Verizon Launches Prepaid Mobile Broadband Plans
Verizon Wireless has three new prepaid offerings for road warriors who want mobile broadband without a long-term data plan.
Seven Memorial notebook battery models show – Shanghai, Shanghai, China
Exquisite works of art: Seven Memorial notebook battery models show With technology developing rapidly, new technologies endless light and portable notebook battery Laptop Battery computers are no longer as a single selling point.
Dell Latitude E6400 XFR – 14.1in Rugged Laptop
Dell Latitude E6400 XFR – 14.1in Rugged Laptop Review Posted on Tuesday, November 03 2009 @ 03:15:13 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck Overall, the E6400 XFR is a deliberately different proposition to competing rugged laptops.
HP ProBook 5310m Ultraportable Laptop
The ProBook 5310m’s slim, stylish case impresses–and so do its quick-booting, business-friendly apps.
Interview with Boston Book Festival Participant Nicholas Negroponte
The Boston Book Festival is coming up on Saturday. We already talked to an organizer ; now it′s time for a participant.
Laptop Wireless Internet Connections
It is very well known that wireless Internet is one of the technologies designed to make our life easier. But what do we know about wireless Internet connection? We absolutely know that it’s about having internet access in an certain area, without being obliged of staying in a fixed place. If we dont’t want to have cables all around us at home, or at office, then wireless is our solution.
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Wireless Internet access is usually created to serve people with laptops, but not only. We call it easier having a laptop, but usually wireless areas are created for both desktop or laptop computers. Having internet on an desktop means having a receiver that we call it wireless adapter. His strength should depend on how far you are from the wireless hot spot. If you are lucky enough to be located very close to a WiFi hotspot, like a pub or a coffee shop, and your receiver’s strength fits the distance, you may be able to use their network and have internet on your desktop.
But what about laptop wireless Internet access? Is it different? Well … not quite. Laptop wireless internet access has practically the same connection. A wireless connection has necessarily to contain an PC server, wireless router broadband and his adapters (USB-LAN wireless).
A router is a device whose software and hardware are designed for transmitting information. A server is a computer created to provide services for clients.Wireless equipment works, usually in two ways: AP (access point) and client. With their original antennas, they go between 90m (indoor) and 500 m (outdoor). AP can connect one or more clients.
For a larger distance between the equipment, you will be needing some special antennas. These are of two types: unidirectional (with high gain, up to 24dB) and omnidirectional (with gain rather small, 12-14dB). Unidirectional antennas, as their name says, is oriented in one direction.
What about the hot spot? Well, the hot spot is a public application of WAP (wireless access point) where you can have laptop wireless internet access.
This concept has become well known in large cities, because of the need of people of staying permanently connected.
Laptop wireless Internet access is getting available almost everywhere because of wireless technologies’ expansion. This concept became so important that you cam find wireless Internet access in places like parks, public markets, etc. Every public space that offers laptop wireless internet access is known as Hotspot.
The way the information is transmitted is by radio waves. By using radio waves, the information and the images can be send all over the world being practically the same technology used in mobile phones.
We live in a world where you can’t afford to be slow, where speed, where being fast became a survival necessity. We need so many electronics, we need so much information that often we don’t have space for all the wires that connects us with everything we need. Here…the concept of wireless is a blessing for all of us who need the comfort of being able not to depend on wires for having Internet access.
Who Makes The Smallest Laptop Computer?
Why buying a laptop? Why buying a small one? Who makes the smallest laptop computer? Those are the most common questions when deciding in buying a laptop.
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The selection of a laptop should be made depending on our necessities. Do we need mobility? Yes, we do! We probably use a computer at home , one at work, but , why not, having one somewhere on our long way from home to work? A small laptop gives you the posibily to carry it all over with you, at work, at home and even on your trips . Those small laptops are like a combination between a regular size one, and some smaller devices like Palmtops or PDA’S.
But who makes the smallest laptop computer? In order to help you choose the laptop that fits you better , we decided to take a look, at some of the best small laptops on the market.:
Acer Aspire One AOﹾ-1553 Netbook PC:
It’s one of the best-selling small laptops being also the best choice for those who travel the majority of the time. It has a weight of 2 pounds and is packed with a 160 GB hard drive and Windows XP operating system. It’s monitor has a vibrant 8.9-inch CrystalBrite WSVGA LED backlit display having an integrated webcam for those who preffer chatting on internet.
Details:Full-function laptop in onyx black with 8.9-inch display, integrated webcam, and 6-cell battery with up to 5.5-hours of use / 1.6 GHz Intel Atom processor, 160 GB hard disk drive, 1 GB RAM (2 GB max) / 54g Wi-Fi LAN (802.11b/g); 10/100 Ethernet; Intel GMA 950 graphics /Connectivity: 3 USB, 1 headphone, 1 microphone, Secure Digital slot, multi-format memory card slot, VGA monitor output.
Asus EEE PC 901:
A small but very efficient laptop, Asus EEE PC 901 is an impovement of its ancesters form Asus small laptops. It also has the procesor Intel ATOM N270 , CPU usage : 1600 MHz Cache : 512 Kb FSB: 533 MHz Display,Display: WSVGA: 8.9″. Details: Easy to learn, work and play / Excellent mobile Internet device /Exciting multimedia enjoyment / Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 8.9 x 0.8 inches ; 4.6 pounds.
Toshiba NB100:
Toshiba is one of the most powerfull manufacturers of the market. Toshiba NB100 has the same properties as the rest of the notebooks , and it’s a little bit higher than Asus Eee PC 901. It has in about 2 pounds and has a Procesor Intel® AtomTM N270
Details: Toshiba NB100 Mini Notebook
Processor: Intel Atom N270 1.60 GHz,
533MHz FSB, 512KB L2 cache
OS: Genuine Windows XP Home Edition
Chipset: Mobile Intel 82945GSE Chipset
RAM: 1GB DD̶ 533
HDD: 120GB 5400 rpm 2.5″ SATA
Display: 22.5cm (8.9″) WSVGA TFT
Active Matrix, 1024 x 600 pixel resolution 180 NIT .
Fujitsu Siemens 6120:
A very well built netbook with exemplary mainstream performance.It has a display of 13.3 inches and a 40GB hard disk. It has an attractive, lightweight design and a good raange of modular bay options:
Processor manufacturer: Intel
Processor model:Pentium M
Clock speed: 1.6 GHz
RAM installed: 256 MB
Wireless LAN: Intel PRO/Wireless 2100 Mini-PCI card (802.11b)
Hard drive size: 40 GB
Graphics processor: Intel Extreme Graphics 2
Graphics RAM: 96 MB
Display diagonal size: 13.3 in
Dimensions (W x H x D): 29.3×3.4×23.6 cm
Weight: 1.7 kg
Operating system: Windows XP Professional
Gigabyte Gstyle 𓁘 N270:
Like all the netbooks manufacturers,Gigabyte’s M912 is very easy to handle with. It’s very lite but with a monitor with a higher resolution: 1280×768
Details: True mobility, 1.3 Kg with 8.9″ TFT LCD display
Sophisticated and fashionable appearance
Swivel display by convertible design
2.5″ SATA hard disk with the max capability of 250GB
Built-in Express Card slots, with option for HSDPA expansion
1.3M pixels web camera
Easy upgrade for memory and HDD extension.
Wireless Internet For Notebook Computers
There is no surprise that the world we are living in becomes increasingly wireless. More and more people use wireless internet for notebook computers for their daily activities replacing in this way the need of a wired connection. Technology quickly responded to our need to be constantly connected to our business, family or friends.
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So, modern inventions are not only perceived as a way of entertaining people, but as a necessity for daily activities. Notebook computers and cell phones may be considered as our struggle to become a wireless world.
But, first of all we should try to define a notebook computer. Laptops or notebook computers are small, easy to be carried, personal computers (PC). Another major difference between a laptop and a traditional computer is the display screen. Notebook computers use a flat-panel technology to produce a light display screen.
All notebook computers come with battery packs that gives anyone the possibility to use his laptop without plugging it in for a while. Therefore, a laptop is used for mobile computing.
