Review: Acer TravelMate C200 Tablet PC

Specs

• Hard Drive: 80GB Ultra ATA/100 (ATA-6)
• Ports:
• 1 x IrDA Fast Infrared
• 3 x USB 2.0
• 1 x Docking
• 1 x DC Power Input
• 1 x RJ-11 Modem
• 1 x RJ-45 Network
• 1 x VGA
• 1 x Microphone
• 1 x Headphone(s)
• 1 x i.Link IEEE 1394 FireWire
• Package Contents:
  TravelMate C203ETCi Tablet PC Lithium Ion battery AC Adapter Acer System Recovery CD Tablet Pen
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet 10/100/1000Mbps, Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11b/g 54Mbps
• Manufacturer: Acer Inc.
• Case Style: Portable
• Standard Memory: 512MB DDR2 SDRAM
• Display Screen: 12.1" XGA Active Matrix TFT Color LCD
• Optical Drive: Combo Drive - CD-RW/DVD-ROM (Plug-in Module)
• Sound Card: Integrated
• Standard Warranty: 1 Year(s) Limited - Worldwide
• Keyboard: 84 Keys
• Manufacturer Part Number: LX.TAU0E.002
• Expansion Slots: 1 x Flash Memory Card, 1 x CardBus Type II
• Operating System: Windows XP Tablet PC Edition
• Processor: Intel Celeron M 370 1.50GHz
• Batteries: 1 x 6-cell Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) Standard
• Modem: V.92 56Kbps Fax Modem
• Maximum Memory: 2GB DDR2 SDRAM
• Graphics Controller: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900 Up to 128MB VRAM
• Parts Warranty/Labor: 1 Year(s)
• Dimensions: 1.4" Height x 12.4" Width x 9.4" Depth

Final Thoughts

The Acer TravelMate C200 Tablet PC is not the lightest 12.1" model of the bunch. As a matter of fact the design is a bit bulkier than what we would have expected. On the upside this Celeron M-based version of the C200 is an outstanding value. We would highly recommend this Tablet PC for students, consumers or business users who want to get a solid and dependable Tablet PC without breaking the bank.

Pros

• Beautiful display
• Screen locks steady in notebook and tablet mode
• Built-in, removable optical drive
• Good value for the price

Cons

• Limited input options
• "Exposed" screen vulnerable to damage
• Debatable design issues

Review: Asus Eee R1F

Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo Processors T5500 (1.66 GHz; 667 MHz w/ 2mb Cache)
Operation System: Genuine Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition
Chipset Mobile Intel 945GM Express Chipset
Memory: 1024 DDRII 667MHz, (up to 2 GB)
Display: 13.3" WXGA (1280x800) Color Shine LCD
ASUS Splendid Video Intelligence Technology
Video Graphics & Memory Integrated Intel 945GM - shared up to 128mb
Hard Drive: 80GB SATA 5400RPM
Optical Drive: 8x Super Multi DVD Burner
Card Reader MMC/SD/Mini-SD/XD/Memory Stick/MS Pro/MS-Duo/MS-Pro-Duo
Fax/Modem/LAN/WLAN Integrated V.92 MDC Fax/ Modem, with Azalia-Link Compliant
10/10/1000 Ethernet
Integrated 802.11a/b/g
Built-in Bluetooth V2.0+EDR (optional)
LED Status Indicator Power-on/Suspend
Battery Charging/full/low
Storage device access
Capital / Scroll / Number Lock
E-mail in box
Wireless indicator
Touchpad Lock
Bluetooth 2.0
Interface 1 x Express Card
1 x VGA port
1 x Headphone-out jack (SPDIF)
1 x Microphone-in jack
1 x RJ11 Modem jack for phone line
1 x RJ45 LAN Jack for LAN insert
3 x USB 2.0 ports, 1x IEEE 1394 port
1 x TV-Out
1 x Fingerprint

Conclusion

Considering all the features you get for the price, which is affordable at around $1,500, it is hard to pass up on the Asus R1F. It features good performance with its Core Duo processor and ample storage with up to a 120GB hard drive. It's not too heavy or too big to take on trips or hold while standing for awhile. If you use the Splendid Video Technology movies look great, despite some graininess due to the Wacom screen layer. The plastic housing is a little cheap feeling, but the R1F is still durable. The plastic housing helps keep the cost and weight down as well. I enjoyed the R1F in both notebook and Tablet mode, nothing beats writing on the screen especially when you are in a hurry. The screen can double as one big post-it-note and the R1F definitely helped keep me organized.

