"hp vs. Dell" who win?

HP ordered to repair defective Pavilion Elite desktop PCs

2012-01-30T13:47:00.000+02:00

Summary: Do you own a high-end Pavilion Elite desktop PC from HP? If it’s suffered from blue screens or lockups, you might qualify for a free replacement, thanks to a court-ordered settlement now underway. But hurry, the clock runs out on March 1, 2012.

I recently retired an HP Pavilion Elite m9600t desktop computer.

Well, “retired” might not be the right word, exactly. Over a period of a few weeks, this once-mighty i7-powered machine had begun failing and stalling, with sudden shutdowns and unexplained lockups, until one day it refused to power up at all. Thankfully, I had had plenty of warning and had migrated the data from this machine so that I could replace it quickly.

All the symptoms pointed to a catastrophic motherboard failure, and because the system was out of warranty I was ready to throw it away. It was literally in the garage, one step away from being carted off to the electronics recycling center.

And then I stumbled across this page:

Limited Warranty Service Enhancement Program for HP Pavilion Elite Desktop Model Numbers e9150t, e9180f, e9180t, m9600t, m9650f, e9280f, e9280t, and e9290f
Pursuant to a court-approved class action settlement, HP is implementing a 90-day Limited Warranty Service Enhancement Program (“LWSEP”) for owners of HP Pavilion Elite Desktop Model Numbers e9150t, e9180f, e9180t, m9600t, m9650f, e9280f, e9280t, and e9290f that were purchased, leased, received as a gift or otherwise acquired in the United States (the “Program Models”). During the LWSEP, owners of the Program Models whose original HP Limited Warranty has expired and who have experienced or who, during the LWSEP period, experience a Lockup Failure or Blue Screen Failure (both of which are defined below) can receive, at no cost to them, a motherboard replacement by contacting HP on or before March 1, 2012. Owners whose Program Model is still covered by HP’s Limited Warranty can receive any necessary repair (including any necessary motherboard replacement) free of charge pursuant to that warranty.

There’s no revision date on the page, but an HP support announcement suggests that this 90-day program began on December 1, 2011, which would explain the March 1, 2012, end date.

I called, spoke to a polite support rep, read off the model and serial numbers, and confirmed that the PC is eligible for a free repair. HP is sending me a shipping box and a prepaid return label. The motherboard replacement and return shipping are on them, too, so I won’t be out of pocket a penny.

If you own one of the potentially defective units, check the Program Notice to see if you’re eligible for a free replacement motherboard.

hp 27" all-in-one PC Omni 27 (Photo Gallery)

2012-01-24T13:26:00.000+02:00

hp Omni 27

HP Envy 14 Spectre (Photo Gallery)

2012-01-24T12:27:00.000+02:00

hp Envy 14 Spectre (photos)

hp Envy 14 Spectre (left side view- power port - multimedia controller)

hp Envy 14 Spectre (left side view- power port)

hp Envy 14 Spectre (Left side view- very nice laptop)

hp Envy 14 Spectre (from above- adorable design)

hp Envy 14 Spectre (keyboard)

hp Envy 14 Spectre (multimedia control keys)

hp Envy 14 Spectre (right side view - USB , HDMI , audio, Ethernet ports)

hp Envy 14 Spectre ( smooth sensitive Touchpad)

hp Envy 14 Spectre

hp Envy 14 Spectre (Nice Design)

hp Envy 14 Spectre

Android port for HP TouchPad one step closer

2012-01-24T11:58:00.000+02:00

Summary: Bringing new life to your otherwise defunct tablet.

Got an HP TouchPad and desperate to get Android up and running on it? Well, this should bring a smile to your face.

The CyanogenMod team have been working hard to bring you Android on your otherwise defunct tablet, and it seems that they’re getting close. The alpha 1 and 2 builds of CM7 were pretty buggy on the platform, but it seems that the upcoming CM9 release will make things a lot better.According to the team everything except the camera and video playback works and they’re ‘well on their way in terms of progress, and hope to give you something to play with soon.’

Check out the video:

Killer Windows 8 tablet design: Bring back the HP tc1100

2012-01-24T11:54:00.000+02:00

Summary: We are already seeing tablets with keyboard docks, but none as practical as the HP tc1100 hybrid design from years past. Let’s bring it back with Windows 8.

Tablets are here to stay no matter how you feel about them, and Windows 8 tablets will be appearing en masse later this year. We’re already starting to see the return of the convertible notebook, with several models displayed at the CES that have the tablet screen slip down on top of the keyboard for dual duty as both a tablet and a laptop. Rather than revisit the convertible notebook that yields a heavy, thick tablet, I’d like to see the rebirth of the hybrid HP tc1100 with the detachable keyboard.

