Notebook Pcs/Laptop Buying Guide

Notebook PCs/Laptop Buying Guide

Contents

Questions to ask yourself • Desktop PC or notebook? • How important is mobility? • What will I be using the notebook for? • How much do I need to spend?

Specialised portable computers • Sub-notebooks • Tablet PCs • Palm/hand top computers

Processor and chipset • Performance impacting CPU technologies • Intel versus AMD

Intel Notebook processors • Avoiding Centrino confusion • Intel Celeron M processor • Mobile Intel Pentium 4 processor-M re you one of the many thousands • Mobile Intel Celeron Processor • Mobile Intel Pentium 4 processor of people who are predicted to buy a notebook (laptop) computer this year? Is AMD Mobile processors your desktop system in need of an upgrade and • AMD Turion 64 Mobile Technology you are considering switching to a notebook? If • Mobile AMD Athlon 64 processor yes, then this PC World buying guide is for you. • AMD Athlon 64 for Notebooks In this report, we equip you with all the know- • Mobile AMD Sempron processor how you need to buy a notebook. • Mobile AMD Athlon XP-M processor We walk you through the latest information Other key components on important components, such as the CPU and • Display graphic controllers, and explain what is on • Graphics controller offer, to help you determine what you need. We • Memory (RAM) • Hard disk also provide information on market trends and • Removable storage where notebook technology might be heading • Networking options in the future, as well as tips on how to get that • Peripheral connectivity bit extra for your dollar when dealing with the • Sound retailer. • Battery

Questions to ask the retailer • Top 10 questions to ask about warranty • Which operating system and software are included? • How can I tell if the software is legal? • Which extras can be included?

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Questions to ask yourself

Desktop PC or notebook? Is a notebook the computer for you or are you more suited to a desktop system? If you want a notebook as a desktop replacement, you must be sure of your needs: if you think you will want to upgrade in the near future, or work with a larger monitor, then a desktop system would generally be preferable. To increase your productivity, you can easily use your notebook in conjunction with a second monitor as nearly all notebooks now come with a VGA-out port and in some cases, even a DVI-I port for connection to LCD monitors without an adapter. Some notebooks are still equipped with a PS/2 port for an external mouse and or keyboard but most now feature at least two high-speed USB 2.0 ports allowing expandability options for printers, mice, joysticks, and other peripherals. FireWire ports (used to connect items such as digital video cameras and external hard disks and) are also becoming more common, especially in notebooks geared towards multimedia use. What the decision really boils down to, though, is whether you need your computer to be mobile. For the medium term to come at least, desktop PCs will remain cheaper than notebooks at similar performance levels and provide better value while being easier to upgrade. You may prefer to scrimp on the size of the display to lighten the load, so opt for a 12-14in instead of 15-15.4in or 17in widescreen How important is mobility? varieties. If, however, the graphics capabilities and size of the screen The degree of mobility of your notebook is a combination of size, weight are important, this may not be the best option. and battery life. You will need to consider how often you will be carrying If you don’t play games, edit video or watch DVD movies, there’s little it around and if you will mainly be relying on the notebook’s battery or an point buying a model with the latest mobile graphics card because a external power source. built-in chip (integrated graphics) should meet your needs. Notebooks generally weigh around 3-4kg, but they can weigh as little Also, there’s nothing to say that you have to buy a model with as 1.5kg and as much as 6kg, depending on the model and features everything you want already included. Consider buying a basic unit and included. adding to it. It could work out a lot cheaper to obtain things such an A lighter notebook may not have an internal CD/DVD drive or floppy external TV card and DVD writer when the need arises. disk drive, may have a smaller screen, or reduced storage capabilities. If you only want a notebook to store such things as contacts, and Alternatively, the larger (and much heavier) desktop-replacement machines occasionally enter small amounts of data, a PDA (personal digital usually have worse battery life because of their big power-draining screens assistant) may be more suitable to your needs. These devices are and components. However, they can feature all the trimmings such as reliable, run for days or even weeks on a single charge, and can be multiple CD/DVD drives and hard disks, cutting-edge mobile graphics, carried more or less anywhere. Palm’s 4GB LifeDrive PDA is a recent widescreen displays up to 17in and full-sized keyboards, complete with perfect example. dedicated number pads. Most notebooks in PC World’s Best Buys weigh around 3kg, with some How much do I need to spend? hovering around the 2kg or less mark. These particular weights are for the How much you need to spend depends on what you will be using your notebook itself, not including the power supply or often-used accessories notebook for. If you only want to access your e-mail, browse the Web such as external drives. However, the Best Buys do also list the combined and do word processing, then you can get away with spending between weight of such accessories to help you determine the total weight you will be $1500 and $2000 for a new machine (even less if you get an older and carrying around in the bag. or second-hand model). Notebooks now mostly use Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) batteries that operate for If you are a medium-level user, using your notebook to play games or one to three hours on a single battery charge. However, if you use all of the to work with multimedia applications, then you will want to spend more power saving options available, and depending on the number of cells in the on a powerful processor and graphics controller, more storage space, battery (the more cells, the longer it lasts), a Li-Ion battery can last up to six and a bigger screen. For this type of use, you’ll be looking at around the or seven hours. $2000-$2500 and up price-range. Remember that the more features your notebook has, the more What will I be using the notebook for? expensive it will be. If you opt for a DVD-writer drive instead of DVD- If you won’t be travelling frequently with your notebook, then battery life and ROM, want increased hard drive capacity (say, over 40GB), a screen weight will not be a primary concern. Instead, you may want to concentrate size more than the standard 15in, wireless capabilities and a more on ramping up the processor, screen size and memory. If, however, you will powerful processor, then the price of your notebook will increase be carting your notebook around with you on a regular basis – travelling accordingly. The trick is to figure out which configuration you will need. interstate or overseas, around a university, or perhaps you frequently work Buying a notebook with the latest processor or graphics controller is away from the office – the size and weight of your notebook, and its battery not necessary if you will only be using it for word processing and Web life, become more important. browsing, and have no plans to extend your usage.