The portable computers respond to our need to be constantly connected to others. So, there is no wonder that only in the year of 2005 over 42 million notebooks had been produced, and since then the market for laptops is growing at a rate of 20% each year. The portability and wireless communication seem to be very popular among people around the world. The growth of wireless internet for notebook computers people can meet with each other without having to leave their computers. This is why many businesses allow the use of internet among their employees.
Moreover, nowadays, several locations throughout the city offer laptop internet access. These places are known as hot-spots.
You can use wireless internet for your portable computer from your home as well. Wireless networks are easy to install and use at home. Wireless internet for laptops will allow you to work in any room of the house. In order to get a wireless network, you should use a wireless card capable of receiving and sending Wi-Fi signals. These signals are standardized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Most notebook computers have the capacity of turning on and off a wireless signal when it is needed. The process helps to conserve energy when operating from battery power. Wi-fi uses complex and sophisticated passwords which are difficult to break, providing at the same time a high internet security.
All in all, wireless notebook computers are very appreciated and popular not only in the world of computers, but among people as well. Being divided of wires it reduces the cost of network expansion and it can be used in places where cables can not reach, like outdoor spaces. Wireless internet for laptops is easy to use and allows you to stay in touch not only with your family and friends, but with your business as well. Students also find that portable computers are easier to manage; they can carry them wherever they go, improving their social and intellectual skills. Wireless internet for notebook computers are a definite plus for the world in which we live in.
Stay in touch, stay wireless!
Mac VS. Windows Notebooks
Yesterday I presented an interesting Sony computer, extremely powerful with multi touch features. It can’t be considered a desktop computer since it sports different format, but it can be considered to be part of a new range, a merged range between the laptops and old computer desktop. It’s less than $1200 price tag is surely appealing for some, but a deal breaker for others. Therefore, Sony introduced a cheaper version, part of the JS Series. Its design is certainly familiar with the one found on the touch screen model from the L Series. However, there are a few differences, such as the ports and inputs layout, and the silver look. This computer looks astonishing.
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The black style of the L Series was replaced in the JS Series with silver – titanium look. Although top part of this computer lacks angular corners, while the bottom part of this computer sports a geometric form factor, with a curbed stand that sustains the computer. Between the computer and the stand you get an empty space, where you can insert the keyboard in order to save some space. This design sports a flexible viewing angle. Therefore, you are not going to have any problems within finding the correct position. Both front and rear sides are made out of great silver – metallic materials, with a build quality beyond exceptional. This computer not only looks great but it also provides a solid build quality.
Within the silver look, the Sony Vaio JS Series resembles looks like the latest iMacs. With a height of 16.1 inches, and wide of 19.2 inches, this design includes a 20.1 inches screen size. The front side of this computer only includes the “Sony” silver logo (hard to see because of the silver finish), and the built in webcam. The back side includes three USB 2.0 ports, the Ethernet port, i.Link, DC in, and SPDIF out. The top side of this Vaio computer only includes the power on and off button. On the right side Sony included the built in CD / DVD drive (but you can chose to include the Blu-ray drive from the option list).
On the left side, Sony included all the left ports and slots, such as Memory Stick Pro slot, Secure Digital card slot, another two USB 2.0 ports, headphone jack, and microphone jack, line in, wireless on and off switch. Sony added in the JS Series, a hideaway keyboard, which is a full keyboard, with good sized keys and sufficient space between them. This keyboard is ergonomic and the keys included provide sufficient feedback when used. As I said before you can store this keyboard under the display, within the special holding space.
Sony included a 20.1 inches widescreen LCD with a resolution of 1680 x 1050 pixels (full high definition resolution). This display is capable of rendering up to 16 million colors. Beside the brilliant colors, this display also features the anti-glare technology. The built in speakers offer an excellent audio experience thanks to the Intel High Definition Audio with Dolby. The connectivity is well ensured by the Fast Ethernet – RJ 45 profile, Wi-Fi with 802.11 b/g/n, Gigabit Ethernet with 10 Base T / 100 Base TX / 1000 Base T, integrated Bluetooth version 2.0 including the latest A2DP profile for listening to wireless dual channel music / sound effects, five USB 2.0 ports, Memory Stick PRO media slot and the Secure Digital card slot. In terms of power issues, the minimum power requirement is valued at 168 Watts + 10 %. This computer features several features that can easily compete with the features package found on the Vaio L Series. However, the main feature, multi touch display, lacks.
Even more, the full hardware specification is rather cheaper than the L Series hardware. Even so, this computer, with the minimum configuration (under $900 price tag) is still better equipped than many Apple computer configurations. This Vaio computer sports a 2.70 GHz Intel Pentium processor with a 2 MB ˺ cache, 800 MHz FSB. In the memory and storage department you get a 500 GB hard drive with a 7200 rotation per minute value, and 4 GG DDR2 SDRAM. The graphic performances are ensured by the NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS GPU with 256 MB dedicated VRAM or Intel Graphic Media Accelerator X4500 HD.
Sony offers this Vaio computer for less than you might think $849.99 price tag. However, you can easily configure your very own model; depending on how much you want this Vaio to cost, or what hardware specifications you need. Because o good news never comes alone, you will be happy to know that Sony really decided to add within all its Vaio computers the new Windows 7. The JS Series ships with Microsoft Windows 7, the Home Premium with the 64 bit edition. You also get Microsoft Works SE 9.0 and a 60 day trial version of the Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 software.
The provided antivirus is in fact a 30 day trial version of the Norton Internet Security 2009. Even more, Sony included another four branded software applications, such as VAIO Startup Assistant, Click to Disc Editor, VAIO Movie Story, and the VAIO Media plus Multimedia Streaming Software. Overall this Vaio computer is certainly a smaller version of yesterday’s L Series multi touch computer. Even so, you have to take into consideration that Sony provides a full pack features for less money than its direct competitor, Apple computers. Also, the iMacs are not the only excellent designed and build computers anymore.
The Vaio JS Series and the Vaio L Series are serious adversaries of the 20 inches and 24 inches Apple iMacs (even with the latest applied refresh). The retail box of Vaio JS Series includes several interesting accessories; beside the all in one computer you also get the USB Optical Mouse, the AC adapter, the mandatory power cable, and the USB keyboard.
Therefore, if you were so happy of the five USB 2.0 ports, it is time to get back to reality since you will only get three usable USB 2.0 ports. My advice to anyone that is looking to buy a laptop as a desktop replacement is to look first at this new range of computers. You might be surprised of what this range has to offer, more performances for less money.
Sony Vaio Notebook Computers Class Action
In the last week I have written about laptops created to replace the desktop computers. However, in the light of the recent Windows 7 launch, I found several intriguing products, which can’t be included within no pre-determined range. Sure, some of you might say that this manufacturer is trying its best so copy Apple’s iMacs. But I am certain you are wrong. The answer to the “Why?” question is pretty straight forward, these computers are not better improved version of the old desktop computers, and yet not portable as laptops, and definitely not iPod touch or iPhones. Sony delivered an excellent product that merges a pre determined location laptop (within the desktop replacement range) with touch screen.
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Thanks to the included Windows 7, the L Series from Vaio will deliver enough touch screen features that will make the usage a fun game. I have to praise Sony for delivering an excellent product, with touch screen features, which Apple is still trying to include into a tablet (from the latest rumors). Even more, its price is comparable with the entry level MacBook Pro (and you can imagine that its specs are much better than the 13 inches MacBook Pro). In terms of design this Sony L Series touch screen computer delivers an extraordinary design, “conservative meets exquisite” I might add. First of all let’s talk functionality.
The L Series touch PC can either be mounted on a wall, or kept on the desktop thanks to the adjustable stand. This stand can be used to obtain the proper viewing angle for anyone that will use the Sony L Series. Even more, you can certainly use this touch computer without the included keyboard in order to save the space.
The overall design is amazing. The stand looks extremely well build and engineered, since it has to keep the whole weight of this device within two legs united (this means a bigger pressure on the gravitational point of this device). Since Sony only delivers a 24 inches model, I guess that any other bigger screens could not sport the same design because of the gravitational force and gravitational point (Sony would have to redesign the stand, losing the excellent design embedded in the L Series).
