me.I purchased this netbook from Beach Camera via Amazon. I ordered it on a Thursday evening, it shipped on a Sunday and I received it on Tuesday.The initial installation was easy. Created a new Windows account for myself. Connecting to the WIFI network was quick and easy.Windows 7 Starter OS is a limited version. I do have plans in the near future to upgrade to the Windows 7 Professional version along with installing a 2GB memory module. In the meantime, I'm still using the 1GB RAM that came with the system. I also installed an 8GB USB flash drive that's dedicated as a Ready Boost device for the Windows 7 Starter environment. I've setup the flash drive of which 4GB (the max) will be used by the OS. I think for now, I'll keep Windows 7 Starter. So far, it's useable and I haven't encountered any issues. My 2GB Kingston memory module is in the process of being shipped from Toshiba Direct.In regards to finding the correct memory module. I've read that the BIOS version 1.5 will handle either the DDR2 or the DDR3 memory modules. Versions prior to BIOS version 1.5, can only handle DDR2 memory. One has to upgrade their BIOS to at least version 1.5 to take advantage of the newer DDR3 memory technology. Mine came with BIOS version 1.5. As I mentioned before, I've purchased the recommended Kingston memory module (DDR3) from Toshiba Direct and patiently waiting for its arrival.I've also purchased a Samsung portable SO84C/RSBN DVD drive here on Amazon. Setup was easy and within 10 minutes I was on my way to burning Recovery disks for my Netbook. I've read that it's important to create Recovery disks/media of your Netbook before you start configuring, and installing apps. Now that I've done mine, I can start putting my new netbook through the test. BTW, the Samsung DVD drive is awesome! Note: it does come with a Y-split USB cable and Nero software suite.I'm mostly using my new toy for storing my photos. Also, I plan on using it for blogging, checking email, and researching on the Internet. This will also be great to take on trips because of it's small size and light weight. Remember, this is not a full fledge laptop/notebook. There is a limitation to the screen capabilities that will limit what you can install and see. Applications that I mention here works fine on this netbook.I have to say, I'm impressed with the Windows 7 Starter OS even though it has limited capabilities. So far, I haven't felt the need to upgrade the OS. After a few days of use, I'm finding other applications that came with this Netbook including MS Works word processor to write this review.** Update 10/14/10 **I received my 2GB Kingston memory module from Toshiba Direct. The part number is KTT1066D3S/2G. I see the same part number here on Amazon, but it appears they have the wrong picture of what the module looks like. It would be great if someone who has purchased this module from Amazon, to post the actual picture. I know it would be helpful for others.Before installing my memory module, I removed the battery. There is one screw that holds down the door to the memory module and it's very snug. Once unscrewed, the screw stays on the door. Have to slide the door towards the screw and lift up gently. Eventually, the door will pop out. Instructions were provided with new memory on how to remove the previous module and how to install the new one. I replaced the memory cover and put the battery back into the netbook.I turned the power on and hit F2 when the Toshiba logo appeared on the screen. The BIOS showed the new 2GB of RAM.I did notice that boot up into Windows 7 Starter was faster. Applications appear to be running faster as well.** Update 10/29/10 **I ended up installing Kaspersky Internet Security software (including anti-virus) on my netbook. I've used this product years ago when I was a Windows Weenie. Now, that I've been a Mac user for the last few years, I haven't had the need to use an anti-virus software. Kaspersky is working like a charm and because of it's small footprint, it hasn't slowed down my system at all.A few days ago, I ran into a few problems while using Internet Explorer 8 that came with my netbook. Whenever I ran IE8, it would slow my system down and even brought it down to its knees. I have since downloaded and installed Firefox and Safari. Both are working extremely well and noticeably faster than IE8.I've also downloaded Windows Live Writer which allows me to write my blog posts offline and publish to my blog when I have Internet access or when I'm ready to post. This WLW software works fine with my system. BTW, Windows Live Writer is an awesome tool.** Update 10/30/10 **I have found the perfect netbook bag for this Toshiba system. I was at my local Best Buy and found the Wenger Legacy Double Slimcase Netbook case. It has a double zippered storage area: one has tricot lining for storing the netbook and one for storing small papers, etc. There is also front and rear pockets where the padded handles can be stored and then it can be used as a well padded slipcase to put into a backpack.** Update 12/12/10 **If one is interested in just a simple netbook slipcase, the Wenger Legacy Slipcase is a perfect fit. Not tight fitting like Targus or some other brands. I was at my local Staples and did a comparison by laying one slipcase over the other. This Wenger slipcase has more square corners versus rounded which gives a bit more room. The inside of this case has some raised padded bumps on one side which provides additional protection. After slipping my Toshiba netbook into the Wenger Slipcase, I was able to zip it close without too much effort.** Update 12/16/10 **I'm averaging about 6.5 to 7 hours of use before I have to recharge. I do have the brightness turned up a bit on the screen. No complaints here as I can work for hours without any worries. A great little netbook.** Update 12/26/10 **I had a need to hook up an old Wacom Graphire tablet to my netbook. I plugged in the USB and let Windows 7 Starter do it's thing. After a few minutes, I had a working tablet on my Toshiba. I'm also running an older version of Photoshop Elements that has a small footprint. It's running fine and I'm not doing anything fancy or graphics intensive. I know it's the not the latest and greatest stuff I'm running, but it just shows how this netbook is meeting my needs.** Update 01/08/11 **I found the need for a small mouse. I looked at several brands and several different sizes. I ended up buying a travel mouse to use with this netbook. I bought the Case Logic 2.4Ghz Mini Optical Wireless Travel Mouse at my local MicroCenter. This is probably the smallest mouse I've seen and used. It uses 2AAA batteries (included) and pretty much weighs next to nothing. I can easily throw this mouse in my bag and not worry about it being bulky. It comes with a micro USB Nano receiver that's doesn't stick out too far from the side of my netbook (e.g. 1/4"). There's an on/off switch to conserve battery when not in use. Here's the specs:Features:* 2.4GHz USB micro receiver* No pairing required* Plug and Play via USB nano receiver* Auto power function, saves and prolongs battery life; ON/OFF switch* Operating range up to 10 meters* Perfect for travelThis is a nifty portable travel mouse. It's easy to install. It's not available here on Amazon, but any mouse that has the Micro Nano USB receiver will work with this netbook.** Update 01/09/11 **Another update? I wanted to share another bag that I'm using for traveling. I needed a functional bag bigger than a slipcase to hold documents and accessories while on travel. I found the Mobile Edge Mini Messenger bag here on Amazon. Instead of being wide at the width like most messenger bags I'm used to, it's tall in length. This bag can hold my netbook with plenty of space, all my netbook accessories and travel docs plus a future iPad.** Update 01/29/11 **I took this netbook with me on vacation. On the plane, it fit nicely on the tray table as I was typing up my blog posts. A fellow passenger sitting next to me, pulled out his full size laptop and looked a bit uncomfortable using it. He did notice my little Toshiba and started to ask some questions which I graciously answered for him.I used this on a cruise ship and was able to connect to the ship's wifi without any problems. I stored this in the drawer when not in use (out of sight). It also fit in our cabin's safe.I have to add that this Toshiba netbook is pleasing to the eye. It looks good in public! LOL!!!** Update mid-2011 **As I use this netbook more and more, I'm noticing how much more it's slowing down. The Windows updates are taking longer. I still like the netbook and it's functionality, but Windows starter is a real hog. I might be looking for another portable device.I'll be back to post additional usage updates, accessories, and software that works with this netbook. Stay tuned!