Amazon.com Product Description

Ideal for CPU intensive programs, the Toshibe Satellite A75-S211 features a hyper-threaded Intel Pentium 538 processor, which offers a blazing fast 3.20 GHz clock speed. You also get Toshiba's DVD Super-Multi drive, which offers compatibility for both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats. It features a 15.4-inch TruBrite screen, offering high brightness, high contrast, wide viewing angle. It also is loaded with hyper-threaded Intel Pentium 4 532 processor, 512 MB of installed RAM, 80 GB hard drive, and integrated 54g wireless LAN. It's perfect for digital media enthusiasts, young adults, and families.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The spacious 80 GB hard drive (4200 RPM) offers more than enough storage for both your work and home files as well as a multimedia library.
• Processor: The Intel Pentium 4 538 processor features a fast 3.20 GHz speed. It also offers Hyper-Threading technology, which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system. This results in more efficient software performance (such as faster reaction times in gaming applications) and enhanced multitasking. It is well suited for professional-quality image, audio, and video editing. It also has A 1 MB L2 cache and an 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB).
• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (1 DIMM, PC-2700 DDR333) is a good start for power users. It can be expanded to a toal of 1.5 GB.
• CD/DVD Drive: The DVD Super-Multi drive is compatible with both DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW discs (as well as DVD-ROM and DVD-RAM). It offers a 4x DVD read speed, and writes at 2.4x for DVD+R/RW and 2x for DVD-R/RW. You can also burn CDs at 16x and read them at 24x.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a standard 85-key keyboard and electro-static two-button touchpad.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The A75-S211 offers a basic set of expansion and connectivity options, including a PCMCIA slot for one Type II PC card and the following:

• 3 USB 1.1 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 1 RGB monitor port
• 1 TV-out (S-Video)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

Preloaded System and Software
The A75-S211 comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also includes Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Other preloaded software includes Norton Antivirus 2004 (with 90 days of complimentary live updates), Quicken New User Edition, Napster online digital service (30-day trial), Adobe Acrobat Reader, InterVideo WinDVD (for playing DVD movies), ArcSoft ShowBiz DVD, and Sonic Solutions RecordNow Basic.

Dimensions and Weight
At 8 pounds, the A75-S211 is on par in weight with other notebooks in its class. It measures 1.8 x 14.4 x 10.8 inches (H x W x D), which is a little wider than other notebooks in its class.

Power
The included 12-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery has an approximate 2-hour battery life (during normal use). It also comes with a 120W AC adapter.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Toshiba A75-S211 notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It's backed by a 1-year warranty for parts and labor. ... Read more

Product Description

Toshiba Satellite P35-S611 Notebook PC The Gamer's PC The Satellite P35 is the ultimate gaming machine, loaded with the latest in everything, including a 17" WXGA display w/TruBrite for the best in graphics. The 16:9 aspect ratio make it perfect for viewing wide-screen format movies!The Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor supports Hyper-Threading Technology, improving the performance of many applications. The 17" diagonal wide-screen display is intensified with TruBrite technology, producing images so sharp they are mesmerizing from across the room. Harman Kardon® speakers and SRS TruSurround XT technology create a rich, more immersive audio experience. And the sleek, ultra-cool chassis contains a massive 100GB hard drive that has plenty of room for your applications and files. With razor-sharp images, robust sound and intense power it all adds up to the ultimate gaming machine.The ATI MOBILITY RADEON 9000 IGP lets you optimize for application by adjusting the main memory used for graphics (64MB to 128MB). The 100GB HDD (4,200rpm) is a virtual library of storage! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Toshiba P35-6011 automatic Shutdown
I agree with William McMullin's review. Within the FIRST WEEK this computer began shutting down for NO reason. The battery and plug were fine. It was not the heat. The laptop was off ALL day and we turned it on and it immediately turned off. Interestingly it would only work when we switched the plug from one outlet to another.It would not work if it was not plugged in. As if switching the outlet was a reset. Not sure why this should matter. I am not sure if it is an adapter thing.

Very frustrating. If the problem is resolved I will pull write another review and let buyers on amazon know.

Power Problem
I bought 2 Toshiba laptops the last couple of months.The P35-S611 will just shut down periodically for no reason when plugged in to an A/C outlet with battery intact.It will reboot for a few seconds and then shut down again.

The other Toshiba, the Tecra A4, freezes up everytime you switch it from battery to power cord.Toshiba gave me a refund on this one.I'm still fighting for a refund on the P35.

Dont be fooled again from amazon geeks
I love this laptop!! I listened to other reviews regarding a Averatech tablet. I am stuck with that piece of junk!!I was dumb enough to read posts regarding how awesome that trash Averatech was..I use my laptop for work every day and night. I LOVE THIS TOSHIBA P35S611 LAPTOP! Yes its heavy but when you start using it the weight will overcome all of the other factors.If you have ever felt like you can trust someones post please take my advice ....Dont listen to the geek idiots who have nothing better to do than place posts regarding the items that mom and dad bought them. I am surprising myself that I am writing this now to tell other hard working over 40 people that really need a great laptop to buy this one. Try one at a local store you will see what I am talking about.... I use the blue tooth card along with my Treo 650 and my hp 450 cbi potable printer 10-15 hours a day..Good luck, dont get burned from any other child game playing idiots out there :)

What's next?
With in the first 3 weeks of owning my Toshiba, the performance was reduced to waiting 15 to 20 seconds for any program to open. With a gig of ram, it should have been zipping along. Durring the next week, the backlight on the LCD went out and had to be used via a external monitor. I was informed that it should take 5 to 10 business days for turn around. As it turned out, I was waiting 35 days for it to be returned. Upon recieving the computer from repair, the sound did not work. After installing the sound drivers with the help of the tech support, it was determined that it had to be shipped back for another repair. I was informed that Toshiba DOES NOT have a replacement or refund policy. I bought what I thought was a reliable computer. Not something that had to be sent back for repaires constantly.
I love the looks and layout of this unit but the performance leaves a lot to be desired.

Another falling satellite from Toshiba
Anyone considering a purchase of a Toshiba Satellite series computer such as this one should run a search on the terms Toshiba satellite overheating. My experience has been that Toshiba does not stand by its products, cannot repair the chronic problems with this series and will not extend warranties to help out customers unaware of these issues. Customer service is out of the Nixon White House. The satellite series computers work well when they work. But Toshiba should be in the lemon-aide biz, not the computer biz. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Ideal for CPU intensive programs, the Toshibe Satellite A75-S231 features a hyper-threaded Intel Pentium 538 processor, which offers a blazing fast 3.33 GHz clock speed. You also get Toshiba's DVD Super-Multi drive, which offers compatibility for both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats. It features a 15.4-inch TruBrite screen, offering high brightness, high contrast, wide viewing angle. It also is loaded with hyper-threaded Intel Pentium 4 532 processor, 512 MB of installed RAM, 100 GB hard drive, and integrated 54g wireless LAN. It's perfect for digital media enthusiasts, young adults, and families.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The spacious 100 GB hard drive (4200 RPM) offers more than enough storage for both your work and home files as well as a multimedia library.
• Processor: The Intel Pentium 4 538 processor features a fast 3.33 GHz speed. It also offers Hyper-Threading technology, which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system. This results in more efficient software performance (such as faster reaction times in gaming applications) and enhanced multitasking. It is well suited for professional-quality image, audio, and video editing. It also has A 1 MB L2 cache and an 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB).
• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (1 DIMM, PC-2700 DDR333) is a good start for power users. It can be expanded to a toal of 1.5 GB.
• CD/DVD Drive: The DVD Super-Multi drive is compatible with both DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW discs (as well as DVD-ROM and DVD-RAM). It offers a 4x DVD read speed, and writes at 2.4x for DVD+R/RW and 2x for DVD-R/RW. You can also burn CDs at 16x and read them at 24x.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a standard 85-key keyboard and electro-static two-button touchpad.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The A75-S231 offers a healthy selection of expansion and connectivity options, including a PCMCIA slot for one Type II PC card and the following:

• 3 USB 1.1 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 Firewire (IEEE 1394) for connecting digital camcorders and external hard drives
• 1 Bridge Media Adaptor
• 1 Infrared Port
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 1 RGB monitor port
• 1 TV-out (S-Video)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

Preloaded System and Software
The A75-S231 comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also includes Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Other preloaded software includes Norton Antivirus 2004 (with 90 days of complimentary live updates), Quicken New User Edition, Napster online digital service (30-day trial), Adobe Acrobat Reader, InterVideo WinDVD (for playing DVD movies), ArcSoft ShowBiz DVD, and Sonic Solutions RecordNow Basic.