I used a tc1100 for several years as my Tablet PC, and the detachable screen let me use the tablet in as light a form as possible for the time. The keyboard with its innovative hinge let me have a laptop equivalent as needed, without adding excessive weight to the gear bag. It wasn’t a thin and light solution as the tablet was thick and heavy by today’s standards.

A hybrid design using today’s hardware would be outstanding, and I believe it would be a popular for those needing a Windows tablet. Imagine a thin, one pound slate like the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, with a light keyboard that could be attached when needed. The whole enchilada would be less than half an inch thick with the keyboard attached, and weigh maybe two pounds. This is entering the territory where you could leave the keyboard attached even while using it as a tablet with little penalty.

Look at the photo of the tc1100, and you can’t help but appreciate the design of the keyboard unit. The screen of the tc1100 was a bit smaller than the widescreen display of today’s 10.1-inch tablets, so the keyboard unit could be a little wider for an even more comfortable typing experience. Note the keys on the keyboard and you appreciate how thin it is while remaining as good as those bulky laptop docks.

The tc1100 tablet was thick and heavy (over 3 pounds), and this created an engineering challenge for the hybrid design. The keyboard needed to be thin and light, yet it needed to support the bulk and weight of the tablet in a variety of configurations. This challenge largely goes away with a tablet as light as the Galaxy Tab, so I believe HP or another OEM could make this design pretty easily.

Tablets available today are using a full keyboard dock, complete with second battery, and while that turns the tablet into more of a laptop than the hybrid solution I want it comes with a penalty in weight and bulk.

I have no problem carrying an iPad 2 with a light keyboard case, and this hybrid would weigh about the same and take up the same space in the bag. It would turn the Windows 8 tablet into a real laptop running Windows, and that would be appealing to both the enterprise and consumers.

HP could produce my hybrid using the same technology from the tc1100. It could use either an Intel tablet, or better an ARM-based tablet to keep the battery life and weight down. The lack of a battery in the keyboard unit would prohibit using a trackpad, but that should be OK with the touch screen tablet. It’s just as precise to manipulate the screen directly, and the arrow keys on the keyboard add precision when needed. The trackstick on the tc1100 keyboard functioned flawlessly, and would work just fine.

I would buy one of these hybrid tablets and keyboards in a heartbeat. How about you?

CES 2012: HP Envy 14 Spectre is a $1,400 Ultrabook built from glass

2012-01-23T12:07:00.001+02:00

Summary: Amid a sea of lower-priced Ultrabooks that Intel hopes will turn the laptop platform into a mainstream success floats HP’s new Envy 14 Spectre, which is certainly not a run-of-the-mill anything. Its most notable feature is a glass-based chassis, — yes, glass — that is scratch-resistant and lightweight enough to still weigh under 4 [...]

Amid a sea of lower-priced Ultrabooks that Intel hopes will turn the laptop platform into a mainstream success floats HP’s new Envy 14 Spectre, which is certainly not a run-of-the-mill anything. Its most notable feature is a glass-based chassis, — yes, glass — that is scratch-resistant and lightweight enough to still weigh under 4 pounds.
The Envy 14 Spectre also manages to squeeze a 14-inch display into the 13.3-inch chassis, and includes such amenities as a multi-touch-enabled touchpad, Beats Audio, and a HP Radiance backlit keyboard that lights up when you approach it. According to Engadget, it evens comes with a built-in NFC chip that can be paired with an Android phone for very close-range communication.
Inside the Spectre, HP promises Intel Core i5 and i7 processor options, either 4GB or 8GB of RAM, and 128GB or 256GB solid state storage, though no Thunderbolt port like on the Acer Aspire S5. The company claims up to 9 hours of battery life, though expect less in the real world.
As you might guess, anything this striking will not come cheap. HP plans to sell the Envy 14 Spectre starting at a hefty $1,400 on February 8 (though you can reserve one now on the HP website). You do get a dedicated tech support line for Envy customers, at least.

