Dell XPS 15

Rabu, 08 Januari 2014

The new XPS 15 (also called the XPS L501X) is a completely redesigned multimedia notebook from Dell. Sporting a JBL sound-system with subwoofer, NVIDIA GT420M dedicated graphics, and an Intel Core i5 processor, this system is designed with performance and entertainment in mind. In this review, we take an in-depth look at the new XPS and see how it stacks up against the competition.

Our Dell XPS 15 Specifications:
  • Intel Core i5 460M Processor (3MB cache, 2.53GHz)
  • 15.6-inch 1366 x 768 glossy display with LED backlighting
  • NVIDIA GeForce GT420M with 1GB DDR3
  • Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
  • 6GB DDR3 memory
  • 500GB 7200rpm HDD (Seagate Momentus 7200.4)
  • Realtek gigabit ethernet and Intel 1000 802.11b/g/n wireless
  • Bluetooth 3.0
  • 6-cell Li-ion battery (56Wh)
  • Dimensions: 15 x 10.4 x 1.3-1.5-inches
  • Weight: 6.21lbs
  • MSRP: $899.99 (Closest configuration)
Build and Design
The new Dell XPS 15 has a silver on grey color scheme, using metal panels and plastic for the body. Compared to past XPS designs that were trend setters that distinguished themselves from the lower models, the new XPS doesnt seem to spark much visual interest. In theory, mixing alloy panels with a brushed metal palmrest and backlit keyboard usually yields good results. The redesigned XPS 15 doesnt seem to really set itself apart, though, from the standard Inspiron 15R until you take a much closer look. Standing back five feet, the panels look like average plastic on the exterior, and the body itself even seems more bloated than the 15R. Overall, it seems like Dell missed a big opportunity to make the XPS-series the unique notebooks they once were. The result is a rather bland looking multimedia notebook where its budget-oriented sibling --the Inspiron 15R--outshines it.

Nevertheless, the XPS 15 feels nicer than it looks. The metal panels on the interior and exterior add strength to the body, reduce flex, and give the notebook a high-quality feel. Holding the notebook for the first time is a weird experience, as most of the panels look like plastic until you feel the cold metal. The screen cover does a very good job at protecting the display from impacts and seems to resist flexing when opening the screen from one of the front corners. The inside of the notebook features a large brushed metal panel that makes up the palmrest and keyboard surround. The bottom of the notebook is completely plastic (including the access panel) but still resists flex and feels durable. The only problem we noticed was the high use of plastic clips holding most of the notebook together (in addition to metal screws).

Users looking to upgrade the Dell XPS 15 will find it easy or not so easy, depending on which components they are looking to swap out. The single access panel on the bottom of the notebook houses the two sticks of RAM, wireless card, and WWAN/TV tuner slot. To get at the hard drive, you must fully disassemble the notebook, which isnt a task for the faint hearted. We counted about 16 screws, but didnt want to go further and risk breaking plastic clips or gouging the trim around the perimeter. Thats an awful amount of work just to swap out a hard drive for a full-sized notebook.
notebookreview.com

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Toshiba Satelite Pro L670 with 17 3 widescreen display

Selasa, 07 Januari 2014

Toshiba Satellite Pro L670 is the laptop that is designed for those of you who have a high moblity, this laptop is suitable for you who businismen, with 17.3-inch screen that is equipped with TruBrite technology, High Definition, making this notebook can display images that are stunning,



equipped with Intel Core I3 and Memory 4GB DDR3 which will make this laptop can do multi-tasking with excellent performance, Toshiba Satellite Pro L670 has been pre-installed operating system, microsoft windows 7, so you will not be in bother with installing operating systems, to support display laptop Toshiba Satellite Pro L670 has been equipped with Intels Mobile HD graphics technology with which you can allocate memory from main memory , which will be very clean with displaying  on the  17.3-inch screen , whereas for data storage Toshiba Satellite Pro L670 is equipped with 500GB of Harddrive enough to store many thousands of data your office work, has also been equipped with a DVD Super Multi optical drive.

as a media of entertainment, Toshiba Satellite Pro L670 has been in complete webcam that has been mounted microphone, and to enable you to connect to the Internet Toshiba Satellite Pro L670 Laptop has been equipped with wireless lan, bluetooth, and lan RJ45 port, the laptop is also already available HDMI port, to facilitate you, showing the percentage into a larger screen,
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Compaq Presario CQ60 404CA Windows XP Driver

Minggu, 05 Januari 2014

If there any broken links, please report at the comments section below.