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Most users will fall in the $2500-$4000 category, with only high-end Ruggedised portables corporate users, content-creators and avid-gamers looking at spending Popular with on-site engineers, law enforcement and other field- over $4000. staff, ruggedised portable computing devices continue to gain a niche following. Specialised portable computers There are special ruggedised alternatives of standard notebooks, tablet In addition to the common lightweight to desktop replacement notebook PCs and even PDAs available from a variety of vendors, but in Australia, models we’ve already covered, there are a few other interesting shapes Panasonic’s ToughBook range continues to lead the way. and sizes of portable computers plus specialised features on offer. Ruggedised notebooks are not to be confused with standard, well-built notebooks that feature magnesium alloy casing, splash/water-resistant Sub-notebooks keyboards and shock-mounted hard disks: ruggedised notebooks can You may also come across a category of notebook called sub-notebooks. feature drop and sometimes-bullet proof casing, dust protected sealed Around the 1.5kg-and-less mark, they come with a screen of small-to- connector covers, extra security and more. medium size, and generally great performance. However, the price tag The downside is that such extra features usually cost quite a bit more isn’t always as lightweight. With sub-notebooks, most things (such as and the specifications of the machines are usually a little behind the an external DVD writer) that aren’t absolutely essential to the machine’s curve. operation can usually be detached and left at home or in the office, giving you the choice between functionality and portability. Processor and chipset Of course, some sub-notebooks are created more portable than others. When purchasing any personal computer, one of the fundamental factors Consider whether you want to sacrifice an extra 300g or 400g in favour of to consider is the central processing unit (CPU). In a notebook computer a larger screen or more ports and connectors. Also, check that you aren’t this is even more important, as the CPU is not only the brains of the giving up too much in exchange for portability, as the smaller keys on machine, it is one of the factors in determining how long the notebook some sub-notebooks can make them difficult to use. Toshiba’s Portege will operate while disconnected from the mains power and running on R100 and revamped Libretto U100 machines are perfect examples, as the battery. are Sony’s T-series Vaio machines and Fujitsu’s P-series offerings. The processor must be able to deliver the performance you require while not draining the battery too fast. Of course, processor vendors are Tablet PCs not charities, and the more value they put into the CPU – speed, power Tablet PCs are just like a normal notebook but with a twist. There are reduction, smaller packaging for super-portable notebooks, and so on – two types of tablet PCs: the first are convertible models that can also the higher the price tag of the processor and, correspondingly, the overall function just like a normal (or “clamshell”) notebook, complete with price of the notebook. keyboard and cursor control pads/sticks. Alternatively, there are also Which notebook you buy, and which processor it includes, will in dedicated tablet devices. most cases depend on your budget. Within the AMD and Intel Both types of tablet PCs feature touch-screens (designed for use mobile processor range there is a wide variety of individual with a bundled stylus) that can be rotated between portrait CPUs. and landscape views. Until the next generation It’s important to know that just because of Windows (now codenamed Vista – formerly processors are marketed under the same brand, Longhorn) ships, Tablet PCs will use the such as Pentium M or Athlon XP-M, it does not Tablet PC edition of Windows XP that has been mean that they are all identical apart from clock specially tweaked to include handwriting and speed. For example, processors in the same range can speech recognition features. differ in micron technology used, the amount of Level 2 Tablet PCs have a roughly $300-$500 premium cache, and clock speed. over a similarly specified standard notebook and as Within processor brands, differences exist in the underlying silicon such as still a very niche product suited best to certain gate technology (eg, 0.13-micron or 90-nanometer). Generally, the areas of business and design. smaller the build process is, the newer the technology. Most of the big name vendors such as Lenovo (which now markets the Other differences include the power consumption figures, the power ThinkPad range after the acquisition by the Lenovo Group of the IBM management technologies included, and the amount of secondary (Level Personal Computing Division), HP/Compaq, Fujitsu, Acer and Toshiba in 2) cache on the processor. All these factors affect CPU performance, addition to some lesser known-brands offer tablet PC models. which is why Intel and AMD have both moved away from using just the There are also wireless “tablet” displays that include a built-in gigahertz (GHz) speed to identify a processor and instead have started processor, but they’re not a computer! They need to connect to a PC or using numbering systems that they feel better label their products. the Internet over Wi-Fi to browse content. Nokia’s recent 770 Internet tablet and ViewSonic Airsync range are two such examples. Intel versus AMD The majority of notebooks you’ll see advertised are likely to use Intel Palm/hand-size computers processors, primarily as part of Intel’s Centrino platform, explained below. What do you get when you cross a PDA with a notebook or Tablet PC? However, AMD is making inroads into the Australian notebook market, so Answer: handheld computers of an in-between size that have no problems expect to find an increasing number of notebooks featuring AMD Turion running Windows XP and are usually equipped with a built-in hard disk, 64 Mobile Technology. Wi-Fi, USB functionality and sometimes, touch screens. An AMD processor is still the only option if you’re looking to run Windows Although handheld portable computers are yet to really arrive in XP Professional 64-bit Edition or a 64-bit Linux alternative. On that point, Australia with any force, there are a few different brands available you may not have heard that the slated 2006 primary release of the next overseas. These include Sony’s U-series, the FlipStart PC, and the version of Windows (code named Vista) will be a 64-bit version, although OQO model 01. a lesser-performing 32-bit version will be available for older machines.

