Notebooks race on as chips speed up

With the recent launch of mobile Celeron processors, the 300MHz mobile Pentium MMX and mobile PIIs up to 366MHz, manufacturers have launched new notebooks.

Toshiba's slimline Portege range is revised, with faster processors in the new 3020 and 7020 models: the 7020 also benefits from a larger screen.

Panasonic has a new rugged Toughbook 27, and Elonex, Hi-Grade, Olivetti and Sony are also now using the new chips - Sony in updated versions of its Vaio premium range.

Meanwhile, Samsung is launching three ranges in Europe rather than relying on its AST subsidiary, while ASE has set up a UK operation to sell its notebooks in Europe.

The rush of notebooks won't stop either. Sony has just launched a 4x CD writer that's slim enough to be built into a portable machine while Intel has formally announced its Geyserville technology.

Geyserville will offer yet faster chips for notebooks, with the first mobile PIII running at 600MHz when plugged into the mains but slowing to 500MHz on battery power: this is expected before the end of the year.

ASE: 0181 443 4003; Elonex: 0181 452 4444;

Hi-Grade: 0181 532 6100; Olivetti: 01494 688700; Panasonic: 0500 404041; Samsung: 0171 917 9575; Sony: 0990 424424; Toshiba: 01932 828828.

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