Product Description
Amazon Product Description
The Basics:
Ample proof that notebook computers really do keep getting smaller and better, the Toshiba Portege R200-S234 12.1" Notebook PC is a super-compact, stunningly slim portable PC that boasts more high-end perks than many standard-size notebooks and even some desktops. Speed is not the unit's strong suit - featuring a 1.2 GHz Pentium M processor, it is fast enough for most common mobile tasks but certainly can't compete with notebooks driven by more powerful Pentium Ms or Pentium 4 processors. Instead, the Portege R200-S234 makes its mark by packing so much functionality into its tiny 2.84 lb. frame. Featuring sophisticated amenities such as wireless communication, ultra-fast Gigabit network speeds, exceptional battery life, integrated fingerprint-based security measures, and an uncommonly large hard drive, the Portege R200-S234 is leagues ahead of many competing ultra-lights and makes an ideal companion for those who must carry their computer with them wherever they go.
Processor:
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. Some of today's notebooks are equipped with high-end CPU's on par with those in top-of-the-line desktop PCs, while others are quick enough only for basic duties such as word processing, email and the like. The Portege R200-S234 is fitted with an Intel Pentium M 753 processor running at 1.20 GHz. This is one of three components that comprise Intel's efficient Centrino system (the others being a specialized Intel chipset and integrated wireless support). Centrino-equipped notebooks are generally smaller, easier on the batteries, and more versatile than their non-Centrino counterparts. This particular CPU belongs to Intel's recently upgraded Pentium M lineup, sporting an amazing 2 MB of Level 2 cache for extremely fast access to recently opened files and applications. It is also part of Intel's Ultra Low Voltage Pentium M subclass, featuring low- to mid-power CPUs specially designed to maximize battery life. Accordingly, the Pentium M 753 is far from Intel's strongest processor.
Memory:
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they also keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. The Portege R200-S234 incorporates 512 MB of 400 MHz PC3200 DDR2 SDRAM memory. This is considered an average allotment and average speed in today's notebook world, though it is considerably more impressive when taking into account the diminutive size of this particular unit. Ultra-demanding users may want to upgrade their memory to the system's maximum 1280 MB, though this stock amount is enough for all but the most taxing applications or multitasking situations.
Video:
CPUs are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output, particularly 3D output, to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). A graphics controller with built-in "dedicated" video memory is preferable to a controller that "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures and theoretically produce superior images. This notebook features a relatively new style of video controller--the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900. This is a hybrid of sorts between high-end cards with built-in memory and less capable integrated controllers that share the system's main memory. Though it shares main memory, the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900 features highly refined components and commandeers more memory--up to 128 MB in this case--than traditional integrated controllers.
Ultimately, this controller is superior to most traditional "shared memory" controllers and is sufficient for all 2D and most 3D tasks (including some 3D games). It likely won't be enough for hardcore gamers, who would be well advised to explore larger, more powerful notebooks. However, few ultra-light notebooks offer even this level of 3D graphics performance.
Display:
The Portege R200-S234 features a 12.1-inch TFT Poly-Silicon active-matrix LCD display with a top resolution of 1024 by 768. Though not a large screen by typical notebook standards, this display is in keeping with that of other ultra-lights.
Hard Disk:
The Portege R200-S234's surprisingly spacious 60 GB hard drive offers enough storage room for a broad range of applications and a midsize library of music and/or multimedia files too. It does, however, run a tad slow at just 4200 RPM.
Optical Drive:
An optical drive is essential in today's computing environment. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning," so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can watch DVD movies. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of a CD). Some drives allow you to do a combination of all of these tasks. In the interest of miniaturization, this system does not include a built-in optical drive. You'll thusly need to purchase an external drive to take advantage of any of the above functions.
Audio:
Toshiba has equipped the unit with a 16-bit audio processor, integrated stereo speakers and a built-in microphone. Though not an audiophile's dream, this setup is nevertheless perfectly suitable for auditioning the latest tunes and taking in a movie.
Keyboard and Controls:
Rather than the cropped keyboard you'll find on may other ultra-lights, the Portege R200-S234 includes a full size 84-key keyboard with 12 function keys and a Toshiba TouchPad pointing device.
Connectivity and Expansion:
Whether you prefer wireless or corded connections, the Portege R200-S234 is ready to accommodate. The system offers a wide variety of ways to keep in touch, including a standard dial-up 56K data/fax modem for low-speed communication, an exceptionally fast 10Base-T / 100Base-T / 1000Base-T Gigabit Ethernet connection for high-speed wired network and Internet, and integrated Atheros 802.11b/g Wi-Fi for cordless e-communication at home, at the office or on the road via local public hotspots. Other key amenities include two high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug and play devices such as external drives and digital cameras, an infrared port for wireless interaction with infrared-equipped peripherals, Bluetooth 2.0 technology for wireless interaction with Bluetooth-equipped devices, and a Secure Digital slot for reading SD memory cards. The system does not include a FireWire port (commonly used for quick data uploads from digital camcorders), though it does feature a built-in fingerprint sensor for added security and ease of use.
Operating System and Software:
The bundled software package begins with Microsoft's business-oriented operating system, Windows XP Professional Edition. Other applications include Microsoft's Works productivity suite, Microsoft's Office OneNote 2003 note-taking and management program, and a smallish assortment of utilities.
Dimensions and Weight:
Notebook computers are manufactured in a wide variety of sizes and weights. Many of today's most powerful notebooks are also the largest, weighing ten or twelve lbs or more and therefore too big and cumbersome for extensive, continuous traveling. These are often referred to as "desktop replacements." On the other extreme are "thin and lights" or "ultra-portables," super-miniaturized units that typically aren't as powerful as their larger brethren but weigh as little as two lbs and will often fit comfortably inside a large purse. At a minuscule 11.25 by 9.01 by 0.8 inches and a scant 2.84 lbs, the Portege R200-S234 is one of the smallest full-featured notebooks on the market.
Power:
The unit sports a 6-cell Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery that delivers up to five hours between charges and requires a maximum of 4.5 hours to fully recharge.
Product Description:
60GB 12.1TFT XP-PRO
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