New Laptop:Toshiba Bradford A500-17X 16"

Toshiba Bradford A500-17X 16"

I got myself a new Laptop yesterday as my old one finally gave up the ghost. It's a bit of a cracker for the price, being able to meet all my blogging requirements, and play the latest games, stream video etc. The specs are:

Operating system Genuine Windows (R) 7 Home Premium
Processor Type Intel Core 2 Duo processor P7450
Processor speed (2.13Ghz, 1066Mhz, 3MB Cache)
Memory Size 4GB MB DDR3
Hard Drive Capacity 500 GB
Optical Drives DVD RW
CD-ROM Speed 24 x
CD-RW Speed. 4 x
DVD-ROM Speed 8 x
Screen Size/Type 16" TruBrite® HD TFT High Brightness display with LED backlight
Graphics Card Type Nvidia GeForce GT 230M
Graphics Memory 1GB dedicated MB
Sound Type Harman Kardon Speakers
Wireless Enabled YES
No. of USB Connections 4
Other Interfaces HDMI http://dailyreferendum.blogspot.com

Disney Netpal Princess Pink Netbook

Designed for kids aged 6-12, the Disney Netpal by ASUS is durable, with a reinforced mechanical design, and offers a truly magical and engaging computing experience with a unique Disney user interface. With colorful Disney-themed style, your child can explore a web-safe world of technology on their own with ease.

Specification:

• Intel Atom N270 Processor 1.6GHz
  
• 1 GB DDR2 RAM, 1 x SODIMM Slot, 2GB Max
• 160GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM)
• Windows XP Home Operating System with Magic Desktop Software
• Fun: Disney theme designed desktop and interface with intuitive and fun applications
• Web-safe: Robust safety features including white-list for added protection for your kids to safely browse the Web and email
• Easy: Easy to use and handle with compact hardware design made for kids
  

The 8.9-inch Disney Netpal in Princess Pink is currently available on Amazon for $345.76. Check out customer reviews here.http://pink-laptop.blogspot.com

Apple offers 3.33GHz Mac Pro, Xserve with 48GB RAM

Apple has quietly updated its line of powerful Mac Pro computers and servers, Xserve, supplemented by several new solutions. For example, single-processor model Mac Pro has the option in the form of 4-core Intel Xeon processors with a clock speed of 3.33 GHz. Thus, the Mac Pro now has a CPU with higher clock frequency than the variant with eight processor cores, where the frequency of both chips is limited to 2.93 GHz.

As for the server Xserve, it now can be equipped with modules of RAM to 4 GB total RAM and 24 GB in a single-processor version and up to 48 GB - a two-chip version. In addition, Mac Pro and Xserve can now be equipped with a capacity of 2 terabytes of hard drives. The maximum total amount of disk space on a server with three landing sites is 6 TB, and the Mac Pro a similar rate up to 8 terabytes.

As for the price issue, the choice of Intel Xeon processor with a clock speed of 3.33 GHz, add $ 1,200 to the cost of Mac Pro. At the same time, additional RAM in the Xserve will cost $ 2850 and $ 5850 for the version with 24 GB and 48 GB respectively. Furthermore, the addition of each hard drive capacity of 2 TB of cost to the customer at $ 550. It remains to add that all these options are already available for order at Apple Storehttp://phonestechnology.blogspot.com

Notebook HP Pavilion dv3 touch screen TouchSmart

HP has announced the start of Russian sales of a new laptop HP Pavilion dv3 touch screen TouchSmart. In a notebook HP Pavilion dv3 used software HP TouchSmart 3.0 - the latest package of applications with support for touch technology. The package includes a program TouchSmart Canvas for working with photos, allowing to catalog and edit photos flourishes on the touch screen. TouchSmart 3.0 The package also includes a program TouchSmart Live TV, with which you can not only view TV shows, but to record, put the transmission on a break and get detailed information about the program through the EPG.

The new software package to complement our existing applications that support a touch screen: calendar, clock, music player, notes, the program that displays the weather forecast, your browser TouchSmart Browser, TouchSmart DVD players and TouchSmart Blu-ray, the program for reading news TouchSmart RSS and the program to work with the camera TouchSmart Webcam.

HP Pavilion dv3 made in dark blue colors with patterned Modern Vintage. HP Pavilion dv3 TouchSmart touch screen is already on sale in Russia. The recommended price is $ 1300.

HP Pavilion dv3 Features:

* Large 13.3-inch touch screen with LED-backlit
* Intel
* Graphics Card NVIDIA GeForce G105M with 512 MB dedicated video memory
* Operating system Microsoft Windows 7
* Built-in optichttp://phonestechnology.blogspot.com

Sony VAIO VGN-P788K/Q 8-Inch Laptop Review

New Sony VAIO VGN-P788K/Q 8-Inch Laptop Windows 7 Home Premium operating system (32-bit version), supporting office applications and all the software programs routinely found in full-size notebooks. Windows 7 is the easiest, fastest, and most engaging version of Windows yet. Better ways to find and manage files, like Jump Lists and improved taskbar previews, help you speed through everyday tasks. Windows 7 is designed for faster and more reliable performance, so your PC just works the way you want it to. (Learn more about Windows 7 Home Premium below.)

