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	<title>PC Pro blog &#187; Centrino 2</title>
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		<title>Panasonic&#8217;s Toughbooks get tougher</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2009/01/27/panasonics-toughbooks-get-tougher/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2009/01/27/panasonics-toughbooks-get-tougher/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:48:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sasha Muller</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hardware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Newsdesk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[panasonic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rugged]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toughbook]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=5081</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Panasonic are today launching the latest updates to their Toughbook laptop range. The fully ruggedized CF-30 and CF-19 Tablet models have now reached mk3 status, while the semi-ruggedized CF-52 crashes the party in its newly revamped mk2 guise. 
Take a quick glance at the photographs and even the most avid of Toughbook laptop-spotters would [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/opening-pic-toughbooks.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-5082" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/opening-pic-toughbooks-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><span style="black;"> Panasonic are today launching the latest updates to their Toughbook laptop range. The fully ruggedized CF-30 and CF-19 Tablet models have now reached mk3 status, while the semi-ruggedized CF-52 crashes the party in its newly revamped mk2 guise. </span></p>
<p style="-moz-initial;"><span style="black;">Take a quick glance at the photographs and even the most avid of Toughbook laptop-spotters would have trouble noticing any revolutionary changes, but as Panasonic were keen to stress, the new models show the all the hallmarks of a subtle, careful evolution.</span></p>
<p style="-moz-initial;"><span id="more-5081"></span></p>
<p style="-moz-initial;"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf52-closed-lid.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-5084" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf52-closed-lid-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><span style="black;">In fact, the most novel addition is a new variant of the semi-ruggedized CF-52 laptop. While the existing model sports a 15.4in, 1,280 x 800 pixel screen, Panasonic has gone back to the drawing board &#8211; at the behest of the MOD no less &#8211; and come back with a model with a 13.3in touchscreen. </span></p>
<p style="-moz-initial;"><span style="black;">The 13.3in display&#8217;s 1,024 x 768 resoution might come as a bit of a disappointment, but like the other models in the range it finds its vital statistics bolstered by LED backlighting and an impressive 1000nit brightness rating. And that modest resolution </span><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf52-open.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-5085" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf52-open-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><span style="black;">begins to make a great deal more sense when you consider that it now also boasts a pressure sensitive touchscreen, a choice which precludes the need for a dedicated stylus &#8211; although there is one mounted in the wide screen bezel if you need it &#8211; and allows users to navigate Windows with the prod of a finger. Other notable features include a spillproof keyboard, the ability to survive a 76cm fall and optional HSDPA. On sale from mid-February, the CF-52 demands an equally resilient bank balance, as it will be retailing at a hefty £1,851 excluding the VAT. </span></p>
<p style="-moz-initial;"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf-30_02_with_wwan-pic-1.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-5086" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf-30_02_with_wwan-pic-1-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><span style="black;">Turn your atttention to the CF-19 and CF-30 models and the chassis&#8217; are as impressively stout as ever, with build quality that makes the average laptop feel distinctly delicate. However, Panasonic has also made them stronger than ever; redesigned corners improving rigidity and damage resistance over previous models. Like their semi-ruggedised compatriot, the CF-52 mk2, they too now share LED backlit screens with 1000nit brightness ratings, but the CF-30 mk3 adds an improved polarizing filter &#8211; a measure which allows the screen to remain legible in the most extreme of lighting conditions. </span></p>
<p style="scroll;"><span style="Calibri;">Look past the laptops armour-plated exterior and <span style="black;">the Centrino 2 platform has now spread across the entire </span></span><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf_19-lid-twist.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-5088" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/cf_19-lid-twist-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><span style="Calibri;"><span style="black;">range, bringing low-voltage Core 2 Duo SU9300 processors to the CF-19 and CF-30 laptops along with Intel WiFi Link wireless modules. Single platter hard drives maximise shock resistance while claimed battery life figures have swelled thanks to the better energy-efficiency of the LED-backlit panels.<br />
</span></span></p>
<p style="-moz-initial;"><span style="black;">If you&#8217;re in the market for a hard-knock portable then stay tuned for the forthcoming PC Pro review. Rest assured we&#8217;ll be unleashing the full fury of our most heavy-handed staff members (Yes, I&#8217;m looking at you, Mike) to make sure we give them a suitably rough and tumble stay in PC Pro&#8217;s labs. </span></p>
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		<title>First look: Panasonic&#8217;s 8-series Toughbooks</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/23/first-look-panasonics-8-series-toughbooks/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/23/first-look-panasonics-8-series-toughbooks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:46:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sasha Muller</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hardware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[laptop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[panasonic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ruggedised]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toughbook]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=3834</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Panasonic has today unveiled the latest refresh of its Toughbook range. Three models have been launched – the 12.1in CF-W8 and CF-T8 models and the all-new 14.1in CF-F8.
