Acer Aspire One AOD150-1165 10.1-Inch Sapphire Blue Netbook - 6.5 Hour Battery Life Review

Sunday, August 9, 2009
Building on its line of popular Aspire One netbooks, Acer makes it even easier to stay productive while on the go with the larger 10.1-inch screen of the Aspire One AOD150-1165. A great choice for students as well as business travelers who like to travel light, the affordable Acer Aspire One weighs just under 3 pounds and has a 6-cell battery that provides up to 5 hours of battery life for extended use and productivity when away from an AC outlet. Designed especially for mobile devices, the 1.6 GHz Intel Atom N270 processor uses a brand new design structure new hafnium-infused circuitry, which reduces electrical current leakage in transistors to conserve energy



A great choice for light-packing business travelers, the 10.1-inch Aspire One comes with Windows XP Home, a 160 GB hard drive, and a 6-cell battery for up to 5 hours of battery life (see larger image).


Weighing just 2.95 pounds, the stylish Acer Aspire One goes anywhere with you (see larger image).


The integrated webcam and microphone makes it easy to connect with friends via video chats (see larger image).
Offering a cool deep blue chassis, the netbook's smooth surface is comfortable to touch, and it's accented with distinctive details, such as the attractive orange hinge ring. You'll be able to easily video chat wherever you roam thanks to the Crystal Eye webcam integrated into the LCD's bezel, delivering smooth video streaming and high quality images even in low-light situations. And the built-in digital microphone delivers superior voice quality keeping background noise level low and minimizing echoes.

Packed with roomy 160 GB hard drive--great for storing a mobile digital audio and video library--this Aspire One also features 1 GB of installed RAM (2 GB maximum), 54g Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g), multi-format memory card reader, multiple USB ports, and built-in email, web browsing, and digital media applications.

It comes preinstalled with the Microsoft Windows XP Home operating system, which offers more experienced users an enhanced and innovative experience that incorporates Windows Live features like Windows Live Messenger for instant messaging and Windows Live Mail for consolidated email accounts on your desktop.

Processor
The Intel Atom processor uses a brand new design structure that packs in 47 million transistors into a single chip sized at just 22mm (0.87 inches), and it uses just 2.5 watts of power--less than 1/10 of the 35 watts used by an Intel Core 2 Duo processor--for excellent battery management. This 1.6 GHz Atom N270 processor also includes a power-optimized front side bus of 533 MHz for faster data transfer on demanding mobile applications and a 512 KB L2 cache (which temporarily stores data).

Storage
This version of the Aspire One comes with a 160 GB hard disk drive (5400 RPM), which offers enough to room to hold a an extra-large digital audio library of and still have room left over for movies, games, and a large collection of software. This Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to Firewire and USB 2.0.

Memory
The 1 GB of installed RAM (512 MB onboard memory and one 512 MB DIMM, 533 MHz) can be expanded to a maximum of 1.5 GB of RAM,

Screen, Video and Audio
The 10.1-inch screen has a WSVGA resolution (1024 x 600) and support for up a 262K color depth. Video is powered by the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950, which uses shared video memory with the main memory. Acer's CrystalBrite display technology guarantees the best possible visual experience by preventing the diffusion of surrounding light and internal ray. Compared to normal TFT LCDs, Acer CrystalBrite technology is able to read color coordinates more accurately, thus minimizing distortion and creating high-fidelity colors in all environments.

This notebook includes an integrated audio card with Microsoft DirectSound compatibility, and it includes two stereo speakers.

Connectivity
This Acer Aspire One notebook has an integrated 54g wireless LAN (Acer InviLink) that's compatible with 802.11b and 802.11g networks and offers Acer's SignalUp technology for enhanced antenna efficiency. It has has one dedicated SD memory card slot as well as a second multi-in-one card reader that's compatible with five different types of memory cards--Secure Digital, MultiMediaCard, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO and xD-Picture Card--for maximum flexibility. The ability to have both a multi-in-1 card reader and a SD card reader at the same time allows you to download photos from the multi-in-1 to share with others and store to the SD card as an internal storage device simultaneously. Here's the full list of ports and external connections:

  • 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
  • Multi-in-one card reader supports Secure Digital (SD), MultiMediaCard (MMC), Reduced Size MultiMedia (RS-MMC), Memory Stick/Memory Stick PRO, and XD Picture Cards
  • 1 VGA monitor port
  • 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
  • RJ-45 port for 10/100 Fast Ethernet connection
  • Kensington lock slot

DVD/CD Drive
Because of its size, the Aspire One does not come with an integrated optical drive, but optional CD/DVD read/write drives can be connected to the laptop via one of the three USB ports, enabling you to create your music mixes, burn movies to DVD, and more.