NOTE:

1. Please Install according to order given:

2.Note that the ETHERNET is installed along with the Chipset driver installation.



Net framework 2.0

Download



Nvidia Chipset:

Compaq Presario CQ60-404CA Chipset Driver

Nforce driver 15.24 WHQL

Download



AUDIO:

Compaq Presario CQ60-404CA Audio Driver

----------------------------------------------------------------

UAA drivers (Must be installed before installing the audio driver):

Download

Windows XP SP3: Download (KB835221)



Both Conexant Audio & Modem Driver:

Download (mediafire)

Download (rapidshare)

Download (easy-share)



after download, extract the folder and install both audio and modem, if failed read the instruction here:

Installing conextant smart audio 221 Windows XP

--------------------------------------------------------------------



GRAPHIC:

Compaq Presario CQ60-404CA Nvidia graphic driver

Nvidia Geforce8200M G Graphics Card:

Download

If direct install failed follow guide here



WIRELESS:

Compaq Presario CQ60-404CA Wireless Driver

-------------------------------

If you have intel wireless

Intel: Download || (medifire)||

(requires windows installer 3.0 installed first)



If you have Broadcom Wireless

Broadcom: Download || Mediafire ||

---------------------------------------------



BLUETOOH:

Compaq Presario CQ60-404CA Bluetooth Driver

HP Integrated Module with Bluetooth Wireless for Windows XP:

Download



WIRELESS SOFTWARE:

HP Wireless Assistant:

Download



CARD READER:

Compaq Presario CQ60-404CA Card Reader Driver

Realtek USB 2.0 Card Reader:

Download

or

Download

if the above drivers didnt work use this:

Download



WEBCAM/CAMERA:

Compaq Presario CQ60-404CA Webcam Driver

Cyberlink youcam 2.0

(Automatically installed)

if not here is the drivers: Download



BUTTONS:

HP Quick Launch Buttons

Download



LIGHTSCRIBE:

Lightscribe system software

Download
Read More..

How Activate Windows 8 1 Pro and Windows 8 1 Enterprise Offline Activator






This tuts is on how to Activate your Windows 8.1 Pro / Enterprise!

Windows 8.1 Activition Tutorials

OPTION #1:

STEPS:
  • REMOVE installation key first follow this Screen Shots Download WinAct 
  • [ Download Link ] then Run
    Windows 8.1 Activition Tutorials
    • Download activator [ Download Link ]
    • Right click A9600E (from enterprise or pro.) and select run as administrator follow my screen shot below
    Windows 8.1 Activition Tutorials
    •  Check your Computer properties looks like this
    Windows 8.1 Activition Tutorials

    •  Download and Unzip My_WCP_watermark_editor.zip [ Download Link ]

    Windows 8.1 Activition Tutorials
    • follow Screen Shot below and wait to complete the Processed
    Windows 8.1 Activition Tutorials
     Done!


    OPTION #2: 

    • Download W8.1 Pro [ Download Link ]
    • REMOVE installation key first follow this Screen Shots Download WinAct 
    • [ Download Link ] then Run
    Windows 8.1 Activition Tutorials

    • Run CMD as Administrator
      type SLUI 3 enter this serial key
      NTTX3-RV7VB-T7X7F-WQYYY-9Y92F
      wait for system to accept the key and prompt that its done.

    • Run CMD as Administrator
      type SLUI 4, select UNITED KINGDOM, next you will see your installation I.D this must be appeared in the installation I.D (if NOT DO NOT CONTINUE This process and proceed to the Activation 1)
      installation i.d 5798411 5450483 2943601 1243920 6545380 2885066 9612621 9251254 1949360 

    • Click ENTER CONFIRMATION I.D and enter to fields this confirmation
            Confirmation Keys:
     
             A 054343
              B 968884
              C 830996
              D 505981
              E 885621
              F 883754

              G 975792
              H 926443
     
    • Click ACTIVATE WINDOWS and wait for the process to finish and prompt saying "Thanks, youre all done." then click Close and restart. 