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Intel’s next-generation of dual-core notebook processors (code Performance-impacting CPU technologies named Yonah) is slated for release in early 2006 and will definitely be a performance boon. However, as of mid-2005, Intel had only confirmed Micron technology: 32-bit support, so make sure you check the latest information if you’re longing for 64-bit performance benefits. The size of the transistor technology on the CPU. Smaller means All of the machines with Intel or AMD CPUs offer good performance, the processor can run more quickly and will generate less heat. and all should run Microsoft Windows XP/Me/98/95 as well as other operating systems designed for x86 processors, including Linux. Always System bus/Front-side bus (FSB) speed: double-check though. This is the channel through which the processor accesses the main From this point, you can narrow your search further. The Celeron M memory. The faster this is, the more quickly information can be processor and Mobile AMD Sempron processor are, respectively, Intel pulled from memory. and AMD’s entry-level processors for mobiles. Portable performance notebooks on the other hand, will most often Secondary (Level 2) cache: use Intel’s Pentium M or AMD’s Turion 64 processors. Secondary cache is a small amount of memory (generally ranging from 128KB to 2MB on notebook processors) that is on the actual Intel Notebook Processors CPU. The memory, while small, is accessible at very high speed and reduces the need for the processor to access the main memory, Avoiding Centrino confusion which is done via the slower system bus. The majority of notebooks available today include Intel’s Centrino technology. Centrino is Voltage: Intel’s name for its mobile computing platform Cutting the voltage (and therefore the speed of the processor) that comprises three elements: a processor, an helps reduce power consumption as well as heat generation, which associated chipset and a wireless networking is a significant factor in cramped notebook cases. connection. Because Intel hasn’t used a different logo or Power management: naming convention for the most recent Centrino Some technologies modify the physical power consumption of the CPU updates, you need to make sure you find out based on operational requirements. Techniques include reducing the which generation of the Centrino platform your clock speed or implementing variable voltages. This reduction of power potential notebook is equipped with. consumption provides longer mains-free operation. The easiest way to do this is by looking at the chipset specifications. The first generation of Centrino uses the 855x chipset and the second generation (formerly codenamed Sonoma) uses the 915x chipset. Notebooks based on the 915GM chipset variant will use on-board Only notebooks featuring these Intel’s strict list of components get graphics in the form of Intel’s Graphic Media Accelerator 900. Intel’s stamp of approval to carry the name “Centrino notebook”. If just Although it’s not for hardcore gamers, the 900 is twice the speed of the one component is missing or a competitor’s product used instead, the integrated graphic solution Intel offered previously and adds DirectX notebook cannot be termed Centrino. Intel has created an architecture 9 support (required by the latest games), widescreen display and TV- reference design to which notebook manufacturers must adhere (and have output support. Manufacturers can also include Intel Hi Definition validated by Intel) if they wish to use the Centrino branding. audio that supports DTS, THX and Dolby technologies for up to eight It’s important to remember that it’s not like you couldn’t wirelessly channels at 192kHz/32-bit quality. So the potential for home-theatre network a notebook before Centrino, Intel’s marketing blitz as well as quality sound is definitely there. a surge in home broadband and networking just helped bring the idea Intel Pentium M processor: Some newer Pentium M (mobile) of wireless to the masses. You can always get a Wi-Fi PC Card or Wi-Fi processors, formerly dubbed Dothan, were available in first-generation module to add wireless capabilities to a notebook without it built-in. Centrino notebooks, but the range now spans the 2.13GHz Pentium M The second generation of Centrino, like the original, has three elements: 770 down to the 1.5GHz Pentium M 705. the latest Intel Pentium M processors, a new 915 Express chipset and A 90-nanometer manufacturing process is now used and 2MB improved Intel wireless networking with support for the 802.11a, b or g of Level 2 cache included (double the original Pentium M) on the standards. processor, along with support for the 533MHz FSB. Intel claims this The 915 Express chipset family: The 915 Express chipset (formerly can provide up to 33 per cent faster transfer rates than 400MHz FSB codenamed Alviso) forms the centrepiece of 2005’s Centrino update. The notebooks. PCI Express (PCIe) bus architecture is said to deliver twice the input/output For ultra-slim and light notebooks or Tablet PCs, there are also low- bandwidth of older notebooks – even more for graphics – and provides the voltage offerings such as the 1.5GHz Pentium M 758 processor or exciting possibility of upgrading certain components in the future. the Ultra-Low Voltage 1.2GHz Pentium M 753 – both with 400MHz The chipset supports up to 2GB of dual-channel DDR2 (Double Data FSBs. Rate 2) memory, a next-generation memory standard that clears the way for In addition to improved SpeedStep technology that lowers or increases memory chips to run at faster speeds. The chipset also comes with support performance to prolong battery life, the new Pentium M processors also for a faster front-side bus (FSB), increasing the speed at which data flows introduce support for Windows XP Service Pack 2’s Executive Disable between the processor and the memory from 400MHz to 533MHz for Bit function. This can help block malicious software from exploiting most configurations. memory buffer overflow attacks. Other notable chipset features include support for up to eight USB 2.0 Second-generation Wi-Fi: Notebook manufacturers now have the ports and the option for manufacturers to include a power-managed Serial option to include 802.11a/b/g support thanks to Intel’s new Intel PRO/ ATA (SATA) hard disk interface. Wireless 2915ABG network connection.

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This new network connection supports many security standards Power management features include Enhanced Intel SpeedStep, including 802.11i – the highest level of enterprise encryption Deeper Sleep and QuickStart. In March 2003 Intel released its first available today in addition to WPA2 and Cisco extensions 3.0. Finally, Centrino package of chips, based on the Pentium M processor that were new software will make Wi-Fi easier to set up and manage at home or the first Intel chips to be wholly designed with mobility in mind, not in the workplace. tweaked from a desktop. The first-generation Centrino Pentium M processors utilise the Intel 855 chipset, which supports a 400MHz FSB, a 1MB Layer 2 cache, AMD Mobile Processors and the Intel PRO/Wireless 2100 wireless LAN chip. This wireless LAN chip enables easier connection to 802.11b, Wi-Fi certified AMD Turion 64 Mobile Technology access points, and reduces interference with other 802.11 signals AMD first launched its Turion processor brand as well as some Bluetooth devices. The first generation Centrino’s in early 2005, explaining that it will give the 855GM chipset also includes integrated graphics based on Intel’s Turion tag to its processors geared towards Extreme Graphics 2 technology. thin and light notebook computers because Unless you really tinker with power management options, battery they use 35 watts or less of power. life on the latest Centrino notebooks should be around the same as The low-end MT-30 processor runs at earlier Centrino notebooks, but with much better performance thanks 1.6GHz and features 1MB of Level2 cache, while the ML- 37 also to the features already outlined. has a 1MB Level2 cache but runs at 2.0GHz. Based on the same architecture as the Athlon 64, the Turion 64 is Intel Celeron M processor capable of running both 32-bit and 64-bit software. The Celeron M is quite an important Although the Turion 64 competes with Intel’s Pentium M processor, processor as it’s compatible with a variety AMD has not chosen to follow Intel’s Centrino strategy, instead allowing of Intel’s new and old notebook chipsets notebook vendors to mix and match products they feel are best for cost (915 Express, 910GML, 855x, 852x). or performance. This means you can still think about The Turion 64 is built using a 90-nanometre process, features AMD getting the latest notebook sizes and styles PowerNow! Power management technology, supports Windows enhanced and save money by opting for this over a virus protection and uses AMD’s HyperTransport technology for FSB Pentium M processor. Just remember that speeds up to 1600MHz (full duplex). you do lose a bit of performance (Celeron M processors have 1MB of level 2 cache Mobile AMD Athlon 64 processor – half that of Pentium Ms. Celeron M This chip pretty much competes with Intel’s Pentium 4 processor in the processors all have a 400MHz FSB desktop replacement market but its low-power variant is also an option if and range from the 1.2GHz Celeron M you’re looking at a thin and light machine. It was also the first consumer processor 310 to the 1.5GHz Celeron M processor 370. As is the 64-bit processor for portable PC. case with the Pentium M processor, there are also Ultra-Low Voltage Like the Turion 64, this processor is also capable of running both 32- versions available including the Intel Celeron M processor Ultra Low bit and 64-bit software. The Mobile Athlon 64 features AMD PowerNow! Voltage 383 which runs at 1GHz. Power management technology, supports Windows enhanced virus protection and uses AMD’s HyperTransport technology for FSB speeds Mobile Intel Pentium 4 processor-M up to 1600MHz (full duplex). Released back in 2002, the Intel Pentium 4 processor-M uses the Mobile AMD Athlon 64 performance processors each have 1MB of 845 chipset family and, now and then, you may still find them in Level2 cache and speeds ranging from the 1.6GHz 2800+ up to the budget-orientated notebooks at clock speeds between 1.4 and 2.4GHz 3700+. Each Low Power Mobile AMD Athlon 64 processor 2.6GHz. This processor has a 400MHz FSB (over three times the features a 512KB Level2 cache. This range includes the 2700+ speed of the Mobile Intel Pentium III processor-M) and requires DDR (1.6GHz), 2800+ (1.8GHz) and 3000+ (2.0GHz). (double data rate) memory. The Intel Pentium 4 processor-M was For more information on AMD processors, see the company’s Web site. largely superseded by the Pentium M processors that offered greater performance and longer battery life. AMD Athlon 64 for Notebooks Make no mistake about it: this processor is designed solely for those Mobile Intel Celeron Processor big and fast desktop replacement notebooks with big screens and great Although this processor may still be kicking about somewhere in graphics that gamers, multimedia content-creators and designers are notebook offerings, we’d still recommend you look at the alternative drawn to. processors that a particular notebook can accommodate. As with This chip also competes with Intel’s Pentium 4 processor and all Intel notebook processors, you can find information that is more includes much of the same AMD equivalent technologies. specific at Intel’s Web site. This processor features 1MB of Level2 cache and uses AMD’s HyperTransport technology for FSB speeds up to 1.6GHz (full Mobile Intel Pentium 4 processor duplex). If you’re on a budget and need a powerful multimedia notebook, there’s a chance that at least one machine you look at will feature Mobile AMD Sempron processor what’s essentially a tweaked desktop processor – the Mobile Intel Directly targeting Intel’s value-orientated Celeron M processor, AMD’s Pentium 4. Using the 852x chipset series (with 533MHz FSB), this 32-bit Mobile Sempron processor is a vast improvement over its processor is available at speeds between 2.66GHz and 3.46GHz with earlier Mobile Duron efforts and should help notebook vendors with Hyper-Threading, and between 2.4GHz and 3.06GHz without. the ability to produce inexpensive, thin and light notebooks.