The Lifestyle PC incorporates built-in wireless WAN 3G Mobile Broadband, 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies. You can toggle among various wireless options for the most efficient connection–Wi-Fi for working at a coffee shop; Bluetooth for peripherals; and Mobile Broadband service on the Verizon Wireless nationwide network when traveling outside the reach of hotspots (subscription required). It also incorporates real-time GPS functionality, making it easy to find restaurants, hotels or special sites of interest. Destinations can be found by simply typing in an address or keyword and then following the turn-by-turn directions.
The high-resolution, backlit 8-inch ultra-wide XBRITE-ECO display provides razor-sharp viewing on the go. It’s powered by a 1.33 GHz Intel processor and includes a 64 GB solid state drive for faster read/write times and greater durability, memory expansion via Memory Stick media and Secure Digital (SD) memory cards, and 2 GB of RAM (maximum capacity). Other features include a Motion Eye webcam (with omnidirectional microphone) integrated into the to right corner of the display bezel for easy video chats, two USB ports, and a VGA port for connecting to an external monitor. The unit features up to 3.5 hours of battery life with the included standard capacity battery and 7 hours with the large capacity battery (sold separately)http://ready2beat.com

Guide to a Notebook

A laptop or portable computer is nothing more than a small laptop that weighs 2.2 to 18 pounds (1 to 8 kg), which depends on the make, model, size, the material is made of it, and many other factors. Notebooks generally operate on one main battery or via an external adapter that can both charge the battery and power the laptop.

Laptops are able to do the same work in an office staff, the only difference is that they are generally less powerful for the same cost. They contain similar elements, such as desktop computers and perform the same functions, except that they are miniature in size and suitable for use transportable and efficient energy consumption. Notebooks usually have different LCD and memory modules. They have a built-in keyboard; entry is through a keyboard or a pointing stick, but an external mouse can also be attached.

There are different categories of laptops. UMPCs are Ultra Mobile PC and are very portable. Because they are small, they can take in a small touch screen, while some other models have one minute physical keyboard and a mouse interface. The other type is Ultraportables, which are portable and the screens are less than eleven inches and are less than 3.7 pounds (1.7 kg) weight. They are generally used by travelers because they are small and lightweight but very expensive. They have an extended battery life and integrated graphics. The other type of portable is the Sony VAIO FJ76, and the Dell XPS M1330 and XPS M1210. Then we have the great laptops, which are more desktop computers in the budget. And if you want the power of the office, then you can opt for the replacement of office that can accommodate many components of performance.

Regarding processors are concerned, you should go for the faster that your budget allows. You can opt for the `Intel Centrino, which has a lot of speed and a good battery life. Or you can also go to the economic recovery Betting AMD mobile processors whose performance has lagged behind Intel. If you intend to watch DVDs on your laptop and large screen for those who provide clearer, larger and larger images. The only consideration is that they are not designed to carry a lot.

For a large system performance, it is vital to have enough memory (RAM) that will allow you to run multiple applications simultaneously. Adequate RAM is also essential for the image and video editing, graphics, 3D and gaming. Booklets typically have a terrible sound quality so it is recommended to use speakers or headphones. These are some of the factors that you should consider before buying a laptop.

Also keep in mind that like any electronic device, your computer is vulnerable to accidents, as well as system failures. It is recommended that you get at least a three-year warranty and other insurance.

Health risks associated with the use of a laptop has been a controversial issue for some time. Research has shown that the heat generated from notebooks can raise the temperature of the scrotum resulting in a reduction of sperm. One solution may be used on a table or keep him away from the tower, which allow for better cooling of the notebook and also prevent your turn excessive electromagnetic radiation and heat.

Some of the major brands who are Acer TravelMate notebook which, Ferrari and Aspire models, BenQ, with its Compaq Armada, LTE, and EVO Presario models. Other major labels Gateway, HCL, Lenovo, LG, Micro-Star International, Panasonic, Samsung, Toshiba and others.

This article is licensed under the GNU FDL and can be distributed without prior permission of the author. But the author's name and all URLs (links) mentioned in the article and biography should be retained.the-best-laptop.blogspot.com

COMPAQ MINI 110 SERVICE MANUAL

This Compaq Mini 110 Service Guide.pdf is a maintenance troubleshooting and instruction owner manual reference used for maintaining and servicing the Compaq Mini 110 notebook. It provides comprehensive information on identifying Compaq Mini 110 notebook features, components, and spare parts; troubleshooting notebook problems; and performing notebook disassembly procedures.

