Amazon.com Product Description

Targeting the home and work-at-home user and those who like to spend atleast some of their computing hours in the pursuit of entertainment, Compaq'sPresario 710US notebook strikes a happy balance between performance andaffordability. Although it doesn't incorporate the fastest processor on themarket, the Presario 710US is certainly ready to handle most light to mediumduties and virtually all computer-related leisure activities.

Sporting a sleek design and a futuristic two-tone color scheme, the Presario710US looks substantially snazzier than many of its notebook peers. It tips thescales at a comfortable 6.4 pounds and measures in with a slightly larger thanaverage 10.6-by-12.4-by-1.64-inch profile. Under the hood, Compaq has fashioneda reasonably powerful engine consisting of a 1 GHz AMD Duron processor and 256MB of RAM (expandable to 512 MB), a setup that won't elicit blinding speed butmotors along nicely and easily runs several concurrent applications. Thesystem's 20 GB hard drive offers plenty of room for all the MP3 files you maywant to collect and later broadcast through the unit's impressively proficientJBL Audio bass reflex speaker system.

Powered by a 16 MB Via ProSavage graphics card and capable of 1,024-by-768resolution, the Presario's 14.1-inch LCD display is ready to handle all themovies you'll play on the unit's integrated 8x DVD-ROM drive. Its keyboardsection offers full-size keys, a separate cursor and touch pad, and an array ofsix one-touch buttons for instant control of such everyday functions as speakervolume, e-mail, and Internet access. A 3.5-inch floppy disk drive ensuressupport for older programs that have yet to find their way to disc, and a 56Kmodem permits acceptable Internet access speeds.

The Presario 710US veritably bristles with ports. Compaq has included two USBports for plug-and-play peripherals such as joysticks, a 10/100 Mbps Ethernetnetwork connection, a single parallel port for devices such as printers, anNTSC/PAL port for connection to various video devices, a multipurpose PC Cardslot, and a speaker-out and microphone-in port. In addition, the system isequipped with AMD's battery-saving PowerNow technology, which adjusts processorclock speed to determine the best compromise between speed, power, and batterylife. This is a valuable tool for users who go long periods of times betweencharges.

Preloaded software includes useful utilities such as Microsoft Internet Explorer6.0, Microsoft Works 6.0, Microsoft Money 2001, Norton AntiVirus, Roxio's niftyEasy CD Creator 5.01, InterVideo WinDVD 3.0 DVD player, and a one-yearsubscription to Microsoft's Encarta Online Deluxe Encyclopedia. Users willoperate their system with the Home Edition of Windows XP, arguably Microsoft'smost stable OS since Windows 98 Second Edition.

Faster, beefier notebooks are not hard to find. Yet for those who don't havevast, untapped financial resources, Compaq's Presario 710US is fine choice. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great machine for the money!
Bought this a couple of months ago (not from Amazon)... Did have to take the first one back for a defective LCD, no big deal. Once I got the 2nd one, I immediately wiped the machine clean (took an image of the drive first), loaded Windows XP professional (I work in IT, and XP Home just doesn't have enough oomph for me...), and added another 256 MB of RAM (for ...

WOW, love this machine!!! Added an Orinocco gold wireless LAN card, and I am ready to rock! Windows Update downloaded Wireless LAN and Video drivers (it recognized my S3 video card with no problem), then installed them on the fly with no reboot! Now that's the way an operating system should be!

Like the ability to increase the video RAM up to 32 MB via a BIOS setting (it's shared with system memory). Changed it to 32MB, and it works well. DVD drive & software produce great video. Like the S-Video output, and integrated 10/100 ethernet too (compared this to an HP in the same price range, but it didn't have either of these).

My only reason for not giving it 5 stars is that if the battery gets really low, the machine will experience a keyboard failure during the boot-up POST process (even if it's plugged in). Sometimes you have to unplug it, and remove the battery in order to get it straight again. It's a small nit, and it doesn't happen often.

Would definitely recommend it to anyone that's looking for an entry level laptop.

Unstable & Incompatible
I purchased this product because it offered more processing power & memory than others in similar price range.