Read also:

Dell XPS 13 (photo gallery)

CES 2012: Dell announces $999 XPS 13 Ultrabook

Dell XPS 13 (photo gallery)

2012-01-23T11:53:00.001+02:00

Dell XPS 13 Photos

Dell XPS 13 (Left side view)

Dell XPS 13 (glass glisture in up view)

Dell XPS 13 (smooth Keyboard & pad with 13" LED screen)

Dell XPS 13 (Right side view)

Dell XPS 13 (from right side)

Dell XPS 13 (From above showing smooth ivory back of device)

Add caption

Dell XPS 13 (smooth sensitive touchpad)

CES 2012: Dell announces $999 XPS 13 Ultrabook

2012-01-23T11:47:00.002+02:00

Summary: Now the big boys are getting into the Ultrabook act. Last night, HP unveiled its Envy 14 Spectre “premium” model, and today Dell has bowed with its Ultrabook debut. Dubbed the XPS 13 Ultrabook, it will start at the magical $999 price point when it goes on sale at the end of February. The 13.3-inch display

Now the big boys are getting into the Ultrabook act. Last night, HP unveiled its Envy 14 Spectre “premium” model, and today Dell has bowed with its Ultrabook debut. Dubbed the XPS 13 Ultrabook, it will start at the magical $999 price point when it goes on sale at the end of February.
The 13.3-inch display features Gorilla Glass, and Dell claims it has squeezed it into an 11-inch footprint. (The touchpad with multi-gesture support also uses glass.) The XPS 13 Ultrabook will come with either an Intel Core i5-2467M or Core i7-2637M processor, 4GB of RAM, Intel HD3000 integrated graphics, and an 128GB or 256GB solid state drive. The company says the system lasted 8 hours and 53 minutes on MobileMark 2007 with a 6-cell battery in its lab testing, though your mileage will certainly vary.
To sweeten the deal, Dell is offering US purchasers a year of both Accidental Damage Service and LoJack Theft Recovery Service. Corporate types can opt for add-ons like the Windows 7 Trusted Platform Module and ProSupport service.
Dell says you can reserve an XPS 13 Ultrabook right now, but as of this writing the link on the Direct2Dell blog is not working. Could there be some pent-up demand for a Dell Ultrabook — or just some poor website maintenance?

Read also:

Dell XPS 13 (photo gallery)

HP's $99 TouchPad fire sale 2.0: So much has changed

2011-12-31T13:23:00.000+02:00

Summary: The time between HP’s $99 TouchPad sales was less than four months, but the tablet market aftermath will be long-lasting.

Hewlett-Packard will kick off another $99 TouchPad sale via eBay. One catch is that these TouchPads are refurbished. The other catch is that the tablet market has completely changed since the first time HP had a TouchPad liquidation sale.
A bevy of folks are hot and heavy for the $99 TouchPad sale on eBay as outlined by TechCrunch, but the run this time will be nothing like the first go-round. Why? Tablets with actual ecosystems and apps are nearing the $199 mark. The funny thing is HP’s first TouchPad sale started the race to the bottom for tablets.

HP’s first fire sale in August was sheer bedlam. A tablet for $99! We all clicked and wasted hours trying to get one. Some of us were even dumb enough to go to Best Buy and look for one. The TouchPad looked like a screaming deal when all tablets were going for $499 and up.
We endured so much of this:

Microsoft VBScript compilation error ‘800a03e9′
Out of memory
/LM/W3SVC/600510919/Root/dStore/http://global.asa, line 0

After the TouchPad fire sale 1.0 ended it was clear that there was a new magic price for tablets. In fact, you almost feel silly for wanting a TouchPad the first time.
Enter Amazon’s Kindle Fire. At $199, the Kindle Fire is a tablet equivalent of the razor-razor blade model. Buy the tablet, Amazon takes a small loss and then makes it up on movies, music, e-books and apps. Now Research in Motion is taking hefty financial charges and playing the $199 game too. It has no choice.
Related: Great Debate: Are $200 tablets a game changer? | Great Debate: Kindle Fire or iPad: Which one should you buy?
The tablet market’s race to the bottom only took a few weeks.
So this Sunday, the second version of HP’s TouchPad fire sale will be almost nostalgic—at least in tech terms. HP blew up the tablet market and we’re on the way to an everyday price of $99 in the not-too-distant future. The time between $99 TouchPad sales was less than four months, but the aftermath will be long-lasting.

Dell slims notebook line with Inspiron 13z, 14z

2011-12-31T13:21:00.004+02:00

Summary: Dell’s newest Inspiron 13z and 14z notebooks are budget-minded consumer laptops that are both thin and capable.

Thinner. Lighter. The familiar drumbeat of laptop advancement continues with Dell’s latest offerings, the improved Inspiron 13z and 14z.