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That said, the Mobile Sempron processors have 128KB It’s true that if you’ll mainly be using your notebook for of Level1 on-chip cache – twice as much as Intel’s Celeron word processing, spreadsheets, and e-mail and Internet, M processors. However, Intel’s Celeron M processors have etc, then screen size and resolution might not be important much more Level2 cache (1MB compared to the Sempron’s factors. However, keep in mind that a widescreen can be 128KB-256KB, depending on the model). a good compromise between extra on-screen real estate Mobile Sempron processors offer AMD PowerNow! Power and notebook weight. management technology and supports Windows enhanced Notebooks are also competing on brightness (measured virus protection. in nits). Some vendors such as BenQ, Toshiba and Sony really pay attention to this area on selected models – and Mobile AMD Athlon XP-M processor so should you when comparing specs! AMD’s more recent processor line-up means that XP-M A newer trend with notebooks (especially of multimedia- processors are being used less and less, although you may still see them orientated models) is the use of a glossy, reflective coating over the in competitively priced new niche notebooks. display. Each vendor has a different name for their technology, but for the most part the results are the same: much improved contrast Athlon XP-M chips have an open architecture, allowing use with a and colours instead of that washed out look. Sometimes this feature is variety of wireless networking solutions. AMD used to offer three standard, sometimes it’s optional or not available. Be sure to ask about categories of processor for notebooks grouped under the Athlon XP-M it – but remember that the downside can include you sometimes seeing brand: desktop replacement, standard, and low voltage. your reflection at certain viewing angles (which can be distracting) and that any scratches can be more visible. Other key components Another factor that distinguishes one notebook’s display from another So you’re pretty sure that a notebook is the computer for you – great! is its viewable angle. Quite often, less costly notebooks have lower The next step is to determine the specification you will need. The core quality screens that are not easily viewed from a side angle. When components of a notebook are its display, graphics controller, memory shopping online for a notebook, this is something you can’t test. (RAM), hard disk, removable storage, networking options, peripheral connectivity, sound and battery. Here’s something to try: When you’re at the notebook retailer: with the notebook on – and Display preferably playing a DVD movie, if the situation allows – stand in front The display is your window into your notebook computer’s world and of it and look at the screen. You should be able to see the display fine. because it’s your primary interface – it pays to get a good one! Now take a step or so to the side until you’re on about a 45 degree Notebooks now all feature liquid crystal display (LCD) screens with angle to the display. Can you still see the screen properly or is there Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) technology providing many advantages over an increase in darkness and loss of clarity? Now try standing about 10 monitors based on cathode ray tubes (CRTs), such as crisp text and no degrees off the axis of the display and about 1m away. annoying flicker, which means they can help reduce eyestrain. Try this with a few notebooks and you should see the difference for LCDs address each pixel individually, which means they can create yourself. This is more important if you are using your notebook to make sharper text than CRTs, but the high contrast of LCDs can cause problems presentations. when you want to display graphics. CRTs soften the edges of graphics as well as text, and although this can make it hard to read text at very Graphics controller small resolutions, it also means CRTs can blend and convey subtleties in Although matters have improved dramatically in recent times, mobile images, for example, better than LCDs. graphics performance is one area where notebooks still lag behind If you will be using your notebook as a desktop replacement for graphic- desktop machines, and it’s one of the most important aspects of a intense work, then perhaps you might consider buying a CRT monitor to computer. It’s the graphics controller that produces two- or three- connect to it when doing this sort of work. If this isn’t an option, then dimensional images on the display. choose a notebook with a large display, keeping in mind that a larger As mentioned above, the graphics processor can be the difference screen means a pricier and heavier notebook. between a 15in display providing a resolution of 1024x768 or much The screen sizes for notebooks (on average) range from 12.1in to the higher. largest size of 17in (widescreen). A 15in display is the most common in When you raise the resolution on your display, you add to the graphics notebooks today, followed closely by its 15.4in widescreen alternative. board’s workload by forcing it to produce a larger number of pixels. Most notebook vendors are moving more and more towards widescreen Likewise, when you increase the colour depth, it adds to the complexity only offerings for a variety of reasons including the native widescreen of the work the graphics controller must perform. playback of DVDs and the fact that a widescreen’s lower, wider profile is All graphic controllers now easily manage the processing of 2-D more durable against potential twists and knocks than a non-widescreen images (such as those created when you browse the Internet, work display/notebook lid. in office applications or even watch a DVD. If this is all the graphics In most cases, the larger the display, the higher the on-screen grunt you require from your notebook, then a less-costly, battery saving resolution will be, although this will usually depend on the type of integrated graphics controller (that shares video with main RAM) should graphics processor used. be fine. Examples include Intel’s Graphic Media Accelerator 900 or The graphics controller can be the difference between a 15in display its older Intel Extreme Graphics, ATI’s Mobility Radeon Xpress or IGP providing a resolution up to 1024x768 or the more desirable maximum series and also integrated graphics from SiS and even Trident. resolution of 1500x1400 pixels. Note: these “discreet” (dedicated) controllers are in virtually all Some vendors (such as Dell), actually give you the choice of paying instances integrated into your notebook’s motherboard, although more for a better display panel that allows for a higher resolution. Keep mainstream notebooks allowing graphics upgrades are around the this in mind. corner.

