AOC Reveals Portable USB-Based 16-inch Monitor
This monitor doesn't require a power or VGA connection, but instead gets its power/video feed from a USB port on a laptop or desktop.
For those who typically work in a multi-display environment, reducing the desktop real estate to a single laptop LCD is not only awkward, but can slow down overall performance. That's where AOC's new 15.6-inch-inch plug-and-play display comes in: it's lightweight and features a built-in USB 2.0 port that receives both power and video via a single USB cable -- separate power and VGA connections are not required.
Slated for a nationwide release this October for $139 USD, the TFT Active Matrix LCD panel (model e1649fwu) will feature a 16:9 aspect ratio, WLED backlighting, a dynamic contrast ratio of 50,000,000:1, a response time of 5ms, a maximum resolution of 1366 x 768 @ 60Hz, a pixel frequency of 85 MHz and a brightness level of 250 cd/m2. The display won't be compatible with High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP), meaning that a good chunk of copy-protected video won't be viewable on the display.
"The USB Monitor showcases AOC’s dedication to expanding its display offerings and using the latest technologies to come out with innovative and user friendly products," said Robert Velez, Marketing Manager of AOC. "The USB Monitor is ideal for business presentations, photo frame applications, multiple monitor displays and as a companion monitor for laptop and netbook users who want more out of their computer."
Tuesday AOC said the USB display will feature a clean, modern aesthetic complimented by a bezel covered with a black piano-polish finish. It will also have a built-in Smart Stand that will support both horizontal and vertical positions, will pivot out when needed, and then store flush against the back when not in use. A hard glass screen will offer users superior protection against accidental scratches and evil toy-throwing children.
According to AOG, the power requirements are seemingly minimal at a maximum of 8 watts: one laptop (or desktop) will support multiple USB Monitor connections to create a multi-monitor setup. "AOC’s industry-leading LED display technology allows for a powerful and crystal clear display while minimizing power consumption," the company said.
Look for the e1649fwu USB monitor next month at retailers like Best Buy, Cosco, hhgregg and other retailers for $139 USD.
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Kevin Parrish has over a decade of experience as a writer, editor, and product tester. His work focused on computer hardware, networking equipment, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and other internet-connected devices. His work has appeared in Tom's Hardware, Tom's Guide, Maximum PC, Digital Trends, Android Authority, How-To Geek, Lifewire, and others.
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mavroxur So the monitor consumes 8 watts... but the USB spec is 5 volts at 500mA. Basic math tells me that 8 watts is greater than 2.5 watts. Does this USB monitor have a cable that splits into 4 USB's at the computer's end to get enough power to drive it?Reply
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amk-aka-Phantom Umm... DO want if you can make it 12'' and have a VGA connection - would be perfect for testing PCs. Even so, I'm surprised with the price tag - usually that kind of "innovation" would cost an outrageous price.Reply -
lp231 The only benefit I see with this monitor areReply
Notebook users who likes to add more than one display and technicians that repairs computers from door to door, but for them it's better to grab a monitor with actual connectors and cost a lot less.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824009262
Also AOC isn't the first to have a USB monitor, Samsung had one a long time ago.
http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/monitors/display/samsung-sm940ux.html
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amk-aka-Phantom Reply9311289 said:The only benefit I see with this monitor are
Notebook users who likes to add more than one display and technicians that repairs computers from door to door, but for them it's better to grab a monitor with actual connectors and cost a lot less.http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824009262
Also AOC isn't the first to have a USB monitor, Samsung had one a long time ago.
http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/monitors/display/samsung-sm940ux.html
Indeed. But I want such a "test monitor" to be as small as possible, not 18'' and not 16'' either... 12 or less, and VGA, as you said :) I doubt that a USB screen will work on BIOS level in all PCs. -
maako What about the graphic output, is it taken from the graphic card, APU or what?Reply
Also as #1 mentioned, with the USB 5v the Ampere should be 1,6A. -
Might save your butt if your laptop screen dies and you need a monitor quickly and sell it after on ebay. I just skip the hassle and buy a real monitor.Reply
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jamie_1318 Yeah, I'm kinda stumped on the 8 watt thing too. I have a USB 2.5" HD that drains a max of 2.6w (it's a black edition drive) and that requires two USB ports on 90% computers. so in order to run this you would have to sacrifice 3 USB ports, or plug it into a USB-power port (on a power adapter). Nothing with a max power draw of 8 watts should be able to run on a single USB connection as advertised. The article even clearly states it will use only a single USB port, so how is it drawing over USB rated 2.5w max?Reply -
lp231 amk-aka-phantomIndeed. But I want such a "test monitor" to be as small as possible, not 18'' and not 16'' either... 12 or less, and VGA, as you said I doubt that a USB screen will work on BIOS level in all PCs.It seems newegg has a 8.9" and it's still USB!Reply
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824185014
Found this site that sells small LCD monitors with VGA and a USB card that actually produces 12v as well as 24v
http://www.esaw.co.uk/products.php
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815158102
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815158168