Operating System and Software

  • Windows XP Home with Service Pack 3 (SP3)
  • Acer eRecovery Management; Acer Launch Manager; Adobe REader; McAfee Internet Security Suite; Microsoft Office 2007 (Trial)

Dimensions and Weight
This netbook measures 10.2 x 7.28 x 1.31 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 2.95 pounds.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Acer Aspire One notebook PC (AOA150-1635), rechargeable 6-cell lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase.

Product Details

  • The 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270 Processor combines performance, power and efficiency to explore the Internet and stay connected while mobile.
  • 6-cell battery provides up to 6 1/2 hours of battery life for extended use and productivity when away from an AC outlet.
  • Windows XP Home with SP3 gives you the freedom to do what you want at home and at work - simply, reliably and more securely
  • 160GB Hard Drive, 1GB RAM, Integrated 802.11b/g Wi-Fi Certified
  • Acer Crystal Eye webcam delivers smooth video streaming and high quality images for your on-line chats and business video conferences

Available with Four Coulors on Amazon.com // Only $319.99

Antec Nine Hundred Steel ATX Ultimate Gamer PC Case (Black) Review



Introducing the Antec Nine Hundred hardcore gaming case. Now you can own any noob ever spawned with this ultra-mean case in classic black finish. We know your gaming hardware produces a lot of heat, that's why the case is built for maximum cool with a perforated front bezel, three 120mm fans with mounts for even more fans, and a monster top-mounted 200mm fan that's right, we said 200mm! The versatile Nine Hundred is maximally customizable to fit your needs. The modular design lets you modify the placement of the front fans and hard drive cages. There's even a tray on top for your mp3 player, digital camera, or that spare illudium Q-42 explosive space modulator that you have lying around. Be the envy of everyone at your next LAN party, impress your friends, and just generally show everyone that you are the ultimate master of all time with the Antec Nine Hundred!

Technical Details:
  • Unique Top mounted 200mm TriCool exhaust fan to cool the hottest system
  • Perforated front bezel for maximum air intake
  • Two front loaded HDD cages for up to 6 hard disk drives
  • The HDD cages act as air ducts to take air in more efficiently. Optional middle 120mm fan bracket to cool the hottest graphic cards or CPU
  • Two 120mm TriCool blue LED front fans to cool hard disk drives
  • Product Dimensions: 18.4 x 8.1 x 19.4 inches ; 24 pounds

http://blog.800hightech.com/wp-content/uploads/antec300-case.jpg

More info Available on
Amazon.com // $110.51

Compaq Presario CQ60-410US 15.6-Inch Laptop Review

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

The Compaq Presario CQ60 series Notebook PC redefines simplicity with thin lines, an iconic touchpad design and sleek touch control panel. Glossy black Imprint finish encases the form and is more durable than traditional painted surfaces. A silver panel covers the palm rest and touch pad area for clean contrast. HP’s Notebook Design Group has been recognized by distinguished design institutions: International CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards; iF International Forum Design Award; Industrial Design Excellence Awards; ID Magazine Annual Review; Good Design Awards.

SIMPLY SECURE
Compaq Presario notebook PCs are designed with the features and power you need to get the most from Windows Vista®(1). The result is intuitive system controls, powerful search and organization tools and more security when you go online. In addition, each PC includes 60 days of Norton Internet Security 2008 (with the option to extend) for PC and identity protection when you email, bank and shop online.

Technical Details

  • Intel Celeron Processor 900 (2.2GHz), NVIDIA GeForce 8200M with up to 895MB total graphics memory
  • 2 GB DDR2 RAM (2 Dimm) (4 GB Maximum)
  • 160GB (5400RPM) Hard Drive (SATA), SuperMulti 8X DVD±R/RW with LightScribe and Double Layer Support
  • Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium 32-bit edition with Service Pack 1
  • 15.6 inch Diagonal High Definition HP BrightView Display (1366x768)
Available on Amazon.com // $429.99 Only!!

Toshiba Satellite A505-S6973 16.0-Inch Laptop Review


This Toshiba Satellite A505-S6973 laptop weighs in at 6.48 pounds and sports a widescreen TruBrite high definition edge to edge LED-backlit display with a 1366 x 768 resolution.

The A505-S6973 comes with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium and offers Draft-N Wi-Fi networking for a greater range and speed, as well as being backwards compatible with a, b and g networks.