Pros

• It is affordable, for all the features
• Great packaging and accessories included
• Love the Core 2 Duo processor
• Good display
• Hot swappable ODD/ Super Multi Optical Drive

Cons

• Plastic pen gets scratched in silo
• The battery doesn't last as long as smaller Tablets.
• The plastic housing makes it feel cheap

Review: Toshiba Portege M700 Tablet PC

Toshiba Portege M700 Tablet PC specs as reviewed (price as as tested $1,799):

• Core 2 Duo 2.2GHz T7500 processor
• 160GB hard drive
• 2GB RAM
• 12.1” WXGA (1280x800) LED backlit LCD display with both touchscreen and pen/ink capabilities
• 802.11a/g/n, Gigabit Ethernet
• Full Suite of Toshiba 3rd Generation EasyGuard Technology
• Shock absorbing design
• DVD Super Multi Drive
• 2x Sleep and Charge USB ports
• 1x USB port
• PC Card Slot
• SD Card slot
• RGB (monitor) output port
• Headphone and Microphone ports
• RJ-11 and RJ-45
• IEEE 1394
• Integrated webcam
• Fingerprint reader
• Windows Vista Business OS
• Dimensions: 12" x 9.41" x 1.47"
• Weight: 4.76 lbs
• 6-cell Lithium-Ion battery (claimed 5 hour life)

Conclusion

The M700 is a solid tablet. You get what you see with it. There isn't anything fancy, just a minimalistic design with all the necessities. The silver body protects a great LED backlight screen that has both a touchscreen and active digitizer and it doesn't lack in performance or features. The hinge is definitely an added bonus because it locks the screen in place and gets rid of any wobble. Business professionals and college students should enjoy taking notes and giving presentations with the M700, especially considering it has such an affordable starting price.

Pros

• Solid design and chassis
• LED backlight screen
• Locking hinge design
• Good battery life, especially with slice battery

Cons

• Minimalistic design, some users may find boring
• Screen has bad viewing angles sometimes
• Too much bloatware

Review: Motion Computing F5 Tablet PC

Motion Computing F5 specs as reviewed (price as tested: $2,699)

• Intel Core Solo processor 1.2GHz
• 945GM chipset
• 2GB DDR2 SDRAM
• 1.8" 40GB hard drive
• 10.4" XGA TFT (1024 x 768) View Anywhere display
• Windows XP OS
• Magnesium alloy casing
• Bluetooth
• Integrated EV-DO Rev.A Novatel Wireless
• 2.0 megapixel camera
• Optional barcode reader and RFID reader
• Docking station with three USB ports
• Dimensions: 10" x 10" x .95"
• Weight: 3.3lbs
• 3 year Field Warranty, they stand behind the ruggedness

Conclusion

Overall my impressions of the F5 are good. It's magnesium alloy chassis is durable, but still lightweight. The design is solid and fun to play with. Keep in mind the F5 is not meant to be a consumer tablet. It is for business use and field work. Motion states" It's the right tool for the job." Don't get me wrong it's great for taking notes, but a little pricey just for a student to use. The F5 is a great tablet for the vertical market and since it has rugged features that is why the price is so high, but it's really not that expensive compared to other rugged tablets.

Pros

• Semi-rugged design
• Water resistant and can withstand drops
• Lightweight
• View anywhere screen
• 3-year field warranty

Cons

• No USB ports on the body, have to have dock
• White and grey color gets dirty easily

Review: HP Compaq 2710p Tablet PC

Processors	Intel Core 2 Duo ULV Processor U7600 (1.20 GHz, 2 MB L2 cache, 533 MHz FSB)
	Intel Core 2 Duo ULV Processor U7700 (1.33 GHz, 2 MB L2 cache, 533 MHz FSB)

Operating System	Preinstalled	Genuine Windows Vista Business†* Genuine Windows XP Tablet PC Edition FreeDOS
	Supported	Genuine Windows Vista Enterprise*
	Certified	SuSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10
	† At initial boot, either 32- or 64-bit can be selected. This is a one time selection and the other version will be deleted. * Certain Windows Vista product features require advanced or additional hardware. See http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready/hardwarereqs.mspx and http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/getready/capable.mspx for details. Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor can help you determine which features of Windows Vista will run on your computer. To download the tool, visit http://www.windowsvista.com/upgradeadvisor.

Chipset	Mobile Intel GM965

Intel Centrino with vPro technology capable	Intel Centrino with vPro technology is a selectable feature that is available on units configured with an Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965AGN or 4965AG. It provides advances in remote manageability, security, energy efficient performance, and wireless connectivity. Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) offers built-in manageability and proactive security for networked notebook PCs, even when they are powered off* or when the operating system is inoperable. It can help identify threats before they reach the operating system, isolate infected systems, and update PCs regardless of their power state.
	*Requires a Windows operating system, network hardware and software, connection with a power source, and a direct (non-VPN) corporate network connection which is either cable or wireless LAN.
	NOTE: Some functionality of Intel Centrino Pro and vPro technology, such as Intel Active Management technology and Intel Virtualization technology, requires additional 3rd party software in order to run. Availability of future "virtual appliances" applications for Centrino Pro and vPro technology is dependant on 3rd party software providers. Compatibility with future "virtual appliances" and Microsoft Windows Vista operating system is yet to be determined.