The touch screen computer sports a front case made out of black glossy plastic, with an excellent contrast delivered by the silver “Sony” logo. The back case includes a matte black to grey plastic, which feels nice at touch and is quite impressive in terms of built. The L Series sports an eye-catching design for sure, and delivers a solid build quality. It easily rises up to the Sony build reputation. With a height of 16.9 inches, wide of 22.9 inches, deep of 7.4 inches, this computer weights about 27.6 lbs.
Sony included on the back side several important inputs and outputs such as video input, HDMI input, Power, digital and analog cable, Ethernet port, Optical Out, three 2.0 USB ports. On the above side, Sony included the Power button, and the Display Off Switch (or Lock). The right side of the L Series touch screen computer includes the confirm selection button, volume controls, Menu button, and Blu-ray CD / DVD playback / burning drive. On the left side Sony added the Memory Stick Media Slot with Magic Gate Functionality, SD memory card slot, i.LINK connector 4-pin, another 2.0 USB ports, headphone jack, microphone jack, and Line in Stereo jack. Sony delivers a nice keyboard for this computer, with all the necessary keys for a great usability.
Also the keys are well sized with sufficient space between them. Even more, all the keys and keyboard are made from a durable black matte plastic, which improves even more the user experience. A nice feature is that you can include the keyboard within the stand to create a unitary design. One of the most important elements within this Sony touch screen computer from the L Series is the display. Even more important since it features so many multi touch functions that will certainly is the purchase factor in many potential customers – future purchase relationship.
Sony included in this device an excellent 24 inches touch screen LCD with a full high definition resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The multi touch controls will enable your access to several essential digital domains such as Internet, social networks, movies, digital TV, and many other more.
The multi touch technology is at the beginning, but it provides a solid functionality (at least within this Sony computer) with no freezes or glitches. This computer was carefully engineered to provide the ultimate user experience, wrapped in a futuristic design concept. It can even deliver the best gaming experience you could ever possibly imagine, thanks to the HDMI port you can easily connect your Play Station 3 and enjoy a multi touch gaming experience (joystick is still possible).
Here are a few multi touch functions you can try on this touch screen display, tap and double tap, rotate (touch two spots on a photo and twist to rotate it in real time), drag (drag a file or image similar process when using the mouse), press and tap, flick left and flick right, scroll, and zoom (very iPhone and iPod touch like).
The connectivity is ensured the fast Ethernet RJ 45 protocol, the Gigabit Ethernet with 10 Base T / 100 Base T / 1000 Base T, the Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 b/g/n support, the Integrated Bluetooth stereo with A2DP profile, five 2.0 USB ports, HDMI port, the NTSC / ATSC TV Tuner, memory stick PRO media slot and the Secure Digital memory card slot. Regarding the hardware specifications you might need to sit down because the following hardware specs are going to shock you at least. Let’s start with something a little “normal”, the L Series touch screen computer sports a 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Quad Processor (the Q8400S model), with 1333 MHz FSB (also known as front side bus speed), up to 4 MB advanced smart, L2 cache.
The memory department is ensured by the excellent hard drive, 1 TB hard disk drive with 7200 rotations per minute, and up to 6 GB DDR2 SDRAM on board, expandable value up to 12 GB DDR2 SDRAM. The audio department is represented by the Intel High Definition audio digital live (developed in partnership with Dolby). Sony also included an excellent graphic chipset, NVIDIA GeForce GT 240M GPU with 1 GB dedicated VRAM (depending on the configuration chose you can configure your computer with the NVIDIA GeForce 𑘪M GPU with 512 MB dedicated VRAM).
In terms of hardware, this computer is amazing, and the Apple equivalent would probably cost about $3500, while this computer only costs $1.149.99 – starting price. Not only is the hardware department amazing within the L Series from Sony Vaio but it is also completed with a full software package including the latest (truly worthy of the title, successor of XP) Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit version, 30 day trial version of Norton Internet Security, 90 day trial version of AOL, 60 day trial for the Microsoft Works SE 9.0 with Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007.
Sony also added a few branded applications, such as Vaio media gallery, Vaio movie story, click to disc editor, Vaio Media plus multimedia streaming software, and Vaio Startup Assistant. An educated guess would be, that the Vaio L Series touch screen computer will successfully bring 30% of old Apple customers, who are tired to use boot camp, since Windows is much more evolved now thanks to 7.
Let’s face it, Snow and Snow Leopard are good operating systems, but you need a Windows to stay in touch with the real world and not the Apple branded world. However, I doubt that this laptop meets desktop computer will be a market success. Even so, Sony proves once again that it can create unique products with excellent design, flawless build quality, extraordinary performances, for less money than other manufacturers.
Acer Aspire 5335 Notebook User Reviews
The multimedia laptop range is very important for any manufacturer. This range alone is responsible for over a half of the total sells within the numbers of a global manufacturer, such as Toshiba or Acer. Nowadays, the technology is more affordable (cheaper within every six months due to the exponential function of the technologic evolution). This enabled developing of better equipped with higher performances laptops. Toshiba is one of the few manufacturers that don’t keep their older models for sale (too much). Acer on the other hand is continuously upgrading models, or releasing new ones without removing the older products. Even more, the official Acer web store is not that well organized because off all these models, launched by over a year ago and upgraded with newer models.
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For instance the Aspire family has no more than 38 laptop models, within eight different lines (in the Europe) and 34 laptop models within seven different lines in North America. One of the common lines between these two markets is the Aspire 5xxx line, well structured with several powerful laptops models. The structure was developed rather different than the Aspire 6xxx. However, the Aspire 5xxx includes several common basic ideas from Aspire 6xxx, such as the branded technology within different products lines. For instance, Toshiba includes within the same laptop model different branded technologies (AMD and Intel), in different configurations. Acer has developed in the same range of the Aspire 5xxx a different line for the AMD powered laptops (very similar to the Aspire 6530 – AMD versus Aspire 6930 – Intel).
Therefore, the Aspire 5536 is the latest upgrade to the Aspire 5530 – AMD powered. Both these laptop models are still in the Acer’s portfolio, either the Europe one or the North America portfolio. The Aspire 5536 is the latest solution from Acer for anyone who wants an excellent multimedia laptop within a specific price range, powered by AMD. The Aspire 5536 is truly a work of art in the average laptop range with powerful processors, high quality graphic chipset, excellent 15 inches TFT LCD display (including the latest Cine Crystal technology), and the latest Dolby surround sound system (third generation to be more exact).
The multimedia package is completed by adding to the equation he Blu-ray Disc drive, creating the best averaged priced multimedia laptop, indestructible by any other future competitors (at least until 2010). The Aspire 5536 is a new laptop model in the Aspire range. Therefore, it sports the Gemstone design, including the same excellent features and main disadvantages. The Gemstone design, as I said in other articles, looks great, it is build almost flawlessly, but in time it will lose its greatness. Since the lid is made out of a black vanishing into blue glossy plastic. The result in visual terms is extraordinary. However, the lid is a fingerprint magnet and easy to scratch, even with the minor accident like dropping a clutch pencil on it.
The rest of the Acer 5536 is made out of matte black plastic. Even the keyboard surface is not the same nice patterned surface found on Aspire 6xxx. Keep in mind that this is a cheaper version of Aspire 6xxx. Compromises had to be made, when Acer included the latest technology, within an affordable laptop. Even more, the overall design is not the most modern on the market. The cover LCD doesn’t work like a hinge. Even so, Acer didn’t include any ports or slots on the back side. The only element found on the back side is the cooling vent. The left side of the Aspire 5536 includes the DC in jack, the RJ 11 port, HDMI port with the HDCP support, VGA port, two USB 2.0 ports, headphone line out jack, microphone in jack, and the Line in jack.
