Series ASUS Eee PC became a real revolution in the world of portable computing when in 2007 it introduced the first affordable netbook with a 7-inch screen and Linux on board. These compact devices laid the foundation for modern Ultrabooks, proving that a powerful computer could fit in a bag and last all day on battery power. Although production officially ended in 2013, thousands of Eee PCs are still in good service to their owners - from students to collectors of retro equipment.

Today ASUS Eee PC is not just nostalgia, but a full-fledged tool for undemanding tasks: web surfing, working with documents, or even programming in lightweight languages. However, to unlock the potential of these devices, you need to know their weak points and hidden capabilities. In this article we will look at all key aspects — from choosing a model to upgrading hardware and installing modern software.

History and evolution of the ASUS Eee PC series

First ASUS Eee PC 701 appeared on the market in October 2007 and immediately became a sensation: it weighs only 920 grams, a 4 GB SSD, an Intel Celeron M processor and a price of about $400. The concept of "netbook" (from English. netbook - “network computer”) meant a device for accessing the Internet and basic office tasks, and Eee PC fits perfectly into this niche. The success was so resounding that within a year ASUS released more than 10 modifications, including models with 8.9" and 10" screens.

Key milestones in the development of the series:

  • 📅 2007 - debut Eee PC 701 with Linux Xandros and a 7" display. Users could choose between 2GB and 4GB SSD.
  • 💻 2008 - exit Eee PC 900 with 8.9" screen and Eee PC 1000H - the first netbook with a hard drive (80/160 GB) and an Intel Atom processor.
  • 🔋 2009 - model Eee PC 1005HA set a record for autonomy (up to 10.5 hours) thanks to a 6-core battery.
  • 🖥️ 2010–2013 — transition to 10.1" screens, appearance Eee PC 1215 with 12" display and discrete graphics NVIDIA ION.

It's interesting that the title Eee stood for "Easy to learn, Easy to work, Easy to play" - a principle that ASUS has observed throughout the history of the series. However, by 2013, the netbook market faded due to competition from tablets and ultrabooks. Latest models such as Eee PC X101 with the Intel Atom N2600 processor, they could no longer compete with more powerful and thinner devices.

Technical characteristics: comparison of popular models

Despite the external similarity, the models ASUS Eee PC They differed greatly in their “filling”. Below is a comparative table of the key characteristics of the most common versions. Please note SSD/HDD size And processor type - this is critical when choosing a device for upgrade.

Model Year of manufacture Screen Processor RAM Storage Battery
Eee PC 701 2007 7" (800×480) Intel Celeron M 900 MHz 512 MB 4 GB SSD 4h (4-cells)
Eee PC 900 2008 8.9" (1024×600) Intel Celeron M 900 MHz 1 GB 12/20 GB SSD 5h (6-cells)
Eee PC 1000H 2008 10" (1024×600) Intel Atom N270 1.6 GHz 1 GB 80/160 GB HDD 7h (6 cells)
Eee PC 1005HA 2009 10" (1024×600) Intel Atom N280 1.66 GHz 1 GB 160/250 GB HDD 10.5h (6 cells)
Eee PC 1215N 2010 12.1" (1366×768) Intel Atom D525 1.8 GHz + NVIDIA ION 2 GB 250/320 GB HDD 8h (6-cells)

An important nuance: models with SSDs (for example, 701 or 900) have a limited write resource - about 100,000 cycles. If your Eee PC suddenly stops booting, it's likely time to replace the drive. In contrast, versions with HDD (1000H, 1005HA) are more reliable, but slower and heavier.

When choosing a device on the secondary market, pay attention to:

  • 🔋 Battery status — original batteries last 3–5 years, after which they require replacement.
  • 💾 Drive type — SSDs in early models often fail, and HDDs may have bad sectors.
  • 🔌 Ports - some models (for example, 701) have only 2 USB, which is inconvenient for modern tasks.
📊 Which ASUS Eee PC model do you think is the best?
  • 701 (pioneer)
  • 900/1000 (gold standard)
  • 1005HA (autonomy record)
  • 1215N (with NVIDIA graphics)
  • Other model

Upgrade and modernization: how to extend the life of a netbook

Even after 15 years ASUS Eee PC can be adapted to modern tasks. The main thing is to choose the right direction for the upgrade. Let's start with the simplest and most effective:

1. Replacing the drive

In models with SSD (for example, 701 or 900) the factory drive often becomes a bottleneck. Solutions:

  • 🔧 Replacing with mSATA SSD (via adapter) - any modern drive with a capacity of up to 256 GB is suitable.
  • 💾 Installing an SD card as the primary drive (requires BIOS modification on some models).
  • 🖥️ Connecting an external HDD via USB - a budget option, but reduces portability.

