14 DAY TRIAL // Sony has just introduced an innovative, 13.1-inch notebook PC series that is designed as ultra-portable while packing high-end performance and a new system configuration. This new configuration enables data transfers to reach read and write speeds far greater than those of other storage solutions. The mobile systems use Intel processors, NVIDIA graphics, high amounts of RAM and an innovative storage solution for top-end performance with no impact on mobility or design. Known as the Vaio Z series of notebooks, the products are machines weighing only 1.45 kg, with the casing made up of carbon fiber and aluminum.
The slim, tough and productive Vaio Z notebooks employ the high-performance NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M GPU with Dynamic Hybrid Graphics System. Usable processors are the 2.4GHz Core i7-520M and the 2.66 GHz Intel Core i7-620M. The devices use 13.1-inch, Full-HD (1920 x 1080) glossy, black displays. To these specifications are added 4GB or 6GB of RAM and a quad solid state drive setup, which can write data in parallel on four SSDs, for extreme speeds. In fact, the Quad SSD in Raid 0 enables file transfers that are, according to the press release, completed 6.2 times faster than hard disks at 5400 RPM.
The NVIDIA GeForce GT330M has 1GB GDDR3 VRAM and the aforementioned Dynamic Hybrid Graphics System, which optimizes performance according to work flow. The AUTO mode automatically switches between STAMINA and SPEED modes, according to the tasks being performed. In conjunction with the 13.1-inch, Full-HD screen, the Vaio Z notebook PCs can display pictures using 96% of the Adobe RGB color gamut, for an excellent multimedia playback.
Among the convenience and comfort features of the laptops are the built-in ambient light sensor, which automatically activates keyboard backlighting, and a front panel-mounted ASSIS button, which immediately takes end-users to the VAIO Care program that provides diagnosis, maintenance and troubleshooting.
Set to become available at the end of March, the Vaio Z from Sony will run Microsoft Windows 7 Professional and will have a variety of optional accessories, such as leather cases, a dedicated docking station, extended batteries and mice. The product may also come bundled with 8GB of memory, as well as noise-canceling in-ear headphones and exclusive case patterns.
Prices were not disclosed, but the two laptops may be seen in detail on Sony's website.