Graphics	Mobile Intel GMA X3100, up to 384 MB of shared system memory Microsoft DirectX9 capable

Integrated Camera (select models)	2 Megapixel (1600 x 1200 max resolution) Manual adjust Macro lens Full 30 frames/sec video at 800x600 or VGA (640x480) resolution
	NOTE: Frame rates are dependent on lighting and are slowerif lighting is not ideal.

Display	Internal	12.1-inch diagonal Illumi-Lite WXGA UWVA anti-glare with Digitizer (1280 × 800 resolution) Ambient light sensor Optional Outdoor View*
	External	Up to 32-bit per pixel color depth VGA port supports resolutions up to 2048 x 1536 at 75 Hz, and lower resolutions at up to 100 Hz NOTE: Resolutions are dependent upon monitor capability, and resolution and color depth settings.
	* A display with optional Outdoor View is a 12.1-inch diagonal WXGA UWVA anti-glare display with Digitizer that provides enhanced viewable improvements: 12% increase in front of screen display brightness with no loss of battery life Up to 235% increase in contrast, resulting in better viewability, at wide viewing angles 25% less specular reflections in bright light 91% less diffuse reflections in bright light 67% more contrast in bright sunlight NOTE: This data is based on typical measurements by the display manufacturer. Actual measurements may vary from panel to panel.

Memory	Standard	1024-MB, 2048-MB, or 4096-MB 667-MHz* DDR2 SDRAM; two SODIMM slots supporting dual channel memory
	Maximum	Upgradeable to 4096-MB with 2048-MB SODIMM in slots 1 and 2
	Dual-channel	Maximized dual-channel performance requires SODIMMs of the same size and speed in both memory slots.
	* Operates at a maximum of 533-MHz with 667-MHz memory.
	NOTE: Due to the non-industry standard nature of some third-party memory modules, we recommend HP branded memory to ensure compatibility. If you mix memory speeds, the system will perform at the lower memory speed. Above 3-GB, all memory may not be available due to system resource requirements.

Communications	Integrated Intel Gigabit Network Connection (10/100/1000 NIC)*
	56K V.92 modem**
	* The term "10/100/1000" or "Gigabit" Ethernet indicates compliance with IEEE standard 802.3ab for Gigabit Ethernet, and does not connote actual operating speed of 1 Gb/s. For high-speed transmission, connection to a Gigabit Ethernet server and network infrastructure is required.
	** Designed for downloads from 56K modem compliant sources. Maximum achievable download transmission rates currently do not reach 56 KB/s, and will vary with line conditions. Modem availability is subject to country regulatory approval.

Wireless Devices	Support for a broad range of secure, integrated wireless LAN and wireless WAN options featuring support for the latest industry standards. Wireless LAN is factory configurable or available as an option to be added later. Broadband Wireless (WWAN) requires Windows Vista Business or Windows XP Professional and is available in select countries as a standard, factory configurable feature or as an option to be added later. Integrated Bluetooth is also available (factory configurable only) and can be combined with any of the supported wireless LAN and wireless WAN options.
	HP ev2210 1xEVDO-A Broadband Wireless Module	Integrated WWAN module connects to the Sprint Mobile Broadband or Verizon Wireless BroadbandAccess and NationalAccess networks (U.S. only) Supports CDMA 1xEVDO-A, 1xRTT connections at 800 and 1900 MHz. NOTE: Separately purchased Sprint Mobile Broadband or Verizon Wireless service is required. For details, go to http://www.hp.com/go/broadbandwireless. Upgradeable design and two 850/900/1800/1900/2100-MHz antennas (one inside the top of the display panel and one extendable) support current and future WWAN technologies.
	HP hs2300 HSDPA Broadband Wireless Module	Integrated WWAN module that provides connection to GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, and HSDPA mobile networks in many countries. Currently supported networks are the AT&T Broadbandconnect network in the U.S., Vodafone networks in select countries, and roaming on AT&T and Vodafone partner networks in more than 100 countries. NOTE: Separately purchased mobile network operator service is required. Upgradeable design and two 850/900/1800/1900/2100-MHz antennas (one inside the top of the display panel and one extendable) support current and future WWAN technologies.
	All 802.11a/b/g integrated wireless LAN options	Wi-Fi certified Cisco Compatible Extensions support (Version 4.0) with Microsoft Windows XP Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) support up to 128-bit keys Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2 support 802.1x authentication support, including EAP-TLS, EAP-TTLS, PEAP-GTC, PEAP-MSCHAPv2, and LEAP Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) support WiFi certified for WPA2, WMM Three antennas integrated in the display enclosure
	Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965AGN	Integrated support for 802.11a, b, g, and draft-n Up to 300-mbps data rate
	Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965AG	Integrated support for 802.11 a, b and g Up to 54-mbps data rate
	Broadcom 4311AG 802.11a/b/g WiFi Adapter	Integrated support for 802.11 a, b and g Up to 54-mbps data rate
	HP Integrated Module with Bluetooth Wireless Technology	Bluetooth Specification v2.0 compliant Works with a wide range of Bluetooth devices