On the right side you can find the RJ 45 LAN port, the Kensington lock, another two 2.0 USB ports, and the DVD drive. The American version of 5536 sports only the Super Multi DVD drive (compatible with several formats), while the European version of Aspire 5536 includes, depending on the configuration either a Blu-ray Disc / Super Multi DVD double layer drive, or the Super Multi DVD (with several compatible format, common within the majority of laptops on the market). The only element you will find on the front side is the memory card reader, compatible with xD Picture Card, Secure Digital card, Memory Stick PRO, Multimedia card, and the Memory Stick memory card.
The build quality is how I said before, almost flawless. Just “almost” because remember this design (all plastic body) is not durable in time. Even so, the Aspire 5536 feels solid and looks great. With a varying height from front to rear 26 mm (or 1.03 inches) to 37 mm (or 1.5 inches), wide of 383 mm (or 15.1 inches), deep of 250 mm (or 9.9 inches), the Aspire 5536 weights about 2.8 Kg (or 5.94 lbs) including the battery. These values mean one thing, this laptop is tub o used indoors and not outdoors. Buy it if you need a great desktop replacement with performances in the multimedia department. Regarding the battery, both European and American versions of Aspire 5536 (within all available configurations) can only be equipped with the six cell Lithium Ion battery with 48.8 Watts, which should charge itself completely within 2.5 hours if the laptop is turned off, or 3.5 hours if the laptop is in use.
Once you open the Aspire 5536 you will see a full keyboard, with all the 11 function keys, easy launch buttons (such as volume controls, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other customizable launch buttons), and the media keys (featuring the play, pause, stop, fast forward, and rewind). The keyboard has good sized keys, which offer sufficient feedback. No flex is involved when pressing them. Under the keyboard you can find the touch pad, which sports the latest multi touch technology (however, you should expect Apple MacBook Pro multi touch). The touch pad is easy to use, thanks to the sufficient patterned material. The feedback is average and the overall user experience (with the keyboard included) is great.
You shouldn’t have any problems not even when you use this laptop in a hurry. Acer included into the Aspire 5536 an excellent 15.6 inches TFT LCD with a WXGA high definition resolution (also known as 1366 x 768 pixels), sporting the latest Acer CrystalBrite technology. The brightness is the best found on an Acer laptop, 220 nit on the center of the display. However, this value is by far as high as the 300 nit found on the Apple MacBook, but comparable with what Toshiba has to offer. This display sports a 16 to 9 aspect ratio, capable of rendering up to 16.7 million colors. The TFT LCD’s brightness is sufficient for indoors us, and acceptable under direct sunlight. To complete the multimedia experience Acer also added a 3rd generation Dolby surround sound system (within two built in stereo speakers).
You get 5 in 1 channel surround sound output, with excellent volume and bass, thanks to all the embedded technology including the Dolby Natural Bass, Dolby High Frequency Enhancer technologies, and many other more. The connectivity is ensured by the Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, 56 Kb per second modem, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth 2.0 plus the enhanced data rate, four 2.0 USB ports, HDMI and VGA port. American 5536 and European 5536 (with all their configurations), sport the same connectivity package, the same display, the same chipset (AMD M780G) and battery package. The American Aspire 5536 configurations are shipped only with Windows Vista Home Premium.
There are six available configurations within the North American Acer portfolio, the 5105, 5883, 5165, 5663, 5218, and the 5244; the Aspire 5536 5105 includes the AMD Athlon X2 Dual Core Processor QL 64 with 2.1 GHz, 1 MB L2 cache, 3 GB DDR 2 557 SDRAM, ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphics, and the 250 GB hard drive. The Aspire 5536 5883 differs from the 5105 configuration by the 320 GB hard drive. The Aspire 5536 5165 includes the AMD X2 Turion Dual Core Mobile Processor RM 72 with 2.1 GHz, 1 MB L2 cache, 320 GB hard drive, ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphics, and the 3 GB DDR2 SDRAM.
The fourth generation of 5536, 5663 sports the AMD Athlon Ͳ Dual Core Processor QL 64 with 2.1 GHz, 1 MB ˺ cache, the same graphic chipset, the 320 GB hard drive, and 3 GB DDR 2 667 SDRAM. The only difference between the 5663 and the 5218 is the newer processor, AMD Athlon Ͳ Dual Core Processor QL 65 with the same performances 2.1 GHz, 1 MB ˺ cache. The 5224 is basically 5663, but with one year warranty, opposed to the two year warranty offered for the 5663. The European configurations of the 5536 are better equipped (Acer included an Express Card slot with 54 mm Express Card compatibility). You get about six different configurations of the Aspire 5536, 643G25MN, 643G50MN, 744G32MN, 744G32MN, 623G50MN, 744G32MN VHP32ATGB1 MC.
These eight configurations are shipped with either Windows Vista Home Basic, or the Windows Vista Home Premium. The only Vista Home Basic laptop is the 5536 643ᯕMN, which includes the AMD Athlon Q64 with 1 MB L2 cache 3.5 MHz FSB and 2.1 GHz, ATI Radeon Graphics with 256 MB, 250 GB hard drive with 5400 rotations per minute, and the 3 GB RAM memory unit. The rest of the available configurations include the Vista Home Premium. The Aspire 5536 643ᯮMN sports the same processor as the 643ᯕMN, the 500 GB hard drive with 5400 rotations per minute, 3 GB RAM memory, and ATI Radeon HD 3200 Graphics with 256 MB. The next configuration, 744ᯜMN sports the AMD Turion RM 74 with 2.2 GHz 800 MHz FSB, 1 MB L2 cache, 320 GB hard drive with 5400 rotations per minute, the same graphic chipset and 4 GB DD̶ 667 SDRAM. The fourth configuration is Aspire 5536G 744ᯜ MN and is basically 5536 744 ᯜMN with a better graphic chipset, the ATI HD 4570 graphics with 512 MB.
Acer included into the Aspire 5536 623G50MN the AMD Athlon QL 62 2.0 GHz, 1 MB L2 cache, with 3.6 MHz FSB, the 500 GB 5400 rotation per minute, only a shared graphics, and 3 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM. Last but not least, the 744G32MN VHὠATGʕ MC sports an AMD Turion RM 74 with 2.2 GHz, 1 MB L2 cache with 800 MHz FSB, 320 GB hard drive with 5400 rotations per minute, the ATI Radeon HD 3200 with improved memory to 512 MB, and 4 GB DDR2 SDRAM. Overall, both American and European versions of Aspire 5536 provide sufficient hardware specs for the average price level.
You get good performances (even do the technology is not the fastest), excellent multimedia features (including the display, Dolby Sound, and graphic chipsets), for less than $900 (depending on the configuration). If you are looking for a desktop replacement with high multimedia performances for less money (then the laptops found in Toshiba’s portfolio, and even Apple’s portfolio), then the Aspire 5536 might just be what you are looking for, or maybe even more.
Acer Aspire Notebook
Without any clear explanation, it is highly unlikely that someone knows what the current brand direction chosen by Acer is. It even more unpredictable what unique configurations will be allowed to stand on their own within a certain laptop line. For instance, Acer is really trying to create the ultimate multimedia laptop range with the Aspire 6xxx, Aspire 7xxx, and Aspire 8xxx. Within the Aspire 6xxx, I presented the 6530 (with all six configurations being based on the AMD specs) and 6930 (the twin of 6530 with Intel specs – up to 12 different configurations). Even so, the Aspire 6xxx still contains some stand alone configurations, which don’t really provide anything new in terms of design and hardware.
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The Aspire 6935 is the lead configuration for the Aspire 6930. This is a standalone configuration which provides the best sold features within one laptop model. In terms of design, you are probably aware that Aspire 6935 sports the same nice and modern design as the rest of the 6930 and 6530 laptops. You get the Gemstone design with the blue fading into black glossy LCD cover. The metallic “Acer” logo really completes the nice looking lid. However, you should be aware that all laptops with a glossy lid are fingerprints magnet and scratches magnet. Even more, the design might look nice now, but in two years at most it will look rather bad, a replacement being mandatory if you want your laptop to look nice in time.