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However, if you want to play the latest 3-D games at a decent resolution Memory (RAM) and frame rate or you’re a CAD designer, then you’ll need a discreet graphics Whether they’re inside a desktop PC or a notebook computer, controller from ATI or NVIDIA with dedicated DDR video memory (up to RAM chips play the critical role of keeping the CPU efficiently 256MB). fed with data or instructions from programs on the hard drive. The more powerful a graphics controller you require, the more expensive How well the chips perform this role results in the difference your notebook will become. between a CPU that misses computing cycles and moves like So if a discreet graphics controller is for you, your next step is to decide a steam locomotive and a CPU that speeds along like a bullet which brand and type will be most suitable. train. As with desktop computers, ATI and NVIDIA continue to go head-to-head There are three types of RAM available in notebooks: SDRAM in the portable graphics stakes, with performance and special features. (Synchronous Dynamic RAM) which is rarely used anymore on new notebooks in favour of DDR SDRAM (Double Date Rate Some of your choices in graphics controllers include: SDRAM) and DDR2 SDRAM. DDR SDRAM is now the default standard, even for value- NVIDIA orientated notebooks and overcomes the once-per-cycle • GeForce Go 6800, 6800 Ultra (PCIe, high end) handicap as it can send data to the CPU twice per clock cycle, • GeForce Go 6600 (PCIe, performance & mainstream) for greater processing efficiency. • GeForce FX Go 5700 (PCIe & AGP, performance & mainstream) DDR2 (Double Data Rate 2) memory is a next-generation • GeForce Go 6400 (PCIe, multimedia mainstream) memory type used with the latest notebooks such as new • GeForce Go 6200 (PCIe, multimedia thin & light) Centrino models. DDR2 SDRAM offers a 60 per cent increase • GeForce FX Go 5200 (AGP, multimedia thin & light) in peak memory bandwidth and power benefits over DDR • Quadro FX Go (PCIe, mobile workstations, CAD design) SDRAM. As with all computers, more memory is better. On all budgets, ATI you should set 256MB as the absolute minimum, while 512MB • ATI Mobility Radeon X800 (PCIe, high end) or 1GB configurations are fast becoming the standard on many • ATI Mobility Radeon X600 (PCIe, performance & mainstream) vendor-specified configurations. Currently most notebooks • ATI Mobility Radeon X300 (PCIe, thin & light) have the maximum RAM limit of around 2GB, but be sure to • ATI Mobility Radeon 9800 (AGP, high end) check as some less expensive models can max out at 1GB. • ATI Mobility Radeon 9600 (AGP, performance & mainstream) Upgrading the memory of your notebook is a great way to • ATI Mobility FireGL V5000 (PCIe, mobile workstations, CAD achieve better performance and more often than not, you can design) install it yourself! However, be sure to check if this voids your warranty first and also determine how many memory slots you Compared to older AGP notebook graphics, the PCIe bus have free so you can work out the combination of memory architecture found on newer notebooks is said to deliver twice the modules that’s best for your machine and budget. input/output bandwidth – even more for graphics – and provides the exciting possibility of upgrading graphics in the future through Hard disk PCIe modules. If a computer’s CPU is the brain of the PC, the hard drive serves Some notebooks are also emerging that feature built-in digital or analog as the heart, pumping vital data to the rest of the system. TV tuners. Name brands currently doing this include Toshiba (Qosmio) Providing long-term storage on your PC, the hard drive is the and ASUS (select W series models). workhorse component of virtually every computer. FINDING THE RIGHT RETAILER Questions to ask the retailer Free leather carry bags, bundled software, extended warranty, • Is there a guaranteed turnaround time on service or an option accidental damage cover and the like are often nice value-added to pay to include this? This applies to return to base or courier pick-up features. But if the machine isn’t good value without them, think warranties. again. • If you live in a regional area, does the “free courier pickup” warranty still apply to you? Top 10 questions to ask regarding warranty • Is the warranty International? If so, what countries and locations Even the most reliable machines may experience faults that cannot are included? This is one to keep in mind if you’re a regular traveller. easily be rectified. Repairing a notebook can be extremely expensive • Can you get a courtesy notebook if there are extended repair – unlike equivalent desktop machines, manufacturers are more problems? likely to use non-standard components. Even if this is not the case, • If you’re a business, is there an option to sign a service agreement replacing many parts is too complex for the average user. contract? The majority of manufacturers offer one-year return-to-base • What are the warranty specifics concerning dead display pixels? warranties. Some offer to collect your machine as part of the standard • If the notebook is being shipped to you, is transit damage warranty, most will be willing to extend terms at a price, and a few insurance included? manufacturers offer three years of support. • What is the warranty on the notebook’s battery? It’s also worth noting that it’s common practice for notebook vendors • Are parts and labour included in the warranty? to use professional third-party support contractors, especially where the • Are any third-party support contractors sufficiently stocked with vendor doesn’t have a repair centre in your city or state. parts and sufficiently trained to support your particular notebook model?