Keyboard

The 101/102-key compatible keyboard features an industry standard, full-pitch key layout with desktop keyboard features, such as the isolated inverted-T cursor control keys, editing keys, both left and right control and alt keys, and 12 function keys. US and International key layouts are available. Other features include an integrated numeric keypad, hotkeys for instant access to power conservation, brightness, and other features, 19-mm x 19-mm key pitch (center-to-center spacing), 2.0-mm stroke, and comfort-dished keycaps. HP DuraKeys is a clear coating applied over the notebook keyboard that helps protect the finish and the printed characters on the keys. HP DuraFinish helps protect the finish on the keyboard deck, graphics, and icons from normal wear and tear.

Touch-sensitive controls	Touch-sensitive controls provide easy access to the following features: HP Presentation button, Volume mute button, and Volume scroll zone

Pointing device	Pointstick, two pick buttons Digital Eraser Pen with tether and clip

Expansion card slots	ExpressCard/54 slot	Supports ExpressCard/54 and ExpressCard/34
	or
	Optional Integrated Smart Card Reader (replaces ExpressCard slot)	Compatible with ISO 7816 compliant Smart Cards PC/SC interface support
	Secure Digital slot	Supports SD (Secure Digital), MMC (MultiMedia Card)

Storage	Internal Storage Device	120-GB 5400 rpm 1.8" PATA Hard Drive 80/100/120-GB 4200 rpm 1.8" PATA Hard Drive 64-GB Solid State Drive
	NOTE: Hard drives are customer removable and will withstand multiple insertion/removal cycles. Up to 10 GB is reserved for the system recovery software.
	HP 3D DriveGuard	The hard drive is mounted to the notebook frame, reducing the transmission of shock away from the hard drive. Uses three-axis digital motion detection with intelligent sensitivity to help protect the hard drive during normal use from shock and vibration. The digital accelerometer temporarily halts all data transfer and parks the hard drive when abrupt motion is detected.
	External Optical Drives	Via optional HP 2700 Ultra-Slim Expansion Base: 7mm DVD+/-RW SuperMulti Drive
		Via optional HP External MultiBay II (9.5-mm): MultiBay II DVD-ROM Drive MultiBay II DVD/CD-RW Combo Drive MultiBay II DVD+/-RW SuperMulti DL Drive
	Second Hard Drive	Via optional HP External MultiBay II (9.5-mm): MultiBay II 80-GB 5400 rpm Hard Drive

Interfaces	ExpressCard/54 slot	Supports ExpressCard/54 and ExpressCard/34
	Smart Card Reader	Optional (replaces ExpressCard/54 slot)
	External monitor	One – VGA
	1394a	One
	Stereo microphone in	One
	Stereo headphone/line out	One
	Power connector	One
	RJ-11/modem	One
	RJ-45/Ethernet	One
	USB 2.0	Two (including one powered USB 2.0 port to support HP External MultiBay II)
	Docking connector	For HP 2700 Ultra-Slim Expansion Base
	Secondary battery connector	For HP 2700 Ultra-Slim Battery
	LED status indicators	Thirteen

Audio	High Definition Audio support w/24-bit DAC Integrated mono speaker Integrated dual-microphone array Touch-sensitive controls for volume up, volume down, and mute Stereo headphone/line out Stereo microphone in

Software	Preinstalled software with Windows Vista or Windows XP	PDF Complete HP Backup and Recovery Manager HP Help and Support Center HP QuickLook (Windows Vista only) HP OpenView Radia Management Agent HP Universal Print Driver HP ProtectTools Security Manager: BIOS Configuration for HP ProtectTools Credential Manager for HP ProtectTools Device Access Manager for HP ProtectTools Drive Encryption for HP ProtectTools Embedded Security for HP ProtectTools HP Quick Launch Buttons HP Wireless Assistant Microsoft Office Ready with 60-day Office Professional 2007 Trial Edition (select models) Roxio Creator 9 (for optional DVD+/-RW and DVD/CDRW drives) Symantec Norton Internet Security with complimentary 60-day live update Intervideo WinDVD – DVD Player NewSoft Presto! BizCard (for camera configurations)
	Additional software available from the web	HP Client Manager Java Card Security for HP ProtectTools

HP Backup and Recovery Manager

Each unit is shipped with HP Backup and Recovery Manager. HP Backup and Recovery Manager can provide data and system file protection for HP business PCs to enable fast recovery if the system becomes corrupted or if important information is accidentally deleted. HP Backup and Recovery Manager can perform scheduled or manual backups of the entire drive or individual files and folders. Up to 10 GB of the hard drive is reserved for the system recovery software. HP Backup and Recovery Manager can also create software recovery CDs or DVDs (requires optional CD-RW or DVD+/-RW hardware).