Both the 13z (denoting a 13.3-in. widescreen display) and 14z (14-in. display) are offered with your choice of an Intel i3 or i5 processor. Both displays are rated at 720p HD resolution.
At slightly less than an inch thick, the 14z isn’t as thin as it could be thanks to a tray-loading DVD combo drive. (One could only guess how much thinner the device could have been if Dell opted to include a slot-loaded drive — or remove the thing entirely. Does anyone still use these things?)
As for the 13z…well, you can’t buy it: it’s only available in “select Asian countries,” not North America. That’s a real shame, because with a design that eschews an optical drive and an option for a 128 GB solid state drive, the smaller “Z” model sounds a lot more compelling than its larger sibling.
But hey, at $599, the 14z is no slouch in the budget category.
[Dell Inspiron 14z]

Report: Lenovo is now No.2 PC maker; Dell says it doesn’t care

2011-12-31T13:15:00.001+02:00

Summary: Lenovo becomes the No.2 PC firm in global market share. Dell, which used to be No. 2, says it doesn’t care — because it’s a solution provider rather than a pure PC firm.

According to data from Gartner, HP remained the top dog in PC market share, Lenovo vaulted to No. 2 as its share rose from 11.1% to 13.5%, while Dell dropped to 3rd place as its share came down to 11.6%.

Yang Yuanqing, CEO of Lenovo, ascribes this increase to Lenovo’s long-term promise to PC customers. As a result, Lenovo got a bump in both consumer and commercial markets.
But Dell didn’t pay much attention to Lenovo’s getting ahead. In this week’s Dell World in Austin, Texas, Dell’s CEO Michael Dell told reporters: Lenovo may get a larger share in the PC market, but Dell is better at revenue and profit, at which Lenovo cannot catch up.

Michael Dell, CEO of DELL

Michael Dell says that Dell is not only a PC manufacturer but also a solutions company, which provides its customers with PC, storage, server, data center and cloud computing technology, etc.
However, both Lenovo and Dell are challenged by Apple’s competitiveness in mobile market.
In the coming months, to rise to the challenge, Lenovo will launch new products including a ThinkPad Tablet. By the end of this year, it will launch a second-generation LePhone- Phone S2.
Michael Dell says Dell is keen on the opportunities brought by Microsoft Windows 8 to Tablet PC. He stresses Dell will not give up in the PC market, “DELL is an end-to-end IT solution provider.”

Report: Dell's slim XPS 14z rises to challenge MacBook Pro

2011-12-31T12:54:00.001+02:00

Summary: With the 14z, it’s clear that Apple’s steller design tastes spreading to even Dell.

Apple’s MacBook is getting a lot of competition in recent months, and Dell is adding to it with its latest notebook, the XPS 14z.

The first thing you’ll notice about the 14z is its screen. By minimizing the 14z’s bezel, Dell managed to squeeze a 14-inch display into a 13-inch chassis, making the device nearly borderless.
Unlike the smaller 13z that it was announced with in August, the 14z features an internal optical drive, which, understandably, makes it a whole lot thicker the recent slew of notebooks that have dropped the feature. Alongside the 14z’s 1.3 mega-pixel camera and pair of USB ports Dell is also offering the option of a discrete NVIDIA graphics card.

And then there’s the design. Weighing at 4.36 pounds and measuring at just less than an inch thick, the 14z’s thin frame rivals the design of even the MacBook Pro. And speaking of Apple’s hardware, comparisons to the MacBook line should be pretty evident here, as it has been with many of the Ultrabooks.

On matters of price, the entry-level Core i5 version of the device sells for $999, with its more advanced NVIDIA GeForce-equipped counterpart retailing for $1599. The 14z hits stores November 1st.

HP rolls out trio of Pavilion desktop PCs; starts at $299.99

2011-06-11T13:05:00.000+02:00

Hewlett-Packard is paying some more attention to its Pavilion consumer desktop collection, and these PCs have been slimmed down considerably.

Starting with the smallest, the Slimline s5 series (pictured right) is “less than half” the size of a conventional PC tower. With a $329 starting price tag (and the fact that this computer is directed at non-business/enterprise consumers), don’t expect more than than the basic specs. However, there are plenty of customizable options, including choices between Intel and AMD processors.
Next up on the spec spectrum is the Pavilion P7 series (pictured above). While it’s definitely larger than the s5, it comes with a smaller starting price tag of $299. This machine is ideal for users who need a little more graphics support with an integrated graphics card and built-in support for multi-channel surround sound. Buyers also have the choice between Intel and AMD processors on this machine.
Finally, there is the HP Pavilion HPE h8 series (pictured below), which starts at $599. If you’re looking for a computer for a home office or other more intense computing purposes (i.e. gaming), this is the machine to pick out of these three options. Consumers can choose from Intel Core i7 or AMD Phenom processors as well as NVIDIA and ATI graphics cards. Additionally, the HPE h8 series desktops can support up to two monitors simultaneously with up to 24GB of RAM and up to three hard drives onboard.
There are a number of similar threads running throughout all three of these new Pavilion models. Along with Beats Audio technology (which also popped up on a number of the new HP laptops and netbooks), HP has integrated its signature LinkUp program that permits users to access files wirelessly from a laptop on their Pavilion desktops on the same home network. That could come in handy for home office set-ups or larger households with multiple computers.
Both the HP Pavilion p7 and HPE h8 series will be launched first on May 18, followed by the Slimline s5 series on June 15.