 They don’t just look tough, however. All the Toughbooks boast the usual 76cm drop resistance, and are rated to cope with 100kg of weight bearing down on their [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;">Panasonic has today unveiled the latest refresh of its Toughbook range. Three models have been <a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-8-series.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-3840" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-8-series-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>launched – the 12.1in CF-W8 and CF-T8 models and the all-new 14.1in CF-F8.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;"> They don’t just look tough, however. All the Toughbooks boast the usual 76cm drop resistance, and are rated to cope with 100kg of weight bearing down on their lids. Meanwhile, the keyboards and trackpads are designed to withstand accidental water spillages thanks to a neat drainage system which funnels water away from the delicate components.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-w8-and-t8.jpg"></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;"><span id="more-3834"></span>The 1.28kg W8 and 1.39kg T8 share the same 12.1in display but while they look startlingly similar, the T8 does away with the<a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-f8-above.jpg"></a> optical drive and opts for a touchscreen instead. There’s the full complement of Centrino 2 hardware with both models sharing low-voltage Core 2 Duo SU9300 processors, 3GB of DDR2 memory and a mechanical 120GB hard disk.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;">Draft-n and Bluetooth are accompanied by optional HSDPA and security is equally comprehensive with fingerprint readers and TPM 1.2 chips coming as standard.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-w8.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-3849" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-w8-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>But, although the lack of an SSD seems a curious omission, the Toughbooks boast the usual semi-ruggedised features. The hard disk is buffered by a refined damper system which Panasonic claims is more effective than the previous 7-series, and the whole build feels just that bit more reassuringly burly. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;">In our time with the various models we found that the magnesium chassis’ felt noticeably stiffer than that of its predecessors. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;">But, the real star of the show is the new CF-F8. It’s the first compact widescreen model in Panasonic’s range, yet despite a generous 14.1in display it weighs in at an impressive 1.6kg. That’s no match for the likes of Sony’s astoundingly light Z-Series, nor the recently announced TT-range for that matter, but it has a few tricks up its sleeve. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;">The integrated handle combines with the F8&#8217;s semi-ruggedised chassis to allow you to do away with a laptop bag altogether, and the  wide, comfy handle makes it feel much lighter than the 1.6kg figure suggests.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;">Battery life only stretches to a somewhat underwhelming six hours, but Panasonic claims that its battery technology allows the six-cell batteries boast two to three year life cycles – a figure which they claim is significantly ahead of their competition.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-f8-above.jpg"><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-3846" title="panasonic-f8-above" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/panasonic-f8-above-150x150.jpg" alt="Panasonic F8 from above" width="150" height="150" /></a><span style="Times New Roman;">The CF-F8 also boasts an improved specification over its stablemates. The Core 2 Duo SP9300 processor is matched with 3GB of DDR2 memory and a 160GB hard drive. It also shares its siblings&#8217; wireless and security features, with Draft-n, Bluetooth, a fingerprint reader and TPM 1.2 chip all present and correct.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="Times New Roman;">Pricing is typically extravagant across the entire 8-series, with the CF-W8 costing £1,435; the CF-T8 £1,530 and the F8 cruising to a cool £1,628. That’s excluding VAT in case you were wondering.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0cm 0cm 0pt;">The range won&#8217;t be on sale until late November, but Panasonic have promised us a handful of pre-production models in the next couple of weeks. Until then, keep a close eye on our latest reviews  <strong></strong>for the full lowdown.</p>
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		<title>First look: Sony&#8217;s all-new ultraportable &#8211; the TT</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/21/first-look-sonys-all-new-ultraportable-the-tt/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/21/first-look-sonys-all-new-ultraportable-the-tt/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:52:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sasha Muller</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hardware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[business]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[netbook]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sony]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[TT]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[TZ]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ultraportable]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=3774</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We caught our first glimpse of Sony&#8217;s legendary TZ-series back in 2007. The first moment we clapped eyes on Sony&#8217;s VGN-TZ11XN/B was the beginning of a love affair to remember.
