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Processor manufacturers tend to produce two versions of their hottest chips. Desktop versions have as much power as they need at all times and are housed in large, well-ventilated cases.
The mobile versions are built with a different aim. They work on a trickle of battery power and need to run cooler as there is not much breathing room in a notebook case standing 2in high. They tend, therefore, to be slower.
While Intel's mobile Pentium 4 processors are just starting to show their faces, several companies have made notebook PCs that use desktop processors.
Hi-Grade's Ultinote M6400 is one such model, and uses a 1.8GHz Pentium 4 processor. It's a chunky but attractive portable computer offering enough power to drive users to ditch their desktop PCs.
With 512Mb of memory and a 40Gb hard disk to keep it company, the processor helps the Ultinote to some impressive performance scores. The only downside is a battery life that is compromised by the power-hungry desktop processor.
Connectivity is a bit of a mixed bag. While the inclusion of FireWire, modem, network and a PC Card slot is good, the lack of a PS/2 port means that hooking up a proper mouse and keyboard is restricted to USB devices.
There are two USB ports to use but one of them may well be occupied by the external floppy drive that Hi-Grade bundles with the system.
It's good that a floppy drive has been included, but the CD-RW/DVD combination drive is capable of meeting removeable storage needs if you leave the floppy at home.
The audio performance is pretty standard notebook fare, with a pair of thin-sounding speakers mounted at the front of the case. Graphically though, the Ultinote features an ATi Mobility Radeon graphics chip.
The Ultinote is far more capable than the majority of notebook PCs and the 1024 x 768 resolution of the 14.1in screen ensures that graphics look their best.
Price: £1,526 (inc. VAT)
Contact: Hi-Grade 0800 0747272
www.higrade.com
Also consider: Rock Sigma SI Combo
Powerful machine with a built in CD-RW drive. £1,526 *****.
See also:
A new desktop replacement from Rock with a powerful Pentium 4 processor and plenty of features. 15 Oct 2002
Among the Notino 2200's attractions are a DVD drive and a very reasonable price. 04 Apr 2002
This first 2GHz Pentium 4 notebook offers cutting-edge power and portability. 15 Mar 2002All Notebooks & Tablets PCs
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