    • If you still have watermark, Just use watermark remover [ Download here
    • Done!

    Also Read: How To Activate Windows 7 & Windows Vista 100% Working Method

      Credits to: 
      [ edwintan  ] via [ symbianize ]


      Author image

      About the Author :

      is a full time Tech Blogger | Web Designer, Founder and Editor in Chief of INFOTECHMAESTRO
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      Axioo Drivers CENTAUR DPAM For Windows XP



      Type
      Title
      Description
      Operating System
      Download





      INTELLIPEN - DPAM

      Intellipen DPAM


      Driver Intellipen DPAM Win XP (83M)


      Windows XP







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      AnimeSeries apk Watch Anime Live On Your Android For Free

      Sabtu, 04 Januari 2014




      Looking for latest cartoon anime to watch live directly to your Android device?
      So, If the answer is yes, I guest your in the right site to get it for free. This android application is useful, it gives you a chance to watch and being always upadated to your favorite anime series. This is live, so dont think twice how it works, because you definitely need a internet connection for you to run this apps. Using WI-fi or a 3rd party internet protocol like VPN, or just simply use prepaid cards and register for internet promos. But personally I used my WI-fi to run this apps in my new cherry mobile flare 2.0 mobile.

      Android Live Stream Anime

      You can now watch all your favorite cartoon videos live for free! This application must have on every android users most specially to those anime fanatics! 
      Android Live Stream Anime
      Download Now
       
      AnimeSeries.apk



      Author image

      About the Author :

      is a full time Tech Blogger | Web Designer, Founder and Editor in Chief of INFOTECHMAESTRO
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      Axioo Drivers CENTAUR DV For Windows XP



      Type
      Title
      Description
      Operating System
      Download





      CENTAUR - DV

      Modem


      Driver CENTAUR DV Modem Win XP (2.8M)


      Windows XP




      CENTAUR - DV

      Wireless LAN


      Driver CENTAUR DV LAN Wireless Win XP (22.2M)


      Windows
      Read More..

      Compaq Presario CQ40 641TU Windows XP Driver

      NOTE: Install according to order given

      First Install  Netframework: (require for Quick Launch Installation).
      Net framework 2.0
      Download

      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TU BUTTON Driver
      HP  Quick Launch Buttons
      Download

      INTEL CHIPSET:
      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TUCHIPSET Driver (xp, vista, 7)
      INF Update  Utility - Primarily for Intel® 5, 4, 3, 900 Series Chipsets
      Download(mediafire)

      STORAGE
      Intel matrix storage manager:
      Download  (intel site)
      Download  (mediafire)

      GRAPHIC
      Compaq Presario CQ40-641TU Graphic XP Driver
      if you have intel graphic:
      Mobile Intel  45 Express Chipset Family Graphics Driver
      Intel graphic  accelerator 4500MHD
      Download

      If  you have Nvidia graphic:
      NVIDIA GeForce G 103M/ G 105M Graphics  Driver (186.81 WHQL XP 32-bit)
      Download

      FOR NVDIA: if  resulting in error use modded driver below:
      Download
      3-step  process to install:
      1. Download driver, double click and select  extract,
      2. Download modded INF and replace original INF in  extracted folder,
      3. Install and  reboot.

      ======================================
      AUDIO:
      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TU Windows XP Driver
      ===================================== 
      Install MS-UAA first:
      Windows XP SP2: Download   (SP33867.exe)
      Windows XP SP3: Download  (KB835221)

      Then restart, and install AUDIO Drivers:

      IDT  - High Definition Audio Codecs (SP39671)
      Download  (ftp)
      Download  (mediafire)
      ===========================
      or try this drivers reported work in xp
      SP41500 Download  (ftp)


      SP41616  Download(ftp)

      ===========================
      First install your audio.
      Installing the Audio normally resulting in error, ignore it and proceed  by manually install the drivers:

      Download and install the driver, you will get the error while  installing.
      Perform the below steps to fix the issue.
      1. Click on Start and select Run. Now type devmgmt.msc and press enter.
      2. Right click on "Audio device on High Definition Audio Bus" and click  Update driver.
      3. Select "Install from a list or specific location".
      4. Click Next. Then select "Dont search, I will choose the driver to  install".
      5. Click Next and then select "Sound, video and game controller" from  the list.
      6. Click Next and then click Have Disk.
      7. Click Browse C:swsetupsp39671 folder and select the .inf   file and click open and Continue with the onscreen instructions.

