Sony teased the Vaio X at this year’s IFA conference in Berlin, which essentially functions as the European version of CES. With no spec sheet or press release to be found, all we know are the bare essentials from Sony’s press conference. Now, fast forward to just a few months later, and Sony has unveiled its latest netbook, the VAIO X. This time, the X looks set to razzle and dazzle with its super slim form factor, lightweight design and really expensive price. Of course, the magnesium alloy chassis and carbon fiber frame of the notebook doesn’t come cheap by any standards, but it does give it a feel that’s just perfect for the business users that this netbook is targeted at. How perfect you ask? We’ll find out more over the next few pages but let’s start with our usual exterior pictures and table of specifications first.

So how was Sony able to achieve such a thin and light netbook? The VAIO X’s chassis is made of a magnesium alloy, and the lid is built from carbon fiber. This material allows the screen to flex, which can be a bit unnerving, but Sony said that it’s designed to bend somewhat. Also, by using an Intel Atom Z-series processor, which uses less power (and creates less heat) than the N-series Atom chips in most netbooks, the company was able to make the netbook incredibly slim without requiring a fan. The lid of our review unit was matte black, as was the inside, with a bronze underside that felt slightly rough to the touch. Sony also offers the netbook with a Champagne Gold lid, but only for the model with a 128GB SSD (more on that later).

There are some inevitable niggles we need to address. The first is the cramped keyboard. Sony does its best, with the isolated keys giving greater margins for error when typing, but the tiny right Shift key takes a lot of getting used to, as do all the keys in the bottom-right area: the full stop and cursor keys are a particular challenge. We never looked forward to using this keyboard. The tiny touchpad is also an issue. It seems odd to include such a tiny touchpad when there’s plentiful space below the keyboard, especially since Sony has included a scrolling area at the bottom and far right of it. At least it’s responsive when you touch it in the right place, and coupled with the relatively small screen we found it usable when travelling.

Running on an Intel Atom Z550 (2.0GHz) processor, sporting 2GB DDR2 RAM, a Samsung 128GB SSD, and integrated Intel GMA 500 graphics, the VAIO X was slightly sluggish in our real world handling. Of course, everything turned out better once Aero was turned off, but this felt strange, seeing as how our previous experience with normal netbooks with Aero turned on in Windows 7 RC was lag free. Strangely, this isn’t reflected in our performance benchmarking tests in the Windows 7 operating system as the scores do indicate a relatively faster performance compared to your average netbook. Perhaps this could be something related to the slower FSB between the processor and the chipset. Note that we would have loved to test the VAIO X using PCMark Vantage, but unfortunately, we were unable to get it running.
Packing a specially designed 4-cell battery, the Intel Atom powered notebook ought to do fine in our battery test, and given its lightweight form factor, it should score pretty high in our Portability Index test. The battery basically places the two battery cells at the side while the middle has a depression to accommodate the trackpad on the chassis. It’s an innovative design for sure; instead of finding a spot to squeeze a battery into the chassis, Sony fits the battery around the VAIO X’s design.

Sony’s VAIO X is so light and stylish, this product is practically in a class by itself. It sets a new standard for portability. Additionally, the built-in 3G and GPS ensures that users will be connected wherever they go. However, for an 11-inch system, we were disappointed in this machine’s small keyboard and touchpad. If you have the cash, the VAIO X’s industrial design will definitely turn heads, but you’ll sacrifice ergonomic comfort.

History of HP

Classmates Bill Hewlett, along with Dave Packard of Stanford University went ahead to find Hewlett Packard (HP) in the year 1939. The first product of the company, i.e. the audio oscillator, was manufactured in Palo Alto garage. It was one of the electronic instruments utilized by the sound engineers. Amongst the first customer of HP was ‘Walt Disney Studios’. They purchased 8 oscillators for developing and testing a new-fangled sound system to make the film ‘Fantasia’.

The Hewlett Packard or HP Company is, at present, the topmost Corporation with respect to the information technology (IT industry). HP is the organization known for revolutionizing printing industry. Moreover, it’s the pioneer in computer world. HP has, indeed, replaced Dell computers off late in the terms of computer shipments and sales.

HP Laptops

These days, HP is a common name as far as printers and the related technology are concerned. HP laptops as well as tablet PCs have been winning hearts of people in the last few years. In the year 2002, Compaq Inc. went on to merge with Hewlett Packard, thereby forming the single-biggest entity in the industry of computers. Through this acquisition, HP has surpassed Dell and IBM/Lenovo computers. After some difficulties following the merger and some marketing realignment and restructuration, HP has done a superb job in presenting attractive laptops and establishing their leadership in the marketplace.

Current Series

Today, HP has divided its home and small office laptop offering in four broad categories in order to reach their different targets. We are going to briefly summarize the specifics of each of these lines:

• Versatile performance. These are your standards laptops, the ones that you are most likely to find at most retailers. They are equipped with a 15.4″ screen, the hardrives vary in between 120 GB and 320 GB, RAM goes from 1GB to 4 GB. They come with the standard wifi and Bluetooth elements. They weight around 7 pounds. Their prices vary from 0 to ,100. The laptops included in this line are the followings: HP Pavilion dv5z, HP Pavilion dv6700t and HP Pavilion dv5t.

• Mobility. The main difference comes from their dimension, screens drop to 12.1″ to 14.1″, the hardrives go from 120 GB to 320 GB, RAM goes from 1 GB to 4 GB. They come with the standard wifi and Bluetooth elements. They weight around 4.5 to 5.3 pounds. Their prices vary from 0 to ,200. The laptops included in this line are the followings: HP Pavilion dv2700t, HP Pavilion tx2500z, HP Pavilion dv4z and HP Pavilion dv4t.