First one I received had to be returned because of defective LCD.
Second one I received had different brand DVD-ROM which caused some problems (not recognizing CD's after I put them in) at first but now it seems to be working.

The real problem with this machine is that it is made to work only with the software package that Compaq provides (WinXp Home Edition package).
My work requires that I use Windows 2000 as well as XP Pro, so I installed them both. This computer does NOT work well with Windows 2000. The system simply freezes, or hangs with little or no warning, and the only way to get out of it is to turn the power off and on again. I tried the same kind of work on my old Dell Inspiron - it does crash sometimes but can be recovered by pressing CTL-ALT-DEL (never freezes like Compaq does), thus you rarely loose your unsaved work. Maybe it has to do with the Duron processor because the machine tends to get very hot sometimes (a lot hotter than my other Pentium-based laptops).

Compaq lists only a couple of drivers & updates on their website (mouse and modem drivers). Beware: Windows 2000 (and even XPPro, if you're installing your own copy) won't recognize this machine's video & audio cards. Even Windows Update site doesn't have the drivers listed for these devices, so you're on your own once you get out of default-factory-installed software environment.
I wish Compaq had better support - Dell lists virtually every drivers and updates you need for almost any operating systems including Linux.

Bottom line: This is an OK product if you are a casual user and intend to use it the way Compaq wants you to use. If you like using it the way you want to, don't buy this one (especially if you're concerned with reliability & compatibility issues).
The only thing I liked about this computer is the JBL speaker system, but I wish they had spent more money on other components such as mainboard and video card instead.
Oh and one more thing, this doesn't have on board microphone and infrared.. just letting you know.

Great laptop for the money
I'm so pleased with this purchase. It's light, efficient, attractive, and easy to use. And as a side note, despite some criticisms, I find Windows XP intuitive and an easy fit, once I turned off the features I don't use, and that keep popping up on the screen! But all my old programs, with the exception of my printer driver, made the shift without a hitch.

solid laptop
This laptop is excellent for the traveller. Battery life is above average, has enough expansion ports to almost replace a desktop. screen is bright and easy to look at, video performs well, and it works great with Windows XP Pro. I originally purchased this to replace my desktop and I think it was a good choice. It has the power, storage, and speed to keep up. The Duron 1 gig is the second generation Duron so it supports SSE and extended MMX and 3d!now extensions.. sweet!

Great Laptop for the Price
I recently purchased this laptop to use for presentations in classes I teach. THe s-video connector provides for better picture quality than the RCA connector on many of the comparable machines. As an OS junkie, I had to set it up to dual boot with Linux. Had a few problems at first with getting X server to work from Mandrake Linux 8.1, but as of yesterday, with the release of Mandrake 8.2, I now have Linux running with the XP Home. Great laptop. ... Read more

Product Description

Sony VAIO (VGN-A140P8) VAIO A140 series-Pen M1.5 512 ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Stylish and utterly professional, the Sony Vaio PCG-V505DC is a lightweight, easily portable notebook PC--only 4.39 pounds--that's geared for business and mobility. It features a battery-saving 2.2 GHz Mobile Pentium 4 processor, Windows XP Professional, a 40 GB hard drive, 256 MB of installed RAM, and a combo DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive.

The Basics

• Hard Drive:The 40 GB 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 2.2 GHz Mobile Intel Pentium 4 processor offers enough speed for your work today, though it isn't at the top range of speeds for this processor. Thanks to its Mobile features, the processor can save power when its not needed, thus conserving battery life.
• 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 24x write, 10x rewrite, and 24x read speeds. The DVD-ROM has an 8x playback speed.
• Keyboard & Mouse:This notebook has a standard 85-key keyboard and electro-static two-button touchpad.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
This PCG-V505DC model does not include built-in wireless connectivity. 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
This PCG-V505DC comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it 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) and DVgate Plus (digital video). Other preloaded software includes Microsoft Money and Encarta,InterVideo WinDVD, and Norton Internet Security Center (with 90-day subscription).