Some specs for this model include Harman Kardon stereo speakers, 500GB SATA hard drive, 2.1 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6500 processor, 4GB of 800MHz RAM, a Sleep-and-Charge USB port and a touchpad with multitouch control.

Available on Amazon.com / $649.99

Compaq CQ2009F Desktop PC Review

Tuesday, August 4, 2009


  • Desktop PC with 1.60GHz Intel Atom Processor 230 with 512KB L2 Cache
  • 1GB PC2-4200 DDR2 SDRAM Memory
  • 160GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive, SuperMulti DVD Burner
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
  • Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 with 64MB Dedicated Graphics Memory





In this day and age, it is very difficult to find a computer with a Windows OS that is not a Vista. Many PC users all over the world dislike Vista for its many bugs and prefer to use the older, more reliable Windows XP. The Compaq CQ2009F is one of the few new PCs that actually comes with Windows XP as its default OS. It is not very fancy, but it gets the job done. It is ready to go almost immediately after you take it out of the box.

The Compaq CQ2009F is also built to be small and unobtrusive, so you can neatly fit it into small spaces without taking up much valuable real estate on your already crowded workspace. It is built to be highly efficient, and it is Energy Star certified (an international certification for energy efficient electronics). It also comes with a DVD drive/burner.

Think of the Compaq CQ2009F as an over-sized netbook. If you keep your expectations real, and if you are looking for a computer for simple computing needs, you won't be disappointed with this desktop. This model runs on a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor and 1GB of RAM. It also comes with a 160GB hard drive. As you can see from the specs, this desktop is designed for light PC users. This unit measures at 10.7 x 9.7 x 4.4 inches and weighs in at only 8.2 lbs. If you are in the market for a simple desktop for sending e-mails, surfing the internet and simple word processing, the Compaq CQ2009F may be just the right PC for you.

Available on Amazon.com for $269.99 only!!!! what are you waiting for?

EVGA 01G-P3-N945-LR GeForce 9400 GT 1GB DDR2 PCI-E 2.0 Graphics Card Review


Nvidia has updated its entry offerings in the consumer graphics market Tuesday with the new GeForce 9400 GT, which should replace last generation’s GeForce 8500 GT

With the 16 processor cores clocked at 1400 MHz, a graphics clock of 550 MHz, 512 MB of memory clocked at 400 MHz, and with a 128-bit Memory Interface Width, Nvidia claims its new GeForce 9400 GT to be twice as fast as the comparable 8 series graphics card. Manufacturing partners may of course deviate from the these reference specifications with their own offerings, including alternative cooling solutions.

While the new GeForce 9400 GT may not appeal to those looking for a serious gaming solution, considering the suggested retail price of $59, it does bring good value to those looking for an alternative to integrated graphics. The graphics card does support DirectX 10, OpenGL 2.1, CUDA general-purpose parallel computing, and hardware HD video acceleration, making it a great solution for speeding up the Windows Aero interface, Folding@Home computing, watching HD movies and more.

Early reviews of the GeForce 9400 GT online show it to be an excellent overclocker, yet not an ideal solution for dedicated gaming. With gaming performance of about half that of the GeForce 9500 GT, the GeForce 9400 GT struggles with modern graphically intensive games. Versions offering a passive cooling solutions could make for an excellent choice in a spacious HTPC, however.

Current competition based on similar prices for the GeForce 9400 GT will include the ATI Radeon HD 3650, Radeon HD 2600XT, Radeon X1650PRO and GeForce 8600 GT.


Available on Amazon.com for $58.74 Only!!!!!!!!!!

Apple iMac MB418LL/A 24-Inch Desktop Review


Technical Details
  • 20" : 2.66GHz - 20" 1680 by 1050 pixels, 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 2GB DDR3 1066MHz memory, 320GB 7200rpm SATA HDD, Nvidia GeForce 9400M (shared memory).
  • 24" : 2.66GHz - 24" 1920 x 1200 pixels, 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 4GB DDR3 1066MHz memory, 640GB 7200rpm SATA HDD, Nvidia GeForce 9400M (shared memory).
  • 24" : 2.93GHz - 24" 1920 x 1200 pixels, 2.93GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 4GB DDR3 1066MHz memory, 640GB 7200rpm SATA HDD, Nvidia GeForce GT 120 (256MB dedicated memory.
  • 24" : 3.06GHz - 24" 1920 x 1200 pixels, 3.06GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 4GB DDR3 1066MHz memory, 1TB 7200rpm SATA HDD, Nvidia GeForce GT 130 (512MB dedicated memory).




