We're not sure why its taken so long but USB 3.0 monitors are finally starting to hit the market. Perpetual leader ASUS once again pushes the envelop unveiling a set of 20+ inch displays. The largest, the MS248B, is a 23.6 inch, 1920x1080 resolution display at less than ½ inch thick. The iPad-like USB 3.0 display is built around the usual
DisplayLink technology. It has a 2ms response time and can also display HDMI video and HDMI audio through a secondary input port. Despite having access to
USB 3.0's higher power output, the huge monitor uses only a thimble of power when active, a miniscule 9W. This is close to Atom/Netbook power levels and when paired with a laptop's limited power, is absolutely essential.
The LED display boasts an increasingly unbelievable 10,000,000:1 contrast ratio. In high contrast to the other improvements, the feeble Ergo-Fit stand seems unchanged. Elegant only in its simplicity, ASUS has not managed to improve this unique stand solution especially compared to
others in the space. The stand has a very limited tilt range and no real mounting options. Standing arguments aside, this should be a great value for the traveler, not to mention anyone whose surge protector is already overloaded with cords. The ASUS MS248B should retail for around $250 but no hint has been dropped as to when we can expect to have one.
Via ITProPortal
Toshiba Mobile USB Monitor, Road-warrior Approved
By Paul McCollum on June 6th, 2011