If you are looking for a durable design try looking at other manufacturer’s portfolio, at laptops with metallic or titanium looking case, which will provide sufficient safety and conserve the design within time. Even so, the Aspire 6935 looks really nice. The rest of the case (exterior prior) is made out of a matte black plastic, looking rather acceptable. Inside, the 6935 sports a nice keyboard (black, but not a full keyboard) with the gorgeous media “buttons” for a better control over the multimedia features. The touch pad and the case that holds the touch pad are made out of nice patterned material that not only feels nice but is also very useful (non slippery) when using the touch pad.
Because this design involves the LCD to work as a hinge, you will not get any port or slots on the back side of the 6935. The rest of the ports and slots are included on the left side or right side of the 6935, with a similar structure to the 6930 models. On the right side you get beside the Kensington lock, two USB 2.0, and the Super Multi DVD drive with both read (DVD – RAM, DVD + R double layer, DVD + RW, DVD – ROM, dual layer, CD – ROM, CD – RW, DVD – R, DVD – ROM, DVD + R, CD – R, DVD + R single layer, DVD – R double layer, and DVD – RW) and write function (DVD – RAM, CD – R, DVD + RW, CD – RW, DVD – RW, DVD – R, DVD + R double layer, DVD + R, DVD – R double layer).
On the left side you can find the 6 in 1 memory card reader compatible with xD Picture Card, Multi Media Card, Secure Digital, Memory Stick card, Memory Stick Pro card, and Multi Media card plus, DC in, one USB 2.0, one eSATA / USB combo port with sleep and charge function, microphone line in, headphone line out, RJ 11 modem, RJ 45 LAN, Express Card slot for the both Express Card 54 mm and Express Card 34 mm, and the VGA port.
The build quality is the same found on the 6930, solid build quality (however in time this feature might get diminished because of the plastic case). With a height varying from front to rear 1.5 inches to 1.7 inches (39.3 mm to 43.6 mm), wide of 15.2 inches (385 mm), deep of 10.8 inches (275 mm), the 6935 weights about 7.3 lbs (or 3.3 Kg) with the battery included. Within the battery department, Acer included only a six cell Lithium Ion battery which should provide up to 2.8 hours of autonomy.
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This battery needs about 2.5 hours of recharge time when switched off, and 3.5 hours of charging time when powered on. The included keyboard is not a full layout keyboard, but features decent sized keys, relatively easy to use (you might encounter some problems when typing in the hurry because of the off centered deviation). Also, you get the empowering keys such as the WLAN easy launch buttons, the e-mail keys, and the web browser key. You also get the Acer Cine Dash media console with hold key, volume control, media control, mute key, menu navigation.
Under the keyboard you can find the touch pad, which provide excellent feedback and involves several multi touch features, depending on the operating system used. Acer included within this model a 16 inches Cine Crystal TFT LCD with a resolution of WUXGA also known as 1920 x 1080 pixels. This display features a 16 to 9 aspect ratio, and is capable of rendering up to 16 million colors. The brightness level is correct for both artificial and natural light conditions. Therefore, if you need to work on the Aspire 6935 you should get enough brightness (the brightness level is improved then the one from the 6930 models).
The connectivity is ensured by the Intel Wi-Fi Link 5100 with 802.11 a/g/b, Gigabit Ethernet, data / fax modem with a maximum speed of 56 Kb per second, three 2.0 USB ports, one eSATA / USB combo port with sleep and charge function, the Express Card slot with 54 mm, VGA port, and memory card slot. The Aspire AS 6935 6194 includes a Mobile Intel GM 45 Express Chipset. Also this configuration has preinstalled the Windows Vista Home Premium (upgradable to Windows 7, recommended). Acer also added within this configuration the Intel Core 2 Duo Mobile Processor T6400 with 2 MB L2 cache 2.0 GHz and 800 MHz FSB, 4 GB DDR3 with 1066 SDRAM (in a 2 x 2048 MB configuration), 320 GB hard drive, and Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500 MHD.
Overall the 6935 is an improved version of 6930, that could easily be considered to be the ultimate 6930 experience or configuration model. The second model within the Aspire 6xxx which stands alone in term of configuration is the Aspire 6920. This model should be considered the cheaper version of the 6930 models. However, there is nothing less powerful within this model than the 6930 laptops.
The only diminished element in this equation is the price tag, and a few hardware downsizing. The 6935 is the best in terms of speed, while the 6920 performs well but with older technology. The 6920 sports the same design as the 6935, the Gemstone design with the blue fading into black glossy plastic lid. The rest of the case is made out of black matte plastic, with an excellent build quality as a new product. The longevity of this product is yet to be determined. In terms of ports and slots, the hardware is almost the same.
The LCD cover still works as a hinge. Therefore, you will not find any ports and slots on the back side of this laptop. However you will find on the right side the Super Multi DVD drive with the same compatible formats within the 6935 specs, two 2.0 USB, and the Kensington lock key. On the left side you get the DC in jack, the cooling vent, the Express card slot with the 54 mm Express card, RJ 11 modem, RJ 45 LAN, the VGA port, the HDMI port, one 2.0 USB, headphone line out, microphone line in, and one eSATA / USB combo port with sleep and charge function. The keyboard (with special keys including the Acer Cine Dash media console) and the touch pad are the same found on the 6935. With a varying height from 1.5 inches to 1.7 inches (39.3 mm to 43.6 mm), wide of 15.2 inches (385 mm), deep of 10.8 inches (275 mm), the 6920 weights about 7.7 lbs (or 3.5 Kg), with the battery included.
However, the six cell Lithium Ion battery included in the 6920 offers only 2.3 hours (the 6935 offers 2.8 hours) autonomy. If I can say anything good about this battery is that it charges in 2 hours when the laptop is power off, and 3 hours when the laptop is powered on. Acer included a 16 inches TFT display, sporting the same Cine Crystal technology with a smaller resolution, WXGA also known as 1366 x 768 pixels. The aspect rotation was left unchanged, 16 to 9, capable of rendering 16 million colors. However, the brightness is the one found on the 6930 configuration models, which means washed colors under direct sunlight. However, with autonomy of only 2.3 hours, this laptop is recommended to be used indoors only.
The connectivity is ensured by Intel PRO Wireless 3945 ABG supporting the 802.11 a/b/g profilem with Bluetooth 2.0 plus enhanced data rate, Gigabit Ethernet, modem with 56 Kb per second, three USB 2.0, one eSATA / USB combo port with sleep and charge function, VGA port, and HDMI port. The Aspire AS 6920 6898 includes the Windows Vista Home Premium as operating system. However, you can easily upgrade to Windows 7.
You also get the Mobile Intel PM 965 Express Chipset, Intel Core 2 Duo processor T6400 (2.0 GHz 2 MB L2 cache 800 MHz FSB), 4 GB DDR2 with only 667 SDRAM, 320 GB hard drive with 5400 rotation per minute and the NVIDIA GeForce 9500M GS graphics (512 MB dedicated graphic memory, and up to 768 MB shared memory).
Overall, the Aspire 6920 sports a few better features than the 6935 like the graphic chipset, but loses against the 6935’s speed of 4 GB DDR30 1066 SDRAM (6920 including 4 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM). Both 6935 and 6920 are standalone configuration models because they are considered to be the best sellers of the Aspire 6xxx range. However, this is by far true. The truth is that these two configurations can be found easily around the world, while the 6530 and 6930 configuration models, and depend mostly on the local market.
Laptop Notebook Computer
Have you ever wondered which Acer laptop was the first one to introduce the new Gemstone device? Probably the answer would be no, you haven’t. No problem, neither did I, it’s not like you have to know everything by heart. However, Acer’s first laptop with the Gemstone design didn’t just brought a new design line for Acer but also some interesting features. Therefore, the Aspire 5930 can easily be considered the 5920 successor, with the latest technology available (in the middle laptop range), including ATI graphic chipsets (up to 512 MB with DDR3 video memory).