Picture the scene &#8211; before netbooks were even a distant, cheeky glint in Asus&#8217; eye, Sony furnished us with a ground-breaking business ultraportable that weighed in at [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We caught our first glimpse of Sony&#8217;s legendary TZ-series back in 2007. The first moment we clapped eyes on Sony&#8217;s<strong> </strong><a title="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/reviews/117830/" href="http://"><strong>VGN-TZ11XN/B</strong></a> was the beginning of a love affair to remember.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_blackleft_lg.jpg"></a><span style="underline;"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_series_vaio_front.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-3795" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_series_vaio_front-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></span>Picture the scene &#8211; before netbooks were even a distant, cheeky glint in Asus&#8217; eye, Sony furnished us with a ground-breaking business ultraportable that weighed in at a frankly, unbelievable 1.2kg. Its svelte figure was hitherto unmatched by the opposition, and its looks were married with 7+ hour battery life and surprisingly capable performance, courtesy of its low-voltage Intel Core 2 Duo processor. </p>
<p>Since then we&#8217;ve seen the incremental TZ21 and TZ31 refreshes come and go, but now Sony has completely revamped the series. The TZ has evolved into the TT.</p>
<p><span id="more-3774"></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-3777" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt-face-on-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p>It shares much of its predecessors vital statistics, boasting an 11.1in display with a 1,366 x 768 native resolution, and an overall weight of just 1.3kg. But, although it&#8217;s not shed enough pounds to rival Toshiba&#8217;s 1.1kg Portege R500, it&#8217;s an altogether sturdier breed. Sony&#8217;s previous TZ-series laptops may have been gorgeous, but with their lightweight and astoundingly slim figures came worryingly flexible lids and slightly plasticky build quality. Not so the TT. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-3783" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt-side-angle-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p>In our brief time with the laptop, one thing was abundantly clear: thanks to its carbon fibre construction, this is an ultraportable designed to withstand the rigours of regular travel. The supremely bright LED-backlit display is as vibrant as ever, but this time its astoundingly thin profile doesn&#8217;t come at the expense of rigidity. The same can be said of the rest of the chassis. Where tugging and twisting the original TZ laptops elicited flex and creak in equal measure, the TT&#8217;s chassis feels much stiffer. It still doesn&#8217;t quite match Apple&#8217;s Macbook Air for sturdiness, but it looks to be a much better balanced portable all round.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-3789" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_blackal_flat-closed-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p>Specification wise, the TT comes replete with Intel&#8217;s latest Centrino 2 platform, a low-voltage Core 2 Duo processor and integrated Intel GMA X4500 graphics. Sony claim around eight hours battery life for the TT, which given our experience of the recent Z-series sounds entirely believable. And, once the battery has been drained, Sony&#8217;s new quick-charge function allows the battery to charge to 50% after only one hour of charging. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Elsewhere, there&#8217;s little to complain about. Embedded 3G is a welcome sight, along with Draft-n and Bluetooth, and casting a keen eye around the chassis reveals plentiful connectivity. A multi-format memory card reader goes hand in hand with VGA and HDMI outputs, two USB ports and a Gigabit Ethernet socket. Security doesn&#8217;t go amiss either, as there&#8217;s a TPM 1.2 chip and a fingerprint reader nestling between the mouse buttons. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt-keyboard.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-3780" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt-keyboard-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>That familiar scrabble-tile keyboard is  a pleasant a sight as ever, and although its keys are slightly harder and boast shorter travel than the Z-series, they felt perfectly comfortable under the fingers. </p>
<p>Despite the TT&#8217;s business focus, Sony hasn&#8217;t neglected its entertainment credentials. A row of media-playback buttons along the TT&#8217;s front edge make it easy to skip through or pause music tracks, and unlike some ultraportables the TT doesn&#8217;t reach its target weight by doing away with the optical drive, so its easy to kick back with a CD or DVD at the end (or in the middle!) of the working day. Perfect.</p>
<p>With a price tag of roughly £1,500 inc VAT, the TT isn&#8217;t going to be rivalling netbooks for value for money, but with a review unit winging its way to us by the end of the week, we&#8217;ll make sure to have the definitive verdict before anyone else. And, lest not forget, should the standard specification not match up to your exacting standards, don&#8217;t worry &#8211; you&#8217;ll soon be able to customise your own Sony TT <a title="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/news/232131/" href="http://"><strong>ju</strong><strong>st the way you want it.</strong></a> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_blackal_flat-closed.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3789" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_blackal_flat-closed-300x209.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="209" /></a><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_blackleft_lg.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3792" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/tt_blackleft_lg-300x209.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="209" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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		<title>First look: Toshiba Portégé R600</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/15/first-look-toshiba-portege-r600/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/15/first-look-toshiba-portege-r600/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2008 12:10:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tim Danton</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hardware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Just in]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[laptop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[notebook]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=3669</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ 
At first glance, there&#8217;s very little to distinguish the R600 from the R500, but the devil is in the detail. For one, Toshiba has strengthened the base &#8211; protecting the all-important motherboard &#8211; by adding ridges for extra rigidity.