SMBIOS Version 2.4	System Management BIOS, previously known as DMI BIOS, is used to store system management information.

HP ProtectTools Security Manager

HP ProtectTools Security Manager is the security platform for business notebooks and desktops. The HP ProtectTools Security Manager is an extensible client security console that delivers enhanced security capabilities through add-on software modules. Modules currently available are: BIOS Configuration for HP ProtectTools Credential Manager for HP ProtectTools Device Access Manager for HP ProtectTools Drive Encryption for HP ProtectTools Embedded Security for HP ProtectTools Java Card Security for HP ProtectTools

Security	Standard Features	HP ProtectTools Security Manager HP Fingerprint Sensor Configuration Control Hardware Memory Change Alert Ownership Tag Setup Password Power-On Password TPM 1.2 Embedded Security Chip TPM Enhanced DriveLock HP Disk Sanitizer HP 3D DriveGuard Kensington Lock Slot Windows Security Button (pen-activated Ctrl-Alt-Del) Support for Computrace / LoJack for Laptops (must be purchased separately)
	Optional Features	Smart Card Reader (replaces ExpressCard/54 slot)	Compatible with ISO 7816 compliant Smart Cards
			PC/SC interface support
	For more information on HP security solutions refer to http://www.hp.com/go/security.

Power Supply	External 65-watt Smart AC adapter, 6-foot (1.8-meter) power cord included. Total length including external AC adapter is 12 feet (3.66 meter). HP Fast Charge*
	*HP Fast Charge recharges your battery up to 90% within 90 minutes when the system is off. Fast Charge does not apply to the optional HP 2700 Ultra-Slim Battery.

Battery	Primary Battery	6-cell (44 WHr) high capacity Lithium-Ion with fuel gauge LEDs

Battery Life	Primary Battery	Up to 5 hours and 30 minutes
	Primary Battery and Optional HP 2700 Ultra-Slim Battery	Up to 11 hours and 45 minutes
	NOTE: The listed battery life measurements were taken on models running Microsoft Windows XP Professional. Battery life will vary depending on the product configuration, product model, applications loaded on the product, power management settings of the product, and the product features used by the customer. As with all batteries, the maximum capacity of this battery will decrease with time and usage.
System Standby Time	Up to 1 week

Power Conservation	Supports enhanced Intel SpeedStep technology with Intel Core 2 Duo ULV processors (allows Battery Optimized Mode, Maximum Performance Mode, or Automatic mode)
	Intel Display Power Saving technology Hibernation Standby ACPI compliance

Conclusion

Even though the 2710p isn't packed with features it is a lightweight solid tablet. If you are looking for a nice ultraportable with a solid design, sleek appearance, good battery life and great wireless options this may be for you. It is the perfect weight and size for users on-the-go. Overall I was impressed with the sturdy chassis and how there was minimal flex in the entire design. The active digitizer is responsive and comes in handy if you need to give a quick presentation. All you have to do is turn the screen and use the pen as your pointer. I would have liked another USB port and a different setup for the pen silo, but the optional dock can add more features if need be.

Pros

• Solid design and sturdy chassis
• Sleek appearance with brushed aluminum accents
• Great wireless options
• Small and lightweight
• Good battery life

Cons

• Pen falls out of silo sometimes
• Hinge has a little wobble when in notebook mode
• No optical drive, but this saves on weight

Review : Gateway P-7811FX

Gateway has launched the P-7811FX 17-inch gaming notebook PC, the latest in its P-Series FX Edition line.

The Gateway P-7811FX, the company’s first laptop with the Intel Centrino 2 mobile platform, comes with the Core 2 Duo P8400 processor at 2.26GHz, NVIDIA GeForce 9800M GTS 512MB dedicated video card, 4GB of DDR3 RAM, a 200GB hard drive at 7200rpm, and a DVD burner. Its widescreen display has a resolution of 1920-by-1200 pixels.

The notebook also incorporates a 1.3-megapixel web camera, HDMI output, the Intel Wireless Wi-Fi Link network connection (802.11a/b/g/n), Gigabit Ethernet LAN, a 56k modem, three USB ports, an ExpressCard slot, eSATA and Firewire ports, and a 5-in-1 media card reader.

The P-7811FX weighs 9.2 pounds and ships with Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit preinstalled.

It is costs $1,449 at Best Buy.

Review: Zepto Orion A15

Yet another laptop from Zepto named after a Greek mythology character. Orion A15 was named after the skilled hunter occupying a place in the stars after his death, and this idea is represented by the black laptop model with a stylish finish sporting an illuminated Ze[to logo on the back.


This 15.4-inch model is powered by the Intel Centrino 2 technology with minimum 3MB Smart Cache and 1066Mhz Front SideBus, which work together to deliver high operating speeds at a lower power consumption.