• Entertainment Powerhouse. We now enter the category of the desktop replacements; screens vary in between 17″ or 20.1″. hardrives go from 120 GB to 640 GB, RAM goes from 2 GB to 4 GB a choice of quality graphics card. They also come with the standard wifi and Bluetooth elements and more extensions than regular laptops. They weight around 4.6 to 15.3 pounds. Their prices vary from 0 to ,900. The laptops included in this line are the followings: HP Pavilion dv7z, HP Pavilion dv9700t, HP Pavilion dv7t and HP Pavilion HDX Entertainment Notebook PC.

• Special Edition. In short, it’s all about the look! Think special edition, you don’t want a laptop that looks like everyone else, then these are for you. Inside, it’s more or less a mix of the versatile and mobility lines so that HP can tailor to both segments. Screens vary in between 14.1″ or 15.4″. hardrives go from 120 GB to 320 GB, RAM goes from 2 GB to 4 GB. They also come with the standard wifi and Bluetooth elements. They weight around 5.3 to 6.1 pounds. Their prices vary from 0 to ,000. The laptops included in this line are the followings: HP Pavilion dv6700t, HP Pavilion dv2700t, HP Pavilion dv2800t

The above-mentioned HP laptops are available along with multiple customized features. HP laptops fall in the category of high-end models with the most recent features and configurations. There are various accessories provided for the business purposes. Every notebook comes with Business Edition of Windows Vista and the other business-related software pack.

HP has established itself as a solid brand; their success is due to their formidable sales machine on one hand but also due to the quality of their products. HP laptops always rank high in customer satisfaction and if you are in buying mode, Hp laptops have to be toward the top of your list.

Related Hp Laptop Articles

• 1.66GHz Intel N450 Atom Processor
• 1GB 200-Pin DDR2 SO-DIMM Memory
• 160GB Serial ATA Hard Disk Drive (5400RPM)
• 10.1″ LED (16:9) 1024×600 Display; Intel Graphics Media Accelerator GMA3150
• Genuine Windows XP Home (SP3), 11 Hours of Battery Life

With a new sleeker design and up to 11 hours of battery life rating, our affordable, super-compact mini NB305 is a stylish companion PC that raises the bar when it comes to portability. This innovative netbook lets you enjoy all the benefits of today’s fast-moving digital world, putting you in touch with your favorite people, sites, networks and media in ways and places you never imagined. Though small enough to throw in a purse or bag, it’s designed with smart features to enhance your mobile life—like a full-sized keyboard and touchpad, USB Sleep-and-Charge technology and a Hard Drive Impact Sensor that helps protect your data from the bumps and grinds of daily life. So it picks up where smart phones leave off and makes many of today’s netbooks seem a waste of time.

Toshiba Mini NB305: Sleeker Design and Improved Battery Life

With a new sleeker design and up to 11 hours of battery life rating, the affordable, super-compact Toshiba Mini NB305 weighs less than 3 pounds, is small enough to throw in a purse or bag, and offers a brightly colorful 10.1-inch LED-backlit screen. It features a full-size keyboard for comfortable typing and a larger touchpad with Multi-Touch Control, which enables you to navigate documents, web pages and images more easily.

With up to 11 hours of battery life the Toshiba mini NB305 lets you go through an entire day of school, work or errands without worrying about a recharge.

The NB305 features a comfortable full-size keyboard, plus a full-size touchpad with multi-touch capabilities (see larger image and schematic of all ports).

The Toshiba Mini NB305 in textured black onyx.

Combining the power of the latest Intel Atom N450 processor and NM10 Express chipset with a six-cell battery (5800 mAh) for up to 11 hours of battery power, you’ll be able to go through an entire day of school, work or errands without worrying about a recharge. The battery pack is neatly hidden under the casing of the netbook to preserve its sleek, ergonomic design.

This model of the Toshiba mini NB305 (NB305-N310) has a distinctively styled cover in black onyx, which is accented by a textured finish with a Matrix pattern. The 160 GB hard disk drive is protected using an integrated 3D impact sensor which detects freefalls, shocks and vibrations. The Toshiba Mini also features a USB Sleep-and-Charge port, which allows external USB devices such as mobile phones and personal media players to charge from the netbook even when it is turned off. It comes preinstalled with the familiar Microsoft Windows XP Home operating system.

Key Features & Specs

• 10.1-inch LED backlit widescreen display (1024 x 600-pixel resolution) provides richer colors and clearer definition–perfect for browsing the Internet.
  

• 1.66 GHz Intel Atom N450 processor (512 KB L2 cache, 667 MHz FSB) combines performance and energy efficiency to explore the Internet and stay connected while mobile.
  

• 160 GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 RPM) with an impact sensor that helps safeguard your data by “parking” the hard drive heads in the event of a drop or sudden movement.
  

• 1 GB of DDR2 RAM (800 MHz; 1 memory slot; upgradeable to 2 GB)
  

• Integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 3150 video processor with up to 384 MB dynamically allocated shared graphics memory
  

• Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g/n) for greater speed and range.
  