The Apple iMac MB418LL/A 24- inch desktop is unique in design. Unlike the conventional desktop designs that we have got used to, the iMac's casing is made from a single piece of aluminum. The monitor, DVD drive, RAM, CPU, hard drive, graphic card and sound card are all bundle into one, like all all-in-one desktops. This gives the whole unit a simple and neat appearance. Another neat features it the ultra-thin aluminum keyboard. It compliments the screen perfectly.

This Apple iMac MB418LL/A 24-inch desktop has a 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor. It also gets a boost in video processing power from the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics chip with 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory. What got me interested in it is the whopping 640GB hard drive. That is so much storage that someone like me would never be able to fully utilize it, even after a coupe of years of use. Besides that it also has 4 GB of RAM (with an 8 GB maximum capacity), a 8x SuperDrive for burning movies to DVD and music mixes to CD, integrated 802.11n wireless LAN, Gigabit Ethernet wired networking, and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR connectivity.

Another great selling point is that the Apple iMac MB418LL/A 24- inch desktop is quite environmental friendly. The engineers and designers did their part by removing toxins found in computers and through the use of arsenic-free display glass for the screen. The iMac is also by far one of the most user-friendly computers around. Some f the other features that makes this iMac worthwhile aside from its pricey price tag is the whopping storage space, speed, sizzling graphics and gorgeous design. If you have the cash to spare, and you are in the market for a high-end, stylish desktop, I would definitely recommend the Apple iMac MB418LL/A 24- inch desktop.


Available on Amazon.com for $1,439.00

Acer AS5738Z-4372 15.6-Inch Laptop Review

Monday, August 3, 2009

Acer AS5738Z-4372 Notebook comes with these specs: Intel® Pentium® Mobile Processor T4200, Windows Vista® Home Premium 64-bit with Service Pack 1, 15.6" HD Acer CrystalCrystal¿ LED-backlit Display, Mobile Intel® GL40 Express Chipset, 4096MB DDR2 667 MHz Dual Channel Memory, Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 4500M, 250GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive, 8X DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer Drive, Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader, 802.11b/g/Draft-N Wi-Fi CERTIFIED®, Dolby®optimized Surround Sound System, Integrated Acer Crystal Eye Webcam, 4 - USB 2.0 Ports, 1 - HDMI Port, Convenience Buttons- Multi-gesture Touchpad, Acer PowerSmart Technology, Acer Backup Manager, Touchpad-lock, 6-Cell Lithium-Ion (4400 mAh), 6.16 lbs. | 2.8 kg. (system unit only), AC Power Adapter, AC Power Cord, Wireless Setup Card, Registration/ Limited Warranty Card, McAfee® Internet Security Suite Trial (60-day trial)..

the Good:

1. Powerful Laptop... Dual Core is a must for seamless multi-tasking, audio/video editing, high def movies, etc. Not only do you get that, but it comes with a 64bit operating system with 4GB DDR3 (not DDR2 as listed) so you are utilizing that much more of the laptops power.

2. Free Windows 7 upgrade... This is very important as Windows 7 is better than Vista in every way. Just go to acer's free upgrade website, type in you info, and your done.

3. The screen... The LED crystal display is amazing. It will be hard going back to LCD screens after looking at this one for a few hours. Everything you look at on this screen from the video to the webpages feel like its truly High Def quality. The screen is bright and wide (16:9 Video) with 1366x768 ( normal max 1280x768) resolution. Just wait until you see it in person.

4. Nice features... The inclusion of a hdmi port, internal wireless n card, above average webcam, and internal mic adds that much more value compared to most laptops in the $499.99 price range.

5. The Bad isn't that bad.... None of the bad things that I listed takes away from all the things you will accomplish with the laptop once you get into using it.

Overall, this laptop is superior to others in this price range easily. Dual core, 64bit OS, and 4 GB DDR3 Ram alone is enough for other companies to charge $600+ for this laptop. This laptop really is worth that, but you get it for less.

The Bad:

1. You have to make your own recovery cd. Must be a way companies are cutting cost. You will reminded by notification to make the cd.

2. Old Drivers... One of the 1st things I had to do was install new audio and wireless adapter drivers. Go to realtek and atheros websites and download their drivers. I did this because the internet connection was dropping and whenever I played audio and hit any button on the keyboard the audio would skip. Installing the latest drivers corrected these issues.

3. Touch Pad... The touch pad just feels awkward at first. If more than one finger/body part touches the pad I always end up zooming the screen, not being able to highlight correctly, or directing the cursor accurately. And because of the position of the pad my palm seems to always do some undesired action. I had to play around with the Synaptics mouse pad settings to find settings and features that I could live with.