NOTEBOOK BUYERS GUIDE AUSTRALIAN PC WORLD | 7 BUYERSGUIDE

The hard drive rapidly records data as magnetic pulses on spinning metal Networking options platters – the more quickly a drive spins, the more quickly you can access Just as you would not expect to buy a desktop that lacked the ability and transfer data. In the mobile market, the overriding concern is power to check e-mail and surf the Internet, the same is true of a mobile conservation. Slower-rotation drives can increase battery life but also reduce computer. performance. Hard disk speed is measured in revolutions per minute (rpm). The more Wired: All new notebooks now include 56Kbps modem (RJ-11) and your work or gaming requires access to the notebook’s hard disk to load or 10/100 Ethernet (RJ-45) connections. Some business-orientated save, the faster the disk you’ll want. The range of hard disk options includes notebooks might even feature Gigabit (10/100/1000) Ethernet. 4200rpm, 5400rpm and 7200rpm. It’s also worth noting that hard disks are usually quite upgradeable with help from vendors. Infrared: Some notebooks still feature an Infrared port, primarily as it’s Storage capacities for new drives grow every year, but the physical size still used in engineering and business practice and consumers can also (2.5in) of drives remains relatively constant. The biggest single notebook do things like connect their mobile phone to their notebook using it. hard disk at the moment is 120GB and the minimum you should opt for is about 30GB. Bluetooth: A notebook with support for this short-range wireless If you are a multimedia user, and therefore most likely will be working with networking standard comes into its own when used with Bluetooth large file sizes, then you will probably want at least 40GB of hard drive space. devices like mobile phones, printers, headsets and PDAs. The other option would be to use alternative (removable) methods of storing data, such as DVD writer. Wi-Fi: Wireless networking is all the rage at the moment with certified Multimedia users who are interested in a desktop notebook may also be public access points becoming more common and home wireless pleased to hear that such machines can sometimes support two hard disks networking kits booming in popularity. in RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configuration which offers Both AMD and Intel machines can include wireless networking and potential performance and data backup benefits. often do – it’s just up to the vendor, although Centrino notebooks have Finally, more recent notebooks (such as second-generation Centrino it built-in as standard. models) also include a Serial ATA (SATA) hard disk interface. This is the If you do choose to get Wi-Fi on your notebook or choose a Centrino connection type that the industry is moving to for newer SATA hard disks that model, just double check which Wi-Fi standards your notebook will are replacing the older IDE (EIDE) kind. support. Ideally, try to get a Wi-Fi module included that supports 802.11a, b and g standards. Removable storage CD/DVD: These days, a CD-burner/DVD-ROM combination drive is pretty- Peripheral connectivity much standard on all new value-orientated (approximately sub $2500) All computers, particularly notebooks, need to be connectable. notebooks. It’s only in rare instances or older machines that you encounter a Some notebooks feature older PS/2 and serial legacy ports, but CD-ROM only notebook. these days many don’t. The reason for this is because most peripherals For this reason and because of the rise in popularity of USB flash drives, (such as keyboards and mice) now connect via USB 2.0 or FireWire. integrated floppy disk drives are becoming more rare, although are still Some notebooks have a single FireWire connection (enabling normally available as internal or external USB options. peripherals like video cameras to connect at approximately 400Mbps) Most mid- to high-end notebooks ($3000 and above) now feature DVD- but nearly every new notebook will have around three USB 2.0 ports, writers that can burn and playback DVDs and CDs. while older notebooks will have approximately two USB 1.1 ports. That said, notebook vendors usually let you customise what type of drive Also known as Hi-Speed USB, USB 2.0 allows data transfer at you would like and this of course, will affect the price. 480Mbps (instead of USB 1.1’s 12Mbps). If you can see yourself only requiring small backups here and there, then Another common task is to connect an external monitor using a you can save money by going for just a CD burner or CD-burner/DVD-ROM notebook’s VGA-out port. combination drive. You could always get an external USB or FireWire drive at PC Cards are a notebook’s equivalent of a desktop computer’s a later date. If you’re notebook has a modular (easily swappable/replaceable) PCI slot – both are used for expanding a machine’s capabilities by drive, you could also order a new compatible drive from your vendor and swap introducing new hardware. PC Cards are shaped just like a card and it in yourself. If your notebook’s drive isn’t swappable it’s what’s known as a have for years been the preferred means of connecting notebooks fixed drive, which means your better off getting the best drive you can afford with add-ons such as sound cards, extra ports and more. However, at the time of purchase. now PC Cards are making way for a smaller, faster, and more desktop- Media card readers: Many notebooks now feature built-in media card readers friendly format called ExpressCard. that are perfect for a variety of uses such as getting images from your camera Members of the PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card into your notebook. Multiple formats are often supported, including Secure International Association) – the trade group responsible for PC Digital (SD), MemoryStick, MultiMediaCard, xD, CompactFlash, Smart Media Card standards – introduced the first ExpressCard modules in and MicroDrive. 2004 in part to meet PC industry demands for smaller PC Cards for today’s shrinking portables. External hard disks: A great way to meet big removable and The notebook transition to ExpressCards has transportable storage needs is to use an external hard disk. already begun: a few notebooks in the $3000- They can connect to your PC via USB, FireWire or even range such as Lenovo’s ThinkPad T43 are be a MicroDrive hard disk or even PC Card hard disk shipping with both CardBus and ExpressCard slots. (such as those made by Toshiba). PCMCIA officials expect that in 2006, 70 per cent of new notebooks will ship with ExpressCard slots – and Other: Jaz, Zip, Rev or tape drives that connect via no CardBus slots. ExpressCard peripherals should begin USB, parallel port or PC Card still remain options. appearing in stores around Christmas 2005.

| Australian PC World nOTEBOOK BUYERS GUIDE  pcworld.idg.com.au

Sound Open license customers can view their electronic purchase history Sound quality continues to be an afterthought for via the Microsoft Web site. This site also maintains a free many notebook vendors with barely minimum software inventory analyser, which can tell you quality sound chips and tinny built speakers what Microsoft products you have loaded on your – but things are slowly improving. PC. For more information on these, check out the Intel’s reference design for its Centrino Microsoft Web site. platform gives notebook manufacturers the choice to include Intel Hi-Definition audio that supports Besides the operating system, PC or notebook buyers DTS, THX and Dolby technologies for up to eight channels at may also receive a range of other software products either 192kHz/32-bit quality. bundled with or pre-installed on their system, including In addition, some notebook vendors are including optical or S/PDIF reference, business or education programs. audio-outputs built-into their machines as standard while others are For more general information on pirated software, the BSAA (Business including underside sub woofers, four speaker configurations, integrated Software Association of Australia) has compiled consumer guides on brand name speakers and more in order to improve sound quality. what to look out for when purchasing PC software. These not only cover If you love the idea of a notebook, but audio quality is important new software, but also look at purchasing new or second-hand software to you professionally or personally, then rest assured that there are online. More information is available on their Web site. also many USB, FireWire and PC Card external sound card options available. Which extras can be included? A few final items are worth considering. If you are going to be using Battery your notebook on the move, ask about extra batteries as well as items If you expect to use your computer on the move, battery life is an such as carrying cases. important consideration. All notebooks now use rechargeable lithium Also, consider whether there will be extras that are bundled cheaply ion (Li-Ion) batteries, which currently offer the best performance of the at the time of buying, such as USB TV tuners, USB flash memory keys, commercial battery technologies in common use. optional upgrades and more. The performance of a Li-Ion battery is judged by its capacity, which If you think you will want to increase the amount of RAM later, then is measured in cells. perhaps it is worth considering upgrading it at the time of purchase, Most notebook vendors will offer a variety of optional battery upgrades saving both time and money. It is common for retailers to offer to (batteries with around 6-12 cells) or even a second battery for when upgrade the amount of RAM at a cheaper price or even for free during travelling (for around $200). promotions. A word of warning: many notebook warranties that may go for one or even three years will still only cover the battery for six months. The market Also, don’t forget that high power processors, plenty of RAM and fast While notebook prices fall and technological advancements narrow the disk drives will devour battery life. If you will frequently be operating performance gap between desktop and mobile PCs, consumers will still your notebook on its battery power, you may want to investigate your pay the price for portability, with notebooks being significantly more processor, notebook and operating system’s various power-saving expensive than a desktop PC – and harder to upgrade. options. Lesser known brands are now accounting for more and more of the notebook market, but HP/Compaq, Toshiba, Dell, Lenovo (formerly Which operating system and software are included? branded IBM), Acer and Australia’s own Optima remain brand names Most notebooks come with either Windows XP Home or Professional that people respect. pre-installed, but a few vendors will also let you opt to have Linux preinstalled. When buying a notebook, you may pick up some real Hewlett-Packard/Compaq 18.40% bargains in bundled software, including utilities, backup software (either Nero or Easy Media Creator), productivity software (such as Toshiba 16.50% Microsoft Works or an office suite) and sometimes multimedia (DVD/ CD) creation software and even games. Dell 14.20%