• Three USB ports with one Sleep and Charge port on the left side, allowing you to charge your mobile phone and other devices even when the notebook is asleep or off.
• Full-size 85-key keyboard
• TouchPad pointing device with multi-touch gesture control
• Built-in stereo speaker
• Fast Ethernet (10/100)
• Secure Digital memory card reader also compatible with Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC, and MultiMedia Card (MMC)
• Enjoy proactive PC health–without the worry. For your peace mind, this laptop comes with an innovative PC Health Monitor that constantly keeps tabs on things like your machine’s power usage, temperature and hard drive–so you won’t have to.
• Microsoft Windows XP Home operating system (SP3)
• Pre-loaded software includes Microsoft Works SE 9.0 for word processing and spreadsheet work.
• Up to 11 hours of battery life with included 6-cell battery (5800 mAh)
  
• Weight: 2.6 pounds
  
• Dimensions: 10.47 x 7.57 x 1.43 inches (WxDxH)
• Warranty: 1 year warranty with international limited warranty coverage
• Energy Star 5.0 certified
• Gold EPEAT designation for meeting standards to help reduce its environmental impact.
• RoHS compliant effectively reducing the environmental impact by restricting the use of lead, mercury and certain other hazardous substances

What’s in the Box
This package contains the Toshiba mini NB305-N310 netbook, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions.

It also comes with the following software: Norton Internet Security 2010, Microsoft Works 9, Microsoft Office Live Essentials (including Photo Gallery, Messenger, Mail and Writer), Windows Media Player, Google Toolbar, Toshiba PC Health Monitor, WildTangent Orb Game Console

Review by Russ Boyer for Toshiba Mini 300 Series NB305-N310 10.1-Inch Netbook – Black Onyx
Rating:
I have been in the market for a netbook for over a year now. I have spent many a hour pouring over reviews online, watching youtube unboxings and reviews, and actually doing a lot of hands on in retail stores with all of the options out there. I am thrilled to say that after only 24 hours with the Toshiba NB305-N410WH, I know that I waited for just the right one.

The reviews for its’ predecessor (the NB205) had put that netbook on the top of most professional reviewers list. And, indeed in my own hands on tests, it was right at the top as well. My main concern was the battery that stuck out of the back on that model. I had come close to overlooking this drawback, as I was so pleased with the rest of the model. What kept me from it was a concern I had read from some reviews indicating that sometimes streaming video would skip or get stuck (a universal concern on most netbooks)either due to processor or graphics.

Here is why I LOVE this little fella:

* The battery issue has been totally adressed, and in fact, upgraded. They have redesigned it and no more ugly bulge of battery sticking out of the back. Plus, they now say it has an 11 hour battery. My test of this gave me around 9.5 hours doing very basic surfing and setup. Not quite 11 hours, but am still elated with 9.5 hours. I can now really feel comfortable about leaving the power cable at home for the day. (however, the power cable is actaully fairly small) (Update 1/21/10–In further testing of the battery life, I seem to now be averaging more like 7 hours under heavy usage, meaning video watching and constant use. I am still more than happy with that. Light usage will give you more like the 9.5 hours I mentioned.)

* I’m extremely happy with the performance. Everyone needs to keep in mind that netbooks have never been designed for processor intensive tasks, but this little guy rocks! The new “Pinetrail” Atom N450 platform seems to be a great fit for this netbook. The graphics engine is updated, as well. I have had absolutely no delays in any streaming video on YouTube or Netflix. (I did notice just a bit of stuttering in Hulu only when watching something full screen but this isn’t an issue for me.) Surfing is snappy and responsive, just the way that I like it. For anyone that may have been on the fence about getting a netbook because they were concerned it might not perform, hop right off that fence and get the NB305. Seriously, I have a Macbook Pro and Dell laptop and this one has instantly become my “go to” for surfing on the couch or from bed. And, I know this will be the one I now take anywhere out of the house.

* The overall look and feel of the NB305 is truly “best in class”. My big gripe with a ton of netbooks out there is their glossy covers-especially the black, but even other color glossy covers are fingerprint magnets. They just always look smudged and feel cheap to me. I got the textured white model and just love it. Even though I am sure it is all plastic, too, it just looks more expensive. The cover totally repels fingerprints and just “feels good”. The keyboard and trackpad have received universal love in the previous model and I absolutely agree. The keyboard is extremely easy to type on. No issues at all for me there. The trackpad is truly a selling feature as it is multi-touch. I have this on my Macbook Pro and LOVE it on this netbook. I love being able to do the 2 finger scroll up and side to side. It really makes surfing the web a joy. (I now curse my Dell for not having this.) This model actually reduced it’s weight to 2.6 lbs making it super easy to take with you. The bottom does heat up a bit but I never felt uncomfortable having it directly on my lap. (Update 2/20/10: Ok, there have been times when it has been uncomfortable on my lap. Especially if you are blocking the vents, which is easy to do when on your lap. I now just set it on the protective sleeve I bought for it and we’re good to go.) This new model has sleeker look than previous models, a little more streamlined in the front. Overall, form factor gets a big A+.

So, there are a couple areas for improvement, however, I don’t think they are “deal breakers” given the other areas where the NB-305 excels:

1) The speakers are not great. Actually, they’re pretty bad compared to my Mac and Dell. This is definitely an area to improve on, but have found this to be true of all the netbooks I have been able to hear. I’m not saying that you can’t hear what you are watching, but I will plan on using earbuds for watching video or listening to music.

2) I’m a little bugged that these just come with Windows7 Starter and not Windows7 Home Premium. I feel a little “punked” into having to pay an extra for the upgrade (which was extremely simple and fast, by the way. I was able to do it right online–no need for external optical drive). Some people will be fine with Windows7 Starter as it does allow you to do basic functions, but I ultimatley had to cave in and upgrade. You aren’t able to personalize things in Windows7 Starter, which was a minor but grating flaw. (On a side note, I am really liking Windows7 Home Premium. This netbook handles it fine.)