For models with HDD (1000H, 1005HA) replacement with 2.5" SSD. For example, Kingston A400 120GB will cost ~2000 rubles and will speed up system loading by 3–4 times.

2. Increase RAM

Most Eee PC support maximum 2 GB RAM (For example, 1005HA or 1215N). However, even this gives a performance boost when working with the browser or light applications. Suitable modules:

  • 🔹 DDR2 667 MHz SO-DIMM - for models 2007–2009.
  • 🔹 DDR2 800 MHz SO-DIMM - for 1005HA and newer.

Attention! In the model Eee PC 701 The memory is soldered to the motherboard - upgrade is not possible.

3. Battery replacement

Original batteries Eee PC have long since exhausted their resources. Alternatives:

  • 🔋 Universal batteries from third parties (for example, NewerTech or Targus).
  • 🔌 Use without battery — if the laptop only works on mains power, you can remove the battery completely (check the BIOS settings!).

Check the compatibility of components with the model

Back up your data

Prepare screwdrivers (usually T5 and Phillips #0 are needed)

Disconnect the battery before operation-->

Installation of modern software: from Windows 10 to Linux

Officially ASUS Eee PC supported Windows XP or Linux Xandros, but today these systems are obsolete. Luckily, there are several ways to install up-to-date software:

1. Windows 10/11 on Eee PC: is it possible?

Technically yes, but with caveats:

  • ✅ Suitable Models: 1005HA, 1215N (with Intel Atom N280/D525 processors).
  • ❌ Unsuitable: 701, 900 (too weak processors and not enough RAM).

To install Windows 10 you will need:

  1. Update BIOS to the latest version (download from ASUS official website).
  2. Use 32-bit version Windows 10 LTSC (lightweight build without unnecessary services).
  3. Disable all visual effects and background processes.

⚠️ Attention! On Eee PC 701/900 Windows 10 will work extremely slowly - it is better to consider lightweight Linux distributions.

2. Best Linux distributions for Eee PC

Linux is an ideal choice for netbooks due to its low resource requirements. Recommended options:

  • 🐧 AntiX - optimized for older PCs, weighs less than 700 MB.
  • 🐧 Puppy Linux - loaded into RAM, works even on Eee PC 701 with 512 MB of memory.
  • 🐧 Lubuntu - light version of Ubuntu with LXQt environment.

To install:

  1. Download the ISO image from the distribution's official website.
  2. Write it to a flash drive using Rufus or BalenaEtcher.
  3. In BIOS (F2 at boot) disable Secure Boot and select boot from USB.
💡

If Wi-Fi does not work after installing Linux, download the driver rtl8187 for Realtek chip - it fits most Eee PC models.

Typical faults and repair methods

ASUS Eee PC - reliable devices, but they also have “diseases” associated with age. Let's look at the most common problems and their solutions.

1. Does not turn on or turns off immediately

Reasons and actions:

  • 🔌 Faulty power supply — check the output voltage (should be 19V).
  • 🔋 Swollen capacitors on the motherboard - soldering is required (a common problem in Eee PC 1000H).
  • 💾 Damaged SSD/HDD - try booting from LiveUSB.

2. The screen does not work (black or stripes)

Possible reasons:

  • 🔧 Detached matrix cable — disassemble the laptop and check the connection.
  • 💡 Faulty backlight — replace the inverter or lamp (in models with CCFL backlight).
  • 🖥️ Graphics problems - in Eee PC 1215N The NVIDIA ION chip may burn out.

⚠️ Attention! In models Eee PC 701/900 the screen is connected via a fragile 40-pin cable. Be careful when disassembling!

3. Overheating and spontaneous shutdowns

A common problem is due to dried thermal paste and dust. Solution:

  1. Disassemble the laptop and clean the cooling system with compressed air.
  2. Replace thermal paste with Arctic MX-4 or similar.
  3. Check the operation of the fan - in Eee PC 1005HA it often gets clogged with dust.
How to disassemble the Eee PC 1000H for cleaning?

1. Turn off the power and remove the battery.

2. Remove the 11 screws on the bottom cover (use a T5 screwdriver).

3. Gently pry the cover open with the plastic card, starting at the corner near the USB ports.

4. Disconnect the keyboard and touchpad cables before complete disassembly.

Games and multimedia: what can the Eee PC handle?