It also claims to have made the screen better protected, with Toshiba&#8217;s interesting spin being that the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/portege-r600-back-reduced.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-3672" title="Toshiba Portege R600" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/portege-r600-back-reduced-300x200.jpg" alt="Toshiba Portege R600 back side" width="300" height="200" /></a>At first glance, there&#8217;s very little to distinguish the R600 from the <strong><a title="PC Pro | Toshiba R500 review" href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/reviews/122225" target="_self">R500</a></strong>, but the devil is in the detail. For one, Toshiba has strengthened the base &#8211; protecting the all-important motherboard &#8211; by adding ridges for extra rigidity.</p>
<p>It also claims to have made the screen better protected, with Toshiba&#8217;s interesting spin being that the lid&#8217;s flexibility &#8211; which might initially make people feel that the R600 is a bit fragile &#8211; actually increases its reliability. Certainly we gave it a good old flex and it stayed in shape, which is fortunate as this was the one European sample.</p>
<p><span id="more-3669"></span>But the really big enhancement is to communications. There&#8217;s now embedded 3G mobile broadband which, along with a claimed battery life of up to eight hours &#8211; with an extended battery &#8211; and an astonishing weight of 779g, makes this a highly attractive laptop for mobile professionals.</p>
<p>As with the R500, you can also use it outside. There&#8217;s a transflective LED display, and by pressing a single button you can make it feasible to use outside on a sunny day. The keyboard is a pleasure to use too. All the keys are large and easy to hit, with a responsive feel &#8211; this is one obvious area where it&#8217;s superior to the cheaper Portégé A600.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/portege-r600-front-reduced.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-3675" title="portege-r600-front-reduced" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/portege-r600-front-reduced-300x269.jpg" alt="Toshiba Portege R600 from the front" width="300" height="269" /></a>It&#8217;s powered by an Intel ultra-low-voltage U9400 CPU, but as we&#8217;ve come to expect from the company&#8217;s latest processors it&#8217;s still a powerful machine. We&#8217;ll wait until we&#8217;ve put the R600 through our usual benchmarks, but there&#8217;s no obvious reason why most people couldn’t use this as their main PC.</p>
<p>Toshiba hasn&#8217;t yet confirmed prices or exact specifications for the UK, but we know the R600 will come with the option of no optical drive or with one integrated into the chassis (adding around 200g to the weight). We also know it will be priced at roughly the same price as the R500, so approximately £1,000 exc VAT.</p>
<p>We&#8217;ve been assured we&#8217;re top of the list for when full review samples become available, so keep an eye out on PC Pro reviews within the next two to four weeks &#8211; which is also when the R600 is likely to go on sale.</p>
<p> </p>
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		<title>First look: Samsung’s ultraportable X-series – the 13.3&#8243; X360 and 14.1&#8243; X460</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/01/first-look-samsung%e2%80%99s-ultraportable-x-series-%e2%80%93-the-133-x360-and-141-x460/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/01/first-look-samsung%e2%80%99s-ultraportable-x-series-%e2%80%93-the-133-x360-and-141-x460/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:06:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sasha Muller</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hardware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[netbook]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[samsung]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sony]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SSD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ultraportable]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=3444</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[With netbooks stealing all the headlines in the sub-2kg market, it’s refreshing to see that the big manufacturers are still making premium ultraportables for £1000+ budgets. After all, netbooks might be fine for surfing the net or tapping out the odd email, but still don’t offer a combination of power, screen resolution and features which [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal">With netbooks stealing all the headlines in the sub-2kg market, it’s refreshing to see that the big manufacturers are still making premium ultraportables for £1000+ budgets. After all, netbooks might be fine for surfing the net or tapping out the odd email, but still don’t offer a combination of power, screen resolution and features which can truly replace a fully-featured ultraportable laptop.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It was only last week that we took a good, hard look at Sony’s latest business-focussed ultraportable, the <a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/reviews/225537/sony-vaio-vgnz11wnb.html" target="_blank">VGN-Z11WN/B</a>, and now hot on its lightweight heels is Samsung’s newly refreshed X-series.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We managed to get a closer look at two models from the range, the 13.3” X360 and the 14.1” model, the X460.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span id="more-3444"></span><span style="underline;"><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The X360 is a thoroughbred rival to any of the current crop of ultraportables. Weighing in at just 1.29kg and with a feature list to embarrass Cupertino’s fruitiest of rivals, the X360 is a show-stopper. And, with prices starting at just £1299 inc VAT, it’s actually one of the more affordable models too.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-3480" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/samsung-x360-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The X460 might not boast the ultra-light weight of its more diminutive cousin, but that’s not to say it doesn’t impress. Unlike the X360, it manages to squeeze a DVD writer into its 32mm high, 1.85kg frame, and with an estimated asking price of just £999, it’s very reasonably priced indeed.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="underline;"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-3489" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/samsung-x460_b-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /><br />