Dimensions and Weight
Measuring 1.4 x 10.9 x 9.5 inches (H x W x D) and weighing just 4.4 pounds, the PCG-V505DC is easily portable.

Power
The included rechargeable lithium-ion 6-cell battery offers battery life range of 3.5 to 6.5 hours (depending on usage).

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCG-V505DC notebook PC (model PCGV505DC21), rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It's backed by a 1-year warranty for parts and labor, and 90 days of phone support. ... Read more

Product Description

Powerful desktop replacement ThinkPad G Series notebooks give you the performance of Microsoft Windows XP combined with the Intel Pentium 4 Processor with Hyper-Threading Technology (select models) or Intel Celeron D Processor at an affordable price. The G Series offers large, bright displays and unique comfort features in a portable package less than 2" slim with a travel weight starting at 7.7 lb. The G Series notebooks also offer a range of high-speed optical and hard drives. IBM ThinkPad G Series notebooks are designed for occasionally mobile users who need the flexibility to take work with them. G Series notebooks offer great performance, including usability features such as the EasyPivot base and ComfortSlant keyboard for greater comfort and ease-of-use. Optimized for connectivity, all ThinkPad G Series notebooks feature integrated Ethernet and a 56K modem. Gigabit Ethernet is also now available on select G41 models. RJ-45 and RJ-11 ports are also standard on all models.The ThinkPad family also features exclusive IBM ThinkVantage Technologies and ThinkVantage Design. Together, they deliver business advantage by helping to save time and money and enabling you to focus on your business - not your technology. ... Read more

Product Description

Offspring Technologies (00737) PC Security Kit ... Read more

Product Description

The Sony VAIO B Series Business Notebook is designed with the business user in mind. Mobility, connectivity and productivity features help you get the most out of your workday. Generous keyboard and display mean you don't have to sacrifice comfort for mobility and performance. Sophisticated design lets the world know that you mean business. Do business presentations without a projector on your 14.1" display. Side-by-side layout view. Powerful desktop replacement solution, yet still mobile. Intel Centrino Mobile technology runs cool and quiet, while keeping the profile slim and light, with enhanced performance and battery life. A remarkable blend of full-size power and portability. Wireless capabilities let you connect wire free around your home or on the road. No more meeting delays due to fumbling with your PC's Control Panel. Smart Display Sensor allows you to automatically adjust to an optimized resolution when plugging into a compatible external projector or display.Efficient and convenient media storage with choice of DVD-ROM/CD-RW or DVD±RW/CD-RW drive. Burn presentations and professional quality multimedia disks for playback on your notebook. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

As part of Compaq's ultra-affordable Presario 2100US series of mobile computers, the Presario 2145US is short of high-tech amenities such as wireless communication, DVD burning and world-class speed. It is, however, no slouch when it comes to commonplace tasks such as light to medium duty personal or business applications, general schoolwork, Internet browsing, and e-mail.

At the heart of the Presario 2145US is a 2.0 GHz AMD Athlon XP-M 2400+ processor. Compaq has complemented this cost effective CPU with a generous 512 MB DDR SDRAM system memory (expandable to 1024 MB) and an ATI Mobility Radeon 4X AGP graphics chipset with 64 MB shared (not dedicated) memory. As such, the unit is not the best choice for 3-D games, animation or drawing packages and high-complexity business apps. Sharing the data storage duties is a sizeable 60 GB hard disk and a DVD/CD-RW combo drive through which you can burn and play audio CDs, archive data and watch your favorite movies. In its stock setup, the system will not allow you to record to DVD media.

At 12.96 by 10.72 by 1.57 inches and 7.25 pounds, the Presario 2145US is slightly below average size and therefore comfortably portable. The unit is equipped with a large 15-inch display screen capable of crystal clear 1024x768 resolutions. Other features include two USB 1.1 ports for plug and play peripheral connections, an 88-key keyboard, a Touch Pad with on/off and dedicated up/down scroll surface, and a pair of internal stereo speakers. Communication connectivity options include a 56K modem for low-speed Internet and email access and a high-speed RJ-45 LAN connector. The computer doesn't come with a wireless communication option, or FireWire and USB 2.0 ports for fast data interaction with peripherals such as digital camcorders.