Table contents Compaq Mini 110 Manual

• Product description
• External component identification
  Top components ~ TouchPad ~ Light ~ Keys ~ Front components ~ Right-side components ~ Left-side components ~ Display components ~ Bottom components ~ Wireless antennas
• Illustrated parts catalog
  Service tag ~ Device major components ~ Display assembly components ~ Mass storage devices ~ Miscellaneous parts ~ Sequential part number listing
• Removal and replacement procedures
  Preliminary replacement requirements ~ Tools required ~ Service considerations ~ Plastic parts ~ Cables and connectors ~ Drive handling ~ Grounding guidelines ~ Electrostatic discharge damage ~ Packaging and transporting guidelines ~ Workstation guidelines ~ Equipment guidelines ~ Component replacement procedures ~ Service tag ~ Device feet ~ Battery ~ SIM ~ Memory module ~ Keyboard ~ RTC battery ~ Mass storage devices ~ Hard drive ~ Solid-state drive ~ Top cover ~ WLAN module ~ WWAN module ~ USB/audio board ~ Power/battery pass-through board ~ Fan ~ Heat sink assembly ~ System board ~ Display assembly
  
• Setup Utility
  Starting the Setup Utility ~ Using the Setup Utility ~ Changing the language of the Setup Utility ~ Navigating and selecting in the Setup Utility ~ Displaying system information ~ Restoring default settings in the Setup Utility ~ Exiting the Setup Utility ~ Setup Utility menus ~ Main menu ~ Security menu ~ System Configuration menu ~ Diagnostics menu
• Specifications
  Device specifications ~ 10.1-inch, AntiGlare display specifications ~ Hard drive specifications ~ Solid-state drive specifications ~ System DMA specifications ~ System interrupt specifications ~ System I/O address specifications ~ System memory map specifications
  
• Screw listing
• Backup and recovery
  Mobile Mi backup and recovery ~ Backing up your information ~ When to back up ~ Restoring your information ~ Using System Restore ~ Using HP Mi Restore Image Creator ~ Restoring using a Windows computer ~ Restoring using a Linux computer ~ Windows Vista backup and recovery ~ Backing up your information ~ Performing a recovery ~ Using the Windows recovery tools ~ Using f11 ~ Using a Windows Vista operating system DVD (purchased separately) ~ Windows XP backup and recovery ~ Backing up your information ~ Performing a recovery ~ Recovering your information ~ Recovering the operating system and programs
• Connector pin assignments
  Audio-in (microphone) ~ Audio-out (headphone) ~ External monitor ~ RJ-45 (network) ~ Universal Serial Bus
• Power cord set requirements
  Requirements for all countries and regions ~ Requirements for specific countries and regions
• Recycling
  Battery ~ Display
• Indexhttp://computerchipall.blogspot.com

UL30A Stunningly Light, Powerfully Beautiful

The new ASUS UL30A is a harmonious blend of form and function. Powered by an Intel® Core™2 Duo ultra-low voltage processor, it boasts an impressive 12-hours* battery life for all-day computing, user-centric features such as multi-gesture touchpad and impressive multimedia entertainment with Altec Lansing® and SRS Premium Sound™. These features can be found in an ultra-light notebook that is generously cloaked in brushed aluminum and measuring less than 1-inch in profile.

PACKARD BELL ANNOUNCES VALENTINO ROSSI DESIGNER NOTEBOOK

Packard Bell has unveiled a Valentino Rossi edition of its dot notebook. Rossi is an Italian motorcycle racer with a huge fan following around the world. The notebook looks pretty slick and its design may appeal to both guys and gals. 

No word on specs available at the moment. But the images indicate that the notebook could be a designer version of the Packard Bell Dot M/U which is actually a rebranded version of the Acer Aspire 1410. If that is indeed so, then you can expect to get an Intel CULV processor, GMA 4500MHD integrated graphics and an 11.6 inch display. You will also get a reasonable amount of storage space and memory.

Toshiba Portege R205-S2062

The Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 small and lightweight laptop computer measures just 0.77 inches thick and weighs only 2.6 pounds. Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 features an ultra-low voltage Intel Pentium M (Centrino) processor, which will provide maximum battery life up to 6.5 hours. It also offers a 12.1-inch screen, 40 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, wireless connectivity for 802.11b/g, Bluetooth 2.0 wireless capability (for connecting to peripherals such as cell phones and PDAs) and Windows XP Professional.

The Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 Basics

• Hard Drive: The 60 GB hard drive (4200 RPM) is the average size for laptop computers, providing enough capacity for storing documents, digital media files, and productivity software.
• Processor: The ultra-low voltage 1.2 GHz Pentium M (Centrino) 753 processor is designed specifically for low-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies-- ensuring you push your battery and productivity to the max. It has a 400 MHz front-side bus (FSB) and a large 2 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)
• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (2 x 256 MB, DDR SDRAM, PC3200, 400 MHz) is a good start for power users. Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 1.25 GB (1 x 1024 MB, 1 x 256 MB), which is a smaller in comparison to other business-oriented laptops--but in line with comparable low-voltage laptops.
• CD/DVD Drive: Due to its small size, the Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 does not include an optical CD/DVD drive. However, Toshiba provides options for either an external DVD-ROM or DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive.
• Keyboard & Mouse: Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 has an 84-key keyboard with 13 function keys and a two-button touchpad.

Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 Screen, Graphics and Sound

The 12.1-inch TFT active-matrix LCD display has a 1024 x 768-pixel native resolution (XGA). Video is powered by the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900, which uses Intel Dynamic Video Memory Technology (DVMT) and provides up to 128 MB of shared video memory. It also offers an integrated audio card, a monaural speaker, and built-in microphone.

Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 Connectivity and Expansion Slots

The Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 integrates both the Intel Pro Wireless 2200BG and Atheros 802.11ag chips for wireless connectivity with the widest array of routers. It also offers Bluetooth wireless connectivity, which enables you to synchronize and transfer files between the PC and peripherals such as cell phones and PDAs as well as use Bluetooth-enabled headsets for online audio chats. It comes with a decent selection of connectivity options, including:

• 2 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (supports Type II, PCMCIA R2.01, PC Card16, CardBus)
• 1 Secure Digital memory card slot (supports SDIO)
• Fast InfraRed (IR)
• 1 headphone jack
• 1 microphone jack

R205-S2062 also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Gigabit Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems).

Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 Preloaded System and Software

Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 laptop computer comes with the Windows XP Professional Edition (which adds Microsoft's IIS Web server, back-up and recovery utilities, Remote Desktop, and other enhanced business features) with Service Pack 2 featuring Advanced Security Technologies, which helps to reduce unwanted downloads and pop-ups while surfing the Web. Other preloaded software includes Microsoft Office OneNote 2003, Microsoft Works 8.0, McAfee AntiVirus, InterVideo Win DVD, and SonicSolutions RecordNow.

Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 Dimensions and Weight

Amazingly portable, the Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 measures 11.26 x 9.02 x 0.77 inches and weighs only 2.6 pounds with just the primary battery.

Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 Power

The Toshiba R205 includes a 6-cell battery that provides up to 4.5 hours of life (depending on use). It has recharge times of 3.5 hours (off) and 4.5 hours (on).

What's in the Box

This package contains the Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 laptop computer, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It is backed by a one-year limited hardware warranty and one-year battery warranty.

Buy Toshiba Portege R205-S2062 at Amazon.com

Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G

The luxuriously sleek, black Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G AR Digital Studio laptop computer is more than just a computing showpiece. The VGN-AR190G is a powerful, portable multimedia/entertainment computer that can nimbly handle the most advanced graphics for both video and immersive 3D games, watch and record high-definition TV programming, and communicate with pals all around with world via VoIP calling and video conferencing using the built-in microphone and camera. It has a stunning 17-inch display with an anti-reflective coating to keep everything in view even in bright sunlight.

The Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G is one of the first Sony laptops to include high-definition Blu-Ray DVD playback capability. Blu-ray Disc technology supports full 1080p HD capability as well as uncompressed audio options and up to 5.1 channels. The Blu-ray system is backwards-compatible with standard DVDs and CDs, enabling you to enjoy your digital library for years to come. It's also a multi-format disc burner, capable of writing DVD+/-R/RW discs as well as dual-layer discs. And with its built-in NTSC TV tuner, you can also use the Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G view and record your favorite programs using the advanced entertainment features of the installed Windows XP Media Center operating system.

The Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G Basics

• Hard Drive: You'll be able to store large libraries of digital audio, video, and photos on the 200 GB hard drive (5400 RPM)--one of the largest hard drive capacities you'll find currently in multimedia notebooks (May 2006). This Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to FireWire and USB 2.0.
  
• Processor: The Intel Core Duo T2500 processor is built with the Mobile Intel 945PM Express chipset, and it has a 2.0 GHz processor speed, super-fast 667 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and large 2 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.) The Intel Core Duo processor has two computational execution cores in a single processor, providing greater system response when running multi-threaded applications simultaneously with no significant increase in power consumption. It's optimized for multitasking and is ready to support the next version of Microsoft Windows, code-named Vista. It can simultaneously run multiple demanding applications--such as graphics-intensive games or serious number-crunching business productivity applications--while downloading music or running virus-scanning security programs in the background. It's more efficient, thanks to Intel's Power Coordination and Deeper Sleep, which help to transfer power only to those areas of the processor that need it. It also features Intel's Digital Media Boost, which delivers enhanced performance on floating point-intensive applications such as CAD tools, 3D and 2D modeling, video editing, digital music, digital photography and gaming.
  
• Memory: The 1 GB of built-in memory (PC4200, DDR2 SDRAM) is an excellent start for power users, and it offers a very fast 533 MHz speed. It has two memory slots that can handle up to 2 GB of RAM, enabling you to add more power to handle graphics-intensive 3D games, video editing, and multi-tasking across several RAM-hungry applications.
  