      Fo instruction with pictures read here:
      Manually  install Audio Drivers.

      MODEM
      High-Definition Audio (HDA)  Modem Installer and Driver
      Download

      WIRELESS:
      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TU Wireless XP Driver
      =====================================
      Choose  one of the wireless driver base on your specs, if you dont know, just  try each driver (there are no risk and will not harm your system)
      ---------------------------------------------------------
      Broadcom:  Download

      if  error try newer version -
      Broadcom BCM9431HMG
      Broadcom: Download

      Intel:  Download
      (requires  windows installer 3.0 installed first)
      =================

      BLUETOOTH:
      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TU XP Bluetooth Driver
      HP Integrated Module with  Bluetooth Wireless Technology
      Download

      WIRELESS  SOFTWARE
      HP Wireless Assitant:
      Download

      ETHERNET:
      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TU LAN/Ethernet Driver
      Realtek RTL8102E Family  PCI-E Fast Ethernet NIC
        Download(direct)  or Download

      CARD  READER
      Compaq Presario CQ40-641TUCard Reader Driver
      JMB38X  Card Reader Host Controller
      Download

      TOUCHPAD
      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TU Touchpad Driver
      ALPS Touchpad
      Download

      Synaptics  Touchpad
      Download
      Download

      WEBCAM
      Compaq  Presario CQ40-641TU XP Webcam Driver
      Cyberlink youcam software  2.0
      Download

      LIGHTSCRIBE:
      Lightscribe  system software
      Download

      If  you have 7 unknown device:
      Unknown devices:
      Download

      Unzip  files, open folder and right click at machine.inf, select install.
      Read More..

      Google Nexus 5 Specs Availability in Philippines



      #KitKat’s page @ Twitter, announce for the date of  launch on Oct. 28, 2013 for the long-awaited Nexus 5 & Android 4.4 kitkat.

      LG Google Nexus 5







      Nexus 5 is a top of the line phone with a bargain price tag with prices starting at US $199. PricePanda Philippines has deals on the Nexus 5 from several trusted retailers in the Philippines allowing you to find the best prices for the Nexus 5 this October-November. - Source: @PricePanda


      Author image

      About the Author :

      is a full time Tech Blogger | Web Designer, Founder and Editor in Chief of INFOTECHMAESTRO
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      Compaq Presario CQ32 series Drivers

      Compaq Presario CQ32 Notebook PC

      Select your operating system below to go to the driver download page.

      For WINDOWS VISTA : if you need driver for vista you may  request in the comments section.

      Model                                                         Drivers
      Compaq Presario CQ32-101TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-105TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-106TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-107TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-108TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-109TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-110TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-111TX - Win XP | Win 7
      Compaq Presario CQ32-114TX - Win XP | Win 7

      Windows 7 and Windows Vista Installation : Normal installation using windows CD/DVD
      Windows XP Installation: If direct installation failed read here: Slipstream
      Driver info:
      (this information is GENERAL info for the drivers link above)

      Chipset
      Intel 5 Series/3400 Series Chipset Family USB Enhanced Host Controller - 3B3C Intel 5 Series/3400 Series Chipset Family USB Enhanced Host Controller - 3B34

      Audio
      IDT High Definition Audio CODEC

      Graphic
      AMD Graphics Driver and the ATI Catalyst Control Center
      ATI radeon HD5470 and compatible IDs

      Card Reader
      Alcor Micro USB 2.0 Card Reader

      Wifi - Intel
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Advanced-N 6200
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Advanced-N 6200
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Ultimate-N 6300
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Ultimate-N 6300
      Intel WiFi Link 1000
      Intel WiFi Link 1000
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Advanced-N 6250
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Advanced-N 6250
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Advanced-N 6205
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 1030
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Advanced-N 6230
      Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 6150


      (other drivers specification provided on the download page)
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      Acer Aspire One 722

      Jumat, 03 Januari 2014

      Raindrop. After the smaller One 522, a larger alternative in the Acer Aspire One 722, also equipped with an AMD Radeon HD 6250 graphics, shows up at our office. Is it a sensible range expansion or will the waves that it causes subside quite fast?