It integrates the Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics chipset with 384MB shared memory, DirectX 10 support, OpenGL 2.0 and Shader Model 4, for great views during gaming and while playing with the Windows Vista Aero feature on the 1280 x 800-pixel display.


Like the latest models introduced by Zepto, Orion A15 has the Night LED mode that allows you to turn off all the other indicators, leaving only the hard drive light On, for a simpler way of knowing when the portable computer is functioning.


Specifications include 8Gb maximum system memory, 2.8GHz Dual Core CPU speeds, TV Tuner, Turbo Memory Crad, Wireless LAN, 3.8 hours of battery life, built-in web camera, microphone, HDMI connectivity, SPDIF audio out, http://www.ubuntu.com/ Linux Ubuntu support, and other cool elements, encased in durable yet elegant aluminum reinforced chassis.


For a price of £517.10 Zepto offers the lower cost configuration with an Intel Core 2 Duo T5750 processor clocked at 2GHz, 80GB S-ATA hard drive storage capacity, DVD burner, Bluetooth 2.0+EDT, and built-in microphone. At £752.41 the notebook has 4GB memory, 320GB hard drive, DVD burner, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR, microphone and Windows Vista Home Basic operating system pre-installed. This one is powered by the Intel Core 2 Duo P7350 providing speeds of up to o 2GHz.

Review: Toshiba Satellite A305D

Our review unit of the A305D features the following specifications:

• Windows Vista Home Premium (SP1, 32-bit)
• AMD Turion X2 Dual-Core TL-64 (2.2GHz)
• 15.4" diagonal widescreen TruBrite TFT LCD display at 1280x800 (WXGA)
• ATI Radeon X1250 Integrated Graphics
• Atheros Wireless 802.11a/g/n
• 3GB PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM (maximum capacity 4GB)
• 320GB 5400rpm Toshiba Hard Drive
• DVD SuperMulti (+/-R double layer) drive with Labelflash
• 1.3 megapixel webcam
• Harmon/Kardon stereo speakers
• Dimensions (WxDxH Front/H Rear): 14.25" x 10.5" x 1.4" /2.25"
• Weight: 6 lbs 2.5oz with six-cell battery
• 75W (19V x 3.95A) 100-240V AC Adapter
• 6-cell (4000mAh) Lithium Ion battery
• 1-Year Standard Limited Warranty
• Price as configured: $999.99

Pros

• Above average LCD
• Slick keyboard (literally)
• Touch sensitive media keys
• Flush mount touchpad with great surface texture
• Great Harmon/Kardon Speakers

Cons

• Warm touchpad
• Reflective surface can blind others with its awesomeness
• Low performance for the price

Review: Gateway P-7811FX

Finally we have the pleasure to tell you about a new notebook from Gateway, while there has been a long time since we haven’t heard news from this company regarding new portable computer additions. The latest laptop is optimized for video gaming and entertainment on the go as well, included in the P-Series FX Edition line of Gateway laptop computers, and being powered by the Intel Centrino 2 processing technology.

Besides the strong high-end capabilities, Gateway P-7811FX is also an affordable model and the company’s first powered by the newest Intel technology with faster multi-tasking support at lower power consumption.



"The Gateway P-7811FX is a great choice for customers such as students and professionals who want a notebook that can handle all of their computing needs - from creating videos and playing games to tackling work, school and home projects," said Todd Titera, senior manager, notebook product management. "And while the new notebook is ideal for demanding gamers and enthusiasts who want the latest technology, its affordable price also makes it perfect for digital media hobbyists and casual PC game players."

Coming at a retail price of 1,399.99, Gateway P-7811FX has other cool components such as the NVIDIA GeForce 9800M GTS video card with 512MB DDR3 dedicated graphics memory for real-time 3D imaging, 2.26GHz processing speeds, 4GB memory, 200GB HDD storage capacity, second drive bay, all working to display the best results on a 17-inch large wide screen with a resolution of 1920x1200 pixels.



Additional elements include HDMI connectivity, cool illuminated multimedia keys for direct access to audio and video controls, built-in 1.3MP web camera for char conferences, VoIP support, wireless 802.11 Draft-N support, a 5-in-1 media card reader, 3 USB ports, Multi-Format Dual Layer DVDRW w/DVD-RAM with LabelFlash, and the Microsoft Windows Home Premium 64-bit Edition operating system pre-installed.