• CD/DVD Drive: Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G laptop's DVD drive is capable of playing high-definition Blu-ray disc movies in stunning clarity and incredible 1080p HD resolution. The Blu-ray drive can also record video or data to a Blu-Ray disc--up to 25 to 50 GB of HD video. This notebook also comes with a bundled suite of applications that enables you to capture, edit and burn high-definition camcorder content to Blu-ray media while maintaining high-quality 1080 HD resolution. It's also backwards compatible with writing to standard DVD and CD formats, as well as dual-layer (DL) discs. It offers the following write speeds: 2.4x DVD+R DL, 2x DVD-R DL, 8x DVD+R, 4x DVD+RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-RW, 5x DVD-RAM, 8x CD-R, and 8x CD-RW.
  
• Keyboard & Mouse: Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G laptop has a standard 86-key keyboard (2.5mm stroke and 19.05mm pitch) and electro-static two-button touchpad, as well as action buttons including wireless LAN on/off and play/pause/stop/fast-forward/rewind for playback of DVDs.

Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G Screen, Graphics and Sound

The stunning 17-inch WXGA+ (1440 x 900 pixels--ready for 1080i HDTV) widescreen LCD offers Sony's XBRITE display technology--delivering deep blacks and bright whites, true-to-life color, and razor-sharp detail. And with a glare filter and anti-reflective coating to minimize reflection, youÕll experience a beautifully clear image even when outside in the bright sun. Video is powered by the Nvidia GeForce Go 7600GT graphics card with an amazing 256 MB of dedicated video RAM. Nvidia's TurboCache feature increases the performance of this thin and light laptop computer without increasing its size or draining its battery. It's coupled with the PowerMizer 6.0 advanced power management technology, which significantly extends your laptop's battery life while minimizing the amount of heat it produces.

Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G Connectivity and Expansion Slots

The Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G features an integrated PRO/Wireless 3915ABG wireless LAN that's compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found in home routers and wi-fi hotspots) as well as 802.11a networks (which has a higher throughput, but more limited range--great for closed office environments). This notebook also features an HDMI audio/video output, which enables you to connect to an HDTV or A/V receiver with just a single cable--no more hassling with separate video and audio cables. HDMI offers a lossless, uncompressed, all-digital signal, for the outstanding high definition video and multi-channel digital audio.

With the Bluetooth wireless connectivity, you can synchronize and transfer files between the laptop and peripherals such as cell phones and PDAs. The Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G also includes a next-generation ExpressCard/54 card slot, which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. Here's the full list of connection options:

• 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (one Type II/Type I card)
• 1 ExpressCard/54 slot
• 1 HDMI video port (for connecting to flat panel, high-definition monitors and televisions)
• 1 VGA monitor out
• 1 S-Video out
• TV inputs: 1 S-Video and 1 RF
• Stereo headphones/speakers/line-out
• Microphone/line-in
• S/PDIF digital audio out
• Memory card reader (Secure Digital, MultiMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick DUO)

It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems).

Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G Preloaded System and Software

The pre-installed Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 (Update Rollup 2) is essentially Windows XP Professional Edition with a variety of tools to help you to create, organize, and enjoy digital media ranging from music to home movies to photo slide shows. The Update Rollup 2 upgrade offers support for the Windows Media Center Extender technology built into XBox 360 game consoles, which lets you access entertainment from your Media Center PC--whether itÕs live and recorded TV and movies, music, photos or Online Spotlight--on any TV in the house.

The Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G also comes loaded with a bevy of Sony multimedia software: Click to DVD (DVD creation), SonicStage (digital music), Vaio Media (network file sharing), DVgate Plus (digital video), and Image Converter (for PSP transfer). Other preloaded software includes Adobe Photoshop Elements, Adobe Premiere Elements, Quicken 2005 New User Edition, Microsoft Works 8.5 (with word processing, spreadsheet, and calendar), Norton Internet Security (with 60-day subscription), Roxio DigitalMedia SE, and TrendMicro Anti-Spyware (30-day trial).

Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G Dimensions and Weight

This Sony Vaio laptop PC measures 16.4 x 11.8 x 1.32 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 8.4 pounds.

Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G Power

This laptop is powered by the VGP-BPS2C rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which has a battery life of 1.5 to 2.0 hours (depending on usage).

What's in the Box

This package contains the Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G laptop computer, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, remote control/IR receiver, RF cable, HDMI cable (with DVI-D adapter), House of Flying Daggers Blu-ray movie disc, and operating instructions. It is backed by a one-year limited hardware warranty, and Sony offers 1-year of toll-free telephone technical assistance.

Buy Sony Vaio VGN-AR190G at Amazon.com

Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B

The ultra-portable Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B laptop computer weighs just an amazing 2.76 pounds and offers a sleek, durable carbon-fiber case. And with 4 to 7.5 hours of standard battery life , it has the stamina to power you through your most demanding applications. With the integrated wireless WAN, you can access the Cingular Wireless national EDGE network to extend your wireless coverage beyond LAN access networks and hotspots, giving you the freedom to go farther, do more, and stay connected. It comes preloaded with a suite of Sony multimedia software, enabling you to create, manage and view your multimedia files with ease. Use Sony's Click to DVD software to easily create high-quality customized DVDs with the DVD+R Double Layer drive, while Sony's SonicStage software makes managing your music files and making your own audio CDs a cinch. It also has an 11.1-inch widescreen LCD with XBRITE technology, 1.3 GHz ultra-low voltage Pentium M 773 processor, 80 GB hard drive, 1 GB of installed RAM (1.5 GB maximum), Bluetooth wireless capability (for connecting to peripherals such as PDAs, cell phones, and printers), a multi-format memory card reader, and Microsoft Windows XP Professional edition operating system.

The Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B Basics

• Hard Drive: The 80 GB hard drive (4200 RPM) is average in size for laptop PCs--but a bit larger than you'll find in comparable ultra-light laptops. It offers more than enough capacity for storing documents and productivity software for road warriors. You'll also be able to store a good-sized digital audio library.
  
• Processor: The Intel Pentium M Processor Ultra Low Voltage 773 (1.30 GHz, 2 MB L2 cache, 400 MHz FSB) delivers outstanding mobile performance and low-power enhancements for sleeker, lighter laptop designs. The 1.3 GHz clock speed can be misleading--for most tasks, this processor will be faster than a 1.6 GHz Pentium 4-M. It sits at the top of the spectrum for this processor class (as of May 2006).
  
• Memory: The Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B has two memory slots and comes loaded with 1 GB of DDR SDRAM (PC3200, 400 MHz DDR RAM; 2 x 512 MB), and it can be expanded to a maximum of 1.5 GB.
  
• CD/DVD Drive: Offering the latest in DVD writing technology, the multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer (DL) DVD+R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It offers the following write speeds: 2.4x DVD+R DL, 4x DVD+R, 2.4x DVD+RW, 4x DVD-R, 2x DVD-RW, 24x CD-R, 10x CD-RW.
  
• Keyboard & Mouse: Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B has a standard 82-key keyboard (1.7mm stroke and 17mm pitch) and electro-static two-button touchpad as well as a wireless LAN on/off button.

Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B Screen, Graphics and Sound

The 11.1-inch XBRITE LCD has a resolution of 1368 x 768 pixels--perfect for watching movies in their intended 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio. Sony's Smart Display Sensor feature instantly adjusts resolution when you connect to a display or projector. Video is powered by the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900, which uses Intel Dynamic Video Memory Technology (DVMT) and provides up to 128 MB of shared video memory. The integrated audio card provides 16-bit stereo sound via the built-in stereo speakers.

Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B Connectivity and Expansion Slots

The Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B features Sony's SmartWi technology, which seamlessly integrates wireless Wide Area Network (WAN), 802.11b/g wireless LAN and Bluetooth technologies, enabling you to toggle among your wireless connectivity options depending on your surroundings. With the Bluetooth connectivity, you can communicate and synchronize with Bluetooth-enabled peripherals such as PDAs and cell phones. You get a good offering of connectivity options, including both USB 2.0 and iLink (Firewire):

• 2 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II, 32-bit)
• 1 headphone jack
• 1 microphone jack
• Port replicator connector
• Memory card slot, compatible with Memory Stick and Memory Stick DUO media with MagicGate functionality and Secure Digital Media (SD)

Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems). The optional Port Replicator unit also includes 3 additional USB 2.0, VGA, RJ-45, and parallel ports.

Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B Preloaded System and Software

The Vaio VGN-TX770P/B laptop computer comes with the Windows XP Professional Edition (which adds Microsoft's IIS Web server, back-up and recovery utilities, Remote Desktop, and other enhanced business features) with Service Pack 2 featuring Advanced Security Technologies, which helps to reduce unwanted downloads and pop-ups while surfing the Web. It also comes loaded with a bevy of Sony multimedia software: Click to DVD (DVD creation), SonicStage (digital music), Vaio Media (network file sharing), DVgate Plus (digital video), and Image Converter (for PSP transfer). Other preloaded software includes Quicken 2006 New User Edition, Microsoft Works 8.5 (with word processing, spreadsheet, and calendar), Norton Internet Security (with 60-day subscription), Roxio DigitalMedia SE, InterMedia WinDVD, and TrendMicro Anti-Spyware (30-day trial).

Dimensions and Weight

The Sony Vaio VGN-TX650P/B weighs 2.76 pounds with standard battery and measures 10.7 x 1.12 x 7.7 inches (WxHxD).

Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B Power

The Sony Vaio VGN-TX650P/B powered by the VGP-BPS5 lithium-ion rechargeable battery, which produces a battery life of between 4 and 7.5 hours.

Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)

If you're the ultimate road warrior, you need to access the Internet and check e-mail without having to plug in your Sony Vaio VGN-TX650P/B, and without cables to boot. Welcome to the world of WWANs (wireless wide area networks). With WWANs, you can access critical network resources and home office files from the front seat of your car, the airport, the local coffee shop, or your recliner at home. Sony Vaio computers use SmartWi technology to access the Cingular Wireless national EDGE (Enhanced Data for Global Evolution) network.