      The Taiwanese company now also has an updated version of its largest 11.6 inch netbook representative available as the Acer Aspire One 722. Alike the previously reviewed Acer Aspire One 522, the test device comes along with a 1 GHz weak AMD C-50 Dual-Core APU (accelerated processing unit) together with incorporated AMD Radeon HD 6250 graphics unit. Other key data, such as a 2 GB DDR3 main memory, a 250 GB hard disk capacity and the usual interfaces, have been maintained.

      The netbook shows modernizations in the area of case and display. The latter now has a resolution of 1280x720 pixels (HD Ready) and a glare type surface at a typical size. The prior model still had the finer resolution of 1366x768 pixels in a 16:9 format.

      The device is in the usual price range for such a configuration at a recommended retail price of 349 euros, including added value tax. However, its tagged with a slightly lower price than its predecessor.

      Performance
      Apart from the fresh design, the real innovation is the updated innards by AMD. The core components are made up of an AMD C-50 accelerated processing unit with a clock rate of 1 GHz and two cores (dual core). This component is an entry level solution from AMD that is currently finding a new home in more and more netbooks and wants to challenge the Intel Atom platform. In contrast to the Intel Atom N550, the APU however lacks the virtual multiplying of cores (Hyper Threading) and consequently multi-tasking power. The Intel CPU also has the lead in the nominal clock rate with a positive difference of 500 MHz (1.5 GHz).

      Another major bonus point of the new APU is the incorporated AMD Radeon HD 6250 graphics with a fast core clock of 280 MHz and DirectX 11 support. The fact that Acer currently doesnt have an Aspire One 722 model with the stronger AMD E-350 APU and stronger AMD Radeon HD 6310 graphics in its supply is a pity. For example, Asus offers the Eee PC 1215B netbook with this solution for 499 euros (RRP).

      The first tests in our benchmark course deal with the processors performance. The C-50 APU achieves satisfactory 1264 points in Cinebench R10 Multi-Thread Rendering (32bit) and thus moves in the familiar netbook range. The Intel Atom N550, as the opponent, occasionally scores better averagely and achieves 1415 points in this test (difference +10.7 percent). A further performance gain can be accomplished thanks to the 64 bit operating system. However, the Intel processor is ruled out because these configurations are only equipped with Windows 7 Starter (32 bit). In plain English, there is a difference of 8.8 percent (1264 to 1386 points) between the 32 and 64 bit application in our test device.

      The Aspire One 722 only achieves weak 0.38 points in Cinebench R11.5s CPU benchmark (64 bit) and is thus at the lower end of our database. A comparison with the stronger AMD E-350 APU with a clock rate of 1.6 GHz is worth it although there arent many available. This component achieves 0.6 points in the Acer Aspire 5253 and has a lead of about 33.7 percent on the C-50 APU. Overall, a rather weak processor performance that is also noticed in routine use as slow opening windows and longer boot times.

      The AMD Radeon HD 6250 can set itself apart from the Intel counterpart in the synthetic benchmarks 3D performance. However, real gaming fun doesnt evolve. Subnotebooks with a dedicated graphics card are recommended for ambitions that go in this direction. Futuremarks 3DMark06 confirms this with a score of 1411 points at a resolution of 1280x1024 pixels. The result is in the lower third, as expected. However, the difference to the Intel GMA 3150 in the Atom N550 CPU is striking. This combination accomplishes only 144 points in the Asus Eee PC 1015PEM and has to admit defeat with a difference of 89.8 percent.