Pre-installed software includes Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft Money 2003, Microsoft Works 6.0, and a variety of multimedia applications. ... Read more

Product Description

The thin, light, IBM ThinkPad X40 notebook with wireless Intel Centrino Mobile Technology (select models) is perfect for mobile staff. It features long battery life and the optional ThinkPad X4 UltraBase Dock for a choice of drives and cable management. Like airbag technology, the IBM Active Protection System features built-in motion sensors. When a fall is detected, the hard disk drive temporarily parks itself. That makes it less likely data on your hard disk drive will be lost because of some bumps or drops. To help decrease expenses, look inside for IBM ThinkVantage Technologies and ThinkVantage Design elements. You'll see how to work more confidently and efficiently - and gain more time to focus on strategic goals. ... Read more

Product Description

The VAIO GRT Series Notebook provides advanced productivity and multimedia power for the mobile professional. It is the ultimate, stylish solution with all the power, speed, and efficiency of a bigger machine. With a large, high-resolution screen, dual battery capability, and integrated wireless connectivity, the GRT Series not only gives you the power to work efficiently for long periods of time away from your office - it also provides you the opportunity to exhibit your hard work. ... Read more

Product Description

The Sony VAIO B Series Business Notebook is designed with the business user in mind. Mobility, connectivity and productivity features help you get the most out of your workday. Generous keyboard and display mean you don't have to sacrifice comfort for mobility and performance. Sophisticated design lets the world know that you mean business. Do business presentations without a projector on your 14.1" display. Side-by-side layout view. Powerful desktop replacement solution, yet still mobile. Intel Centrino Mobile technology runs cool and quiet, while keeping the profile slim and light, with enhanced performance and battery life. A remarkable blend of full-size power and portability. Wireless capabilities let you connect wire free around your home or on the road. No more meeting delays due to fumbling with your PC's Control Panel. Smart Display Sensor allows you to automatically adjust to an optimized resolution when plugging into a compatible external projector or display.Efficient and convenient media storage with choice of DVD-ROM/CD-RW or DVD±RW/CD-RW drive. Burn presentations and professional quality multimedia disks for playback on your notebook. ... Read more

Product Description

Travelers will love ThinkPad X31 notebooks for powerful computing in a small and light package. There's Intel Centrino mobile technology on select models designed for performance and long battery life. ThinkPad X31 notebooks can deliver battery power up to 6 hours - upgradeable to 10.1 hours (select models) for all-day computing by using the optional IBM ThinkPad X30 Series Extended Life Battery with the standard system battery.IBM innovations can help IT departments simplify system management chores, reduce ownership costs and improve productivity for all. IBM Rapid Restore PC, an IBM ThinkVantage Technology, lets users restore previously saved data - including applications and the operating system - locally. The IBM Embedded Security Subsystem on select models, including IBM Client Security Software, provides a higher level of security with a unique hardware and software-based solution. This ThinkVantage Technology can encrypt data to virtually "lock" private information. ... Read more

Product Description

The Sony VAIO B Series Business Notebook is designed with the business user in mind. Mobility, connectivity and productivity features help you get the most out of your workday. Generous keyboard and display mean you don't have to sacrifice comfort for mobility and performance. Sophisticated design lets the world know that you mean business. Do business presentations without a projector on your 14.1" display. Side-by-side layout view. Powerful desktop replacement solution, yet still mobile. Intel Centrino Mobile technology runs cool and quiet, while keeping the profile slim and light, with enhanced performance and battery life. A remarkable blend of full-size power and portability. Wireless capabilities let you connect wire free around your home or on the road. No more meeting delays due to fumbling with your PC's Control Panel. Smart Display Sensor allows you to automatically adjust to an optimized resolution when plugging into a compatible external projector or display.Efficient and convenient media storage with choice of DVD-ROM/CD-RW or DVD±RW/CD-RW drive. Burn presentations and professional quality multimedia disks for playback on your notebook. ... Read more