How can I tell if the software is legal? Acer 13.90% One of the biggest concerns with bundled software is whether you’re getting the genuine article. IBM 12.50% Microsoft has established a licensing section on its Web site dedicated to protecting users from pirated copies of its software products. Apple 5.50% According to the Microsoft site, the best way for you to confirm that ASUS the software you have been given with your PC or notebook is authentic 2.70% Microsoft software, is to first check your end user license agreement LG 2.70% (EULA). If you have purchased your PC from a retail outlet and have been given the software with it, check the Microsoft license pack and NEC 2.30% look for the certificate of authenticity (COA) on the box. Alternatively, if the software has already been installed on the PC, Others 10.20% look for the COA which accompanied the product. For OEM products, the COA is either on a separate page or affixed as a label to the PC Source: IDC PC Tracker Q1 2005 chassis. This guide was last updated in June 2005

nOTEBOOK BUYERS GUIDE Australian PC World | VIEW 3-D CLICK CLICK FOR CLICK TO TOUR FOR MORE FULL RANGE BUY NOW KEY ThinkCentre® ThinkPad® ThinkPad® T43

WIDEN YOUR THINKING OCTOBER CATALOGUE 2005

HOT DOLLAR DEALS. Click here for great deals.

THINKPAD® NOW IN WIDESCREEN. WIDESCREEN NOW IN SILVER. Inside: Check out the ThinkPad R50e notebook Choosing a ThinkPad notebook for your business has always been smart thinking. But now the new ThinkPad for only * is even smarter looking. ThinkPad Z60t has a sleek titanium cover that comes in silver on select models. From $999 inc GST (RRP) just 2kg in weight and 2.8cm thin, it easily goes wherever your work takes you. And the 14” XGA widescreen makes it perfect for working with multiple applications or viewing large spreadsheets. Or perhaps watching the occasional movie? Of course, because it’s a ThinkPad, it still includes all the features you’d expect such Check out the ThinkPad T43 ® ™ as airbag-like technology, built-in security and a fingerprint reader to help keep your data safe and secure. notebook with Intel Centrino It’s smarter, in every sense. Mobile Technology for only * The new ThinkPad Z60t is coming soon. Contact your reseller for details and stock availability. $3,049 inc GST (RRP)

The ThinkPad and ThinkCentre® products featured in this catalogue are readily available, designed and priced to suit your budget.

Click to locate your nearest Business Partner† ThinkPad is a product of Lenovo. VIEW 3-D CLICK CLICK FOR CLICK TO TOUR FOR MORE FULL RANGE BUY NOW K E Y Feature page ThinkPad® ® ThinkPad® T43 THINKCENTRE DESKTOPS

$ * inc GST (RRP) $ *inc GST (RRP) $ *inc GST (RRP) Order codes: 8175KME (Desktop) + Order Codes: 8424KMH (Desktop) + Order Codes: 84243CM (Desktop) + 949 6636AC1 (Monitor) 1,329 6636AC1 (Monitor) 1,589 6636AC1 (Monitor) ThinkCentre® A50 Tower ThinkCentre A51 Small Form Factor ThinkCentre A51 Small Form Factor Stability at an affordable price. Space saving desktop at an affordable price. Space saving desktop with the latest technologies. SYSTEM FEATURES SYSTEM FEATURES SYSTEM FEATURES Intel® Celeron® Processor (2.66GHz, 256KB L2 Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor 519K (3.06GHz, 1MB Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor 630 with HT Technology cache, 533 MHz FSB) L2 Cache, 533MHz FSB) (3.0GHz, 2MB L2 Cache, 800MHz FSB) Windows® XP Professional5 Windows® XP Professional5 Windows® XP Professional5 256MB DDR SDRAM Memory1 512MB DDR 400MHz Memory1 512MB DDR 400MHz Memory1 40GB3 (7200rpm) Hard Drive 80GB3 (7200rpm) Serial ATA Hard Drive 80GB3 (7200rpm) Serial ATA Hard Drive CD-RW Drive (48X/32X/48X max)6 CD-RW Drive (48X/32X/48X max)6 Multiburner Plus drive Integrated Intel® 10/100 Ethernet Integrated BroadCom® Gigabit Ethernet Integrated BroadCom® Gigabit Ethernet Integrated Intel® Extreme Graphics 2 Integrated Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 900 Integrated Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 900 ThinkVision™ L150 15” TFT Flat Panel Monitor ThinkVision L150 15” TFT Flat Panel Monitor ThinkVision L150 15” TFT Flat Panel Monitor 1 year limited warranty8. L150 Monitor includes a 1 year limited warranty8. L150 Monitor includes a 1 year limited warranty8. L150 Monitor includes a 3 year limited warranty 3 year limited warranty 3 year limited warranty

THINKVANTAGE® TECHNOLOGIES THINKVANTAGE TECHNOLOGIES THINKVANTAGE TECHNOLOGIES Rescue and Recovery™ Rescue and Recovery Rescue and Recovery Embedded Security Subsystem Embedded Security Subsystem VIEW ENTIRE THINKCENTRE® RANGE

~ U P G R A D E Y O U R S Y S T E M * HOT DOLLAR DEAL~ * HOT DOLLAR DEAL~ Upgrade this system to Intel® Celeron® Processor $ Double your memory# to 1GB for only $ Double your memory# to 1GB for only 2.8 GHz and double your memory for only $130* $1* extra inc GST (RRP) (additional $1* extra inc GST (RRP) (additional extra inc GST (RRP). 1 1 512MB). 512MB). Total system price $1,079* inc GST (RRP). Order code: 73P2686 Order code: 73P2686 Order Codes for upgraded system: 8175KMD + 6636AC1

Swap your 15” TFT monitor that comes with the ThinkCentre models UPGRADE YOUR MONITOR above to a 17” TFT monitor for only $70* inc GST (RRP). Order code: 6734AC1

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THINKVANTAGE TECHNOLOGIES TO GIVE YOU A BUSINESS ADVANTAGE When you get a ThinkPad notebook or ThinkCentre desktop, you’re getting ThinkVantage Technologies^ ... innovations that leave you wondering, “How RESCUE AND RECOVERY EMBEDDED SECURITY SUBSYSTEM did I get by without this?” And our competition One-button recovery solution helps rescue data from Powerful hardware-software-based encryption technology murmuring, “How did they do that?” system crashes or viruses quickly. provides more secure wired and wireless computing.