Dimensions and Weight
At 8 pounds, the A75-S231 is on par in weight with other notebooks in its class. It measures 1.8 x 14.4 x 10.8 inches (H x W x D), which is a little wider than other notebooks in its class.

Power
The included 12-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery has an approximate 2-hour battery life (during normal use). It also comes with a 120W AC adapter.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Toshiba A75-S231 notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It's backed by a 1-year warranty for parts and labor. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Stylish and utterly professional, the Sony Vaio PCG-V505EX is a lightweight notebook PC--only 4.39 pounds--that's geared for business and mobility. Thanks to the Intel Centrino processor, its enhanced battery life will keep you productive even on long flights. It features a built-in wireless LAN (802.11b), a CD-RW/DVD-ROM combo drive, spacious 60 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a good range of pre-installed Sony digital media software. Stepping up in price, the Sony Vaio PCG-V505EXP offers a 54g wireless LAN.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: Though not world-beating in size, the 60 GB enhanced-IDE hard drive (4200 RPM) offers more than enough storage capacity for road warriors.
• Processor: The 1.5 GHz Pentium M processor is near the top of the speed range compared with other Centrino notebooks (with current speed topping out at 1.7 GHz). Because of itsdesign, the Intel Pentium M gets more done per clock tick than a Mobile Intel Pentium 4, thus providing the discrepancy in GHz measurement (i.e., 1.7 versus 3.2). The Pentium M processor is designed specifically for low-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies--ensuring you push your battery and productivity to the max. It also has a 512 KB L2 cache and a 400 MHz front-side bus (FSB) speed.
• Memory: The PCG-V505EX comes with a 512 MB built-in memory (DDR SDRAM, 333 MHz)--a good start for power users--with a maximum memory expansion up to 2.05 GB (2 x 1024 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes equipped with a combo DVD/CD-RW drive, which enables you to play DVD-ROM discs and DVD movies as well as burn data and record music to CD discs. The CD-RW drive has 24x write, 10x rewrite, and 24x read speeds.
• Keyboard & Mouse:

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The PCG-V505EX has an Intel Pro-Wireless 2100 integrated wireless LAN that connects using the 802.11b wireless standard, which is not exactly in step with the latest in wireless networking--54g, or 802.11g. You get a decent--but not overpowering--offering of connectivity options, including both high-speed USB 2.0 and FireWire:

• 2 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) ports for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 RGB monitor port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 Memory Stick slot (Memory Stick Pro compatible)

Preloaded System and Software
The PCG-V505EX comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). It also is loaded with a bevy of Sony multimedia software: PictureGear Studio (digital photo), DVgate Plus (digital video), and SonicStage (digital music). Other preloaded software includes InterVideo WinDVD and Norton Internet Security Center 7.

Dimensions and Weight
Measuring 1.38 x 10.9 x 9.54 inches (H x W x D) and weighing just 4.39 pounds, the PCG-V505EX is easily portable.

Power
The included rechargeable lithium-ion battery (PCGA-BP2V) offers between 2.5 and 6.5 hours of life with typical usage.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCG-V505EX notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

NOT RUGGED ENOUGH TO BE PORTABLE!
I've had two of the V505 series, this one being the latest. The first one suffered from touchpad problems (clicking at random) and had to be sent out for repairs for a month right after i got it. After two months of use I noticed the case was so poorly reinforced that ripples would go across the screen if you slightly touched the back. After a few more months of carrying it around in a case purchased especially for it, it had major pixel damage. Sony's telephone representatives insisted that carrying it in a laptop case was excessive or abusive use and refused to replace it for several months. They finally replaced it with this model, and now the touchpad is starting to malfunction again.

Aside from the touchpad not working and the wireless card not working on some LEAP enabled networks, this model works well enough and it would make an OK desktop replacement for someone who works from home and never moves their laptop more than a few inches. If you're looking for something you can haul around with you though, look for something that's built better.

Avoid Sony
Just got this Notebook for 3 days. It has problems maintaining it's wireless connection. I tried it on 2 different wireless access points (Netgear and SkyHawk) and Vaio drops the connection every 5 mins. I'm literally 4 feet from my access point, and it still drops. All my other wireless connection works fine and the Dell Notebook works fine. I called Vaio Support and they're useless. They first said that my warranty expired??? and then proceed to say that I purchased it from an unauthorized seller (Amazon). After I resolved that issue, they start to blame the wireless access point. That's a total BS, because my other wireless devices would be affected if it was the access point. Also, I used the Vaio on 2 access points! How can that happen to 2 different access points???

Aside from being small, light weight, excellent battery life, and slick design; this one sucks without the support. I will be returning mine back to Amazon and stick with Dell. They offer better support and quality. I strongly recommend another small notebook and avoid Sony!!!

Great machine, case scuffs annoying
I love this machine. The one kvetch I have is that the beautiful casing scuffed very easily, and I can't seem to remove the scuffs. Other than that--it's extremely fast, very light, keyboard size and play are great, I have no complaints.

GREAT STABLE MACHINE! SUPERB GRAPHICS/MULTIMEDIA NOTEBOOK
I HAD THIS FOR ABOUT 2 MONTHS NOW. I AM IMPRESS WITH THE ATI RADEON GRAPHICS CARD AS IT PLAYS VARIOUS 3D GAMES. SO FAR I LOADED NEED 4 SPEED UNDERGROUND, AND FREEDOM FIGHTERS, AND IT PLAYS GREAT. BE FOREWARN; RUNNING A GAME ON CD REQUIRES LOTS OF POWER SO DONT EXPECT THE SAME PERFORMANCE ON BATTERIES.

I HAD PROBLEMS WITH ERROR MESSAGES POPPING UP REGARDING THE SONY MEDIA SERVER. TECH SUPPORT HELP CORRECT THOSE PROBLEMS

OVERALL, ITS A GREAT CENTRINO MULTIMEDIA/BUSINESS LAPTOP, ALL PROGRAMS WORK FAST AND THE SYSTEM SEEMS VERY STABLE.

SO AFTER TWO MONTHS.. NOTHINS CRASHED YET!!! GREAT LIL MACHINE.. ENOUGH KEYBOARD SPACE.. AND VERY FAST! ONLY NEGATIVE... IS THE 2 X 256MB MEMORY THAT IT COMES WITH INSTEAD OF JUST 1 512MB! THOSE SONY EXECS ALWAYS TRYING TO MAKE MONEY FROM US! ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

Sony VAIO VGN-A150 Notebook unites desktop PC power and functionality with performance rivaling any desktop. The Centrino Mobile technology runs cool and quiet, while helping to keep the profile light and slim with enhanced battery performance. The VGN-A150 features fast 802.11g wireless connectivity, a large 80 GB hard drive, 1.5 GHz Pentium M processor, 512 MB of installed RAM, a DVD+/-RW drive, 15.4-inch screen, and a bevy of Sony multimedia software.

Sony Series A Display Sizes The VGN-A190 features a 17" screen.