Product Description

The VAIO FS Notebook delivers powerful performance for your everyday essential computing needs and growing multimedia entertainment demands. Slim and lightweight, it's your ideal mobile companion.The slim design of the VAIO FS contains the tools you need to create, manage, share and enjoy your digital photos, home videos, movies and music. Its lightweight packaging makes it easy to bring with you, while the extended battery life and integrated wireless LAN keep you productive where ever you may be. The FS500 is your ideal mobile companion, delivering powerful performance for your everyday essential computing needs and growing multimedia entertainment demands.The FS500 comes loaded with Sony's custom entertainment software so you can easily create, manage, share and enjoy your digital photos, home videos, movies and music from home or on-the-go.The 15.4" widescreen display with Sony's XBRITE technology gives you an incredible viewing experience. Images are exceptionally crisp and clear. Colors are bright and vivid. Movies come alive like never before. Intel Centrino Mobile technology runs cool and quiet, while keeping the profile slim and light. Built-in wireless LAN, enhanced performance and extended battery life enable work and play on-the-go.With Sony's Click to DVD software, easily turn your VHS or 8mm home videos into high-quality DVDs. It only takes one click. Build your own personal video library. With the FS500 you can capture, edit, convert and burn high-definition camcorder video just like a professional. The power for your everyday essential computing needs. The tools for your growing multimedia entertainment demands. And, with its slim, lightweight design, it's ready for your mobile lifestyle. ... Read more

Product Description

The Sony VAIO A Series Personal Notebook seamlessly unites desktop PC power and multimedia functionality with performance that will rival any desktop computer. Optional AV dock enables you to create powerful multimedia presentations, archive important video, and keep up with the financial news. ... Read more

Product Description

The thin, light, IBM ThinkPad X40 notebook with wireless Intel Centrino Mobile Technology (select models) is perfect for mobile staff. It features long battery life and the optional ThinkPad X4 UltraBase Dock for a choice of drives and cable management. Like airbag technology, the IBM Active Protection System features built-in motion sensors. When a fall is detected, the hard disk drive temporarily parks itself. That makes it less likely data on your hard disk drive will be lost because of some bumps or drops. To help decrease expenses, look inside for IBM ThinkVantage Technologies and ThinkVantage Design elements. You'll see how to work more confidently and efficiently - and gain more time to focus on strategic goals. ... Read more

Product Description

With mobile power users permanently on the move, true portability means bringing advance features into the hands of business professionals. Featuring Intel's revolutionary Centrino mobile technology, a large rotating screen, full-sized keyboard and all the benefits of tablet technology, the C300 series is ideal for self-employed and professional users from small, medium and large corporations looking for a fully flexible notebook coupled with the efficiency and convenience of electronic ink and character recognition for daily work. ... Read more

Product Description

The S170 combines impressive features with convenient portability. The optional integrated wireless LAN and available Bluetooth Technology ensures that you stay connected wherever you go. The 13.3" high resolution wide-screen with optional XBRITE technology gives you a large viewing area and sharp images. Customize the S170 to make this the perfect notebook for you and your needs. ... Read more

Product Description

The power of a desktop, the portability of a notebook, the style of Sony. From the optional WUXGA 17" XBrite display, to the optional AV dock that allows you to watch and record TV with top of the line Sony speakers, the VAIO A series notebooks offer an unbelievable and unprecedented set of features. Top it off with Intel Centrino Mobile Technology and your stylish portable A series will be prepared for anything. ... Read more

Product Description

Introduce the whole organization to the affordable ThinkPad R50 notebook with Intel Centrino Mobile Technology (select models). This sleek notebook delivers long battery life. Select models even offer 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi wireless technology for connection to any industry-standard wireless network protocol.Chances are you've seen the damage a dropped notebook can suffer. That's why IBM developed the IBM Active Protection System for hard drives. When a fall is detected, this integrated technology can actually park the hard disk drive head.Business advantage? It's in here. Look inside and discover IBM ThinkVantage Technologies and ThinkVantage Designs to help free up IT resources and decrease expenses. You'll see how to work more confidently and efficiently - and gain the time you need to focus on strategic goals. ... Read more