Despite the modest characteristics, ASUS Eee PC capable of running retro games and playing videos. The main thing is to choose the right content and settings.

1. Games

List of games that will run on most models (with 2 GB RAM and SSD):

  • 🎮 Classic strategies: Heroes of Might and Magic III, Age of Empires II.
  • 🎮 2D platformers: Terraria, Stardew Valley (at minimum settings).
  • 🎮 Emulators: Nintendo DS (DeSmuME), PlayStation 1 (ePSXe).

For models with discrete graphics (Eee PC 1215N) available:

  • 🎮 Minecraft (with optimized shaders).
  • 🎮 Team Fortress 2 (on low settings).

2. Video and music

To play media:

  • 🎥 Use lightweight players: MPV or SMPlayer.
  • 🎵 Suitable for music Audacious or Foobar2000 (on Windows).
  • 📺 Maximum resolution for smooth playback: 720p (1080p will be slow).

⚠️ Attention! In models with Intel GMA 950 (For example, Eee PC 900) hardware video acceleration does not work - use software decoding.

Accessories and peripherals: what suits the Eee PC

Due to compact size and legacy ports, selecting accessories for ASUS Eee PC requires attention. Here are the tested options:

1. Adapters and hubs

Majority problem Eee PC - lack of ports. Solutions:

  • 🔌 USB hub with external power supply (For example, Anker 7-port) - required to connect multiple devices.
  • 📡 USB Wi-Fi adapter (For example, TP-Link TL-WN725N) - if the original module is broken.
  • 🖥️ USB-to-VGA/HDMI adapter (For example, Plugable USB 2.0 to VGA) - for connecting to modern monitors.

2. Cases and bags

Original covers for Eee PC They haven't produced it for a long time, but they will do:

  • 👜 Bags for 10" tablets (for example, from Amazon Basics).
  • 📦 Universal neoprene covers measuring 10-11 inches.

3. Replacing the keyboard and touchpad

Keyboards Eee PC are known for their "soft" action, but over time the keys wear out or stop working. Solutions:

  • ⌨️ Original keyboards can be found on eBay or AliExpress (search by model, for example, Eee PC 1005HA keyboard).
  • 🖱️ External keyboard (For example, Logitech K380) - connects via Bluetooth or USB.
💡

When purchasing accessories, check compatibility with your model - for example, keyboards from the Eee PC 1000H will not fit the 1005HA due to different connectors.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to install Windows 11 on ASUS Eee PC?

Technically possible, but highly not recommended. Windows 11 requires at least 4 GB of RAM and a processor with TPM 2.0 support, which is not available on any model Eee PC. Even if you bypass the check using a modified ISO, the system will be unbearably slow. It is better to choose Windows 10 LTSC or light Linux.

How to reset BIOS on Eee PC if you forgot your password?

Reset methods:

  1. Remove the CMOS battery for 10-15 minutes (requires disassembly of the laptop).
  2. Find the jumper CLR_CMOS on the motherboard and short circuit it for 5 seconds.
  3. For models 701/900 you can use the utility eeepc-bios-tool under Linux.

⚠️ After a reset, the boot settings may disappear - be prepared to configure the BIOS again.

How to connect Eee PC to a modern TV?

Connection options:

  • 📺 Via VGA - if the TV has a VGA input (rare in new models).
  • 🔌 Via USB adapter (For example, USB-to-HDMI from Plugable).
  • 🌐 By network - with the help Raspberry Pi as a media server.

Maximum supported resolution - 1366×768 (for Eee PC 1215N).

Where can I download drivers for Eee PC?

Official drivers can be found at ASUS website in the archive. For modern systems (Windows 10/Linux) the following are relevant:

  • 🖨️ Printer drivers - use universal ones from the manufacturer.
  • 📡 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth - for chips Realtek RTL8187 or Atheros AR5007.
  • 🔊 Sound — in Linux it usually works out of the box with a 5.4+ kernel.

For Eee PC 1215N manual driver installation may be required NVIDIA ION (download from NVIDIA official website).

How much does ASUS Eee PC cost today?

Prices on the secondary market (2026):

  • 💰 Eee PC 701/900 — 3,000–6,000 rubles (often without battery).
  • 💰 Eee PC 1000H/1005HA — 5,000–10,000 rubles (depending on condition).
  • 💰 Eee PC 1215N — 8,000–15,000 rubles (due to discrete graphics).

Tip: buy only with photos of the insides - sellers often hide swollen capacitors or dead pixels on the screen.