Report: HP unveils x2301 'micro thin' LED backlit 23-inch monitor

2011-06-11T13:03:00.000+02:00

Last week, Hewlett-Packard debuted the ultra slim, 0.4-inch thin Elite L2201x. HP has a nearly equally thin consumer display to unveil this week: the 23-inch x2301.

Measuring roughly 0.4-inches (9.8mm) thin as well, this is a rather sophisticated-looking piece of machinery with its brushed-aluminum bezel. As for the full HD (1,920 x 1,080) display itself, this LED-backlit panel offers 72% of the color gamut, a 8,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, a 3ms GtG response time, and BrightView technology. On a greener note, the x2301 is also mercury- and arsenic-free with Energy Star 5.0 and EPEAT Silver certifications.
Also like the Elite L2201x, the x2301 reserves all of the power and connectivity to the bottom of the display in the aquamarine base to make the monitor as thin as it can be. Those connectivity options include HDMI, VGA and DVI-D. It’s also a plug-and-play display, so there shouldn’t be much of any set-up required.
The HP x2301 display will be available on June 10 for $279.99. HP also notes that this model is a limited edition product, although there isn’t an end date in sight yet.

Dell officially launches XPS 15z -- world's thinnest (non-Apple) 15-inch laptop, starting at $999.99

2011-06-11T12:55:00.000+02:00

[Update: I apologize for taking Dell's spin at its word about the "world's thinnest" moniker. I've adjusted the headline accordingly]
It may not be as sexy as we were led to believe via various online teasers, but Dell’s new XPS 15z is finally here, mixing style, performance, and value in a 15-inch laptop.
Starting at $999.99, the 15z is 0.97 inches thin, making it the skinniest 15-inch notebook on the planet, if not as svelte as the MacBook Air or Samsung Series 9 ultra-portables. It offers standard mobile Intel Sandy Bridge processors: the base configuration comes with the Core i5-2410M, while a $1,499.99 model sports the Core i7-2620M. The base model also comes with 6GB of RAM, 500GB hard drive, and Nvidia GeForce GT 525M graphics with 1GB of video memory. Pricier versions come with a 2GB version of the 525M. On the $1,299.99 and $1,499.99 configs, you get bumped up to a 300-nit 15.6-inch 1080p display.
Dell claims 8-hour battery life for the 15z using an eight-cell battery. You also get a chiclet-style backlit keyboard, and anodized aluminum styling that is reminiscent of the dearly departed Adamo line.

On its blog, Dell claims that the 15z is “the first in a series of Dell devices that will mix performance with slick form factors designed for mobility” and promises something in a smaller size soon. So this may be an appetizer for a new look to the company’s laptop lineup. Will the main course be enough to steal attention from those tablet PCs hogging all the headlines?

10.1" Dell Streak Pro with Android Honeycomb to hit stores in June

2011-06-11T12:47:00.000+02:00

Dell’s 10.1″, dual-core tablet running Android Honeycomb is due to arrive in June, according to SlashGear. More details on the Dell tablet has surfaced, thanks to a leaked photo of the upcoming device.
The slate will be powered by a 1GHz dual-core NVIDIA Tegra 2 T20 processor, and feature dual cameras (a 2 megapixel front camera and a 5 megapixel rear one) and a 1280 x 800 pixel display. Other specifications include Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR, as well as a choice of 16, 32 or 64 GB of flash memory, as well as a SDHC card reader.
To stand out amongst all the other Honeycomb tablets with similar specs that are slated to arrive this summer, the Streak Pro will be available in black, pink, blue or red and have a brushed aluminum back panel. Accessories like an in-car charger, a “productivity” dock and a folding cover with an integrated keyboard will be included in-box. Of course, the Dell will come pre-loaded with Dell’s Stage 2.0 software — it wouldn’t be a Dell unless it has bloatware. Pricing has not been announced but should be forthcoming as launch date nears.
What do you think of the Streak Pro?