3) I’m kinda concerned that this did not come with any restore cd’s. Yes, I realize that this doesn’t have a cd/dvd drive, but I guess I just like the comfort of having them if needed. I know that I should back up the system on my own, but I guess I just am not sure what happens if the OS crashes or hard drive has to be replaced. I think there must be new ways to restore, nowadays. I guess I will hopefully never cross that bridge.

4) (Update 2/20/10: It does get quite warm around the vents. This may or may not be an issue for you. I can deal with it.)

Overall, I think you can see that I am obviously extremely happy with this purchase. If you have been waiting to buy a netbook, I would give this one some serious thought. Two enthusiastic thumbs up!

(UPDATE 1/19/10: I did upgrade to 2GB of memory and would recommend it. I didn’t really need to, but can’t resist trying to upgrade my gadgets, and everything is just a little faster and I just watched Heros on Hulu full screen and didn’t notice issues that I had before. I didn’t even mind the speakers come to think of it–although the speakers are still the only weak link hardware wise. Installing the memory is a snap. You just need a tiny Philips screwdriver to remove one screw from back cover, pop out the old, pop in the new, replace the cover and boot it back up. It was recognized by the netbook with no problems. There is a video on YouTube on doing this to the NB205 model and the process is exactly the same for the NB305. Still very happy.)

(UPDATE 2/20/10: The type of memory that I got was the one that Amazon usually suggests: Crucial Technology CT25664AC800 2GB 200-pin SODIMM DDR2 PC2-6400 Memory Module.

I also purchased CaseCrown sleeve: CaseCrown Double Memory Foam Netbook Pouch (White Faux Suede) to Carry the Toshiba Mini NB305 10.1-inch Netbook Very happy with that, too. Fits like a glove and makes it super easy to transport the NB305 and feel it is very protected.

Overall, still extremely happy.)

Review by George Alefantes for Toshiba Mini 300 Series NB305-N310 10.1-Inch Netbook – Black Onyx
Rating:
INTRODUCTION

I regretfully gave the Toshiba NB305-N310 three stars after thorough research and intense hands-on evaluation. For the hardware alone, it clearly deserves five stars. But I was generous in only deducting two stars for the software and its nefarious intent.

If you are capable of, and have the time for, a complete reinstall of Windows or Linux and reinstallation of some number of the thirty-seven drivers and utility files from the Toshiba Website, then you will have a five-star netbook.

If you are not, then this netbook, like so many others, will not really be your friend. Or else it will be like a bad friend who spies on you, monitors you, deceives you, and leaves your home wide open while housesitting.

My reasons and criteria for finally selecting this netbook will undoubtedly be different than those of others. But I assure you, I have considered even those elements which did not concern me as well as issues and reviews concerning the other NB305 models that I did not purchase: The NB305-N410 in White, Blue, and Brown.

I will review the Toshiba NB305-N310 while at the same time describing the differences between it and the NB305-N410 models (which are simply different colors).

In advance, I will say that the essential differences between the NB305-N310 and the NB305-N410 are, respectively:

Keyboard Type: Flat Squares — OR — Embedded Buttons

Hard Disk Size: 160 GB — OR — 250 GB

Lid Texture: Shiny and smooth — OR — matte

Color Choices: Black — OR — Brown, Blue, or White

Operating System: Windows XP SP 3 — OR — Windows 7 Starter Edition

Initial Price at Amazon: 9 — OR — 9

KEYBOARD

A lot of netbooks brag about full keyboards, yet the PageUp, PageDown, Home, and End keys are still embedded under the four Arrow keys and require also holding down the “Fn” key to use them. This has been a main sticking point for me.

A few netbooks, like the Samsungs, only embed the Home and End keys and give the other two their own physical keys. The Samsung NC20, though, also provides independent keys for all four functions. It also has a nice 1280 pixel wide screen and a satisfactory battery life. But for me, its 12″ size would have failed my personal requirement of getting a netbook that was smaller than my existing 12″ laptops.

But note that the NB305 comes with two distinct keyboards.

This N310 comes with one type. While the three colors of the N410, like the NB200 Series that is the predecessor of this NB300 Series, come with a different type.

There is some confusion in the nomenclature in the specs, in the early reviews, and even in my own understanding.

Some say the N410 has a chiclet keyboard. Others say, “No, the N310 has the chiclet keyboard. The N410 has a ‘piano’ keyboard.” In the end, they may both be chiclet varieties, but they are quite different.

So let me describe them to you in layperson’s terms.

The N310′s keys are flat, black, plastic squares with white characters. They attach to the base as on a normal keyboard, by sitting on unseen stems. All you see are the flat, square keys and a narrow space around each side, exposing the tray beneath. They are like keys on a normal keyboard except that they are mostly flat and level with the palm rests and are not like little towers rising up from the base.

The keys on the N410, on the other hand, are smaller, leaving much more room around them. And they rise up through holes in the open netbook’s surface much like buttons on a home or cell phone.

Some claim that the extra space around each key makes it more difficult to accidentally press adjacent keys while typing. Sure, but only because it is also harder to hit the key you are actually aiming for.

I found both keyboards acceptable, Even feeling that the N410 was a bit cooler looking, but concluded, like some of the reviewers of the N410, that it was a bit unresponsive, quirky, and slow for doing a lot of typing.