A WWAN uses long-range wireless connections -- the same networks as cellular phones -- to provide access across a large geographic area. In comparison, a WLAN (wireless LAN) covers only one or more buildings located close together.

What's in the Box

This package contains the Sony Vaio VGN-TX650P/B laptop computer, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, Cingular Wireless SIM card, and operating instructions. It is backed by a one-year limited hardware warranty, and Sony offers 1-year of toll-free telephone technical assistance.

Buy Sony Vaio VGN-TX770P/B at Amazon.com

Hablas Linux?

Hablas Linux?

Do you speak Linux? All the world does. The Cuban government is pushing the use of the Cuban Linux OS, called "Nova," and expects "that in five years our country will have more than 50 percent migrated (to Linux)." One has to wonder How many other countries will adopt this policy and reach 50-percent Linux usage? See the entire article at: http://www.reuters.com/article/technologyNews/idUSTRE51A77S20090211

Apart from security concerns, free software better suits Cuba's worldview: "The free-software movement is closer to the ideology of the Cuban people, above all for the independence and sovereignty."

I feel same way about software. Paying for software seems like a ripoff and, well, undemocratic, like paying for air and water.

That is why I started this blog. We have been ripped off too long by US software companies, mere publishers charging us thousands of dollars over a period of years, and by US computer makers who are not makers of anything except profits. I was so incensed that -- would you believe it? -- I almost bought one of the DOS computers shown. That was before I found out about the HiVision MiniNote, 3K's Razorbook 400, and the Belco/Bestlink Alpha-400.

The computer in the photo is still available from California Digital (interesting site, BTW) for $159. It conforms to my guidelines -- Small-Cheap-Easy -- but it runs only DOS. At this stage, I am not much interested in building things and programming things, just using them, however; so the 400s are what I am looking for in a "cheapest" computer. These things, the Fujitsu Poquet PC Plus computers, originally cost over $2000, and the technology is well worth a look. For example, the Poquet truly is instant-on, more so than any of the 400s. Also, it runs off 2 AA batteries for weeks. And it's great for hacking and experimenting. The whole California Digital site is well worth a look.

AViiQ Aluminium Laptop Stand

AViiQ Aluminium Laptop Stand

Above photo shows the $80 AViiQ portable, folding aluminum stand that supports up to 17" units. It actually matches the MacBook pretty well, angling the keyboard at a comfortable 12 degrees. It also folds down easily to an absurdly thin, near-weightless strip of aluminum that can squeeze into just about any bag. Unfortunately, it feels like flimsy, pop can aluminum than unibody Mac aluminum.

Pegatron lands large-volume smartbook orders

Pegatron lands large-volume smartbook orders

From Digitimes -Pegatron Technology has received a large volume of orders for smartbooks from several clients, which are likely to launch in cooperation with mobile telcos in Q1 2010. Smartbooks, which are positioned between smartphones and netbooks, offer longer usage time, short boot-up time, friendlier user interfaces, and lower prices than the latter. Price point will likely be US$200 price point when the first wave of smartbooks arrive in Q1 2010. Google Chrome OS-based smartbooks are expected to be available on a large scale in Q2 2010.
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Dell

Dell

Zumo thinks they got a peak at the specs for Dell's first cheap mini-laptop on a recent trip to Dell's Texas facilities. They say that it'll be called the Inspiron Mini, contrary to previous reports it'll it's the Dell E. What's supposedly inside sounds reasonable, and what you'd expect out of a suitable Eee killer, especially if it's really only $299. Zumo says it's got a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, 1GB RAM, Intel's 945 Express Graphics chipset, an 8GB SSD, Wi-Fi and a memory card reader, with a 1240x600 resolution screen (that looks a bit off—1024x600 seems more likely). Reportedly, mass production of a Linux model with extra Dell productivity apps starts next month (in time for back to school). It all seems reasonable enough (and a steal for $299 if true), though I wouldn't consider this dipped-in-blood solid, yet. [Zumo]

SMARTBOOK AG RELEASES ZENID GC CRYSTAL NETBOOK

Smartbook AG, a German computer company, has started selling its Zenid GC Crystal netbook. As far as specifications are concerned this netbook isn’t different from other netbooks in the market. It is powered by an Intel Atom 1.6 GHz processor with 2 GB of RAM. It runs Windows 7 and has a 10 inch display. Another notable feature is WiFi.

The Zenid GC Crystal still isn’t like any other netbook. Its screen lid is covered with Swarovski crystals and it comes with a bottle of Moet & Chandon champagne.

Smartbook AG has no intention of mass producing the Crystal version. Only 20 are going to be built and each one will cost roughly around $3,008. The non-crystal version will cost around $449.

ASUS EEE PC 1201T TO HAVE AMD PROCESSOR

Asus plans to launch three different versions of the upcoming Eee PC 1201 12.1 inch notebook. We have already heard about two versions - the Eee PC 1201N and the 1201HA. While the 1201N has anIntel Atom processor and Nvidia Ion graphics, the 1201HA has an Atom Z520 processor and GMA 500 graphics.