</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Even before you tilt back their impossibly slimline lids, these are two laptops which look uncommonly attractive. A glossy black strip covers one third of the lid, and is adorned with a neat Samsung logo, while the bottom two-thirds are finished in brushed aluminium. Tilt back the dainty but sturdy feeling lids and the interior continues to impress. Both the keyboard and the screen are framed <span> </span>by a gloss black surround which, although sure to get a little smudgy over time, looks simply fantastic.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/samsung-x360_b.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-3483" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/samsung-x360_b-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The other thing you’ll notice is that Samsung, just like Apple, have copied Sony’s scrabble-tile keyboard. It’s a design which excites rabid dislike by some members of PC Pro’s staff, but at least in my opinion, unreasonably so. The key action is very light, but there’s a fine, positive action and, just as with the Macbook Air’s example, adopting a lighter, more delicate cadence allows for rapid, comfortable touchtyping.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/samsung-x460.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-3486" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/samsung-x460-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span>Some might be a little disappointed that both the X360 and X460 displays have a mere 1,280 x 800 native resolution, but the quality on offer goes a long way towards making amends. The LED-backlit panels are supremely bright, astoundingly so in fact, and while there isn’t the desktop space afforded by the likes of Lenovo’s superb Thinkpad X300, the larger pixels help keep text nice and legible. Try tapping out a document on the bumpy confines of a packed commuter train, and you might just be rather glad that you aren’t squinting at a higher resolution display.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Both models boast the latest Intel Centrino 2 hardware, but the X360 opts for Intel’s ultra low voltage platform to help eke out its claimed 6 to 10 hours of battery life. Intel’s GS45 Express chipset is partnered with an SU9300 processor running at 1.2GHz and backed up by a suitably generous 3GB of DDR3 memory, while Intel’s GMA X4500MHD chipset deals with graphics duties. Plump for the pricier £1499 specification, and you’ll also find a generous 128GB SSD heading up proceedings, but save £200 and you can go for a mechanical 1.8” 120GB drive instead.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Samsung’s X460 also has the full Centrino 2 certification, but forgoes the low-voltage parts for a more powerful specification. The Intel GM45 chipset is partnered with a 2.26Ghz P8400 processor, 3GB DDR3 memory and a standard 250GB hard drive. And for more graphical poke than Intel’s integrated solutions can offer, Samsung have opted for an Nvidia GeForce 9300M GS chipset. For just £999, that’s a pretty impressive core specification. <span> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And, crucially, both the X360 and X460 boast a comprehensive array of features. 802.11abgn and Bluetooth 2.0 cover the wireless side of things (there’s no sign of integrated HSDPA as yet), and there’s Gigabit Ethernet too. Security is beyond reproach thanks to fingerprint readers and TPM 1.2 hardware, but there’s also room for HDMI, VGA, 3 USB ports, ExpressCard/34, a 7-in-1 card reader and support for Samsung’s P-Dock docking stations. And, while the X460 squeezes in an internal DVD writer, the X360 comes with an external slimline USB DVD writer.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/x360-ports.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3495" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/x360-ports.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="239" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If you’ve got £1500 burning a hole in your wallet then head on over to <a href="http://www.laptopsdirect.co.uk/">www.laptopsdirect.co.uk</a> and you can put in your pre-order for both the standard and the SSD-equipped X360 models. If it’s the X460 that’s whet your appetite, then you’ll just have to be a little more patient as it’s not available from retailers quite yet. Samsung have assured us that production models will be available in the next couple of weeks, so we’ll be bringing you our definitive verdict just as soon as they land in PC Pro’s labs. <span> </span></p>
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			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/10/01/first-look-samsung%e2%80%99s-ultraportable-x-series-%e2%80%93-the-133-x360-and-141-x460/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
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		<title>First look: Toshiba Qosmio F50-10Z</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/09/22/first-look-toshiba-qosmio-f50-10z/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/09/22/first-look-toshiba-qosmio-f50-10z/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:08:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mike Jennings</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Just in]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[qosmio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toshiba]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=3327</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
While we have seen a trickle of Centrino 2 laptops arriving in the PC Pro Labs of late &#8211; the Sony VAIO FGN-FW11ZU and Advent 5511 are two of the more recent examples &#8211; the new Toshiba Qosmio F50-10Z has to be one of the most exciting, at least based on first impressions.
The keyboard, for [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/dscf01181.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3333" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/dscf01181.jpg" alt="Toshiba\'s new Centrino 2 notebook." width="269" height="359" /></a></p>