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Also, because this is an Aspire laptop, meaning it must include multimedia features; Acer included Dolby sound system, with several other features such as the 15.4 inches Crystal Brite TFT display, and the full port package you might need in a multimedia laptop. In terms of design, the Aspire 5930 sports the excellent Gemstone blue fading into black design, with a glossy plastic cover LCD (as you may expect this means the lid is a fingerprint magnet, and really easy to get scratches on). Even so the silver “Acer” logo really looks nice on the glossy lid; making the design more stylish then conservative (this being a good feature since 5930 is by far business range). The build construction is as solid as you can get, no weird noises (even if the 5930’s body is made entirely out of plastic), and no flex whatsoever.
Acer successfully delivers a great Gemstone design with a solid build quality. Inside, the 5930 sports a black keyboard which looks really nice, glossy frame around the LCD display embedding the webcam, and a nice patterned cover (which is kind of slippery). The rest of the body is made out of black matte plastic. Even so, the build quality is remarkable; Acer is really trying to compete with Toshiba in terms of build quality (since in the design department Toshiba is by far better than Acer). On the left side Acer included the Acer Easy Port IV connector, the Express Card slot (54 mm Express Card), the 5 in 1 memory card reader (compatible with xD picture card, Memory Stick PRO memory card, Multimedia memory card, Memory Stick memory card, and SD memory card), the RJ 45 LAN, one eSATA / USB combo port with the sleep and charge function, the HDMI port with HDCP support, and the VGA port.
While on the right side you get two USB 2.0 ports, the headphone out, microphone in, line in jack, the RJ 11 modem, the DC in jack, and the depending on your choice (Acer only offer one configuration available, but allows its customers to customize their own 5930) either the Super Multi DVD drive or the Blu-ray Disc / Super Multi DVD drive. With a varying height from front to rear 30 mm to 43 mm (or 1.2 inches to 1.7 inches), wide of 366 mm (or 14.3 inches), deep of 274 mm (or 10.6 inches), the Aspire 5930 weights about 6.6 lbs (or 3 Kg), including the battery. Speaking of the battery, Acer included in this model a six cell Lithium Ion battery with 48.8 Watts. However, you are able to choose for the eight cell battery with 71 Watts, which should be enough for 3 hours battery life when using the graphics.
Thanks to the included Standby technology and Hibernation technology, the battery life will last longer. Even so, the eight cell Lithium Ion battery is able to charge itself at maximum in 3 hours if you chose to use the laptop or in two hours if you let it in the system off mode. Once you open the 5930 the first thing you are going to notice is the lack of a full keyboard. Even so, the included keyboard sports a nice black look, with good seized keys, which provide excellent feedback for even the most exigent user. Even better, Acer successfully build a keyboard which lacks any flex within the usage process. You also get easy launch buttons such as Acer Arcade, email, Bluetooth, and the WLAN profile.
Also included are the Acer Media Touch keys (such as fast forward, fast rewind, next, previous, play, stop, or pause). Under the keyboard you get the touch pad (which is not exactly the best included touch pad). Unfortunately it’s placed at a lower level of the case, making the whole usage process at best strange. It provides sufficient feedback and works nice; thanks to the non slippery material used, but the lower level location is definitely a minus. If you chose so you can include in your customized 5930 the Acer Bio protection fingerprint reader (located between the two touchpad buttons).
This feature will ensure the Windows log on, your computer protection, and several other functions like Music launch and Profile launch. Acer included into the 5930 a 15.4 inches diagonal widescreen TFT LCD display (featuring the Crystal Brite technology), with the WXGA resolution (also known as 1280 x 800 pixels resolution). This TFT LCD is capable of rendering about 16.7 million colors with a 16 to 9 aspect ratio. In terms of brightness this display is in the average zone. Other laptops with 15.4 inches diagonal screen provides 300 nit level brightness in the center of the screen, while the Acer Aspire 5930 sports only 220 nit level brightness in the center of the screen.
Even so, since the Aspire 5930 is not a ultraportable solution, the brightness under direct sunlight should not be a disadvantage since it is advertised as an indoor use multimedia solution. The connectivity is ensured depending on the configuration you might decide to create, by either Intel Wi-Fi Link (5100 / 5300) with the 802.11 a/b/g/n profile or the Intel Wi-Fi (5150 / 5350) WiMAX dual mode module (single band 802.16e/2.5G), the modem with a maximum speed of 56 Kb per second, 10 / 100 / 1000 Ethernet, Bluetooth 2.0 with the enhanced data rate, Express Card slot, HDMI port, VGA port, two USB 2.0 ports, and one eSATA / USB port.
Acer provides only one pre determined configuration, the Aspire 5930G 733G25Mn which includes the Intel Core 2 Duo T5750 with 2.0 GHz, 667 MHZ FSB with the L2 cache 2MB, 250 GB ATA hard drive with 5400 rotations per minute, 3 GB RAM memory unit, the Super Multi DVD drive, the NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT with 512 MB VRAM, and the connectivity package. However, you are allowed to build your fully customized Aspire 5930. You can chose between either Mobile Intel PM 45 Express Chipset or the Mobile Intel GM 45 Express Chipset. Also you can chose a better processor (still Intel Core 2 Duo) but with 6 MB L2 cache. Also the maximum supported memory is 4 GB. However you only get one hard disk drive option, the 250 GB one. The NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT offers the best graphic solution with the 2303 MB Turbo Cache with 512 MB GDDR3 VRAM dedicated, while the rest of 1791 MB is shared.
However if you are planning to reduce your costs then chose from the NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS with 2047 MB Turbo Cache memory (256 MB DD̶ VDRAM dedicated, and the rest of 1791 MB shared), or the Mobile Intel GM 45 Express Chipset with the 3D graphics integrated (including the X4500 HD also known as Intel GMS X4500 HD with 512 MB with only 8 MB dedicated memory). If you are actually going to use this laptop then you have to chose between the NVIDIA 9600M GT or the NVIDIA 9300M GS, since the 8 MB dedicated memory from the Intel GMA X4500 HD is like going back to 1999 at best.
Acer includes in every Aspire 5930 the following mandatory software, Acer Empowering technology, Acer Instant On Arcade, Acer Crystal Eye, Acer Grid Vista, Acer Launch Manager, McAfee Internet Security Suite (only 60 day trial version), Adobe Reader and the Microsoft Works 8.5 and the Office Home with the Student 2007 trial version (for 30 days). Even more you can chose from Windows Vista Home Premium, Home Basic, and Ultimate. However, if you are going to customize your Aspire 5930 just chose the Windows 7 since it is the only stable Microsoft operating system since XP.
Overall the Aspire 5930 is a great laptop. The majority of users who need a good featured indoor multimedia solution with a stunning design are probably going to give a chance to the Aspire 5930. However, for the same price you can buy a Toshiba Satellite U500. Therefore, the buy decision rest in the hands and brains of the potential customer because a purchase is always a subjective action.
Notebook Laptop Computer
In the last article I presented a full model line of laptops power exclusively by AMD. Even so, the Acer Aspire 6530 is a solid investment for any of the eight cell battery configurations. Acer is not yet turning a new chapter in laptop history, letting go of Intel technology. By far, Acer’s intentions are to lose its Intel customers.
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Therefore, the Aspire 6xxx line includes beside the AMD line Aspire 6530, another line powered entirely by Intel Centrino processor technology, Aspire 6930. The Acer Aspire 6xxx also includes another two models, the Aspire 6935 and the Aspire 6920, both lines with only one available configuration. About the Aspire 6935 and Aspire 6920 I am going to write in another article before concluding about the Acer’s 6xxx laptop range. For now let’s focus our attention over the Aspire 6930.
This model line includes 12 available configurations. Acer is trying to make sure it can be considered a strong competitor of Toshiba. However, the Acer’s products have a long way to go until they can reach Toshiba level. The Aspire 6930 is the Intel version of the Aspire 6530. This line is created for home users who expect the best audio and video performances from an average line laptop (also known as, under $1000 price tag). Since 6930 is part of the rather new (even if its 1 year old) Aspire line, it sports a nice Gemstone blue to black design, with the LCD cover made out of glossy plastic, with the a full back keyboard, and a patterned touch pad and touch pad surroundings.