4. The speakers... They are ok speakers at best. Don't be fooled by the Dolby Optimized Surround Sound System that it says it comes with. Once you turn the volume up past a certain level the quality declines greatly and may even make irritating static noise.

5. Bloatware... I spent about a hour removing useless apps. Has a lot of them.

Available on Amazon.com for $499.99

D-Link DIR-655 Extreme N Wireless Router Review

Today we are going to check out the D-Link Xtreme N Gigabit router (DIR-655) - a draft 802.11n compliant device that delivers up to 14x faster speeds and 6x farther range than 802.11g. A great choice for a small office due to its network security options, QoS, and remote administration tools. Read more in our review..

The D-Link DIR-655 router comes from the top-end Xtreme N family that features increased performance. As a matter of fact, the DIR-655 is the senior model in this family and quite deservedly so. Besides supporting a high-speed WLAN, the DIR-655 is equipped with a USB port, wired Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, and advanced QoS setup options.

The manufacturer claims this product to be the best in its class. I will check out this claim right now.

Specifications and Accessories Bundle

I got a model with a hardware version of A2. Here are its specs:



Parameter

Characteristics

Wireless standard

- IEEE 802.11b/g
- IEEE 802.11n (draft)

Encoding standard

- WEP (64/128bit)
- WPA (TKIP, AES)
- WPA2 (TKIP, AES)

Antenna

- 3 external dipole antennas

Signal modulation

- OFDM
- CCK
- DQPSK
- DBPSK

Operating frequency

- 2.4 - 2.5 GHz

Nominal data transfer rate

- 802.11n (draft): up to 300Mbps
- 802.11g: 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 54Mbps
- 802.11b: 1, 2, 5.5, 11Mbps

Operating channels

11 for North America, 14 Japan,
13 Europe (ETSI), 3 (non-overlapping)

WAN

1 RJ-45 GigabitEthernet 10/100/1000Mb/s port
with auto crossover

LAN

4 RJ-45 GigabitEthernet 10/100/1000Mb/s ports
with auto crossover

Other interfaces

1 USB2.0 port (“Windows Connect Now”)

Power

External power supply unit

Dimensions

117 x193 x 30.5 mm

Additional features

- Supports D-Link NetworkMagic
-WiFi certified
- Intelligent QoS Engine


The box contains:

  • DIR-655 router
  • Stand for vertical placement
  • Fasteners for wall-mounting the router
  • Rubber pads for the stand
  • Category 5 Ethernet cable
  • CD with documentation
  • External power adapter (12V, 2A)

Available on Amazon.com for $94.95 (New)

Linksys WRT54G2 Wireless-G Broadband Router Review


If you don't need a fast, draft-n wireless network, the Linksys WRT54G2 is one of the best options on the market. This is mainly because it's so easy to set up, is a reliable performer, and comes with the convenient LELA configuration and monitoring utility. Plus, it looks good: it's black, sleek, and doesn't have any protruding antennas.

To set-up the router, you can either use the supplied software on the CD-ROM – LELA (Linksys EasyLink Advisor) – or just log-in to it via your browser. The second option is the quickest, but if you're not too comfortable with setting up a network, the CD-ROM option is recommended, even though it can take a few minutes for the configuration process to finish.

Unlike most current routers, the WRT54G2 wasn't able to detect our PPPoE connection automatically. We had to select it manually. This was the only blemish of the otherwise easy-to-follow set-up interface. After the Internet settings were entered, it then guided us through selecting the wireless network name and security settings.

Upon completing the wireless set-up, the LELA interface was installed, which provides a nice visual representation of your network. It shows you all the computers and network devices that are attached to your network, and even lets you identify and track intruders. Furthermore, you can log-in to your router and other devices' Web interface pages just by clicking on their icons and selecting 'Advanced Settings'.

Being an 802.11g router, it doesn't have ample bandwidth for network multitasking. You can either use it for streaming video to a single computer, or for transferring data to a single computer, but you can't use it to do both tasks simultaneously without one task taking a massive hit in performance. The router streamed a DivX-encoded movie effectively to our Netgear Digital Entertainer HD EVA8000, and it also streamed video to the EVA8000 without stuttering while also transferring data to a notebook PC.

However, performing that data transfer while streaming a movie meant that the data transfer was very slow – 1.49MBps. This suggests that the router is fast enough to allow an ADSL2+ connection up to 11Mbps to be used at its full speed while someone in another room is streaming a video.