For me, this was the biggest reason for getting the N310 instead of the more expensive N410, despite its having a smaller hard drive.

Let it also go without saying that, for both keyboards, there are no ergonomic issues about size and comfortability. As netbooks go, they are among the very best keyboards out there. I highly recommend both types, at least in Toshiba’s implementation of them.

BATTERY

The NB200 Series predecessor began life with a flush battery that unfortunately didn’t provide much battery life. Toshiba tried to rectify things by including one that stuck embarrassingly out of the back and defeated the whole purpose of such a portable device.

Be thoroughly assured that the battery on the NB300 Series no longer sticks out of the back. Though it does have a slight downward curved protrusion under the laptop such that it raises the back of the laptop, but in a totally useful and acceptable manner.

BATTERY LIFE

I’m getting between 9 and 10 hours and I have the display at its brightest and most other power-saving features unused. So with some parsimony, you can probably get the advertised 11.08 hours. Very nice.

But this does include my having disabled services, deleted and uninstalled programs, and cleaned up a lot of clutter and startup programs.

DISPLAY

I am a bit surprised that Toshiba did not upgrade the resolution on the NB300 Series but stayed instead with the 1024X600.

For portable writing and Internet research, it is more than satisfactory. Besides, the brightness and quality is otherwise superb, and the lower resolution adds to the battery life.

It has not proved to be much of a problem, at all. I keep reminding myself that it wasn’t long ago that the 1024 pixel width was considered spacious. Of course the height does not match the height from those days: 600 instead of 768.

If resolution is a major issue, though, consider the aforementioned Samsung NC20 with a nice standard 1280×800, or the Acer line which pioneered the 1366 resolution.

MOUSE TRACKPAD AND BUTTONS

Like everyone seems to agree, the trackpad is huge for a netbook. It is almost twice as wide as the one on my XPS M1330 laptop. It provides for multitouch for you people who like to pinch things. And the buttons are large, front-sloping, and very nice to press.

RAM

I haven’t bought the 2 GB upgrade yet. I need to do some more research. Toshiba, Amazon, and retail store salespeople are all recommending the 667 GHz. But some reviewers mention that 800 GHz will also work and provides a better experience. So I’m waiting to confirm.

But, you know what, everything’s been totally cool like this for now. Just an occasional slight drag on some videos which I’m sure will disappear with 2 GB.

HARD DRIVE

The hard drives were 160 GB and 250 GB respectively. No big deal. It will just make things a little more cramped when I repartition and place Linux Mint alongside Windows XP, as I do on all PCs.

PHYSICAL ASPECTS

The N310 only comes in black. The N410 comes in brown, blue, or white. Its lid is matted and does not attract fingerprints. The N310′s lid is a shiny black with a faint diagonal pattern on it. It does attract fingerprints. But if you minimize how recklessly you touch it and wipe them off as they occur you won’t face the kinds of apocalypses other netbook users complain of.

The inside of the N310 is a pleasant matte black aluminum around the screen and around the keyboard and on the palm rests and trackpad buttons. The inside of the N410 is silver aluminum, while the frame around the display matches the exterior color.

The netbook sits about 10.5″ x 7.5″, the height varies from 1.5″ at the back to 0.5″ at the front. And, of course, 3.5″ in the middle (just kidding).

The weight is advertised at 2.6 pounds. And I’ll take their word on it, but it seems heavier than my 4.5-pound XPS M1330 laptop. But what do I know? I gained twenty pounds and didn’t know it until I stood on a scale.

Unlike a couple of reviewers of the N410, I have not found the unit to get hot at all. And the air vent on the N310 is on the side. Though one reviewer said the N410′s vents were underneath, I am not certain about that.

OTHER

Across the palm rest, between the trackpad and the first row of keys is a half-circle dip that runs like a trench across the width of the keyboard. It is handy to rest your fingertips in when your are using the mouse.

It also has nicely-gripping rubber feet.

Three USB ports (one can charge cell phones, etc),SDHC Card Reader, 10/100 Ethernet, Wireless B, G, and N, Video Out, Mic and Headphone ports, speakers under the front corners, and a WebCam with its own Mic.

AC ADAPTER

The AC adapter is small and manageable, if you need to bring it along. and its two-piece cord is of sufficient length.

SOFTWARE – OPERATING SYSTEM

As I said earlier, the N310 comes with Windows XP Service Pack 3 while the N410 comes with Windows 7 Starter Edition.

Operating system was, along with battery life, small size, and keyboard, a high priority. I did not wish to get any netbook with Windows Vista or Windows 7, unless I knew I could reinstall it with Windows XP.

I’m sure I could have put XP on the N410 after the fact since it comes on the N310 and all these NB300 Series models have identical processors, motherboards, and video cards. But the keyboard finally clinched it for the N310 and luckily, that was the one that had XP.

During the Vista period, most netbooks still came with XP. Now, with the emergence of Windows 7, what few gains in performance that newer netbooks have achieved have been squandered by Windows 7′s resource demands and Vista-like performance and essence. XP is still the smarter choice for a netbook.

Windows XP came on a single 700 MB CD. Windows 7 requires not just a DVD, but a Dual Layer one, twelve times the size of a CD.

And if that were not enough, you only get the so-called Starter Edition. Imagine, for the first time, an operating system that only allows three programs to be open at a time and doesn’t allow cosmetic or other user changes.

Had I decided to get the N410, I would have immediately reinstalled Windows XP Pro onto it, anyway, and dual-booted it with my favorite Linux, Linux Mint.

