iiView Vpad tablet computer debuts with Intel Atom N270; starts at $499

The iiView Vpad has jumped into the growing mix of touchscreen tablet computers today. It's a basic one, but it's available now.

The Vpad comes in three editions, with varying options in HDD space and internet connectivity, specifically. Here's what you can expect in the most basic model:

• 10.2-inch color touchscreen display (1024 x 600 resolution )
• Windows 7 Starter Edition
• Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz processor
• 1 GB of RAM
• 160 GB hard drive
• 802.11n 10/100 Ethernet
• Wi-Fi
• 3 USB ports
• VGA
• 2-in-1 headphone/microphone jack
• Measurements: 2.1-lbs.; 6.57- x 10.5- x 1-inches

The only real sour point is that the battery life is only three hours, although you can step it up to 8 with an optional additional battery. Otherwise, it's could be considered a standard tablet.

The base edition has an MSRP set at $499. An upgraded version for $699 includes a 320 GB hard drive, 1 GB more of RAM and 3G.