Scroll Tablet Intro

I've created this blog to record the work I've done on the Scroll Tablet. This is a Chinese made touchpad 'MID' (Media interface device) which runs Android 2.1. It is available relatively cheaply from Maplins for £130. The tablet works out of the box however it has a number of limitations such as not being an official Google device so doesn't have direct access to the market or some of the Google apps (however you get what you pay for).

Specs:

• Google Android OS 2.1
• 800MHz ARM 11 CPU
• 256MB DDR2 RAM
• Ultra thin and lightweight
• Surf the web, send email, play music, movies and keep on top of your social networking
• 7in Widescreen Display 800x480 (Can be viewed in portrait or landscape mode)
• Open GL 2.0 3D support perfect for games
• 16 bit G-sensor, monitors & rotates screen through 360 degrees
• Connect to the internet using the built in Wi-Fi 802.11b/g
• Built in Webcam
• 2GB memory built-in, micro SD card expandable up to 32GB
• Resistive touch panel
• 3.5 inch audio port for headphones or Stereo Speakers
• View smooth high definition movies on the move or through the HDMI output on to your TV
• 3 x Built in 1W Speakers
• 3400mAH Li-polymer rechargeable battery for up to 4 hours use
• Dimensions 203 x 132 x 12mm

The version I have is running the latest firmware 1.02s with the linux kernel 2.6.29.

So what is it lacking:

• GPS
• GSM/3G
• It runs an old version of Android
• The Wifi reception is poor
• No bluetooth

So what do I plan to do with it:

1. First step is to setup a linux box to compile so additional kernel modules, I'll begin by compiling usbserial which should allow me to connect a Huawei 3G dongle and perhaps get 3G connectivity.
2. Finish my GPS hack to add an internal GPS
3. Investigate the creation of a Android 2.3 rom

There is an excellent forum for discussion about the Scroll Tablet: scrolltabletforum.co.uk

More soon