SOFTWARE – OTHER

Following closely behind the Windows 7 Starter Edition disappointment is the sheer excess of installed Toshiba and third party applications and the outright offensive levels of tracking and spying they have been designed for.

The junk includes cluttering trial versions of Microsoft Office 2007 and Norton Internet Security, Microsoft Works, all the many violations committed by Adobe, like Flash and the Reader, and all the offenses by Sun Microsystems’ popular Java.

I am still wading through the thirty-seven drivers and utilities that Toshiba, themselves, installs, most of which are running at startup and further draining resources.

But, clutter and resource drains aside, the even bigger problem with the software Toshiba foists on their customers is that it is pernicious in its efforts to spy on, track, and monitor you.

Adobe and Java both install BHOs in Internet Explorer.

Toshiba’s tfbPinger is a shameless spying service that has been made almost impossible to remove, located in multiple places so, like a virus, it can recreate itself after attempts to remove it. It is constantly trying to connect to somewhere. It’s not my job to find out where, just to put an end to it.

Toshiba also welcomes and installs a set of games from Wild Tangent. In the earlier days of Windows 98 and 2000, theirs was one of the most difficult “viruses” to remove from client’s computers. Though, this time, they were, surprisingly, better-behaved during removal than some of the other Toshiba applications and services. I guess they’ve gone legit.

Even the Webcam lights up occasionally, as if taking a picture of me, then tries to connect to the Internet. I guess I should be flattered. But I’m not. Now I know how Robert Pattinson and Elijah Wood feel. I wish.

And Update programs from all the unwanted software are constantly trying to “check for updates.”

There is also a folder in the root with a name like DC6986B7885R807F36D7845CDF that is almost impossible to enter, modify, or delete (it appears to be the repository where the uninstalled Windows resides, since Toshiba does not provide you with reinstallation CDs or DVDs).

And of course, the nefarious Google Toolbar is preinstalled without even asking to accept any license terms.

Certainly no new machine enters our offices or attaches through our network that has not been first stripped down to its bare essentials, repartitioned and reformatted, and then reinstalled with known software and applications.

Whichever model you buy, get the drivers from the Website and reinstall a pure copy of your preferred Windows or Linux.

But if you, instead, intend to work the mess, start by installing a bidirectional firewall that will block all the constant attempts by Toshiba and the other software to secretly contact unknown Websites, to do surreptitious updates, and to turn your computer into a wide-open server (Java in particular).

Then, slowly unravel the mess by uninstalling software, disabling dangerous services, and removing programs from the startup folders and registry (especially the update programs that are always running).

If you don’t intend to secure it, but just to put it to use in your daily life, then your privacy will be an illusion and you will have actually spent money to enslave yourself in some yet unknown manner.

I have, as I said, deducted a mere two stars for either the evil agenda behind the type of software installed or the trouble required to remove or replace it. Both are unacceptable, but, obviously, we have entered that age, in the convergence of politics and technology, where the computer makers like Toshiba and others probably collect additional income from the designated third-party spying entities, and who knows exactly who else, in order to install those parties’ tracking and spying applications and be done with it.

SUMMARY

So there you have it. A Japanese company gladly complying nefariously with entities in the US against our better interests and to our ultimate detriment.

If you’ve got reinstallation software that you trust, and you don’t mind taking the time, then this is a great netbook. If not, I don’t know what to tell you. And I don’t know how possible such independence and autonomy will be in the future.

Windows XP, the last Microsoft operating system that, with some time and effort, can be made safe and secure from cyber criminals and from institutions that should know better. After that, we’re all on our own.

With increased DRM, unfair licensing terms, and the continuation of Product Activation, I, for one, have moved most of my machines to Linux. Linux Mint in particular. It runs great dual-booting on all my newer laptops and even on my older desktops.

It is the antithesis of the trend to use our technology, more and more often, as a tool of enslavement and disrespect. It may be the only hope, despite the wonderful advances in hardware, for the future of free and unfettered computing.

Review by R. DeJonghe for Toshiba Mini 300 Series NB305-N310 10.1-Inch Netbook – Black Onyx
Rating:
I will admit this is my first netbook but I do have two laptops and two other desktops in the house. The keyboard is absolutely great on this machine, it is what attracted me to the Toshiba initially. I have had this machine for about a week now and so far there is nothing that I can really complain about. The battery life is incredible, although I have yet to try to drain it. Today the machine was on, but not in constant use, for over six hours and it still showed 40% battery life. The screen is very good and even though only 10.1″ I am forgetting that I’m on a small machine. Very spacious hard drive at 250GB. This prompted me to permanently move my iTunes collection to this machine so that I can update my podcasts and sync regularly while travelling.

I purchased the machine primarily as a personal and entertainment machine while travelling for business. I am able to keep it next to my full size work laptop while responding to email or other tasks and easily “jump” over to it to access Gmail or Facebook (prohibited on the company issued laptop). I have also used it to stream Netflix while in a hotel with little issue, any issues were mainly to poor wifi coverage in the room.

Toshiba has done a very nice job of setting up a variety of very useful Function+F key shortcuts. Mute,Lock,Sleep,Power Mode,Hibernate,Brightness,Wifi can all be accessed with a quick keystroke.

The sleep mode actually works very well and “wakes” to a ready to use state in mere seconds.