The Basics Hard Drive: The spacious 80 GB hard drive offers more than enough storage for both your work and home files as well as a multimedia library. Processor: The 1.5 GHz Pentium M processor is near the top of the Centrino speed range. Because of its design, the Intel Pentium M gets more done per clock tick than a Mobile Intel Pentium 4, thus providing the discrepancy in GHz measurement (i.e., 1.7 versus 3.2). The Pentium M processor is designed specifically for low-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies--ensuring you push your battery and productivity to the max. It also has an L2 cache of 1 MB and a front-side bus (FSB) speed of 400 MHz. Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB). CD/DVD Drive: It is equipped with a combo DVD+/-RW and CD-RW drive. For DVD+R discs, it has a 2.4x write and 4x read speeds. For DVD-R discs, it has a 4x read/write speed. For CDs, it has a 16x write/8x rewrite/24x read speed. Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has an 86-key keyboard and electro-static touch pad.

Along with VGN-A150, the VGN-A160 also features a 15.4" screen.

Sound and Graphics
With the 64 MB ATI Mobility Radeon 9200 graphics card, the A190 delivers a dazzling visual experience optimized to support the most compelling next-generation 3D gaming environments of today and tomorrow. Sony's exclusive XBRITE LCD technology delivers ultra crisp and super bright graphics, and the Smart Display Sensor automatically adjusts to any projector or display resolution. It also has an AC'97 sound card that's integrated into the main board, and comes with two built-in stereo speakers.

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

Preloaded System and Software
This A150 comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works 7.0 (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), VAIO Media (network file sharing), and Click to DVD (for burning DVD discs). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), InterVideo WinDVD, and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Dimensions and Weight
Measuring 14.7 x 1.5-1.7 x 10.9 inches and weighing 7.3 pounds (without battery), the A150 is best served as a desktop replacement.

Power
The A150 comes with the PCGA-BP2EA rechargeable lithium ion battery; it has an estimated battery life of 1.5 to 3.5 hours.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio VGN-A150 notebook, rechargeable battery, AC adapter, and printed instruction manual. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
Striking a smart balance between today's most desirable notebook attributes--versatility, size, price, and battery life--the Sony VAIO VGN-A250 notebook PC is a sophisticated solution for computer users on the go. Like Sony's state-of-the-art VAIO VGN-A290 but with slightly downgraded power, a smaller display, and a more appealing price tag, the VAIO VGN-A250 is so compact and battery-efficient that you can take it virtually anywhere, yet it features top-end amenities such as double-layer DVD burning, smooth 3-D graphics, and a spacious 80 GB hard drive. If you generally work in an unplugged environment but need more resources and features than you'll find in most ultralightweight notebooks, the VAIO VGN-A250 may well be in your future.

Sony Series A Display Sizes The VGN-A290 features a 17-inch screen.

Processor At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collectionof miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entireunit. Some of today's notebooks are equipped with high-end CPUs on parwith those found in top-of-the-line desktop PCs, while others are quickenough only for basic duties such as word processing, e-mail, and the like.The VAIO VGN-A250 is equipped with an Intel Pentium M 725 processor operatingat 1.6 GHz. This is one of three components that comprise Intel's efficientCentrino system (the others being a specialized Intel chipset and integratedwireless support). Centrino-equipped notebooks are generally smaller,easier on the batteries, and more versatile than their non-Centrino counterparts.This particular CPU is part of Intel's upgraded Pentium M lineup, featuringan amazing 2 MB of Level 2 cache for extremely fast access to recentlyopened data and a fast 400 MHz front side bus to help reduce data-streamingbottlenecks. Though its raw clock speed is not on par with that of a high-endIntel Pentium or AMD Athlon, this CPU will easily handle most every mobiletask while at the same time improving battery life. Moreover, Sony hasequipped the system with solid graphics support and adequate memory--two components vital to overall performance. Memory Computers typically store information on their hard drives, but they keepfrequently and recently accessed data in random access memory (RAM) forfaster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking,and less strain on your hard drive. The VAIO VGN-A250 incorporates 512MB of RAM. This is considered a standard allotment for high-end notebooks,delivering solid multitasking and few slowdowns during ultracomplex tasks.

The VGN-A250 features a 15.4-inch screen.

Video
CPUs are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translatingvisual output to the screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (orgraphics controller). This system's graphics controller is an ATI Mobility Radeon9200 with 64 MB of dedicated video RAM. Dedicated video memory is far preferableto shared video memory (where the graphics controller appropriates a portionof the main system memory), and this 64 MB allotment is considered plenty for3-D graphics, midlevel 3-D animation packages, and even some of the latest 3-D games.

Display The VAIO VGN-A250's 15.4-inch WXGA display may be smaller than the 17-inchmonsters found in today's top-of-the-line notebook displays, yet it'slarger than that of most notebooks and even some desktops. Furthermore,its widescreen format is perfectly tailored to the aspect ratio favoredby DVD movies. It's highly sophisticated, too, sporting Sony's new XBRITEtechnology for better contrast and a brighter picture, and a crisp 1,280x 800 maximum resolution. Hard Disk At a spacious 80 GB, the enclosed hard drive is a welcome perk for thosewho need to operate a broad range of applications and also keep a largelibrary of space-gobbling music or multimedia files. Audio The unit is equipped with integrated stereo speakers and an audio amplifier.	  Dimensions When Closed Other Series A Computers
	SonyVAIO VGN-A290 1.70 GHz Pentium M 1 GB RAM 100 GB HD	Sony VAIO VGN-A250 1.6 GHz Pentium M 512 MB RAM 80 GB HD

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today's computing environment. A CD-ROM driveallows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A CD-RW driveadds CD burning, so you can also back up your important files to long-lastingdiscs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can watchDVD movies. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can write home movies to durablediscs and archive files to DVDs, which boast more than seven times the storagecapacity of CDs. Some drives allow you to do a combination of all of thesetasks. This system features a DVD+R Double Layer/DVD±RW Drive, with whichyou can do all of the above. The drive also supports today's hot new double-layer DVD format that effectively doubles the capacity of typical DVDs.

Keyboard and Controls
You'll control your notebook via an 82-key keyboard and a standard electrostatictouchpad.

Connectivity and Expansion
The VAIO VGN-A250 features a bevy of connectivity facilities, including a 56Kmodem for low-speed dialup Internet and e-mail access, a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TXEthernet port for high-speed wired networking and Internet, and an integrated IntelPRO/Wireless 2200BG network connection (802.11b/g) for cord-free e-communicationat home, at the office, or on the road at a public hotspot. Other keyamenities include high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug-and-play devices such asexternal drives and digital cameras, an IEEE 1394 FireWire port (commonly usedfor quick data uploads from digital camcorders), and the usual impressive Sonyroster of audio and video ins and outs.

Operating System and Software
Sony will install Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition operating system, a varietyof productivity and business applications, and a broad range of digital photo,audio, and video utilities.

Dimensions and Weight
Many of today's most powerful notebooks are also the largest, weighing ten ortwelve pounds or more and therefore too big and cumbersome for extensive, continuoustraveling. These are often referred to as "desktop replacements".On the other extreme are "thin and lights" or "ultraportables",super-miniaturized units that are typically less powerful than their largerbrethren but weigh as little as two pounds and often fit comfortably insidea large purse. The VAIO VGN-A250 is just below today's median at 7.3 pounds and14.7 by 10.9 by 1.7 inches. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Offering a head-turning design and eyebrow-raising features, the ultra-light,tiny Sony VAIO PCG-TR3A notebook PC offers long battery life (thanks to theIntel Centrino processor), a Sony XBRITE screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio (greatfor watching DVDs), and an built-in digital camera. It also features a 54g wirelessLAN, combo CD-RW/DVD drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a weight of just overthree pounds. The integrated swivel camera at the top of the screen enablesyou to capture 640 x 480 still images and live video (motion JPEG) that canbe saved directly to your hard drive.