HP Veer 4G (photos)

2011-05-14T12:53:00.000+02:00

The smallest of the WebOS devices announced back in February, the HP Veer 4G hits AT&T stores on May 15 at a price of $99.99 with a two-year contract.

The Veer 4G is one of the cutest phones we've ever seen, but its small size does more harm than good. The 2.6-inch display makes it difficult not only to view Web pages and maps, but even to perform simple tasks like reading e-mails and using the onscreen dialer to make a call.

The Veer's slide-out QWERTY keyboard takes some getting used to due to the smaller buttons and cramped layout, but with some practice you can learn to deal with it.

The Veer is so small that HP couldn't fit a headphone jack or Micro-USB port into it, so instead you get a magnetic connector on the side where you can connect a headset adapter (shown here) and the charging cable. We found this didn't work well, since the adapter juts out from the side, making it vulnerable to being ripped off, and it's also so small that we're afraid that it will get lost at some point. The proprietary connector also means you can't use a Micro-USB cable to charge your device.

The left side of the phone features a volume rocker.

The HP Veer 4G is equipped with a 5-megapixel camera, but it lacks a flash and editing tools.

Despite the lack of editing options and flash, we were impressed with the picture quality. Images came out sharp and with bright colors. The camera did have trouble with nighttime shots and video quality was quite murky.

Read Also:

Best Buy to offer HP'S Veer 4G for free

Best Buy to offer HP'S Veer 4G for free

2011-05-14T12:45:00.000+02:00

For fans of souped up smartphones, HP’s tiny Web OS-equipped Veer 4G may be a tough sell. But Best Buy is trying its best to make the device more compelling to customers.
According to PreCentral, Best Buy is preparing to offer HP’s smallest phone for free with a two-year contract. This doesn’t extend to the black version of the phone, however, as Best Buy will only be selling the device in white.
While the move is sure to be a great one for customers, its rarely a good sign for a phone to be offered for free so early in its life cycle. Is it possible that retailers don’t have much faith in HP’s shrunken device?
The HP Veer will be available on May 15th for $99 via AT&T.
[Via PreCentral]

Read Also:

HP Veer 4G (photos)

Alienware prepping M14x to round out its gaming laptop lineup

2011-05-02T14:59:00.000+02:00

Following up on the success of its smallest gaming notebook, the M11x, Alienware is apparently cooking up a new 14-inch laptop that a Chinese Web site has already reviewed.
The M14x will include an Intel Sandy Bridge quad-core processor (the Core i7-2820QM), 8GB of RAM, a 750MB hard drive, and the new Nvidia GeForce GT 555M graphics card. A 1,920×1,080 resolution screen is an option, and the gaming laptop also features Klipsch premium speakers. While the M14x ships with Windows 7 Ultimate, the review highlights Alienware’s AlienGUIse app, which allows users to customize the interface.
Needless to say, there’s no pricing or availability information available yet, as Alienware hasn’t officially announced the M14x. The M15x starts at $1,199, but that system is still offered with older processor and graphics options, so it will be interesting to see how the M14x, with its fresh parts, will be priced.
[Via PC Magazine]

Alienware officially unveils M11x R3, M14x, M18x gaming laptops

2011-05-02T14:57:00.000+02:00

After weeks of leaks, Alienware is finally ready to announce the latest models in its gaming laptop lineup. On the blog of parent company Dell, the freshly updated M11x and the new M14x and M18x notebooks were detailed yesterday.
The M11x — “The Most Powerful 11-inch Laptop in the Universe,” according to Alienware — will now sport new Intel Sandy Bridge processors, either the Core i5-2537M or Core i7-2617M, along with Nvidia GeForce GT 540M graphics. The gaming netbook also provides the option for AT&T or Verizon 3G Wireless WAN connectivity. While the older version of the M11x is still available on the Dell site starting at under $600, you’re being told to call for pricing of the latest iteration, though Engadget claims it will start at $999.
Engadget is also stating that the M14x will be priced starting at $1,199, though the Dell site again tells potential buyers to call for pricing. Alienware promises dual-core and quad-core Sandy Bridge CPU options, GeForce GT 555M graphics, and optional wireless HD support. Steam is preloaded on the laptop to let you download the latest games, and the Alienware Command Center allows you to tweak keyboard lighting, touchpad, and power management settings.
No pricing is available for the new M18x, but you will have an option for a Core i7 Extreme processor overclocked to 4GHz courtesy of Alienware. The company also claims that the laptop will support dual-graphics technology from ATI and Nvidia — a.k.a. CrossFireX and SLI, respectively — though it appears that a pair of graphics card will be an optional feature. It comes with an 18.4-inch white-LED-backlit 1080p display and probably weighs a bazillion pounds, so start strengthening those back muscles now if you plan to take one on the go regularly.