<p>While we have seen a trickle of Centrino 2 laptops arriving in the <em>PC Pro</em> Labs of late &#8211; the <a title="Sony VAIO VGN-FW11ZU" href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/reviews/216435/sony-vaio-vgnfw11zu.html" target="_blank"><strong>Sony VAIO FGN-FW11ZU</strong></a> and <a title="Advent 5511" href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/reviews/223872/advent-5511.html" target="_blank"><strong>Advent 5511</strong></a> are two of the more recent examples &#8211; the new Toshiba Qosmio F50-10Z has to be one of the most exciting, at least based on first impressions.</p>
<p>The keyboard, for instance, is surrounded by a chrome border which extends to the pair of unusually-shaped mouse buttons, and the panel of touch-sensitive controls above the keyboard glow white, rather than the more reserved blue we&#8217;ve seen from Dell&#8217;s XPS laptops.</p>
<p>Audio is provided by a pair of harmon/kardon speakers &#8211; similar to those in the <a title="Toshiba Satellite P300" href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/labs/224715/toshiba-satellite-p300.html" target="_blank"><strong>Toshiba Satellite P300</strong></a> &#8211; and volume is altered by a circular control just below the keyboard. Predictably, it&#8217;s chrome-covered and bordered with bright white light. There&#8217;s also a huge Qosmio logo that arches its way across the lid, as if you didn&#8217;t know that this extroverted notebook had been designed, from the ground up, to entertain.</p>
<p><span id="more-3327"></span></p>
<p>A peek under the hood reveals a list of specifications that are just as exciting as the garish chassis. A trio of Centrino 2 components &#8211; a 2.26GHz Core 2 Duo P8400 processor, Intel 5100 WLAN chip and PM45 chipset &#8211; get the Qosmio off to a good start, and an Nvidia GeForce 9600M GT mobile graphics chip certainly provides a bit of a 3D boost. There&#8217;s also draft-n wireless and a DVT-T TV tuner.</p>
<p>The most intriguing component in this new Qosmio, though, is the Quad Core HD chip that, in theory, should vastly improve watching standard-definition DVDs, making detail sharper and colours punchier &#8211; like a half-way house between DVD and HD, then. The technology also claims to use gesture control, in conjunction with the built-in 1.3mp webcam, to let you control movies &#8211; so pausing, fast-forwarding and rewinding films without having to use a remote control or the touch-sensitive panel that sits above the keyboard.</p>
<p>So, will the Quad Core HD and its upscaling really make a difference when we&#8217;re watching DVDs? And will gesture control actually work &#8211; instead of leaving us flapping around in front of a laptop looking extremely silly? We&#8217;ll be giving the Qosmio a full evaluation in the Labs to see if this really is one of the finest &#8211; and best-featured &#8211; entertainment notebooks we&#8217;ve ever seen, so check back soon for our full review.</p>
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		<title>First look: Acer&#8217;s new TravelMate laptops</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/07/17/first-look-acers-new-travelmate-laptops/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/07/17/first-look-acers-new-travelmate-laptops/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:25:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mike Jennings</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hardware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Just in]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3G]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[acer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[draft-n]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[travelmate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=2475</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
With the launch of the Centrino 2 platform, we&#8217;re expecting to see a flurry of activity from all the major manufacturers as they refresh their current ranges &#8211; or launch entirely new ones, as we saw from Sony yesterday &#8211; that are able to proudly bear the Centrino 2 sticker.
Accordingly, Acer has launched an updated [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/tm5730_11.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2481" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/tm5730_11-300x246.jpg" alt="The Centrino 2-enabled notebook features new processors and mobile graphics chips" width="300" height="246" /></a></p>
<p>With the launch of the Centrino 2 platform, we&#8217;re expecting to see a flurry of activity from all the major manufacturers as they refresh their current ranges &#8211; or launch entirely new ones, <strong><a title="Sony's new range of Centrino 2 FW notebooks" href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/07/16/first-look-sony-vaio-fw-series/" target="_blank">as we saw from Sony yesterday</a></strong> &#8211; that are able to proudly bear the Centrino 2 sticker.</p>
<p>Accordingly, Acer has launched an updated range of TravelMate notebooks that fully embrace the new platform. Five laptops run the size gamut from 12.1in to 17in screens, but all promise plenty of power thanks to the inclusion of new processors. The 17in TravelMate 7730G includes the Intel Core 2 Duo T9600, T9400, P9500, P8400 or P8600 &#8211; with clock speeds ranging from 2.26GHz to 2.8GHz.</p>
<p>The rest of the specification promises more than enough performance for business users, too: there&#8217;s 2GB of RAM, the chance to include GeForce 9000M-series discrete graphics and one or two hard disk drives, with sizes ranging from 120 to 320GB. The entire range supports draft-n wireless, and the 6593G, 6493G and 6293G can all be equipped with optional HSDPA connections.</p>
<p><span id="more-2475"></span></p>
<p>It&#8217;s worth bearing in mind that not every model can be fitted with every part available in the new range of TravelMates. The larger 7730 and 5730 models have discrete graphics, more storage and an HDMI output, for instance, whereas the smaller notebooks &#8211; the 6593, 6493 and 6294 &#8211; include more connectivity. They can all be equipped with GRM, GPRS, EDGE and 3G connections, although they do rely on integrated graphics rather than a discrete chip.</p>