The PCG-TR3A has an Intel Pro-Wireless 2100BG integrated wireless LAN thatconnects using the 802.11g wireless standard

The Basics Hard Drive: The 40 GB (4200 RPM) hard drive offers plentyof space for most users, though this size is beginning to feel smallcompared with other notebooks. It also has a 1024 KB L2 cache and a400 MHz bus speed. Processor: While at the low end of current Centrino notebooks,the PCG-TR3A's 1 GHz Pentium M processor is definitely fast enough foreveryday tasks and basic multimedia (it's comparable to a 1.5 GHz MobileIntel Pentium 4). The Pentium M processor is designed specifically forlow-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies--ensuringyou push your battery and productivity to the max. Memory: The PCG-TR3A comes with a 512 MB built-in memory(DDR SDRAM, 333 MHz)--a good start for power users--with a maximum memoryexpansion up to 2.05 GB (2 x 1024 MB). CD/DVD Drive: You can easily and quickly burn music and videoto CD with the combo CD-RW/DVD drive (24x write/10x rewrite/24x read). Keyboard & Mouse: The PCG-TR3A has an 83-key keyboardand electro-static touchpad.

The PCG-TR3A offers many essential connectivity optionsfor its small size

Connectivity and Expansion Slots The PCG-TR3A has an Intel Pro-Wireless 2100BG integrated wireless LAN thatconnects using the 802.11g wireless standard. You get a smaller offeringof connectivity options (due to the notebook's size): 2 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digitalcameras to MP3 players 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) ports for connectingdigital video camcorders and other peripherals 1 RGB monitor port 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II) 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.92), and an RJ-45 LAN networkport (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems).

Preloaded System and Software The PCG-TR3A comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system,and it also features Microsoft Works (for working with word processingand spreadsheet documents). It also is loaded with a bevy of Sony multimediasoftware: PictureGear Studio and Network Smart Capture (digital photo),DVgate Plus (digital video), and SonicStage (digital music). Other preloadedsoftware includes Intervideo WinDVD and Norton Internet Security Center7. Dimensions and Weight At 10.6 x 7.4 x 1.4 inches (L x W x H), this is a seriously small notebook.And it weighs just a mere 3.11 pounds with the battery.

Power
The included rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers between 3 and 5.5 hoursof life with typical usage. An optional larger-capacity battery will providedouble that (between 6 and 11 hours of battery life).

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCG-TR3A notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ionbattery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

A perfect mini
I've had a few Sony minicomputers - an early 505g, an SR-7, and now this TR3a. Each revision of the mini keeps getting better for me: The keyboard fits my hands well, and the screen, while small, is brilliant and sharp (and at 768x1280, it is ALMOST equivalent to my Powerbook 17"!)

It's fast, the battery life is very good (you really can get 5+ hours - I don't have to plug it in at work, putting it to sleep at lunch and meetings. The Wireless G has very good range too, much better than my previous two Powerbooks...

Also, it looks FANTASTIC, and I've got nothing but awed looks at work - everyone wants to try it. And it's remarkably light.

My only complaints: The touchpad is dinky - you really need an external mouse for serious visio action - and it's just a LITTLE thicker than I wish...

In the end - if size and coolness are primary drivers for you (as they are for me), this is a no-brainer. But if performance is what you need, the Z1 series might be better. But the screen on the TR is much sharper than the Z1.

Highly Recommended by this geek.

Best Mobile Gadget Ever!
Well, i'll make it simple and easy. I bought the Sony Tr3 from Bahrain (PCG-TR3). It is so handy when it comes to mobility.

Pros:

Long life battery lasted me 2 days with more than average use
with wireless turned on

Nice keyboard that makes no sound .. only problem is the right shift key which is no big deal

This Camera is so handy when it comes to taking pictures on the move of friends and to make online conference

Wireless is so handy when you are in a hot spot ...

The laptop is so lite weighted u can't even feel u are carrying anything!

Looks so trendy and all you get is amazed faces

I use it for university studies, designing my sites, (www.bahrainmobiles.com / www.ucbforums.lunarpages.com) and i also use it for presentations and to get together with my friends studying abroad

cons

can't think of any

the only thing there are so many batter options which keeps u amazed and confused on which to choose

I recommend this laptop to anyone who appreciates the taste of technology and elegance at the same time

Trust me this is the ONE .. the only thing that may stand in your way is the over price .. but it is worth every penny/cent/fils .. just name it

Have a good day all

Battery didn't last that long as claimed
Like everyone else. I read the reviews, user's comments, checkout the stats, etc. about this laptop. Then finally put out the big $$$ to get it. There are alot of things to like about this computer like other owners have described. My only complain is about the battery. Sony's site and most folks in this column said that they can get 6 hours with a fully charge with the battery that comes with this laptop. But I only get about 3 - 3.5 hours max including using the "Maximum Battery Life" profile. I have put up some more $$$ to get the larger battery, still what I got is about 7 hrs or less. So where is the 8+ hours that other people have said ? I have been looking up and down in Sony's technical support site and Goolge but find nothing said if this long lasting battery claim is true. Does anyone have an actually experience with this battery claim ?

beware of small screen
OK, I read all the reviews here and I checked out my friend's Vaio, so I thought I was prepared for the small size of this notebook. And I love how small and portable and lightweight it is, but after typing for only 2 hours, my eyes were burning, I had to sit really close and squint at the screen to see my words being typed. It's very difficult to read anything in Word in 12pt. And when I tried typing in 14pt, the print was almost blurry. I don't know yet if it's just my model or the SONY, but it's harder to see than my other laptop, an Acer TM 800, which I love, but is just so heavy.
All the good things people say about this laptop are true, but you need to be aware just how small everything on the screen appears. It's easier to read my palm than it is this vaio.

VERY portable notebook, solid feature set
For work, I've primarily used ultrathin notebooks: the Sony R505 for a year and then the Toshiba R100 over the last 12 months. Here's what I look for:

> long battery life (for plane flights)
> minimal sacrifice of processing power, HD space, keyboard, other features
> painless wifi and ethernet access
> other cool, smart things I can showoff

This VAIO is great on a number of fronts:

1. INCLUDED battery is solid: 6 hrs for docs, powerpoint, etc, 3 hrs for a DVDs. Meets all my needs for coast-to-coast flights. Light as a book.

2. It works great as my primary computer. I do hook up to a full keyboard/monitor at the office, but I don't feel compromised on speed or functionality.

3. On the road, the is very usable. You might want to try it out, but I don't have an issue. The monitor is extremely clear and bright. They've included a ZOOM feature on the unit to make it easy to enlarge the screen image. Thoughtful, and it works very well.

4. WIFI switch works perfect. Have connected in coffeeshops, airports and the like. No issues. The Ethernet and dial-up jacks are well-postioned.

5. Monitor jack is on the side so it doesn't interfer with the screen being open. 2 USBs are on opposite sides for good reason. Generally, well laid out.

6. When you're working on your traytable on a plane, and the person in front of you leans back, your poor display doesn't get crushed because it's short enough not be compacted.

7. Other items: The camera is fun and useful if you use IM video. Well positioned for informal chatting. It includes DVD viewing software (which my other computer with a DVD drive didn't). My long-term experience with Sony laptops has been that they are very good, durable computers. I researched this unit and compared to other Toshiba, Dell and ThinkPad before the purchase, and after a month feel even more confident about the decision.

Some Cons

> Additional battery is overpriced. As usual, Sony makes the upcharge for another battery or larger capacity battery abusely expensive. Such a turnoff. Thankfully, you really don't need one with this model.

> The Screen IS smaller. Hey, you should know this going into it. Fine for word docs, email, ppts, some spreadsheet work, and DVDs (16x9 format), but if you do a lot of graphics work, it's going to feel tight. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

Sleekly styled and comfortably ergonomic, Sony's K Series notebooks offer affordable, all-purpose portability for home computing, home office needs, and students. The PCG-K33P balances your productivity and entertainment needs, with an integrated 54G wireless LAN to keep you connected inside and outside your home and a suite of preloaded Sony multimedia applications for managing your digital audio and photo collections. Other features include a 15.4-inch screen, 80 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a Memory Stick slot.

The PCG-K35 features a 15.4-inch WXGA widescreen display that is perfectly tailored to the aspect ratio favored by DVD movies.