Win7 Starter is really not bad, little functionality has been removed so as to keep the user from bogging down the system with too many option but still I find very usable and you really don’t miss the removed functions. You can look a very good comparison matrix by Paul Thurrott at his Winsupersite Website

Since this machine is upgradeable to 2GB of RAM I most likely will just to pepp it up a but right now I LOVE THIS MACHINE and recommend it highly to anyone, even if a little on the pricey side!

***UPDATE 2/7/10***

I’ve been using this machine for several weeks now and am completely satisfied so far. I have had no problems what so ever. I intend to upgrade to 2GB of RAM but have not yet and can only believe the performance will get better. On the heaviest days of usage I can usually get 7-8 hours on the battery. I have been using this machine to stream Netflix usually without issue with a strong WIFI signal. I have installed Office 2007 and have not had any problems. I have Skype installed but have not used it for voice calls yet. I will be taking this to Mexico. I will update again on the performance then!

Toshiba Mini NB305-N410BL 10.1-Inch Royal Blue Netbook

Rating: (out of 81 reviews)

Product Description
NEW Dell Studio 1735 Series Battery rated at 11.1V, 4800mAh, N/A Li-Ion. Replacement battery is guaranteed to meet or exceed original Dell Studio 1735 Series battery specifications.
Dell Studio 1735 Series Battery – Dell Studio 1735 Series Laptop Battery

Dell Studio 1735 Series Battery – Dell Studio 1735 Series Laptop Battery

• [Voltage(V)] 11.1V.[Capacity(mAh)] 4800mAh.[Cells] 6 cells.[Dimension(mm)] 206.5*50*20.3.[Color] Black
• Replacement For:WU946 WU960 MT276 MT264 KM905 WU965 PW773 KM904 KM887
• Fit Machine Models:Dell Studio 1535 Series,Dell Studio 1535 Series
• Please make sure that the battery part numbers listed in the description matches the battery part number on your original battery before you purchase
• The Replacement Battery come with Full 1 Year warranty,Batteries are in high grade quality and certified by CE and RoHS

Product Description
[P/N] DL1535LH
[Fit model] Studio 1535 Series
[Replace] WU946
[Voltage(V)] 11.1V
[Capacity(mAh)] 4800mAh
[Cells] 6 cells
[Dimension(mm)] 206.5*50*20.3
[N.W(g)] 315g
[Color] Black
[Type] Li-ion

Replacement For: WU946 WU960 MT276 MT264 KM905 WU965 PW773 KM904 KM887

Fit Machine Models:

Dell Studio 1535 Series Dell Studio 1536 Series
4800 mAh 6 Cells Replacement Dell Studio 1535 1536 series Laptop Battery WU946 WU960 MT276 MT264 KM905 WU965 PW773 KM904 KM887 series Laptops Replacement battery W/a USB2.0 SD Card reader as a free gift– Equivalent Battery
$59.99

4800 mAh 6 Cells Replacement Dell Studio 1535 1536 series Laptop Battery WU946 WU960 MT276 MT264 KM905 WU965 PW773 KM904 KM887 series Laptops Replacement battery W/a USB2.0 SD Card reader as a free gift– Equivalent Battery

• Non-OEM case fit Samsung N140-14R 10.1-Inch
• Padded Nebook compartment with Velcro retaining strap (Netook NOT included!!)
• Large Velcro front pocket for power brick, cords and mouse.
• Interior storage pockets for netcard, SD cards, magazine and cellphone.
• Padded interior divider for customization. Universal 12v car and AC adapter wall charger w/ 7 interchangeable tips

Product Description
1 Year Warranty
rooCase 3n1 Combo – Samsung N140-14R 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Bag Case with 12v Car and AC Adapter Wall Charger – Red / Black Classic Series
$45.58

rooCase 3n1 Combo – Samsung N140-14R 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Bag Case with 12v Car and AC Adapter Wall Charger – Red / Black Classic Series

• Non-OEM case fit Sony VAIO VPC-W111XX/PC 10.1-Inch
• Padded Nebook Compartment with Velcro Retaining Strap (Netook NOT included!!)
• Front Zippered Pocket for Netcard, SD Cards, Pens, Cellphone, Power Cord and AC Adapter.
• MP3 Compartment with Outlet for Earbuds. Padded Adjustable Shoulder Strap.
• Strap on the back of case for a rolling upright suitcase. 3in1 Universal AC Wall / 12v Car / Airplane Adapter Charger

Product Description
1 Year Warranty
rooCase 4n1 Combo – Sony VAIO VPC-W111XX/PC 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Case with AC and DC Adapter Charger Home / Car / Airplane – Versasport Bag Series Black
$46.68

rooCase 4n1 Combo – Sony VAIO VPC-W111XX/PC 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Case with AC and DC Adapter Charger Home / Car / Airplane – Versasport Bag Series Black

• Non-OEM case fit Samsung N140-14B 10.1-Inch
• Padded Nebook compartment with Velcro retaining strap (Netook NOT included!!)
• Large Velcro front pocket for power brick, cords and mouse.
• Interior storage pockets for netcard, SD cards, magazine and cellphone.
• Padded interior divider for customization. Universal AC adapter wall charger w/ 7 interchangeable tips

Product Description
1 Year Warranty
rooCase 2n1 Combo – Samsung N140-14B 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Bag Case and AC Adapter Wall Charger – Dark Blue / Black Classic Series
$35.68

rooCase 2n1 Combo – Samsung N140-14B 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Bag Case and AC Adapter Wall Charger – Dark Blue / Black Classic Series