The rest of the 6930 is made out of a black matte plastic which feels nice at touch. Overall, if you don’t really mind the fingerprint magnet and scratches magnet lid, the 6930 sports a stylish design (thanks to the metallic silver “Acer” logo and the stainless steels finishes – in the hinges), and a pretty good build quality (even rated at solid build quality). In time I am not exactly sure how this design will sustain its looks mostly because of the plastic glossy lid. Because the LCD cover works like a hinge, Acer didn’t include any slots and ports on the back side of the Aspire 6930. However, on the left side you can find the RJ 45 LAN, Express card 54 mm slot, the VGA port, the HDMI port, one eSATA / USB combo with sleep and charge mode, microphone input, headphone output, Line-in, DC in, and the cooling vent.
On the right side of the 6930 you can find two 2.0 USB, RJ 11 modem, Kensington lock, and the Super Multi DVD drive (compatible with several formats such as DVD – RAM, CD – R, DVD + RW, CD – RW, DVD – RW, DVD – R single layer, DVD + R double layer, DVD + R, and DVD – R double layer – for the write mode, with a few more accepted formats in the read mode). On the front side you can find the 5 in 1 memory card reader compatible with Secure Digital memory card, Memory Stick memory card, xD Picture Card, Memory Stick Pro memory card, and the Multimedia memory card.
Overall, Acer successfully delivers the necessary ports and slots into an impressive design, with a varying height from front to rear 1.6 inches to 1.7 inches (or 41 mm to 43.9 mm), deep of 10.9 inches (or 277.5 mm), wide of 15.2 inches (or 385 mm), the Aspire 6930 wrights with the six cell battery included about 3.4 Kg (or 7.5 lbs) depending on the configuration chosen. In terms of battery, all the 12 configurations available for 6930 either sport a six cell battery or an eight cell battery. Both battery models are made from Lithium Ion. The six cell battery can provide only two and a half hours of autonomy depending on the usage, while the eight cell battery provides depending on the usage up to three and a half hours of autonomy.
Both models need about three hours to complete charge is the laptop is turned on, and about two hours for a complete charge if the laptop is turned off. A great feature of the 6930 is the complete keyboard layout, with excellent sized keys which offer sufficient feedback when pressed. The keyboard is well build and you will not have any problems with it. You also get the empowering keys (such as the Bluetooth key, Acer Instant On arcade key, WLAN enable key, and the web browser) but also the Multimedia pad with the necessary controls such as play and pause, fast forward, fast rewind, previous, stop, and next media control.
Under the keyboard you can find the nice patterned touch screen which includes several nice features from the multi touch technology such as the four way integrated scroll features. Just like the keys from the keyboard, the touch pad offers good feedback completing the user experience. To integrate the best multimedia experience, Acer added in the 6930 models a 16 inches widescreen diagonal TFT LCD with a WXGA resolution (also known as 1366 x 768 pixels), capable of rendering up to 16.7 million colors. This display is identical with the one found on the 6530. Therefore, you should aspect at relatively bad brightness under direct sunlight. However, this laptop is made foe indoor use, so you don’t really get to criticize Acer for adding such a display into its products. Even so, the viewing angles are quite good.
The video experience is completed thanks to the HDMI port and VGA port. Even more, Acer also added nice features in the audio department including two stereo speakers, which not only sport the second version of Dolby Home Theater audio but also the a great bass supporting even the lowest frequency sound effects. In terms of multimedia the Aspire 6930 is well featured and it should be taken into consideration as a competitor to the Satellite ￜ. The connectivity is ensured by the Intel Wi-Fi Link with the 802.11 a/b/g/n profile, Bluetooth 2.0 with enhanced data rate, Gigabit LAN, modem with a maximum speed of 56 Kb per second, two 2.0 USB, one eSATA / USB combo port with sleep and charge function, and the VGA and HDMI ports.
The connectivity features, along with the 16 inches display, Super Multi DVD drive, Mobile Intel GM 45 Express Chipset, and the pre-installed software (Acer eAudio, Acer eRecovery, Acer Game Zone, Acer Launch Manager, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and a trial version for McAfee Internet Security Suite) are included in all the 12 configurations of the 6930 Aspire model, A 6067, A 6073, A 6941, A 6942, A 6082, A 6154, A 6771, A 6809, A 6235, A 6455, A 6262, and A 6560. The Aspire 6930 6809 includes an Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800 with 2 MB ˺ cache 2.0 GHz 800 MHz FSB, one 320 GB hard drive, the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500 MHD, and 3 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, running the Windows Vista Home Premium.
The second configuration 6455 runs the same operating system (the 64 bit version), and the same processor like 6809, 4 GB DD̶ 667 SDRAM, Intel Media Graphics Media Accelerator 4500 MHD, and the 250 GB Hard drive. The Aspire AS6930 6154 includes some common features with the 6455 (operating system, processor, RAM memory, and graphic chipset), but offers a better hard drive, 320 GB hard drive. The 6082 includes the Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800, with 4 GB DDr2 667 SDRAM, Intel Media Graphic Accelerator 4500 MHD, and the 250 GB hard drive. A slightly better configuration is the 6262 which provides the same T5800 processor and RAM memory, and the 320 GB hard drive, and the NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GS graphics. The 6723 is basically the same with 6262 but offers instead of the Super Multi DVD drive, the Blu-ray Disc drive.
The Aspire 6930 6560 is a combination between the above configurations, 6723, 6262, and 6082. The first configuration with the eight cell battery is the 6073 which also includes the Intel Core 2 Duo Processor P8600 with 2.40 GHz 3MB L2 cache and 1066 MHz. Also included is the 4 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM (in 2048 MB x 2 configuration), NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GS graphic chipset, and the 320 GB hard drive.
The 6771 is a rather different configuration than the rest of the 6930 presented, with the P7350 processor with 2.0 GHz 3 MB L2 cache at 1066 MHz FSB, 3 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500 MHD, and the 320 GB hard drive. The second configuration available with the Blu-ray Disc drive and eight cell battery is the 6941 with the Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T6400 included, 4 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GS graphic chipset, and 320 GB hard drive. The last three configurations, 6942, 6067, and 6235, sport the same six cell Lithium Ion battery.
The Aspire 6930 6942 includes the T6400 processor, with 250 GB hard drive, 4 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, and the NVIDIA chipset. The 6067 replaces the 6942’s hard drive and graphic chipset with 320 GB hard drive and the Intel Graphic Media Accelerator 4500 MHD, while the last available configuration, 6235, includes 6942 and 6067 processor, RAM memory, 6067’s graphic chipset, and 6942’s hard drive.
Overall, all these configurations need a certain element upgraded, the operating system form Windows Vista Home Premium to Windows 7 Home premium. As you could probably see all these 12 configurations are more than enough from people to choose from. However, if you don’t like them you should rather go for the fully customizable configuration of the Toshiba Satellite A500. Overall, the Aspire 6930 can be a safe competitor to the A500, thanks to its nice design, excellent base features, and complete range of model configurations.
Notebook Pc
It is not a hidden fact that AMD has a silent war going on with Intel. AMD is a good manufacturer with several good products with competitive prices, while Intel still successfully grabs the majority of customers, thanks to the power of advertising and marketing. Even more, Intel has one of the best products on the market, with only one main disadvantage, the price levels. The laptop market is certainly containing more Intel products than AMD, processors, chipset, or graphic chipset.
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Just Toshiba for instance, with more than 70% of its laptop configuration (from different lines, such as Tecra, Portege, Satellite Pro, and Satellite) including more Intel hardware than AMD hardware. It is hard to understand way some manufacturers and even final customers rather spend more money for the same quality products, with the only difference being the logo used. Some say, that laptops are better off with Intel technology since it consumes less than AMD. Even so, this disadvantage could easily be diminished by including a 12 cell battery in the AMD powered laptops.
Maybe with time manufacturers will accept more AMD technology, or at least allow potential customers to configure their own laptop model, by choosing either Intel or AMD. Acer is one of the few manufacturers that offer a laptop model with all the available configurations including AMD specs. Even more, Acer successfully understood the necessary laptop model to contain the AMD hardware.
