I've tried a few Asus Ones, and found that even switching between multiple windows could take seconds. Is there anything powerful enough in that form factor for C++ programmers to build small to moderate size projects?
A:
Perhaps the HP Mini note? Amazon Link
You could also try to compile with the Nice command, which will supposedly only do intensive things during the moments when your not using your computer much.
Leif Andersen
2010-03-21 01:43:18
So anything with an i5 Intel, like a Thinkpad X series or T410 sounds like it would be more than enough?
Leeks and Leaks
2010-03-21 02:05:58
+2
A:
It depends on what compiler and editor/IDE you decide to use. The wimpiest Netbook is still a killer machine compared to what we used 20 or even 10 years ago. One of the easiest routes to better performance is to use an older editor/IDE (the compiler itself will probably be all right). Of course, we expected slower compilation back then too, but even so a minute to switch between windows would have been excessive.
Jerry Coffin
2010-03-21 01:43:21
+2
A:
I also give it a qualified yes.
What OS you use may matter a lot. I have Kubuntu on a HP 2140 netbook with only 1 gb of ram and the usual Asus N270 cpu. And it is actually rather snappy for window or desktop switches etc under KDE 4.3.
Compile-times are ok but I am spoiled by better machines at the office or even at home. But I got this for the form factor and I take it with me while commuting. I mostly edit, write docs, etc pp while I am on the train and then commit back to SVN at the other end. That works well for me, including the occassional make or make check.
Dirk Eddelbuettel
2010-03-21 01:44:37
A:
I have an eeepc and it's okay for compilation. I definitely wouldn't want to compile a complete Boost build on it. It works, but you're kind of slumming it. P4 speed, slow hard drive, small amount of RAM... less everything.
Pestilence
2010-03-21 01:47:37
A:
A low-quality netbook has more resources and capabilities than my development workstations did a decade ago. What you will need, however, is RAM. If you try to do too many things at a time on one of these things you will swap like crazy because modern software and modern operating systems are written by lazy, slack developers who think RAM is a limitless resource. Alternatively you can boost your RAM. My wife's netbook got boosted to 1GB before the unit was even taken home and it's not at all bad.
JUST MY correct OPINION
2010-03-21 02:05:53