There will be yet another model dubbed Eee PC 1201T and it will have a completely different chipset. Asus recently introduced the 1201T at a function in China. The notebook has a dual core 1.6GHz AMD Neo MV40processor and ATI Radeon HD3200 GPU. This is the same chipset used in several upcoming thin and light laptops including the MSI Wind X230. While the AMD processor may improve the performance of the notebook, it may also reduce the battery life.

The Eee PC 1201T will have a 12.1 inch display with 1366 x 768 pixels. Other specifications include 2GB of RAM, a 320GB hard drive, Bluetooth 2.1 and WiFi 802.11b/g/n. There are 3 USB ports, Ethernet, headphone and microphone jacks. There is no HDMI.

ASUS EEE PC 1201HA NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH BEST BY

The Asus Eee PC 1201HA is now available for purchase in the US. The machine debuted in Italy a little over a month ago.

In the US, Best Buy is the first to sell the device through their retail outlets. But the Best Buy version is crippled in many aspects. The European version of 1201HA has better specs than the 1101A. It sports 2GB of RAM and a 250 GB hard disk drive and runs Windows 7 Home Premium. The system offered by Best By only has 1 GB of RAM and a 160 GB hard drive. And instead of Windows 7, it runs Windows XP Home Edition.

The Best Buy version has its plusses too. It is available for just $329.99. The Asus Eee PC 1201HA is available in 11.6 and 12 inch screen sizes.

STANTUM RELEASES A TABLET PC OUT OF DELL INSPIRON MINI 10

Stantum has unveiled a 10 inch slate PC specifically built out of Dell Inspiron Mini 10. It is not known whether the company plans to mass produce the device because it is described as a ‘proof of concept’. There is, however, a page for ordering an evaluation unit. The slate PC comes with a multi-touch screen that can handle 10 touch points at the same time. The tablet accepts both finger and stylus inputs. It supports Windows 7 with no additional drivers.

The tablet measures just 1.2 inches in thickness and weighs around 2.3 pounds. The 10.1 inch display comes with either 1024 x 600 or 1024 x 576 pixels. There are 2 USB ports. Other features include Bluetooth and WiFi.

It will be interesting to see whether the tablet would do well when it hits the market. But one thing is certain: It will have to be priced aggressively.

ASUS EEE PC 1008HA NETBOOK REVIEW

The Asus Eee PC 1008HA sports an all-new design inspired by the curves of a seashell. Its specifications don’t set it apart from the multitude of netbooks available in the market. But this ultraportable machine does have some plus points of its own. On the flip side, it misses a few ports and offers less battery life than a typical netbook does.

Specifications
Processor: 1.66-GHz Intel Atom N280
Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium
Memory: 2 GB
Storage: 250 GB 5400 rpm
Display: 10.1 inch display with 1024 x 600 pixels

Price as Reviewed: $411

Design and build quality
The Eee PC 1008HA sports an attractive design. The screen lid is available in glossy white and black; blue and pink are expected to be available later this year. The lid features an infusion finish which makes it scratch resistant. The netbook measures one inch in thickness. And at just 2.2 pounds it is lighter than most netbooks available in the market.

Ports
All the ports are covered with plastic tabs. There are 2 USB ports (most netbooks have 3), a 4-in-1 card reader, Ethernet port, headphone and microphone jacks. There is also a VGA port for connecting the netbook to a larger display.

Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard is spacious and is comfortable to type on. The keys provide nice tactile feedback. There is a Wi-Fi and touchpad on/off button above the keyboard. The touchpad supports multi-touch gestures. It is covered with small Braille-like dots. There are no dedicated right and left buttons, but the single button does work well.

Display, Audio, and Webcam
The 10.1 inch display features 1024 x 600 pixels. The display is good. Colors are bright and vivid. Horizontal viewing angles are good but vertical viewing angles are average. The 1.3 megapixel webcam fitted above the display produces clear images.
The speakers are good but not the best. Audiophiles will definitely need to invest in a pair of headphones.

Performance
The original 1008HA ran Windows XP. But the new version runs Windows 7 Home Premium. This is a remarkable feature as most netbooks out there run Windows 7 Starter which has very limited functionality. The new and improved 1008HA also has 2GB of RAM and a 250GB hard drive.

Performance is satisfactory. The netbook has enough power to handle every day tasks. You will not have any difficulty surfing the web with multiple tabs on or conducting video calls over Skype. The integrated Intel GMA 950 chip can easily decode 720p HD video, but gaming is still out of question.

Battery Life
The Eee PC 1008HA has a 2900 mAH lithium polymer battery instead of the more common lithium ion battery. The 6-cell battery provides up to six hours of up time. While the battery life is OK, the battery itself does pose some problems. It is integrated with the netbook and cannot be removed.

Pros
Thin and light
Spacious keyboard
Attractive design
Faster hard drive

Cons
Integrated battery which cannot be removed
VGA port requires adapter