HP unleashes entry-level Z210 workstation; starts at $569

2011-04-30T13:32:00.000+02:00

Following up the EliteBook mobile workstation, Hewlett-Packard has also unveiled the budget-friendly Z210 desktop workstation.
The key thing to remember here is that this workstation was designed and is intended to be a low-cost, entry-level option for those working with video editing, AutoCAD software, education and other similar purposes. For designers, there are 2D and 3D graphics options available, ranging from AMD FirePro 2270 in 2D to NVIDIA Quadro 4000 in 3D. Intel’s own integrated graphics are also onboard.
Intel has its mark on a few other spots on this machine. Along with vPro technology, buyers have a slew of Intel processor choices. Choices include second-generation Core i3/i5/i7 dual-core and quad-core CPUs as well as several Intel Xeon quad-core options to look over. The maximum hard drive space is 4.5TB, but one can also opt for up to 480GB of solid state drive space.
Just like the EliteBooks, accessing the interior of the workstation is a lot simpler thanks to a single door design with a handle that grants access rather than removing a bunch of tiny screws that can easily be lost. When looking inside the Z210, it’s amazingly organized thanks to a design job by BMW. There are touch points identifying where parts can be removed and replaced, and the cleaner layout also adds to better airflow and acoustics.
There are actually two variants for the Z210 workstation, which will affect several of the spec options such as the number of USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports, maximum amount of memory and storage space, and even the audio power, among other things.
The small form factor (SFF) version starts at $569, while the convertible mini-tower (CMT) starts at $659. Note that the SFF model is 65% smaller than the CMT edition, which might be helpful to know when buying for smaller workspaces. Both are available now.

HP revamps EliteBook mobile workstations; starts at $1,299

2011-04-30T13:24:00.000+02:00

Earlier this year, Hewlett-Packard revamped its professional-grade notebooks inside and out. Now HP’s EliteBook mobile workstations are getting the same treatment.
Many of the same aesthetic and protective notes found on those pro laptops are also seen on the EliteBook workstation series. Outfitted with an all-metal, hybrid magnesium and aluminum chassis, the EliteBook design is inspired by aerospace technology, also evident by the brushed gunmetal finish.
There is one release door on the bottom of the computer for simplified access, and all of the ID stickers and such have been moved under the battery to clear up the clutter. The touchpad is double the size of those seen on the EliteBook’s predecessors, and this new design features a chemically-strengthened glass, like the one on the iPod touch.
All of the connectivity ports are now outlined with a silver trim for a cleaner finish, and a rubber Display Safe Frame outlines the bezel on the interior to protect the extremely HD, RGB-backlit Dream Color 10-bit panels. (I say “extremely” because I’ve seen the picture quality in person, and it’s better than seeing anything in person, if that makes any sense.) Those displays are held on with a CNC aluminum hinge and screws, and the HP logo is backlit to top it all off.

Now that we’ve covered all the fine points of the exterior, let’s go inside these EliteBooks. These mobile workstations have second-generation Intel Core i5 and i7 dual-core processor options, USB 3.0 ports, fingerprint readers, face recognition security using the HD webcam, optional 3G, and graphics cards options ranging from AMD’s FirePro M3900 to NVIDIA’s Quadro 2000M GPU.
The 14-inch model is not only the most portable because of its more compact frame but it also boasts the best battery life of the series, offering up to six to seven hours after a full charge. The 15- and 17-inch models have backlit keyboards. That 17-inch machine is the behemoth of the group with 4GB of video memory, dual hard drives and an optical drive that can be swapped out for a third HDD. That means the 17-inch EliteBook can hold up to 3TB of storage space.
Set to roll out in May, pricing starts at $1,299, $1,349 and $1,899 for the 14-inch, 15-inch and 17-inch EliteBook mobile workstations, respectively.

Dell unloads trio of Precision workstations; Intel Core, Xeon CPUs, NVIDIA Quadro graphics

2011-04-30T13:10:00.000+02:00

Dell has expanded its Precision workstation offerings with a pair of new mobile models and another dual-socket rack option with plenty of customizable, high-end specs.