Review: Dell Inspiron 13

The Dell Inspiron 13 (1318) specifications:

• Screen: 13.3" WXGA TrueLife Glossy
• Processor: Intel Pentium Dual Core T2390 (1.86Ghz, 533FSB, 1MB Cache)
• Memory: 2GB RAM
• Storage: 160GB HDD (5400rpm)
• Optical Drive: DVD+/-RW
• Wireless: 802.11b/g
• Graphics: Intel X3100 Integrated Graphics
• Built-in web camera
• Battery: 11.1V 56Wh
• Dimensions: 12.52" x 9.37" x 1"/1.51"
• Weight: 4lbs 13.5oz
• Retail Price: $698

Performance

This system is by no means a multimedia powerhouse, sporting the base model Intel Pentium Dual Core processor over the more widely used Core 2 Duo. This processor offers a slower 533MHz FSB, and much less system cache. That being the case, it still performed admirably, reaching PCMark05 scores in the 3,600 range, and a wPrime score around 45 seconds. For a computer that will be targeted towards students this provides more than enough power to handle anything form iTunes to Microsoft Word. While gaming is out of the question, that is not what this notebook was intended for.

Battery Life

The Inspiron 13 offers a 56Wh 6-cell battery which gives excellent battery life for a budget oriented notebook. Most of the time with low cost preconfigured systems the manufacturer skimps on the battery size, and you using see 2-3 hours of battery life on a good day. This system was easily peaking over 4 hours of runtime with the balanced setting and screen backlight at 60%. This is well within the range of handling a few classes throughout the school day, or a decent length flight.

Review:- HP Pavilion dv6700t

Our review unit of the dv6700t (dv6780se) has the following specifications:

• Windows Vista Home Premium (32-bit)
• Intel Core 2 Duo processor T5450 (1.66GHz, 2MB L2 Cache, 667MHz FSB)
• 15.4" WXGA High-Definition HP BrightView Widescreen Display (1280 x 800)
• 3GB DDR2 System Memory
• NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS (256MB dedicated memory)
• HP Imprint (Clay) Finish + Webcam + Microphone
• Integrated Altec Lansing stereo speakers
• Intel PRO/Wireless 4965AGN Network Connection
• 250GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive
• LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD+/-RW with Double Layer Support
• 12-Cell Lithium Ion Battery
• Dimensions (with 12-cell battery, including feet): 14.1" (L) x 10.1" (W) x 0.75" (min H)/2.0" (max H)
• Weight: 6 lb 10 oz (6.625 lb)
• 65W AC adapter

Conclusion

The HP Pavilion dv6700t is an impressive notebook for 2008, despite the fact that the basic shape hasn't changed at all since the dv6000t. The combination of performance, stylish design, extremely durable construction/finish, and a wide array of media controls makes the dv6700t one of the best notebook choices for average consumers among 15.4" systems.

After close comparison to Dell's new Inspiron 1525 the only thing Dell really offers over this HP notebook is an extra USB port and a slightly lower starting price. That said, the dv6700t is still the better choice since it offers the option of dedicated graphics (as seen in the dv6780se).

Bottom line, although the overall design hasn't changed in two years the HP dv6700t delivers modern day performance and plenty of multimedia extras with style and an affordable price tag. Overall the dv6700t is one of the best notebooks available for everyday consumers, and the dv6780se available at Best Buy is perhaps that nicest looking version of the notebook yet.

Pros

• Your choice of Core 2 Duo processors
• Solid dedicated graphics option for occasional gamers
• Still one of the best designs on the market (see below)
• Excellent build quality
• Great keyboard and touchpad
• Responsive media buttons and nice remote

Cons

• Glossy Imprint finish is a magnet for fingerprints
• Only three USB ports with dedicated graphics option
• Overall design is starting to look dated after two years
• Did HP really need to put eight stickers on the palm rests?

Review:- Lenovo ThinkPad X60

Specs for X60 Tablet PC as Reviewed:

• Processor: Intel Core Duo L2400 1.66GHz (1.2V) (can configure up to 1.83GHz Core Duo L2500, Core Solo options also)
• OS: Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition
• Hard Drive: 2.5" Hitachi 100GB 7200RPM SATA (as seen on NewEgg.com)
• RAM: 1GB DDR2 SDRAM (667MHz), max RAM config of 4GB
• Screen Size: 12.1"
• Screen Resolution: XGA 1024 x 768 with pen and touch screen capability
• Screen Resolution: SXGA+ 1400 x 1050
• Graphics: Intel Media Accelerator 950
• Slots:
  • PCMCIA Type II, with ExpressCard 34 adapter (left side)
  • SD memory card slot (left side)
  • 1 Expansion slot / docking station slot (bottom)
• Ports:
  • 3 USB 2.0 ports (1 on the left, 2 on the right)
  • FireWire Port (right side)
  • Monitor out port (left side)
  • Ethernet LAN port (left side)
  • Modem port (right side)
  • Microphone (right side)
  • Headphone line-out (right side)
  • Power jack (right side)
• Battery: 4-cell battery (3.3 hours of quoted battery life)
• Battery: 8-cell extended life battery (7.5 hours of quoted battery life)
• Dimensions: 10.8" x 9.5" x .83 - [1.1" - 1.30"] (width x depth x thickness [varies from front to back])
• Weight: about 3.77lbs with 4-cell battery, 4.23lbs with 8-cell battery
• Integrated Communications: 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless, Modem, Gigabit Ethernet, Verizon EVDO WWWAN (optional), Bluetooth (optional), IrDA