<p>Just as intriguing as the specification are the various new features that Acer has included. Security has been tightened: as well as TPM, there&#8217;s now pre-boot authentication, so you have to log in using the fingerprint reader before you can even get near the OS. The hard disk can also be set with a password, so even if it&#8217;s swapped into another laptop, people can&#8217;t access it without permission.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/tm6493-11.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2487" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/tm6493-11-300x250.jpg" alt="Equipped with 3G and new processors, the 6493 is a speedy corporate machine" width="300" height="250" /></a></p>
<p>Acer FingerLaunch, despite sounding unutterably rude, sounds interesting: each finger can be linked to a different application, music file, picture, movie or game &#8211; so, swipe your index finger to open Outlook, or use your little finger when the boss isn&#8217;t looking to boot up a quick game of TrackMania over lunch. While the image of us playing our laptops like a piano is endearing, we&#8217;re worried that it will be difficult actually remembering what each finger does unless we&#8217;ve tattooed each application onto our fingernails.</p>
<p>On the outside, little has changed since the last generation of TravelMate laptops. The magnesium alloy chassis returns and feels suitably robust, but won&#8217;t set the world alight with stunning design. We&#8217;re still not sure about the slightly curved keyboard &#8211; it certainly takes a while to get used to, and we&#8217;re hard pressed to find the genuine ergonomic benefits that Acer keeps banging on about.</p>
<p>A couple of models also include TrackPoints &#8211; usually seen on older ThinkPad models &#8211; for those who don&#8217;t like to use the touchpad. If you&#8217;re keen, then the 6593 and 6493 both feature these. These two models also both feature a second set of mouse buttons directly above the trackpad.</p>
<p>There&#8217;s no denying that Centrino 2 brings plenty of extra power and connectivity to the TravelMate series, although whether this will be enough to topple the Dell Latitude and Vostro machines from the A List is something that we&#8217;ll have to hold judgement about. Keep checking the site for a full review &#8211; Acer assure us that the new laptops will be arriving on these shores within a month, and we&#8217;ll be first in line to deliver the definitive verdict on the new notebooks.</p>
<p>The specs:</p>
<p><strong>Acer TravelMate 7730<br />
</strong></p>
<p>Intel Core 2 Duo T9400/P9500/T9600/P8400/P8600 (2.26GHz &#8211; 2.8GHz)</p>
<p>2GB 667MHz DDR2 RAM</p>
<p>17in 1440 x 900 TFT LCD display</p>
<p>Nvidia GeForce 9600M GT/9300M GS graphics</p>
<p>One or two 120 &#8211; 320GB hard disk</p>
<p>Intel Wireless Wifi Link 5100 or 5300 with 802.11a/b/g/draft-n support</p>
<p>Bluetooth 2.0</p>
<p>Gigabit Ethernet</p>
<p>One year RTB warranty</p>
<p>Windows Vista Business/Home Premium/Home Basic with XP recovery disc included</p>
<p>396 x 286 x 44mm (W x D x H)</p>
<p>3.6kg</p>
<p><strong>Acer TravelMate 5730</strong></p>
<p>Intel Core 2 Duo T9400/P9500/T9600/P8400/P8600 (2.26GHz &#8211; 2.8GHz)</p>
<p>2GB 667MHz DDR2 RAM</p>
<p>15.4in 1280 x 800 TFT LCD display</p>
<p>ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3470/Nvidia GeForce 9300M GS graphics</p>
<p>120 &#8211; 320 GB hard disk</p>
<p>Intel Wireless Wifi Link 5100 or 5300 with 802.11a/b/g/draft-n support</p>
<p>Bluetooth 2.0</p>
<p>Gigabit Ethernet</p>
<p>One year RTB warranty</p>
<p>Windows Vista Business/Home Premium/Home Basic with XP recovery disc included</p>
<p>360 x 267 x 43mm (W x D x H)</p>
<p>3kg</p>
<p><strong>Acer TravelMate 6593</strong></p>
<p>Intel Core 2 Duo T9400/P9500/T9600/P8400/P8600 (2.26GHz &#8211; 2.8GHz)</p>
<p>2GB 1066MHz DDR3 RAM</p>
<p>15.4in 1280 x 800 TFT LCD</p>
<p>ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3470 graphics</p>
<p>120 &#8211; 320GB hard disk</p>
<p>Intel Wireless Wifi Link 5100 or 5300 with 802.11a/b/g/draft-n support</p>
<p>Bluetooth 2.0</p>
<p>Gigabit Ethernet</p>
<p>UMTS/HSDPA 3G and quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE connectivity optional</p>
<p>One year RTB warranty</p>
<p>Windows Vista Business/Home Basic/Business 64-bit/Home Basic 64-bit/Windows XP Professional</p>
<p>360 x 267 x 44mm (W x D x H)</p>
<p>3.1kg</p>
<p><strong>Acer TravelMate 6493</strong></p>
<p>Intel Core 2 Duo T9400/P9500/T9600/P8400/P8600 (2.26GHz &#8211; 2.8GHz)</p>
<p>2GB 1066MHz DDR3 RAM</p>
<p>14.1in 1280 x 800 TFT LCD</p>
<p>Intel GM45 express chipset with Intel GMAX4500HD integrated graphics</p>
<p>120 &#8211; 320GB hard disk</p>
<p>Intel Wireless Wifi Link 5100 or 5300 with 802.11a/b/g/draft-n support</p>
<p>Bluetooth 2.0</p>
<p>Gigabit Ethernet</p>
<p>UMTS/HSDPA 3G and quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE connectivity optional</p>
<p>One year RTB warranty</p>
<p>Windows Vista Business/Home Basic/Business 64-bit/Home Basic 64-bit/Windows XP Professional</p>
<p>338 x 245 x 44mm (W x D x H)</p>
<p>2.63kg</p>
<p><strong>Acer TravelMate 6293</strong></p>
<p>Intel Core 2 Duo T9400/P9500/T9600/P8400/P8600 (2.26GHz &#8211; 2.8GHz)</p>
<p>2GB 1066MHz DDR3 RAM</p>
<p>12.1in 1280 x 800 TFT LCD</p>
<p>Intel GM45 express chipset with Intel GMAX4500HD integrated graphics</p>
<p>120 &#8211; 320GB hard disk</p>
<p>Intel Wireless Wifi Link 5100 or 5300 with 802.11a/b/g/draft-n support</p>
<p>Bluetooth 2.0</p>
<p>Gigabit Ethernet</p>
<p>UMTS/HSDPA 3G and quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE connectivity optional</p>
<p>One year RTB warranty</p>
<p>Windows Vista Business/Home Basic/Business 64-bit/Home Basic 64-bit/Windows XP Professional</p>
<p>306 x 227 x 36mm (W x D x H)</p>
<p>2.1kg</p>
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		<title>First look: Sony VAIO BZ-Series</title>
		<link>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/07/16/first-look-sony-vaio-bz-series/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/2008/07/16/first-look-sony-vaio-bz-series/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jul 2008 09:42:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tim Danton</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hardware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centrino 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[laptops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sony]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vaio]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/?p=2430</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Aimed at mainstream and, dare we say it, slightly conservative business users, the BZ-Series &#8211; which replaces the BX-Series -  doesn&#8217;t come with some of the features boasted by the rest of the new VAIO range.