Starting with the 15.6-inch M4600 and 17.3-inch M6600 (pictured above, right), these mobile workstations are designed for anyone working with heavy, heavy amounts of data - especially when working with both 2D and 3D graphics. Additionally, even though they’re both a bit large for frequent travel, these machines are still ready for the road being outfitted in with a durable aluminum and magnesium alloy chassis and have been tested for extreme temperatures, vibration, dust, altitude and shock.
There are quite a few intriguing options to choose from with these new Precision workstations, notably the choice between a four-finger multi-touch display (ideal for graphic designers and engineers) or a 100% color-correct PremierColor IPS RGB LED display with PremierColor calibration software for improved image clarity.
Other shared specs include:

Second-generation Intel Core processor options (Up to Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition)
AMD Eyefinity (Provides support for up to five displays simultaneously)
NVIDIA Optimus technology
GPU options: AMD FirePro Mobility Professional Graphics, NVIDIA Quadro Professional Graphics with up to 2GB of GDDR5 dedicated memory
DDR3 memory options: Four DIMM slots for up to 32GB of 1,333MHz RAM or up to 16GB of 1,600MHz memory
Connectivity: Two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, and USB 2.0/eSATA combo slot, DisplayPort, VGA and HDMI

There are some definite differences on certain areas, such as maximum hard/solid state drive space and security. The M6600 is the winner here with an optional second hard drive and a 128GB solid state drive with RAID 5 support.
Continuing on to the R5500 Rack Workstation (pictured below), this computing device is also designed for heavy data purposes and is intended to be placed in a centralized location with “remote 1:1 access to the workstation from virtually anywhere.” There are a few options to make the connection, including PC-over-IP hardware-based compression transfers or VMware View software.

To understand the scope of what this workstation offers, here’s a few of the customizable spec options:

OS options: Red Hat Enterprise Linux; Windows Vista and 7 (Ultimate, Professional or Business)
Intel Xeon 5600 series quad-core or six-core processors
Up to 192GB of 1,066MHz or 1,333MHz ECC memory in 12 DIMM slots
NVIDIA Tesla C2050 GPGPU
Can handle up to five 2.5-inch SAS or SATA hard drives
Support for up to five industry standard full-height and full-length PCIe x16 slots (with many NVIDIA Quadro graphics card choices)

Pricing starts at $1,678 for the Precision M4600 mobile station, and the base cost rises to $2,158 for the M6600. These will both be available worldwide on May 10th. The R5500 mobile workstation will roll out sooner on May 3rd in the United States (along with Europe, the Middle East and Africa) with a starting MSRP of $2,551. The rest of the world will get a chance at that one on May 10th as well.

Dell Precision T1600 entry-level workstation now shipping

2011-04-09T13:23:00.000+02:00

Announced back in February, Dell’s Precision T1600 entry-level workstation is ready for work.
Powered by second-generation Intel Sandy Bridge (Core or Xeon) processors, the T1600 is touted as being 24% more powerful and faster than its predecessors. The machine is highly customizable with room for up to 16GB of memory and dual 2TB 3.5-inch SATA hard drives.
The T1600 also stands as an option for designers and others working with 3D as the workstation supports NVIDIA Quadro 2000 graphics. If 2D suffices your needs, then Intel Integrated HD graphics is the other option.
Dell also reminds us about the “tool less” chassis that opens with a single latch and doesn’t require removing any screws. This is becoming a very common (and welcome) feature on both desktop workstations and personal computers.
Pricing starts normally at $829, but Dell is currently running a special so the system starts at $629. It isn’t clear how long that deal will last, so act fast if you want this for your office space. For a closer look at the Precision T1600, check out the promo video below:

Alienware M11x Photo Gallery

2011-04-04T14:39:00.000+02:00

Alienware M11x Ultarportable Gaming Notebook

Alienware M11x displaying windows 7

Alienware M11x Good stylish keyboard

Alienware M11x with Alienware installed gaming software

Alienware M11x Back view

Alienware M11x Stylish design

Alienware M11x from left side

Alienware M11x

Alienware M11x from the right side

Alienware M11x Touchpad

Alienware M11x left side ports (2xUSB and audio ports)

Alienware M11x Webcam

Alienware M11x left side

Alienware M11x silver back view

Alienware M11x right side

Alienware M11x right side and above

Alienware M11x right sideports (HDMI,USB e-sata combo,D,VGA out,Memory card slot)

Alienware M11x right side and front

Alienware M11x right side and above

Alienware M11x

Alienware M11x Keyboard good for games

Alienware M11x bottom view

Alienware M11x Battery parameter

Alienware M11x padge

Alienware M11x black Keyboard good for games

Alienware M11x silver Keyboard & Touchpad

Alienware M11x black left side

Alienware M11x black back view

Alienware M11x black right side ports

Alienware M11x black left side ports

Alienware M11x black padge & keyboard

Alienware M11x black with win 7

Alienware M11x black keyboard

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