Article Abstract:
Panasonic's $5,499 CF-63 notebook computer is one of the first such machines to include a DVD drive as well as a strong feature set that should meet most users' needs. The processor is a 166MHz Pentium MMX, not the fastest available but more than adequate for business applications, and the hard disk holds a generous 3.2GB. Panasonic supplies 32MB of RAM expandable to 96MB, a 20x DVD/CD-ROM drive and a lithium-ion battery. The 13.3-inch active-matrix screen is among the brightest on the market and can be used even in sunlight. The 87-key keyboard is easy to type on, and there is a good set of connectors on the rear panel. DVD technical standards are not yet fully accepted in all industries, but the CF-63's DVD drive, which holds an MPEG-2 decoder chip set and playback module for different disk types, plays both video and data DVDs fairly well. Uncertainties about the future of DVD may nevertheless limit its appeal.
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Article Abstract:
The Compaq Armada 1580DMT notebook computer, priced at $3,949, is designed as an all-in-one portable that includes a 1.44MB floppy drive, CD-ROM drive, AC power, built-in modem, and full-size keyboard. Upon opening the box, the Armada 1580DMT must be loaded with a choice of either Windows NT 4.0 or Windows 95. With a 150MHz MMX Pentium processor, the notebook has a full-duplex speakerphone, a 101-key keyboard with four programmable buttons on the top left side of the unit. The 12.1-inch active matrix flat-panel display is able to show up to 64,000 colors at resolution of 800x600. The 32-bit PCI graphics board has 1MB video memory, allowing delivery of 1024x786 noninterlaced resolution with 265 colors from an external monitor. The notebook, on the whole, has an easy-to-use keyboard, terrific sound and convenient telephone capabilities. Drawbacks include the Compaq's high price, weight and size.
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Article Abstract:
FOSA Computers' $2,475 FOSA AP6313T, a 133MHz Pentium notebook computer similar to other mid-priced portables, has several drawbacks that may offset its excellent features and performance. The FOSA AP6313T is positioned as a value computer that offers basic portable features and performance at a lesser expense. Its size and weight discrepancies could create usage hurdles. The FOSA AP 6313T weighs eight pounds as opposed to its listed 7.5 pounds, plus it requires a 19.6-ounce power pack. The actual size measures around a half-inch larger in all dimensions than its specified 11.8-by-9-by-2.1 inches. Other problems include smallish keys, plus difficulty in handling the mouse buttons and the trackpad. The internal fan creates excessive noise, and the FOSA AP 6313 lacks a thermal switch that could minimize the internal fan's use.
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