Also, the Aspire 6530 offer six pre-determined configurations, all including AMD techs. The excellent design includes a rather glossy black to blue lid. The rest of the case includes a black matte plastic, which feels nice. Also you get a few stainless steel finishes. The glossy lid is a fingerprint magnet and minor scratches magnet. Even so, the silver “Acer” logo is really complementary with the overall design. The build quality is solid. Therefore, you get a really nice designed laptop, solid built for this price range.
With a varying height from front to rear 1.6 inches to 1.7 inches (or 41 mm to 43.9 mm), wide of 15.2 inches (or 385 mm), deep of 10.9 inches (or 277.5 mm), the Aspire 6530 weights about 7.5 lb (or 3.4 Kg) with the six cell battery, or 7.7 lbs (or 3.5 Kg) with the eight cell battery. Even so, keep in mind that all this dimensions and weight vary depending on the configuration chosen. At a first glance at these values an obvious reaction would be that this laptop is not the most portable. True, since the Aspire 6530 is advertised as the solution for home users. Since the LCD cover of the 6530 works like a hinge it is almost impossible positioning any ports or slots on the back side of this laptop.
However, Acer successfully added all the necessary ports and slots on the rest of the sides. Therefore, on the right side you get two 2.0 USB ports, the modem port, the AC input jack, and the Super Multi DVD drive with several compatible formats in both read and write mode (DVD – RW, DVD + RW, CD – R, DVD – R single layer, DVD – R double layer, DVD + R single layer, DVD + R double layer, and DVD – RAM. On the front side you get the memory card reader, 5 in 1 compatible with several memory cards, such as Secure Digital memory card, Multi Media card, xD Picture Card, Memory Stick PRO, and Memory Stick card.
On the right side Acer included the RGB monitor output, the strategically located cooling vent, RJ 45 LAN, the HDMI with the high bandwidth digital content protection support, microphone input, headphone and speaker output, the 54 mm Express Card slot, and one eSATA / USB combo port with sleep and charge function. Once you open the Aspire 6530 will see the full keyboard with hotkeys controls. The keys from the keyboard are well dimensioned, they are easy to use and will offer the average feedback. You don’t really get any flex, not even when you press harder then you should.
You also get easy launch buttons such as web browser, e-mail, WLAN, and Acer Arcade. Also included for a better functionality are the Acer Media Touch controls with the volume up and down functions, play, pause, stop, and other media controls. Under the keyboard you get the touch pad which benefits from the latest multi touch technology improving its feedback and functions. Acer included in the 6530 (and depending on the configuration chosen) a 16 inches WXGA TFT display (1366 x 768 pixels) using the latest available technology, Cine Crystal. This display is capable of rendering up to 16.7 million colors. The colors are vibrant; the brightness is great indoors and pretty bad under direct sunlight. Even so, this laptop is designed for indoors use. Therefore, the potential customers already know that the brightness will not be the best feature onboard the 6530.
The connectivity is ensured by the Ethernet 10 / 100 / 100, the InviLink Nplify 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi, the modem, two 2.0 USB, one eSATA / USB combo port with sleep and charge function, HDMI, and Express card slot. Acer provides six different laptop models for the Aspire 6530, 6530 6522, 6530 5143, 6530 5195, 6530 5753, 6530 5514, and the 6530 5341. All the above configurations are shipped with common software and hardware specifications, like Windows Vista Home Premium Service Pack 1 operating system (the 64 bit version), 16 inches WXGA display, and the same connectivity department.
The AS 6530 5195 includes the AMD Athlon X2 Dual Core processor, the QL 60 model with 1 MB L2 cache, 1.9 GHz, the 4 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM (configured as 2048 MB x 2), six cell Lithium Ion battery, ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphic chipset, and the 160 GB hard drive. The next configuration, AS 650 5514 sports the same QL 60 processor like the AS 6530 5195 but includes only 3 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, six cell Lithium Ion battery, ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphics, and the 250 GB hard drive. The AS 6530 5753 is shipped with the AMD Turion X2 Ultra Dual Core Mobile Processor ZM 82 with 2 MB L2 cache and 2.2 GHz, 4 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, 320 GB hard drive, eight cell battery, and the AMD HD 3650 graphic processor.
The AS 6530 5341 provides a slower processor than the previous configuration, but a better processor than the first two available configurations, AMD Turion Ͳ Dual Core Mobile Processor RM 70 with 1 MB L2 cache and 2.0 GHz, 3 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, six cell battery, ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphic chipset, and 250 GB hard disk drive. Acer included in AS 6530 5143 the same processor like in AS 6530 5341, with 4 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, AMD HD 3650 graphic processor, eight cell batteries, and the 320 GB hard drive.
The last available configuration from the Aspire 6530 is AS 6530 6522, and includes the AMD Athlon Dual Core Processor QL 62 with 1 MB L2 cache, at 2.0 GHz, with 3 GB DDR2 667 SDRAM, ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphic chipset, the basic six cell battery, and the 250 GB hard drive. All above configurations should be enough for any possible demand for the potential customers.
Acer successfully created an excellent product; full AMD powered, and completed the good package with some branded software such as Acer Arcade, Acer Crystal Eye, Acer GridVista, Acer Launch Manager, and a few 3rd party applications (Adobe Acrobat Reader, McAfee Internet Security Suite, Microsoft Works 8.5, Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007). Overall, the Aspire 6530 is an excellent product which has no direct competitor, providing sufficient features into an excellent design, more than enough for the home users who prefer AMD over Intel.
Samsung’s First Windows Mobile-powered Handset Available In Japan
Samsung has finally launched the company’s first Windows Mobile-powered handset in Japan. Known as the Softbank X01SC, the phone is powered by Windows Mobile 6.5 with a full QWERTY keyboard, a Qualcomm MSM7225 processor, a 2.4-inch display at QVGA resolution, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. [Akihabara]
Nissan Licenses Scratch Shield Paint To NTT DoCoMo
Nissan and NTT DoCoMo has collaborated to use Nissan’s Scratch Shield for NTT DoCoMo’s mobile phones to be introduced in Japan. FYI, the Scratch Shield is actually the world’s first in paint technology that was commercially introduced in December, 2005. This technology was developed in collaboration with University of Tokyo and Advanced Softmaterials Inc. This self-healing paint is currently applied to certain Nissan and Infiniti vehicles worldwide. The Scratch Shield paint self-heals fine scratches and is capable of restoring the vehicles’ paint surfaces overnight or up to a week’s time in more severe cases. This unique self-heal quality of the paint is perfect for mobile phone application, which will make the phone more scratch resistant. [Newlaunches]
Samsung S359 Slider Phone For China
Samsung is set to introduce another one of its slider phone for the Chinese market. Dubbed as the S359, this music phone offers a 2-inch display with 65k colors, a VGA camera, a microSD card slot (up to 8GB), a music player, an FM radio, WAP browser v2.0, 500 SMS storing capacity and works on CDMA 1X 800MHz band. Sadly, there’s no word on pricing and release date yet. [SamsungHub]
Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Promotional Video
Sony Ericsson today released the latest promotional video of Sony Ericsson Xperia ≪. In case you didn’t know, this new smartphone comes jam packed with a 4-inch touchscreen capacitive display with WVGA (800×480) resolution, an 8-megapixel shooter with Autofocus, LED flash, image stabilizers, smile and face detection, Bluetooth 2.1 and WiFi b/g. Other specs include aGPS, Android 2.0 with Custom user interface, and a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon Processor. Video after the jump.
Unboxing Sprint Palm Pixi
Some folks at WireFly have posted an unboxing video of the Sprint Palm Pixi. As a reminder, the phone features a 2.63-inch (320×400) touchscreen display with a 2MP fixed-focus camera with LED flash, a full QWERTY keypad, and access to the Palm Beta App Catalog, which includes entertainment and social networking applications like Yelp and Local Concerts by iLike. The Pixi also comes with a rubberized back cover, which is scratch-resistant and durable. Watch the video after the jump.
[Youtube]
A bill to bar text messaging while driving in Pennsylvania is headed to the House floor.
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Nokia to recall 14 million chargers
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Has Microsoft placed its last mobile bet?
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