The Basics Hard Drive: The 60 GB hard drive is becoming the average size for notebook PCs, and it's a good size for storing a decent sized digital audio library as well as an office productivity suite. Processor: The 3.06 GHz Mobile Intel Pentium 4 is a powerful processor that was designed to be used with notebooks used as a desktop replacement PC. It includes Intel's Enhanced SpeedStep technology, which helps cut the power used by the chip and conserves battery power. It has a front-side bus (FSB) of 533 MHz and a 1 MB L2 cache. Memory:The 512 MB of installed RAM (2 x 256 MB, PC2100, 266 MHz DDR SDRAM) has become standard with notebooks, and it's a good start. But you'll want to take advantage of the 1 GB expandability to get the most out of this computer. CD/DVD Drive:The combo CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive can write and read and rewrite CDs at 24x speeds. It can read DVDs at 8x. Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a standard 86-key keyboard with electrostatic touchpad.

Sound and Graphics The included ATI Radeon IGP 345M video/graphics card provides competent, but not overpowering, 3D graphics. It features 64 MB of shared video memory. This is taken from the main system memory, so you'll want to increase your RAM from the installed 512 MB if you plan on doing much gaming or video work. The enhanced widescreen format function (1280 x 800 pixels) lets you watch DVDs in full cinema mode as well as easily view spreadsheets and Web browsers side-by-side. It also offers an integrated audio card, built-in speakers, A/V connection out, and the ability to drive an external monitor.	 
	Sony VAIO PCG-K37 3.20 GHz Pentium 4 1 GB RAM 80 GB HD	Sony VAIO PCG-K35 3.067 GHz Pentium 4 512 MB RAM 80 GB HD	Sony VAIO PCG-K33 3.20 GHz Pentium 4 512 MB RAM 60 GB HD

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
This PCG-K33P model has an integrated 802.11g wireless LAN (which is compatible with the more widespread 802.11b and offers faster data transmission rates). You get a standard offering of connectivity options, including both high-speed USB 2.0 and FireWire:

• 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 Memory Stick slot (Memory Stick Pro compatible)

It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems). It also has a hot-swappable bay for adding an optional optical drive or second battery."

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCG-K33P notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It's backed by a 1-year warranty for parts and labor, and 1 year of toll-free phone support. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Offering a head-turning design and eyebrow-raising features, the ultra-light, tiny Sony VAIO PCG-TR3AP1 notebook PC offers long battery life (thanks to the Intel Centrino processor), a Sony XBRITE screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio (great for watching DVDs), and an built-in digital camera. It also features a 54g wireless LAN, combo CD-RW/DVD drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a weight of just over three pounds. The integrated swivel camera at the top of the screen enables you to capture 640 x 480 still images and live video (motion JPEG) that can be saved directly to your hard drive.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 40 GB (4200 RPM) hard drive offers plenty of space for most users, though this size is beginning to feel small compared with other notebooks. It also has a 1024 KB L2 cache and a 400 MHz bus speed.
• Processor: While at the low end of current Centrino notebooks, the PCG-TR3AP1's 1 GHz Pentium M processor is definitely fast enough for everyday tasks and basic multimedia (it's comparable to a 1.5 GHz Mobile Intel Pentium 4). The Pentium M processor is designed specifically for low-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies--ensuring you push your battery and productivity to the max.
• Memory: The PCG-TR3AP1 comes with a 512 MB built-in memory (DDR SDRAM, 333 MHz)--a good start for power users--with a maximum memory expansion up to 2.05 GB (2 x 1024 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: You can easily and quickly burn music and video to CD with the combo CD-RW/DVD drive (24x write/10x rewrite/24x read).
• Keyboard & Mouse: The PCG-TR3AP1 has an 83-key keyboard and electro-static touchpad.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The PCG-TR3AP1 has an Intel Pro-Wireless 2100BG integrated wireless LAN that connects using the 802.11g wireless standard. You get a smaller offering of connectivity options (due to the notebook's size):

• 2 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) ports for connecting digital video camcordrs and other peripherals
• 1 RGB monitor port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• Secure Digital (SD)/MultiMedia (MMC) memory card reader

Preloaded System and Software
The PCG-TR3AP1 comes with the Windows XP Professional operating system (which adds Microsoft's IIS Web server, back-up and recovery utilities, Remote Desktop, and other enhanced business features), and it also features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). It also is loaded with a bevy of Sony multimedia software: PictureGear Studio and Network Smart Capture (digital photo), DVgate Plus (digital video), and SonicStage (digital music). Other preloaded software includes Intervideo WinDVD and Norton Internet Security Center 7.

Dimensions and Weight
At 10.6 x 7.4 x 1.4 inches (L x W x H), this is a seriously small notebook. And it weighs just a mere 3.11 pounds with the battery.

Power
The included rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers between 3 and 5.5 hours of life with typical usage. An optional larger-capacity battery will provide double that (between 6 and 11 hours of battery life).

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCG-TR3AP1 notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
It was just a few years ago that true micro-notebooks were little more than glorified calculators. But times change and Sony's innovative VAIO VGN-T150/L proves that a three lb. notebook no larger than a traditional pad of paper can indeed deliver adequate power for the majority of typical mobile tasks. Granted, this is not an ideal unit for demanding business and power users or sophisticated 3D gamers. It is, however, perfect for anyone who frequently hauls their notebook with them to remote un-plugged environments and engages in comparatively basic tasks such as word processing, data gathering, finances, contact management and email/Internet sessions. Stunningly portable, extremely battery efficient and more potent than the vast majority of past or present micro-notebooks, the not inexpensive VAIO VGN-T150/L is a miniature dynamo.

Hard Disk
The system features a 40 GB hard disk. In a time when some notebooks offer hard drives of 100 GB and more, 40 GB may not seem overly generous. However, in the rarified, miniscule world of ultra-compact notebooks, 40 GB of storage space is indeed a sizable amount. Though you likely won't have enough room for a library of space-gobbling video files, the unit will store a typical number of mobile apps and user-created files and a few tunes too.

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today's computing environment. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning", so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can watch DVD movies. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of a CD). Some drives allow you to do a combination of all of these tasks. This system features a DVD+RW/-RW drive through which you can do all of the above.

Audio
The unit is equipped with two miniature stereo speakers, a mini microphone jack and a stereo mini headphone jack.

Keyboard and Controls
You'll control your notebook via an 83-key keyboard and standard electro-static touch pad.

Connectivity and Expansion
The VAIO VGN-T150/L offers an assortment of ways to keep in touch, including a 56K modem for low-speed dial-up Internet and email access, a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet port for high-speed wired network and Internet, and an integrated Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG Network Connection (802.11b/g) for cord-free e-communication at home, at the office or on the road via a local public hotspot. Other key amenities include two high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug and play devices such as external drives and digital cameras, an IEEE 1394 FireWire port (commonly used for quick data uploads from digital camcorders), and a PC Card Slot for one type I or type II card with CardBus support..

Operating System and Software
Sony will preinstall today's most accepted operating system, Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition. Other applications include productivity and word processing software and Sony's typically ample array of music, video and digital photo utilities and editing packages.

Dimensions and Weight Many of today's most powerful notebooks are also the largest, weighing ten or twelve lbs or more and therefore too big and cumbersome for extensive, continuous traveling. These are often referred to as "desktop replacements". On the other extreme are "thin and lights" or "ultra-portables", super-miniaturized units that typically aren't as powerful as their larger brethren but weigh as little as two or three lbs. and will often fit comfortably inside a large purse. The VAIO VGN-T150/L is exceptionally small and comfortable at a mere 3.1 lbs and just 10.1 by 8.1 by 1.0 - 1.3 inches (depending on configuration).

