As they say, "the Apple seldom falls far from the tree."  The hot iPad tablet computer-cum-eBook reader, which many are calling a "jumbo iPhone" is a hot seller, much like its diminutive phone sidekick. However, it also reportedly is experiencing similar problems to that device -- overheating in the sun.

Among the first to report that the iPad was overheating when exposed to spring sunlight was PC Magazine editor Zach Honig who Twittered that he had received an error message "iPad needs to cool down before you can use it", while playing with the device in New York City.  He had to put the insubordinate unit in the fridge to cool it back down enough to resume operation.  Other publications, such as The Atlantic, cite numerous customers complaining of similar issues.

The iPad reportedly has an operating temperature of 32 degrees to 95 degrees F (0 to 35 degrees Celsius).  When the device heats up to over 113 degrees F it reportedly shuts off to protect itself.  Unfortunately, the tightly packaged electronics can't dissipate heat that well and the sun is enough to tip the scales and trigger a temporary iPad death.

Apple has not yet responded on the issue of overheating.

It has, however, responded to a second growing complaint -- that iPad purchasers can't connect to Wi-Fi networks, the device's sole source of internet connection in current 3G-less form.  Responding to a flood of complaints in its support forums, Apple posted a blog on Tuesday with advice and possible solutions.

Describes the post, "Under certain conditions, iPad may not automatically rejoin a known Wi-Fi network after restart or waking from sleep."

The post in effect passes along the blame to router manufacturers.  Apple says that the problem sometimes occurs when third-party Wi-Fi routers that are dual-band capable have the same name for each network or someone had different security settings for the different networks.

Apple says that creating separate names for separate bands and using the same security settings can fix some of the connection issues.  It also suggest updating your wireless router's software.  Once you've tried these steps, you should reset your network using Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

In the post Apple calls the problems -- weak Wi-Fi or no signal -- "occasional" and suggest among the previous suggestions, moving closer to your router.

The 3G iPad goes on sale later this month, with AT&T providing the wireless service, initially.