Conclusion

The engineers at Lenovo really put their thinking caps on for the past year in developing the new X60 Tablet PC, the focus was certainly on usability and how to improve the tablet experience. I think they hit a homerun. The XGA MultiTouch display and SXGA+ offering are outstanding options, the MultiView is also really nice for a tablet pc where you'll be using it in all types of lighting environments and holding it at various angles. The port selection for an ultraportable is superb. The keyboard is as good as ever. The build is ThinkPad solid, there's no flex anywhere on the body. The battery life is as good as it can be. And best of all the performance with the Core Duo and 2.5" 7200RPM hard drive is vastly improved over the X41t. Pricing starts at around $1,700 initially on the X60t, this will be pricey for some, but for business users this could be a formidable tool and if you're off to college for 4 years maybe you could justify the cost if you think of it as an investment in your ability to perform better in school and be more efficient.

Pros

• Great performance for a 12.1" ultraportable notebook / tablet convertible
• Very good battery life with up to 5 hours on an 8-cell
• Great feeling pen with both pen input and eraser input feeling quite natural, the keyboard input is superb too
• Very sturdy casing, no flex whatsoever
• Superb wireless communication offerings, the optional EVDO is great
• Excellent software and hardware security features
• Innovative featurs such as Active Rotate, NavDial and MultiTouch make the X60t stand out
• Good number of ports for an ultraportable

Cons

• A little bland looking for some maybe if you don't go for the all black look
• Mono-speaker is tinny and tough to hear as it's on the bottom of the device
• No ThinkLight that other ThinkPads carry (if you've never used a ThinkPad you won't miss this)
• No optical drive built-in (but no room for it either, it would add extra thickness and weight)
• If you get an EVDO antenna built in it you get an ugly hump on the top of the screen where the antenna sits
• Not cheap with pricing starting at around $1,700, but ThinkPads are respected and hold their price and this can be thought of as an investment if you use it over time

Review:- Lenovo ThinkPad X300

The ThinkPad X300 under review here has the following specifications:

• Processor: 1.20GHz Intel Core 2 Duo L7100 (800Mhz FSB, 4MB Cache)
• Graphics: Intel X3100
• Screen: 13.3-inch WXGA+ (1440 x 900, 300 nit) LED backlit display
• Memory: 2GB (up to 4GB configurable)
• Storage: 64GB SSD
• Optical Drive: Ultra-thin DVD Burner
• Wireless and Communications: Intel 4965AGN (802.11 a/b/g/n wi-fi), BlueTooth 2.0 EDR, Intel UWB, GPS, Verizon WWAN (EV-DO)
• Battery: 6-cell Li-Polymer extended life battery (3-cell Li-Polymer battery available and multi-bay extended life 3-cell battery)
• Ports: 3 USB 2.0 ports, Monitor out port, AC adapter, headphone/line-out, microphone/line-in, Gigabit Ethernet
• Dimensions: 12.4" x 9.1" x 0.73" - 0.92"
• Weight: from 2.93lbs with 3-cell battery and no optical drive to 3.32lbs with 6-cell battery and DVD Burner in
• Port Replicator: Via USB
• Input: Full sized keyboard, trackpoint navigation, touchpad, fingerprint reader
• Operating System: Windows XP Professional (Windows Vista available in various flavors)
• Other Features: Integrated web camera
• Warranty: 1-year

Conclusion

The ThinkPad X300 is a premium product that's worth the price if you need the features it offers. The X300's excellent portability, abundance of wireless options, built-in optical drive, SSD advantage, great screen, fantastic keyboard, and second-to-none build quality all add up to a notebook that's easy to recommend to business users who consider a notebook to be an important part of their success with work. It's certainly not the right notebook for everyone, the 64GB storage limit, under powered processor and high price immediately eliminates most consumers from even considering the X300. We would have like to have seen such things as an SD card reader, docking capability and an ExpressCard or PC slot. You can't have it all though, and the ThinkPad X300 is much more practical than the pretty but port challenged MacBook Air, and so the X300 gets the Editor's Choice recommendation that we couldn't rationalize giving to the MacBook Air. Bravo to Lenovo, and we hope that they push this 13.3" slim form factor more and find ways to bring the pricing down.

Pros

• Under 1-inch thick, the thinnest ThinkPad ever
• Light weight and easy for carrying around in a bag
• Superb build quality and feel, nice design touches added
• Built-in optical drive for such a thin notebook is a rarity
• Good performance in normal business tasks, very fast bootup with the SSD
• Very bright screen for easy viewing

Cons

• No SD card reader
• No expansion dock capability, USB based port replicator only
• No ExpressCard or PC card slot
• Starting price of $2,500 is out of range for many people