Power
The unit is equipped with a Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery that delivers up to 5.5 hours (with standard battery) and 6.0 to 11.0 hours (with a large capacity battery). These are exceptional figures in today's notebook world. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Amazingly lightweight and tremendously speedy, the 5-pound Toshiba Tecra M2-310 was created for on-the-go road warriors who demand outstanding performance from an ultra-portable notebook PC. Designed with sleek, slimming angular lines, the Tecra M2-310 incorporates Intel Centrino mobile technology (with a 1.5 GHz Pentium-M processor), providing advanced power, battery optimization (up to 6 hours of battery life with optional second battery), and 54g wireless connectivity. Other features include a 14.1-inch display, 40 GB hard drive, 256 MB of installed RAM, and a combo DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 40 GB Enhanced IDE hard drive is on the small side compared to other notebooks. However, it does offer a decent enough capacity for storing documents and productivity software for road warriors--but not enough for much multimedia storage.
• Processor: The 1.5 Ghz Pentium M processor is considered at the middle of speed range compared with other Centrino notebooks (with current speed topping out at 1.7 GHz). Because of itsdesign, the Intel Pentium M gets more done per clock tick than a Mobile Intel Pentium 4, thus providing the discrepency in GHz measurement (i.e., 1.7 versus 3.2). The Pentium M processor is designed specifically for low-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies--ensuring you push your battery and productivity to the max. It has a front-side bus (FSB) of 400 MHz and a 1 MB L2 cache.
• Memory: This notebook has 256 MB of pre-installed memory (DDR SDRAM), which is calling out for more power right out of the gate. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1024 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes equipped with a combo DVD/CD-RW drive, which enables you to play DVD-ROM discs and DVD movies as well as burn data and record music to CD discs. The CD-RW drive has 16x write, 10x rewrite, and 40x read speeds. The DVD-ROM has an 8x playback speed.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook is outfitted with a standard 85-key keboard with 12 function keys and a two-button touchpad.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
This Tecra M2 model has an integrated 802.11g (or 54g) wireless LAN, which is quickly becoming the most popular wireless standard and is compatible with 802.11b connections as well. It also features Toshiba's SlimSelect bay that enables you to use an optional hot-swappable device, such as a second battery or another optical drive. Other external connectivity options include:

• 2 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 parallel port
• 1 infrared port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

Preloaded System and Software
The Tecra M2-310 notebook comes with the Windows XP Professional operating system (which adds Microsoft's IIS Web server, back-up and recovery utilities, Remote Desktop, and other enhanced business features), and it features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Other preloaded software titles include Adobe Acrobat Reader and Norton AntiVirus.

Dimensions and Weight
Measuring 10.1 x 12.3 x 1.4 inches (L x W x H) and weighing just 4.9 pounds, the Tecra M2-310 notebook will be a joy to travel with.

Power
The 6-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides a 4-hour battery life, and up to 6 hours when using a second battery inserted into the SlimSelect bay.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Tosiba Tecra M2-310 notebook PC, AC power adapter, and printed operating instructions. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Marginally larger than the Portege 3500 Tablet PC it replaces, Toshiba's Portege M205-S810 Tablet PC is also more adaptable, more battery efficient and substantially more powerful. Though substantially costlier than comparable non-tablet portable computers, the unit nevertheless blends the speed of a midrange notebook with the convenience of stylus-based, handwritten input and subcompact portability. Few tablet PCs pack this much power into a profile this petite.

The Portege M205-S810 is most at home when used to enter, store and share notes and concepts that might otherwise be entered in handwritten format. In fact, measuring just 11.6 by 9.8 by 1.3/1.5 inches and tipping the scales at a scant 4.5 pounds, the system is not significantly more bulky than some conventional paper-based notepads. Users input data in one of two ways -- either by sketching directly on the swiveling, double-duty 12.1-inch poly-silicon SXGA+ TFT color LCD display screen (maximum resolution 1400x1050) or via the system's 84-key keyboard.

Sporting an Intel Centrino-based processor (1 MB Level 2 cache) running at 1.5 GHz, a whopping 512 MB RAM memory and an nVidia GeForce FX Go5200 graphics processor with 32 MB of dedicated DDR video memory, the Portege M205-S810 will easily handle most day-to-day mobile computing tasks and the majority of today's most popular 3-D apps, with the exception of ultra-complex 3-D games and graphic design packages.

The unit features today's most desirable connectivity options, including an integrated 56K modem for low-speed e-communications, a 10 Base-T//100 Base-TX Ethernet connection for fast LAN and Internet access, and Wi-Fi compliant wireless LAN technology for those times when you can't plug in. The system also sports a surprisingly large 60 GB hard disk and facilities for an external CD and/or DVD drive, a pair of ultra-fast USB 2.0 ports for plug and play peripherals such as scanners and digital cameras, an integrated TouchPad, a speaker and microphone and full 16-bit stereo sound. Battery life is estimated at an impressive 4.34 hours.

... Read more

Reviews (3)

The standard in tablets, if you need a tablet Pc.
Toshiba has competition in Fujitsu on performance and features, Visoneer and Acer on price. Taken as a whole, the Toshiba Portege tablets have no equal.

Use of the 1.5Ghz Pentium 4M CPU makes this more powerful than other tablets in the field, putting it in the same class as most pure laptops. As with any laptop, you have limitations on hard drive size, memory, and add-on peripherals. As a laptop, this is average, as more feature-rich and economical options exist. I would *not* recommend this machine to anyone looking for a pure laptop solution.

However, I'm a firm believer in tablets as the future. I've seen how much suffering people endure with folios of printouts and papers, almost solely because they need to markup the paper and have access to multiple sheets as they work. While this doesn't purport to expand the screen size to 36"x48" (which would be AWESOME... someday), it does allow most people to finally start editing documents by hand, and cut down on the paper waste.

Also, as a forms tool, tablets are unmatched. The user experience in Windows XP for tablets is much closer to the long-enjoyed PDA functionality of Palm and PocketPC users everywhere... without the annoying syncronization problems. And One Note from Microsoft is probably the best utility going for tablet users.

As a tablet PC, this delivers. I can't speak to the MP3/DVD problems, but the tablet does have the necessary horsepower to do either or both, so I would tend to think the problem is configuration, not intrinsic problems.

If you have the cash, buy one for your group as an evaluation item. Once people start using it, your next problem will be to find the budget room to buy more.

Fred

painful for travel and hiccups playing DVDs
This is my first notebook computer with an external DVD/CD-writer drive. As it turns out whenever I travel I like to be able to burn a CD-ROM backup of my digital photos and watch DVDs in a hotel room. The DVD drive supplied by Toshiba cannot run from USB power so you end up carting around (1) the notebook, (2) the notebook power supply, (3) the notebook power supply's AC cord, (4) the DVD/CD drive, (5) the DVD/CD drive's external power supply, (6) the DVD/CD drive's external power supply's AC cord. In addition to being cumbersome the external drive was flimsy. The face plate jammed a few times and then fell off altogether. It was definitely not as well protected as the internal DVD/CD drive in my 4-year-old Thinkpad.

The speaker on this notebook can't play loud enough to listen to music or a movie soundtrack. So if you don't like headphones add a 1 lb. battery-powered travel speaker system to your list of stuff to lug around. It would be easier and maybe more compact to get one of those 7 lb. full-size notebooks.

Some combination of operating system and hardware is unequal to the task of playing MP3s or DVDs. Every 5 minutes or so there will be a brief pause in the music or the movie. This is kind of irritating. Anyway if you want to listen to background music budget cost and weight for a separate MP3 player.

Otherwise... no problems! The machine works fine as a notebook and the tablet features are sort of cool for impressing people who've never seen Tablet PC. On the other hand I've never actually managed to do anything useful with the stylus (this is my first Tablet PC).

I'll probably give this away or sell it on eBay as soon as I can get an IBM ThinkPad with a 160 GB hard drive. I prefer the IBM keyboard and the TrackPoint pointing device to the trackpad of the Toshiba.

The BEST Tablet PC!
This is my second Tablet PC. Since I wrote the book on Tablet PCs (Absolute Beginner's Guide to Tablet PCs), I was able to evaluate most of the ones available. This Toshiba M-200 has the processing speed and 1400x1050 screen to get some serious work done.

Paired with a second LCD display, you have some serious screen real estate. I do a lot of graphics, processing-intensive work, and wireless computing, and this is a terrific machine to do just about anything.

Add some software like OneNote, Corel Painter 8, and FranklinCovey TabletPlanner, and you have a great tool for meetings and ultimate portability.