Click to locate your nearest Business Partner† ThinkPad and ThinkCentre are products of Lenovo. VIEW 3-D CLICK CLICK FOR CLICK TO TOUR FOR MORE FULL RANGE BUY NOW KEY Feature page ThinkCentre® THINKPAD® NOTEBOOKS ThinkPad® T43

Only while $ * stocks last $ * $ * inc GST (RRP) inc GST (RRP) inc GST (RRP) 999 Order Code: 1834T2M 1,8 49 Order Code: 18586SM 2,04 9 Order Code: 18586MM ThinkPad® R50e ThinkPad R52 ThinkPad R52 Affordable mobile computing. A great all-rounder and great value. A powerful all-rounder and great value. SYSTEM FEATURES SYSTEM FEATURES SYSTEM FEATURES Intel® Celeron® M Processor 360 (1.4GHz, 400MHz Intel® Centrino™ Mobile Technology Intel® Centrino™ Mobile Technology FSB, 1MB L2 Cache) Intel® Pentium® M Processor 725a (1.6GHz, 400MHz Intel® Pentium® M Processor 740 (1.7GHz, 533MHz FSB, 2MB L2 Cache) FSB, 2MB L2 Cache) Windows® XP Home5 Intel® PRO/Wireless 802.11a/b/g LAN Connection Intel® PRO/Wireless 802.11a/b/g LAN Connection 256MB DDR SDRAM1 Windows® XP Professional5 Windows® XP Professional5 40GB3 Hard Drive 512MB DDR2 SDRAM1 512MB DDR2 SDRAM1 14.1” XGA TFT Display (1024 x 768) 40GB3 Hard Drive 60GB3 Hard Drive CD-ROM 15” XGA TFT Display (1024 x 768) 15” XGA TFT Display (1024 x 768) 1 Year Limited Warranty7 CD-RW / DVD-RW Multiburner CD-RW / DVD-RW Multiburner 1 Year Limited Warranty7 1 Year Limited Warranty7

THINKVANTAGE TECHNOLOGIES THINKVANTAGE TECHNOLOGIES THINKVANTAGE TECHNOLOGIES Access Connections Active Protection System Active Protection System Rescue and Recovery Hard Disk Drive Shock Absorber Hard Disk Drive Shock Absorber Embedded Security Subsystem Embedded Security Subsystem Rescue and Recovery Rescue and Recovery VIEW ENTIRE THINKPAD® RANGE

~ ~ UPGRADE YOUR SYSTEM~ * HOT DOLLAR DEAL * HOT DOLLAR DEAL Upgrade your system to include a 15” screen model $ Choose a deluxe $ Choose a deluxe with a CDRW/DVD-ROM Combo for an additional 1 leather carry bag or 1 leather carry bag or $200* inc GST (RRP). a 256MB Memory Key for only a 256MB Memory Key for only Total system price $1,199* inc GST (RRP). $1* extra inc GST (RRP). $1* extra inc GST (RRP). Order Code for upgraded system: 1834RVM Carry bag order code: 73P2822 Carry bag order code: 73P2822 Memory Key order code: 22P9228 Memory Key order code: 22P9228

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MORE THINKVANTAGE TECHNOLOGIES TO GIVE YOU A BUSINESS ADVANTAGE

ACCESS CONNECTIONS ACTIVE PROTECTION SYSTEM INTEGRATED FINGERPRINT READER Switch effortlessly between wired and wireless networks Airbag-like technology and motion detectors help Give hackers and hard-to-remember passwords the flick. at home, in the office or on the road. prevent hard drive damage from jolts and drops.

GIVE HACKERS AND HARD-TO-REMEMBER PASSWORDS THE FLICK.

$ * inc. GST (RRP) Order Code: 3,0 49 18711LM ThinkPad® T43 SYSTEM FEATURES Have security at your fingertips. Intel® Centrino™ Mobile Technology ® ® Literally. Selected ThinkPad Intel Pentium M Processor 740 (1.7GHz, 533MHz FSB, 2MB L2 Cache) notebooks now feature our new Intel® PRO/Wireless 802.11b/g LAN Connection biometric fingerprint reader, Windows® XP Professional5 helping to make access to your 512MB DDR2 SDRAM1 work easier for you but mission 40GB3 Hard Drive impossible for thieves. This 14.1” XGA TFT Display (1024 x 768) combined with our embedded CD-RW / DVD-RW Multiburner security subsystem gives you Integrated Bluetooth the most secure wireless PC 3 Year System / 1 Year Battery Warranty7 available. A touch more desktop protection too. Now you can THINKVANTAGE® TECHNOLOGIES choose a keyboard with built-in Integrated Fingerprint Reader Active Protection System fingerprint reader, or a separate Hard Disk Drive Shock Absorber USB fingerprint reader to give you Embedded Security Subsystem more desktop security. Rescue and Recovery ~ * HOT DOLLAR DEAL $ Get a ThinkPad Port Replicator II for 1 only $1 extra inc GST (RRP). Order Code: 74P6733 Click for amazing ThinkPad® survival stories.

Click to locate your nearest Business Partner† ThinkPad is a product of Lenovo.

Availability: All offers are subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings and specifications at any time, without notice. Lenovo is not responsible for any typographic or photographic errors. Pricing: *Prices include GST and are available directly from Lenovo during the promotion. Business Partner and reseller prices and offers may vary. Prices are accurate at the time of printing and subject to change at any time. Prices do not include Options unless specified, do not include delivery and are only available until 31/10/05 or while stocks last. †Business Partner is used informally and does not imply a legal partnership. Offers: ~Hot dollar deals and system upgrade offers only available with the purchase of the ThinkCentre and ThinkPad models featured above each specific offer. ^on select models only. # Additional memory shipped separately to system. Customer installation is required. Specifications: 1. For systems without a separate video card, memory supports both system and video. System memory used for video may be up to 128MB, depending on video mode. 3. GB=1,000,000,000 bytes when referring to storage capacity. Accessible capacity is less. Up to 4GB is used in service partition. 5. Delivered with Microsoft Windows XP and a Recovery Partition on the hard disk drive. Recovery CDs are not provided. Some software may vary from its retail version (if any) and may not include user manuals or all program functionality. Software licenses may apply. 6. CD and DVD drive rates are variable and often less than the maximum possible. Warranty: 7. Lenovo will provide full repair with pick-up and return of ThinkPad via courier anywhere in Australia for no additional charge. Excludes software. 8. On-site service is available only for the replacement of select parts. For all other warranty repairs, Lenovo will provide the customer a replacement part for customer installation. The parts for which on-site service is available varies by model, but may include the processor, power supply, heat sink, system board, or base cover. Response times may vary. May exclude some holidays. For on-site labour, Lenovo will attempt to diagnose and resolve the problem remotely before sending a technician. Support unrelated to a warranty issue may be subject to additional charges. Telephone support may be subject to additional charges. Trademarks: The following are trademarks of Lenovo: ThinkPad, the ThinkPad logo, ThinkCentre, the ThinkCentre logo, Rescue and Recovery, Active Protection System, ThinkVision, ThinkVantage. Intel, the Intel logo, Intel Inside, the Intel Inside logo, Intel Centrino, the Intel Centrino logo, Pentium and Celeron are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States, other countries or both. Other company, product and services names may be trademarks or services marks of others. © Lenovo 2005. All rights reserved. LEN0018