While conducting a file transfer without any other activity on the wireless network, the WRT54G2 averaged 2.33MBps. This speed isn't fast enough to effectively distribute a very fast ADSL2+ connection, so if you currently get over 17Mbps from your Internet connection, you will greatly benefit from an 802.11 draft-n router.

As you can see from our performance results, if you only want a simple router that will distribute an Internet connection up to 11Mbps to a wireless laptop, and maybe stream the odd video to another wireless device at the same time, then the WRT54G2 will suffice. If you want to do more than that, or if you want a router that will be shared among more than two people, then you should look for an 802.11 draft-n product instead, such as the Linksys WRT160n, which also comes with LELA.

It's also important to note that the performance results we obtained were from a radius of 10m. The further the data has to be transmitted (and depending on the environment it's transmitted in) the slower the results will be.

Of course, apart from its wireless capability, the WRT54G2 has a four-port, 10/100 Ethernet switch, a built-in firewall with URL and keyword filtering, VPN passthrough for IPSec, PPTP and L2TP protocols, and port-forwarding and DMZ capabilities.

Available on Amazon.com for $23.09 (64 Used & New)

GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX Intel Motherboard rEVIEW


Manufacturer Product Page: Giga-Byte Technology Co., Ltd.
Manufacturer's Part Number: GA-EP45-UD3P
Warranty: 3 year limited warranty (First 2 years parts & labor, 3rd year parts only)

When the Intel P45 Express chipset was first released back in June, many were not entirely convinced that it would be successful. The P35 Express chipset was mature and popular among the mainstream crowd, and those seeking proper CrossFire implementations had potent X38/X48 Express motherboards to choose from. To make matters worse, with the next-generation Nehalem platform appearing on the horizon, why would consumers bother to invest in a brand new chipset that had much of the same functionality as its predecessor?

Well fast forward to the present day and it is quite apparent that those concerns were completely unfounded. Not only are P45 motherboards flying off the shelves, but motherboard manufacturers have embraced this new chipset in an unprecedented manner, with over 90 different models available at last count. The reasons for this popularity are numerous; the release of the impressive Radeon HD 4800 series led to an increase in people seeking CrossFire-capable motherboards; Intel’s aggressive price cuts made the 45nm Core 2 Duo processors an irresistible upgrade choice; the P45’s unparalleled front-side bus and memory overclocking capabilities led many serious overclockers to shelve their higher-end X38/X48 motherboards in favor of over-achieving mainstream models.

Today we will be reviewing the most fully-featured model in the current Ultra Durable 3 lineup, the EP45-UD3P. This model can be distinguished from the other two UD3 motherboards by its two mechanical PCI-E x16 slots which operate in x8 electrical mode when Crossfire is used. Now CrossFire support is great, but it is quite ubiquitous among P45 motherboards. Therefore, Gigabyte have wisely chosen to outfit this model with a few truly unique features, namely native support for DDR2-1366+ memory speeds, a new cooling system, an integrated TPM data encryption chip, two PCI-E Gigabit LAN controllers, an abundance of connectivity options, Dynamic Energy Saver Advanced, and the innovative Ultra Durable 3 technology.

Available on Amazon.com for $109.99

Apple MacBook MC240LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop Review


MacBook has everything you need to do everything you want, Faster than ever, it features a 2.13GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor and 2GB of memory, so you’ll have more than enough horsepower to get the job done.

Stylishly and intelligently designed for your on-the-go digital lifestyle, Apple’s MacBook is the perfect confluence of affordability, innovation, and powerful computing. This latest iteration of the affordable “white” MacBook line (model MC240LL/A) gets a boost in processing power thanks to the 2.13 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor as well as storage space with a 160 GB hard drive–plenty of room for music, photos, videos, and more.

As a 13.3″ laptop, MacBook MC240LL/A is best for travelers and college students, it is very convenient to bring with you. So you can bring it wherever you go.

Apple MacBook MC240LL/A features a 13.3-inch glossy widescreen display, excellent video processing power from the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics chip, 2 GB of installed RAM (with a 4 GB maximum capacity), and an integrated 802.11n Wi-Fi LAN that provides compatibility with older 802.11b/g routers as well as the faster throughput of Apple’s Airport Extreme. It also includes an 8x combo Superdrive for burning dual-layer DVDs as well as CDs. With such advanced configurations, you can use it to do all your daily tasks without any problem.

What impressed most is the weight of MacBook, yeah, it is very amazing. Measuring a mere 1.08 inches thin and weighing in at only 5.0 pounds, the MacBook cuts a slim profile on any desk (or in any backpack or briefcase). A durable polycarbonate shell in white keeps it ready for the rough and tumble of everyday life. It also offers a unique keyboard design that sits flush against the bed for a sleeker, lower profile–which means you experience a firm, responsive touch when typing. So how can’t you love it like crazy?