      Specifications Acer Aspire One 722-C52kk :
      • Processor : AMD C-Series C-50 1 GHz
      • Mainboard : AMD A50M
      • Memory : 2048 MB, manufacturer: Hynix (Hyundai Electronics), HMT325S6BFR8C-H9, DDR3-10600S, 1066 MHz, maximum 4 GBs, 1 slot
      • Graphics adapter : AMD Radeon HD 6250, Core: 280 MHz, DirectX 11, Shader 5.0, 8.802.2.1000
      • Display : 11.6 inch 16:9, 1280x720 pixel, AUO B116XW03 V2, WXGA, LED, diagonal: 29.5 centimeters, glossy: yes
      • Harddisk : Toshiba MK2559GSXP, 250GB 5400rpm
      • Soundcard : HD Audio
      • Connections : 3 USB 2.0, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: headphone out, microphone in, Card Reader: 5-in-1 (MMC, SD, MS, MS PRO, xD), RJ-45
      • Networking : Atheros AR8152 PCI-E Fast Ethernet Controller (10/100MBit), Broadcom 802.11n (abgn), 3.0 +HS Bluetooth
      • Optical drive
      • Size : height x width x depth (in mm): 25.4 x 285 x 202
      • Weight : 1.358 kg Power Supply: 0.172 kg
      • Battery : 49 Wh Lithium-Ion, 6 cells, 4400 mAh, 11.1 Volt, model: AL10B31
      • Price : 349 Euro
      • Operating System : Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64 Bit
      • Additional features : Webcam: 0.3 Megapixel, netbook, 40 watt adapter with connector (DE), 6 cell battery, warranty card, instructions, Adobe Reader 9, Microsoft Office 2010 Starter, Windows Live Essentials, McAfee Internet Security Suite (trial version), newXpresso, Norton Online Backup, Skype, Acer software, 12 Months Warranty, warranty includes pick-up & return service and International Travelers Warranty (ITW), color: black.
      • notebookcheck.net

      Read More..

      Realtek Audio Driver 5 10 0 5830 For XP

      Driver type: AUDIO
      Name : Realtek ALC269 @ ATI SB750 - High Definition Audio Controller
      Date: 04/10/2009
      Version: 5.10.0.5830
       Size : 58.3MB

      Download

      Compatible Model:
      Acer 5853G, Acer 5853
      There are other model that compatible with this driver and not listed here.

      Installation:
      Extract the driver folder, run setup to install.
      Read More..

      ASUS U33JC Bamboo

      ASUS is no stranger when it comes to innovative laptop design, and the new 13-inch ASUS U33JC-A1 is the latest addition to the companys attractive "Bamboo series." Yes, when we say "Bamboo" we mean this notebook is covered in wood protected by a durable finish. If youre in the market for a classy-looking laptop with an Intel Core i3 processor, Nvidia discrete graphics, and impressive battery life, the ASUS U33JC deserves a much closer look.

      Our review unit of the ASUS U33JC (U33JC-A1) comes with the following features:

      * 13.3-inch 720p (1366x768) display with LED backlighting
      * Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
      * Intel Core i3 370M (2.40GHz)
      * Nvidia GeForce 310M graphics card w/ 1GB GDDR3 dedicated memory (Optimus switchable graphics)
      * 4GB DDR3 RAM 1066MHz
      * 500GB 5400RPM hard drive
      * 802.11b/g/n wireless and Bluetooth
      * 8-cell Li-ion battery (5600mAh)
      * Weight: 4.54 lbs
      * Dimensions: 12.9 x 9.3 x 1 inches
      * Price as configured: $999.00

      Build and Design

      ASUS has long been known for designing laptops that break the traditional mold of notebooks. Heck, this is the company that developed the worlds first "scented" notebooks a few years ago. The ASUS Bamboo series is another one of those interesting ASUS designs that deserves some attention.

      In a world full of boring plastic and metal alloy notebooks, ASUS realized the potential appeal of wood with a high-quality finish. The companys newest addition to its Bamboo series is the 13-inch U33JC. This luxury-focused laptop pcaks a new Core i3 processor and NVIDIA dedicated graphics with Optimus automatic switching between power-saving integrated graphics and high-performance discrete graphics. As if that werent enough, ASUS includes USB 3.0 and Intels wireless display technology all for just $1,000.

      The build quality of the U33JC is very good with a solid main chassis that doesnt squeak, creak, or flex even under significant pressure. The screen hinges are nice and tight, making it a little difficult to open the laptop with one hand but also helping to keep the screen where you want it. While were on the topic of the screen, the screen lid features bamboo cladding with a dark brown finish that provides plenty of protection. We spilt coffee on the lid and dropped the AC adapter on it but all we had to do was wipe the lid down with a damp cloth and it looked as good as new.