• Voltage: 100V-240V (AC Input), 18.5V (DC Output), 3.5A(Output Current)
• Power: 60W. Tip: 4.8mm x 1.7mm. Input Frequency: 50 ~ 60Hz. AC socket: C6.
• Compatible Part Numbers: 239427-001, 239427-003, 239427-001, 101898-001, 101880-001, 146594-001, 159224-001, 163444-001, 179725-003, A265, AC-C14, 285288-001, 285546-001, LPACQ3, PA-1651-02C, PP1006, PPP002D, PPP009L, PPP009H, P-0K065B13, 239427-001, 239427-003, 239704-001, 239705-001, 265602-001387661-001, 209126-001, 209124-001, 120765-001, 371790-001, 338136-001, 386315-002, 381090-001, 380467-001
• Fit Machine Models: Compaq Armada EVO Series Presario C300 C500 C700 F500 F700 X1000 X1100 X1200 X1300 M2000 2200 2800 V2000 V2100 V2300 V2400 V2500 V2600 V4000 V5000 V6000 Pavilion DV1000 DV1300 DV1400 DV1500 DV4000 DV5000 ZT3000 ZE2000 ZE4900
• Safety features: Automatic Overload cut-off , Automatic Thermal cut-off , Short. Brand New. Full i Year Warranty!

Product Description
Specifications:

Voltage: 100V-240V (AC Input), 18.5V (DC Output), 3.5A(Output Current)
Power: 60W
Tip: 4.8mm x 1.7mm
Input Frequency: 50 ~ 60Hz
AC socket: C6
Operation Temperature: 0C ~ +40C
Storage Temperature: -40C ~ +85C
Relative Humidity: 5% ~ 95%RH (non-condensing)
Safety Approvals: UL, CUL, TUV, CE, CCC, GOST-R, B Mark, NOM, NEMKO, PSB, S-Mark, S+ Mark, GS, RCM, BSMI, EK Mark
Safety features that are built in are: Automatic Overload cut-off , Automatic Thermal cut-off , Short;
Product Type: Replacement Product (Brand New)
Condition: New, 1 year warranty!

Compatible Part Numbers:

HP COMPAQ: 239427-001, 239427-003, 239427-001, 101898-001, 101880-001, 146594-001, 159224-001,
163444-001, 179725-003, A265, AC-C14, 285288-001, 285546-001, LPACQ3, PA-1651-02C,
PP1006, PPP002D, PPP009L, PPP009H, P-0K065B13, 239427-001, 239427-003,
239704-001, 239705-001, 265602-001387661-001, 209126-001, 209124-001, 120765-001,
371790-001, 338136-001, 386315-002, 381090-001, 380467-001

Fit Machine Models:

Compaq Armada Series, Compaq EVO Series, Compaq Presario C300 C500 C700
Compaq Presario F500 F700, Compaq Presario X1000 Series,Compaq Presario X1100 Series,
Compaq Presario X1200 Series, Compaq Presario X1300 Series,
HP Pavilion DV1000 Series, HP Pavilion DV1300 Series, HP Pavilion DV1400 Series,
HP Pavilion DV1500 Series, HP Pavilion DV4000 Series, HP Pavilion DV5000 Series,
HP Pavilion ZT3000 Series, HP Pavilion ZE2000 Series, HP Pavilion ZE4900 Series,
Compaq Presario M2000 Series, Compaq Presario 2200 Series, Compaq Presario 2800 Series,
Compaq Presario V2000 Series, Compaq Presario V2100 Series, Compaq Presario V2300 Series,
Compaq Presario V2400 Series, Compaq Presario V2500 Series, Compaq Presario V2600 Series,
Compaq Presario V4000 Series, Compaq Presario V5000 Series, Compaq Presario V6000 Series <
60W Laptop Notebook AC Adapter Charger Power Supply for HP Compaq Compaq Armada EVO Series Presario C300 C500 C700 F500 F700 X1000 X1100 X1200 X1300 M2000 2200 2800 V2000 V2100 V2300 V2400 V2500 V2600 V4000 V5000 V6000 Pavilion DV1000 DV1300 DV1400 DV1500 DV4000 DV5000 ZT3000 ZE2000 ZE4900 PN 239427-001 239427-001 381090-001 239427-001 PPP009L 239704-001 371790-001
$14.32

60W Laptop Notebook AC Adapter Charger Power Supply for HP Compaq Compaq Armada EVO Series Presario C300 C500 C700 F500 F700 X1000 X1100 X1200 X1300 M2000 2200 2800 V2000 V2100 V2300 V2400 V2500 V2600 V4000 V5000 V6000 Pavilion DV1000 DV1300 DV1400 DV1500 DV4000 DV5000 ZT3000 ZE2000 ZE4900 PN 239427-001 239427-001 381090-001 239427-001 PPP009L 239704-001 371790-001

• Non-OEM case fit Samsung N140-14B 10.1-Inch
• Padded Nebook compartment with Velcro retaining strap (Netook NOT included!!)
• Large Velcro front pocket for power brick, cords and mouse.
• Interior storage pockets for netcard, SD cards, magazine and cellphone.
• Padded interior divider for customization. Universal 12v car and AC adapter wall charger w/ 7 interchangeable tips

Product Description
1 Year Warranty
rooCase 3n1 Combo – Samsung N140-14B 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Bag Case with 12v Car and AC Adapter Wall Charger – Dark Blue / Black Classic Series
$45.58

rooCase 3n1 Combo – Samsung N140-14B 10.1-Inch Netbook Carrying Bag Case with 12v Car and AC Adapter Wall Charger – Dark Blue / Black Classic Series