Softbook Reader

eBook Readers/Hardware


About the size of a paperback book, the Softbook Reader is one of the most popular dedicated ebook devices to date but it has been superceded. The device was designed by Softbook Press specifically for reading ebooks, publications, journals, coming with none of the typical PDA software such as calenders, address books and the like.

The Softbook Reader is a stand alone device: you do not need to connect it to your computer to get access to ebook; you connect its internal 33.6Kbps modem to an analog phone line. The Reader can then dial into the SoftBook network to receive content through a local call.

The Softbook Reader is no longer manufactured. Its maker, Softbook Press, was acquired by Gemstar eBook Group. RCA, through a licensing deal with Gemstar, now manufacture an ebook device called the REB 1200, which many consider to be the successor to the Softbook Reader

Price

Approximate price $600.00

Size

Weight 2.9 lbs
Size (dimensions) 8.75" x 10.50" x 1.25"

Display Screen

Screen Type Touch-sensitive LCD
Screen Resolution 85 dpi
Amount of Colours Grayscale
Screen size (dimensions) 8.0" x 6.0"
Touchscreen Yes

Battery

Battery life 5 hours
Battery type Lithium-ion

Technology

Stylus (pen) Yes
Keyboard input No
Voice input n/a
Audio output (plays audio) No (only a speaker for alerting users of errors)
RAM 8MB
Processor speed & type n/a
Expanable memory Yes
CompactFlash Yes
Operating system Gemstar proprietary system

Connections

Built-in modem Yes
Type of modem 33.6Kbps
Ethernet connection n/a
Type of ethernet connection n/a
Infrared port n/a
Standard serial port n/a
USB port n/a
Other connection types J-11 modular jack


Published by Gemstar eBook Group Limited