      While were on the topic of the screen lid, I want to draw your attention to a small design feature that deserves much greater praise: the webcam privacy filter. The two-megapixel webcam included on the U33JC might not seem like anything special at first glance, but if you look closer youll notice a simple plastic slider switch with the words "ON" and "OFF" printed on either side. Slide the switch to the "ON" position and the webcam is available for use at any time. Slide the switch to the "OFF" position and a simple plastic tab slides over the camera lens preventing anyone from seeing you.

      Yes, you could open up Windows Device Manager and deactivate the webcam completely if you are concerned about privacy, but this simple on/off switch makes it much easier to use the use the webcam for video chats and disable the webcam when youre not using it. Whether its perverted hackers or overzealous school districts, weve seen many news reports of people using webcams to spy on people without their knowledge. The privacy filter is a simple way to resolve that security issue and put control back into the hands of the PC user.

      The bottom of the notebook includes a single access plate for the RAM, wireless card and the hard drive. Granted, most people who purchase a luxury bamboo-covered notebook probably wont perform upgrades. Still, if you want to add more RAM (the U33JC can be upgraded to 8GB) or a new hard drive or SSD, all you have to do is remove two screws to make it happen. ASUS was also kind enough to place a plastic protective sticker over the serial number sticker and the Windows 7 key so these important numbers wont rub off over time.

      Screen and Speakers
      The 13.3-inch diagonal display on the U33JC-A1 features LED backlighting and a 16:9 aspect ratio. Once again, we give this screen a "very good" rating within the narrow vertical viewing angle sweet spot. The backlight is even and bright, contrast is sharp and colors are good at default settings. The only obvious issue with the screen is the narrow vertical viewing angles. While the horizontal viewing angles (side view) are nearly flawless, the colors become over exposed when viewed from above and significantly inverted and distorted when viewed from below. If you are using this laptop for color-accurate editing you will need to be certain youre viewing the screen from straight ahead.

      The displays 1366x768 resolution is a standard resolution for mainstream notebooks. The horizontal resolution is adequate, however only 768 pixels of vertical space means a good deal of scrolling while surfing the Internet and only enough space to view about one-half of a page in a Microsoft Word.

      The ASUS U33JC features stereo speakers located just below the palm rests on the bottom front edge of the notebook. The speakers sound absolutely fabulous when the laptop is resting on a hard surface like a desk as the sound bounces up off the desk and toward the user. Unfortunately, the sound isnt as good if youre using this notebook as a "laptop." In the NotebookReview.com test lab we usually call downward-facing speaker "crotch speakers" because they direct sound at your lap rather than your ears. If youre using the U33JC on your lap you can expect the audio to sound muffled and distorted against your legs. On a happier note, the headphone jack provides a great, static-free connection for external speakers or earphones.

      Keyboard and Touchpad
      The Chiclet-style keyboard on the U33JC isnt one of the better keyboards Ive seen on an ASUS notebook. Each key suffers from weak (mushy) feedback and the center of the keyboard shows some flex under heavy typing pressure. There are no dedicated multimedia keys, but the arrow keys do serve double duty as media controls when used with the function (fn) key. On the bright side, each key is flat with a nice matte texture and a little extra spacing to prevent typos. Again, since the keys are mushy you dont have to worry about much "click-clack" noise while typing. Still, the typing noise is there and is pretty loud if you happen to wiggle the keys slightly while typing.

      The Synaptics touchpad is a fairly nice with the same bamboo covering as the palm rests. The touchpad drivers provide excellent accuracy and minimal lag with a range of options. The touchpad buttons are hidden under a single "rocker bar" and have a shallow press with audible "click" when pressed. The biggest problem I had with this touchpad was the thin touchpad button bar combined with the extremely sensitive touchpad. The cursor often jumped across the screen while I was using the touchpad because I would click the touchpad button with my thumb and the edge of my thumb touched the touchpad ... making the cursor unintentionally move to the lower edge of the screen.
      by : notebookreview.com

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