Apple MacBook MC240LL/A laptop comes with loads of fantastic features, let’s take a look.

Features:

  • Slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW): Writes DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL discs at up to 4x speed, writes DVD-R and DVD+R discs at up to 8x speed, writes DVD±RW discs at up to 4x speed; writes CD-R and CD-RW discs at up to 24x speed; reads DVDs at up to 8x speed; reads CDs at up to 24x speed
  • Mini-DVI port for video output (VGA adapter and mini-DVI to DVI adapter sold separately)
  • Built-in stereo speakers and omnidirectional microphone
  • Combined optical digital audio input/audio line in
  • Combined optical digital audio output/headphone out
  • Two USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 400 port
  • Built-in full-size keyboard with 78 (U.S.) or 79 (ISO) keys, including 12 function keys, 4 arrow keys (inverted “T” arrangement), and embedded numeric keypad
  • Solid-state scrolling trackpad for precise cursor control; supports two-finger scrolling, tap, double-tap, and drag capabilities
  • Kensington cable lock slot
  • Meets ENERGY STAR requirements
  • Measures 12.78 x 8.92 x 1.08 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 5 pounds

These are just some of the features this laptop has, it also has many other wonderful features, you can find them out by yourself.

Specifications:

  • 2.13 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor.
  • 2 GB of 800MHz DDR2 RAM.
  • 160 GB 5400RPM Hard Drive, DVD/CD SuperDrive.
  • Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard Operating System.
  • Advanced GeForce 9400M NVidia Graphics, 13.3 Inch Glossy Display.
Available on Amazon.com for $994.00

Apple MacBook Pro MB990LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop


The good news is, you Apple fans now have another good choice, yeah, it is what we are going to introduce, that is, Apple MacBook Pro MB990LL/A, which has become a bestselling laptop rapidly since it was released days ago on Amazon.com As such a popular laptop, there must be something amazing, let’s find out together.

Apple MacBook Pro MB990LL/A is a 13.3″ laptop with an integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics, 160GB hard drive, 2GB DDR3 RAM and a 2.26 GHz Core 2 Duo processor. With such configurations, we can use it to do our daily task without any problem.

Featuring a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, the MacBook Pro is thinner and lighter than its predecessor as well as stronger and more durable. But Apple didn’t stop innovating with the body’s design. The MacBook Pro also includes a new 13-inch, LED-backlit glass display (instead of an LCD panel) as well as a glass trackpad that doesn’t include a button (for larger tracking area) that features Apple’s Multi-Touch technology.

What’s more, this 13-inch MacBook Pro (model MB990LL/A) also now includes Apple’s innovative built-in notebook battery for up to 7 hours of wireless productivity on a single charge without adding thickness, weight or cost. Using Adaptive Charging and advanced chemistry first introduced with the 17-inch MacBook Pro the built-in battery delivers up to 1000 recharges before it reaches 80 percent of its original capacity–nearly three times the lifespan of conventional batteries. Now you know why so many people are crazy about it.

As a 13.3-inch laptop, MacBook Pro MB990LL/A is best for students, especially college students, it is fashionable and smart, it would be wonderful to bring it to the classroom!

MacBook Pro MB990LL/A comes with loads of wonderful features, let’s take a look.

Features:

The Unibody MacBook Pro Design
Traditionally notebooks are made from multiple parts. With the MacBook Pro all of those parts with just one part–the breakthrough unibody enclosure.

Long-Lasting Battery
The 13-inch MacBook Pro now includes a newly engineered lithium-polymer battery that that lasts up to 7 hours on a single charge thanks to advanced chemistry, intelligent monitoring of the system and battery, and Adaptive Charging technology.

Intel Core 2 Duo Processor
Experience improved energy efficiency, expanded wireless connectivity, and amazing battery life with the 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, which has a super-fast 1066 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and an large 3 MB L2 cache.

Video Processing & Output
The MacBook Pro delivers both powerful graphics performance and long battery life via the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics processor, which provides an outstanding everyday graphics experience with up to a 5x performance boost.

Video Conferencing with Built-in iSight
Artfully placed in the glass display is an iSight camera, which enables easy video conferencing as well as allows you to snap pictures of yourself and create video podcasts.

These are just the main features, it also has many other cool features.