My prior Tablet PC was the Toshiba Portege 3500, which is also a capable machine. The M200 is more powerful and has better video capabilities, allowing you to run 32-bit color on the built-in display.

The new cross-functional button (more like a joystick) and the four side launch pen buttons are a welcome addition. I do miss the CF Card reader, but it's not that big a deal.

Because this machine is a convertible, there's no learning curve for new Tablet PC users. The screen swivels and folds flat to create a slate that you can write on. I found that because of the faster processor, handwriting and speech recognition is faster.

The only other machine I can recommend is the Panasonic Toughbook CF-18, which is a ruggedized Tablet PC. The Panasonic is not for mainstream users, but if you're contantly out in adverse conditions, the ToughBook has a double-bright screen, small size, sealed ports (Panasonic says to actually run the machine under warm water if you spill coffee on it), and great battery life. But the keyboard is small, so you really do need to have a burning desire for a ruggedized machine. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Sony's Vaio S Series notebooks unite desktop PC power and functionality with performance rivaling any desktop. The Centrino Mobile technology runs cool and quiet, while helping to keep the profile light and slim with enhanced battery performance. The VGN-S150 features fast 802.11g wireless connectivity, a decent-sized 60 GB hard drive, 1.6 GHz Pentium M processor, 512 MB of installed RAM, a DVD-ROM/CD-RW Combo Drive, 13.3-inch screen, and a bevy of Sony multimedia software.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The ample 60 GB hard drive offers more than enough storage for both your work and home files.
• Processor: The 1.6 GHz Pentium M processor is near the top of the Centrino speed range. Because of its design, the Intel Pentium M gets more done per clock tick than a Mobile Intel Pentium 4, thus providing the discrepancy in GHz measurement (i.e., 1.7 versus 3.2). The Pentium M processor is designed specifically for low-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies--ensuring you push your battery and productivity to the max. It also has an L2 cache of 2 MB and a front-side bus (FSB) speed of 400 MHz.
• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It is equipped with a combo DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive. For DVDs it reads at 8x. For CDs, it has a 10x write/24x rewrite/24x read speed.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has an 82-key QWERY keyboard and electro-static touch pad.

S Series notebooks pack blazing power into a sleek, lightweight body.

Dimensions and Weight
The S150 measures 12.3" x 1.16" inches (in the closed position) and weighs 4.2 pounds (with battery).

Sound and Graphics
With the 32 MB ATI Mobility Radeon 9200 graphics card, the S150 delivers an adequate visual experience optimized to support most 3D gaming environments of today. Sony's exclusive XBRITE LCD technology delivers ultra crisp and super bright graphics, and the Smart Display Sensor automatically adjusts to any projector or display resolution. It also has two built-in stereo speakers.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The S150 has an integrated 802.11g wireless LAN (which is compatible with the more widespread 802.11b and offers faster data transmission rates). You get a decent--but not overpowering--offering of connectivity options, including both high-speed USB 2.0 and FireWire:

• 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) ports for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 A/V mini jack
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 Memory Stick slot (Memory Stick Pro compatible)

Preloaded System and Software
This S150 comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works 7.0 (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), and VAIO Media (network file sharing). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Power
The S150 comes with the PCGA-BPS2 rechargeable lithium ion battery; it has an estimated battery life of 2.0 to 5.0 hours.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio VGN-S150 notebook, rechargeable battery, AC adapter, and printed instruction manual. ... Read more

Product Description

The VAIO PCG-K45 notebook is beautifully designed and equipped with a 15.4" wide screen, XBRITE technology, integrated wireless capabilities and CD burning features. It's a totally versatile notebook that combines the technology you need for workday survival, plus the essential features to keep you entertained wherever you go.The VAIO PCG-K45 is a full-sized, portable notebook that comes loaded with features essential for everyday computing. Featuring Sony exclusive entertainment software like PictureGear Studio for your digital photos and SonicStage for your digital music. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Good for home computing
I bought this computer as a desktop replacement. The major factor for choosing this computer is the extremely beautiful LCD display with it's XBrite Technology. Movies look great and pictures too. Major drawbacks for this notebook are it's bulkiness and very (and I mean very!) noisy fan. You need to play music while working so you could minimize the distraction that the fan could cause. This notebook is not meant for those seeking portable computing solution, you'll only be disappointed with the size, weight and the battery life. Otherwise, this notebook is great if you let it stay indoors and just keep it there plugged on your wall.

Sony Vaio Laptops, loud but good.
I'm very pleased with my Sony VAIO laptop.However, the fan noise is very loud.It sounds like a vacuum cleaner as many others have pointed out.On the other hand, it has been my experience (especially with HP) that Pentium 4 based laptops are normally loud, as the Pentium 4 chip heats up far more than Intel's other chip brands.If you want a quieter laptop, then I suggest a Centrino.They're lighter, quieter, cooler, and... slower.
If the fan noise bothers you while working at home, try this: put the laptop inside a duffle bag, leaving plenty of room inside for ventilation.Leave the top open slightly for heat to escape.Then, with the help of a cordless keyboard, mouse, and monitor extension cable, you can locate the laptop several feet away from you and still enjoy Pentium 4 speed on your desk top.This is obviously NOT a portable solution and defeats the point of a laptop, but it's for those who can't afford to buy 2 computers and still want peace & quiet away from the workplace.

laptop out of fashion
The laptop indeed has a good LCD monitor compared with HP laptop I owned before. But for sure it has several very obviously shortcomings:
1. too big battery, however, with a very short lifetime. That is really ridiculous. It looks like time past by at least twice faster as the one indicated on your screen.
2. A little bit noisy. You can not easily fall asleep with the laptop on overnight.
3. Too heavy laptop with very big size. I highly recommend ladies never use it.
4. my speaker was damaged by a little shock and never worked well after that. Possibly it has a poor protection on that connection.

Went back today!
Firstly, let me say this laptop has a great bright display and very fast processor. But it's VERY LOUD - sounded like a vacuum cleaner.Battery power was barely over 1 hour, it's very heavy and the AC adapter was way too short...

Too bad i had to pay a 15% restocking fee to find all this out.

Excellent Notebook
Reinstall original configuration, I don't know why it does not work well the first time, next erase all garbage software and you have and excellent, fast and incredible notebook.

I'm and developer and my wife is architect and we love it.

Cons:
-You need to burn the recovery Cds.
-A little noisy.
-Could be a nightmare if you try to change the OS.
... Read more

Amazon Product Description

Sleekly styled and comfortably ergonomic, Sony's K Series notebooks offer affordable, all-purpose portability for home computing, home office needs, and students. The PCG-K33P balances your productivity and entertainment needs, with an integrated 54G wireless LAN to keep you connected inside and outside your home and a suite of preloaded Sony multimedia applications for managing your digital audio and photo collections. It also comes with a double layer DVD+/- RW drive that can burn both DVDs and CDs. Other features include a 15.4-inch screen, 80 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a Memory Stick slot.

The PCG-K35 features a 15.4-inch WXGA widescreen display that is perfectly tailored to the aspect ratio favored by DVD movies.

The Basics Hard Drive: The 80 GB hard drive is larger than the average notebook's, enabling road warriors more than enough capacity for storing documents, digital media files, and productivity software. Processor: The 3.06 GHz Mobile Intel Pentium 4 is a powerful processor that was designed to be used with notebooks used as a desktop replacement PC. It includes Intel's Enhanced SpeedStep technology, which helps cut the power used by the chip and conserves battery power. It has a front-side bus (FSB) of 533 MHz and a 1 MB L2 cache. Memory: The 512 MB of installed RAM (2 x 256 MB, PC2100, 266 MHz DDR SDRAM) has become standard with notebooks, and it's a good start. But you'll want to take advantage of the 1 GB expandability to get the most out of this computer. CD/DVD Drive: The PCG-K35 offers the latest in DVD writing technology with a that's compatible with DVD+R dual-layer discs. Double-layered DVD+R discs can store up to 8.5 GB of data and can be written at 2.4x speed. It's also compatible with standard DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW discs (which can be written at 8x and rewritten at 4x). You can write and rewrite CDs at 24x. Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a standard 86-key keyboard with electrostatic touchpad.