For instance, the keyboard isn&#8217;t an &#8220;isolation&#8221; unit, but a more conventional affair. Sony claims it&#8217;s improved the typing performance, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/vaio-bz-series.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2433" title="Sony VAIO BZ-Series" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/vaio-bz-series.jpg" alt="Sony VAIO BZ-Series" width="428" height="302" /></a></p>
<p>Aimed at mainstream and, dare we say it, slightly conservative business users, the BZ-Series &#8211; which replaces the BX-Series -  doesn&#8217;t come with some of the features boasted by the rest of the new VAIO range.</p>
<p><span id="more-2430"></span>For instance, the keyboard isn&#8217;t an &#8220;isolation&#8221; unit, but a more conventional affair. Sony claims it&#8217;s improved the typing performance, but it still &#8211; on first impressions &#8211; falls short of ThinkPads. We do appreciate the spill-proof feature, though: spill coffee or water on the keyboard and you&#8217;ll have plenty of time to switch the VAIO off and let the fluid drain away.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/sony-vaio-bz-series-keyboard.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2436" title="Sony VAIO BZ-Series keyboard" src="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/sony-vaio-bz-series-keyboard.jpg" alt="Sony VAIO BZ-Series keyboard" width="428" height="285" /></a></p>
<p>A nice accessory is a privacy filter, cutting viewing angles to 60 degrees for anyone wary of the straying eyes of fellow travellers, and IT managers will appreciate the ability to easily prevent users from plugging in external drives. There&#8217;s no need to delve into BIOS settings, just head to the VAIO Control Center.</p>
<p>The screen on the BZ sample we saw was superb: a 15.4in unit with a 1,440 x 900 resolution. There&#8217;s no Blu-ray drive, just a standard dual-layer DVD writer, but DVD movies will look great if you fancy watching a film on the move.</p>
<p>Don&#8217;t expect to see the BZ-Series in your local PC World: Sony intends to mainly distribute the BZ-Series through business resellers (such as Misco), with prices starting from £649 exc VAT for the base model to £849 exc VAT for the top.</p>
<p>We saw the BZ at the Berlin launch of <strong><a title="Four new VAIO ranges launched: full details" href="http://www.pcpro.co.uk/news/212718" target="_self">the new ranges of VAIO laptops</a></strong>, and should soon have a sample for a full review. Keep an eye on the main PC Pro reviews section for more.</p>
<p>The specs:</p>
<p><strong>Sony VAIO VGN-BZ11VN: £849 exc VAT<br />
</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>2.4GHz Intel Core 2 P8600</li>
<li>4GB RAM</li>
<li>200GB hard disk</li>
<li>15.4in 1,440 x 900 TFT</li>
<li>Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics</li>
<li>Dual-layer DVD writer</li>
<li>Gigabit Ethernet</li>
<li>802.11abg+draft n WLAN</li>
<li>267 x 362 x 29.8-37.7mm (WDH)</li>
<li>2.6kg</li>
<li>2yr C&amp;R warranty</li>
<li>Windows Vista Business</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Sony VAIO VGN-BZ11XN: £749 exc VAT<br />
</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>2.26GHz Intel Core 2 P8400</li>
<li>3GB RAM</li>
<li>200GB hard disk</li>
<li>15.4in 1,440 x 900 TFT</li>
<li>Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics</li>
<li>Dual-layer DVD writer</li>
<li>Gigabit Ethernet</li>
<li>802.11abg+draft n WLAN</li>
<li>267 x 362 x 29.8-37.7mm (WDH)</li>
<li>2.6kg</li>
<li>2yr C&amp;R warranty</li>
<li>Windows Vista Business</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Sony VAIO VGN-BZ11MN: £649 exc VAT<br />
</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>2.26GHz Intel Core 2 P8600</li>
<li>2GB RAM</li>
<li>160GB hard disk</li>
<li>15.4in 1,280 x 800 TFT</li>
<li>Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics</li>
<li>Dual-layer DVD writer</li>
<li>Gigabit Ethernet</li>
<li>802.11abg+draft n WLAN</li>
<li>267 x 362 x 29.8-37.7mm (WDH)</li>
<li>2.7kg</li>
<li>2yr C&amp;R warranty</li>
<li>Windows Vista Business</li>
</ul>
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