Additional Features:

  • Two USB 2.0 ports (up to 480 Mbps), one FireWire 800 (up to 800 Mbps), SD card slot
  • Mini DisplayPort compatible with DVI, VGA, and dual-link DVI connectors (all optional)
  • Dual display and video mirroring: Simultaneously supports full native resolution on the built-in display and up to 2560 by 1600 pixels on an external display, both at millions of colors
  • 8x slot-loading SuperDrive with the following write speeds: 8x DVD±R; 4x DVD±R DL (double layer); 4x DVD±RW; 24x CD-R; 10x CD-RW
  • Built-in full-size backlit keyboard with 78 (U.S.) or 79 (ISO) keys, including 12 function keys and 4 arrow keys (inverted “T” arrangement)
  • Internal omnidirectional microphone and built-in speakers
  • Combined optical digital output/headphone out with selectable analog audio line in (minijack)
  • Kensington lock slot
  • Measures 12.78 x 8.94 x 0.95 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 4.5 pounds (including battery)

With so many amazing features, how can’t people love it so much?

Specs:

  • 2.26 GHz Core 2 Duo Processor.
  • 2 GB DDR3 RAM.
  • 160 GB Hard Drive, DVD/CD SuperDrive.
  • Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard operating system.
  • 13.3 inch LED Display, NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics.



Available on Amazon.com for $1,194.00 ONLY!!!

AMD Phenom II X4 955 HDZ955FBGIBOX 3.2 GHz, 6 MB L3, 125W Processor Review

AMD Phenom x4 955 BE

Introduction

There are many essential components to every computer – some perhaps are less important i.e. sound cards etc – but most are vital. One such component which the entire system depends on is the CPU; basically the CPU is the “heart” of the computer. But it is more than that, it is the component which performs programmed instructions, performs arithmetic and controls data input/output functions.

About AMD

AMD is the customer-centric innovation company, a processing powerhouse that offers smarter choices for its customers and makes technology more accessible to the world. AMD is focused on best meeting the needs of leading computing, wireless and consumer electronics companies to help them deliver high-performance, energy-efficient and visually realistic solutions.


Phenom Series Specs:



Phenom II 955 Black Edition Specs:


Processor

AMD Phenom™ II X4

Model

955

OPN Tray

HDZ955FBK4DGI

OPN PIB

HDZ955FBGIBOX

Operating Mode 32 Bit

Yes

Operating Mode 64 Bit

Yes

Revision

C2

Core Speed (MHz)

3200

Voltages

0.875-1.5V

Max Temps (C)

62’C

Wattage

125 W

L1 Cache Size (KB)

128

L1 Cache Count

4

L2 Cache Size (KB)

512

L2 Cache Count

4

L3 Cache Size (KB)

6144 (shared)

CMOS

45nm SOI

Socket

AM3

AMD Business Class

No

Black Edition

Yes



Available on Amazon.com for $209.99


Intel Core i7 920,, 940 And 965 (Extreme Edition) review



Today marks the release of Intel's latest and greatest processor architecture to date. For the past two years Intel has dominated the CPU market with their Core 2 Processor reaping havoc on AMD's Athlon and Phenom products. Yet despite of this significant dominance, Intel will be pushing the Core 2 aside and make room for the new Core i7 processor series.

When you consider that the Pentium 4 lived on for roughly four years, it'd seem almost criminal to be axing the Core 2’s lead so early, especially considering the success that the Core 2 has been. While the Pentium 4 often played second best to AMD's Athlon64 range, today AMD is finding itself in hot water, and we can't even begin to imagine what will happen now with the Core i7 introduction taking place today.

It's becoming quite evident that Intel is enjoying being on top of their game, and the Core i7 should ensure that they stay this way for some time to come.

Today we will be introducing you to three new Core i7 processors based on the new Intel Nehalem microarchitecture, each featuring 4-cores and operating in the 2.66 to 3.20GHz range. Like the Core 2 family, these new processors feature model numbers, designed to keep things simple.

Initially Intel is releasing just three processors, one of which is an Extreme Edition version.

The Core i7 965 Extreme Edition runs at 3.20GHz and features a QPI (QuickPath Interface) throughput of 6.4GT/s, which is the key difference here. The mainstream versions of the processor include the Core i7 920 and 940, clocked at 2.66GHz and 2.93GHz, respectively. These more affordable processors feature a QPI throughput of just 4.8GT/s, so it will be interesting to discover what kind of impact this has on performance.

As we move along, we will detail some interesting new concepts introduced on the Core i7's Nehalem architecture, talk about the future of this platform, how it performs today (a.k.a. the benchmark galore), only to close up with some preliminary overclocking findings and initial pricing.


The Core i7 920 is available on Amazon.com for $279.99 (New)