Sound and Graphics The included ATI Radeon IGP 345M video/graphics card provides competent, but not overpowering, 3D graphics. It features 64 MB of shared video memory. This is taken from the main system memory, so you'll want to increase your RAM from the installed 512 MB if you plan on doing much gaming or video work. The enhanced widescreen format function (1280 x 800 pixels) lets you watch DVDs in full cinema mode as well as easily view spreadsheets and Web browsers side-by-side. It also offers an integrated audio card, built-in speakers, A/V connection out, and the ability to drive an external monitor.	 
	Sony VAIO PCG-K37 3.20 GHz Pentium 4 1 GB RAM 80 GB HD	Sony VAIO PCG-K35 3.067 GHz Pentium 4 512 MB RAM 80 GB HD	Sony VAIO PCG-K33 3.20 GHz Pentium 4 512 MB RAM 60 GB HD

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
This PCG-K35 model has an integrated 802.11g wireless LAN (which is compatible with the more widespread 802.11b and offers faster data transmission rates). You get a standard offering of connectivity options, including both high-speed USB 2.0 and FireWire:

• 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type I/II)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 Memory Stick slot (Memory Stick Pro compatible)

It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems). It also has a hot-swappable bay for adding an optional optical drive or second battery."

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCG-K35 notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It's backed by a 1-year warranty for parts and labor, and 1 year of toll-free phone support. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
A capable portable computer best suited to power users, businesspeople, and anyone who appreciates potent 2D performance and a widescreen display, the Sony VAIO PCG-K33 crunches numbers and data faster than the majority of desktops yet won't drain your pocketbook. Its 3D graphics speed is not exceptional, nor is it recommended for those who require maximum portability or extremely long battery life. Yet at this price point, the VAIO PCG-K33 is a good bet for cost-conscious consumers who need PC-level speed in a mobile format.

Video
CPU's are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller), the best of which include their own "dedicated" built-in video memory rather than "sharing" portions of the system's valuable main memory. Sony has equipped the VAIO PCG-K33 with an ATI Radeon IGP 345M graphics controller that shares 64 MB of main memory. Though this unit's CPU is so powerful that the lack of a high-end video controller isn't as essential as it otherwise might be, users who deal primarily with taxing visuals such as those found in 3D games and 3D animation may want to explore another Sony notebook.

Display
The VAIO PCG-K33's 15.4-inch WXGA display may be smaller than the 17-inch monsters found in today's notebook heavyweights, yet it's larger than that of most notebooks and even some desktops. Furthermore, its widescreen format is perfectly tailored to the aspect ratio favored by DVD movies. It's highly sophisticated too -- sporting Sony's new XBRITE Technology for better contrast and a brighter picture, and a crisp 1280 by 800 maximum resolution.

Hard Disk
At 60 GB, the integrated hard drive will easily store a broad range of applications and user data files, and a sizable library of space-gobbling music and/or multimedia files too.

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today's computing environment. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning", so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can watch DVD movies. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of a CD). Some drives allow you to do a combination of all of these tasks. This system features a DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive, through which you can do everything above but burn DVDs.

Audio
The unit is equipped with high-grade speakers and a powerful audio amplifier.

Keyboard and Controls
You'll control your notebook via an 86-key keyboard and a standard electro-static touch pad.

Dimensions and Weight
Many of today's most powerful notebooks are also the largest, weighing ten or twelve lbs or more and definitely too big and cumbersome for extensive, continuous traveling. These are often referred to as "desktop replacements". On the other extreme are "thin and lights" or "ultra-portables", super-miniaturized units that are typically less powerful than their larger brethren but weigh as little as two lbs and will often fit comfortably inside a large purse. The VAIO PCG-K33 is of medium size at 8.2 lbs. and 14.1 by 8.2 by 1.6 - 2.2 inches.

Power
Battery life is not the system's strong suit. You can expect 1 - 2 hours continuous use with the enclosed lithium-ion cell. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

Sony's Vaio A Series notebooks unite desktop PC power and functionality with performance rivaling any desktop. The Centrino Mobile technology runs cool and quiet, while helping to keep the profile light and slim with enhanced battery performance. The VGN-A190 features fast 802.11g wireless connectivity, a 17-inch screen, large 80 GB hard drive, 1.5 GHz Pentium M processor, 512 MB of installed RAM, a DVD+/-RW drive, and a bevy of Sony multimedia software. It also comes preloaded with Sony's GigaPocket software, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC.

Sony Series A Display Sizes The VGN-A190 features a 17" screen.

The Basics Hard Drive: The spacious 80 GB hard drive offers more than enough storage for your work and home files, a well-stocked multimedia library, and hours of recorded TV programs. Processor: The 1.7 GHz Pentium M processor is at the top of the Centrino speed range. Because of its design, the Intel Pentium M gets more done per clock tick than a Mobile Intel Pentium 4, thus providing the discrepancy in GHz measurement (i.e., 1.7 versus 3.2). The Pentium M processor is designed specifically for low-power mobile usage, and it features the latest in power-saving technologies--ensuring you push your battery and productivity to the max. It also has an L2 cache of 1 MB and a front-side bus (FSB) speed of 400 MHz. Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB). CD/DVD Drive: It is equipped with a combo DVD+/-RW and CD-RW drive. For DVD+R discs, it has a 2.4x write and 4x read speeds. For DVD-R discs, it has a 4x read/write speed. For CDs, it has a 16x write/8x rewrite/24x read speed. Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has an 86-key keyboard and electro-static touch pad.

Both the VGN-A150 and the VGN-A160 feature a 15.4" screen.

Sound and Graphics
With the 64 MB ATI Mobility Radeon 9200 graphics card, the A190 delivers a dazzling visual experience optimized to support the most compelling next-generation 3D gaming environments of today and tomorrow. Sony's exclusive XBRITE LCD technology delivers ultra crisp and super bright graphics, and the Smart Display Sensor automatically adjusts to any projector or display resolution. It also has an AC'97 sound card that's integrated into the main board, and comes with two built-in stereo speakers.

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

Preloaded System and Software
This A190 comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works 7.0 (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Sony's Giga Pocket built-in software converts TV signals to digital MPEG2 format and lets you watch and record TV programs right on the PCV-620G, watch while you record with the Slip Playback feature, and burn shows directly to DVD. It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), VAIO Media (network file sharing), and Click to DVD (for burning DVD discs). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), InterVideo WinDVD, and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Dimensions and Weight
Measuring 16 x 1.7-1.8 x 11 inches and weighing 7.9 pounds (without battery), the A190 is best served as a desktop replacement.

Power
The A190 comes with the PCGA-BP2EA rechargeable lithium ion battery; it has an estimated battery life of 1.5 to 3.5 hours.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio VGN-A190 notebook, rechargeable battery, AC adapter, and printed instruction manual. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

the HDTV screen laptop... wow
I purchased a thinkpad last year for work (programming), but when I saw this Vaio I lost it and whipped out the credit card. Was a true impulse buy. The screen is breathtaking: bright and 19xx pixels across. That is a lot of pixels. Watching DVDs on this system is like watching a high end TV. The wide screen gives you a movie image size that's about what you'd get on a 25" conventional TV.

The thinkpad (T30) screen was just barely bright enough, but this screen is so bright I actually turned it down a few notches. You can use it in bright sunlight, which would be impossible with a lot of laptops out there. I now no longer need an external display. The keyboard is comfortably large.

Cool tip: go to display settings control panel. Set your desktop resolution to 120DPI to make the font size comfortably large. Change your icon size to 48 pixels. Tweak font and window sizes to your preference and you'll have the crispest looking desktop out there. Even your friends with powerbooks will do a doubletake.

The ONLY reason I gave the laptop 4 stars is because this thing weighs almost 10 pounds! Get a good case and don't drop it! ... Read more