Dell Inspiron 14z (N411z) Notebook Review

Extraordinary. The Inspiron 14z is an original design with lots of interesting features. Whether or not this 14-inch laptop with a 13 "format powered by an Intel Core i5 2430M would be a success, we can discover in this review.

The Inspiron 14Z touted by Dell is especially thin and light, but also takes a lot of processing power. It belongs to the consumer Inspiron series, offering entry-level and mid-range notebooks with colorful designs. Dell describes a particularly thin letter "Z", as the thin XPS 15z. Although the latter is more expensive and has the computing power much more than the Inspiron. Price for the Dell online store now start at EUR 600.

Dell XPS 14z Notebook Review

Beauty hurts. The first step towards a more robust design was created with XPS 15z, and now more compact 14-inch version is the logical progression. Like its big brother, the Dell XPS 14z hope to win the heart of customers with its good looks. He also solid material, but by ...

So, you liked shiny metallic silver Dell XPS 15z, but it was just a touch too big and too heavy? Help is at hand: Dell has just introduced a new XPS 14Z, which, as the name suggests, offers a 14-inch display case and a correspondingly smaller.

Dell Precision M4600

Precision tool. The current 15 "workstation has been reworked from the ground up, offering an entirely new case with review of the components. What Dell has done to bring performance, ergonomics and mobility in a harmony been tested by us.

Workstations are available on many mobile phone users in an elite class of notebook, because it allows a high performance and good features, as well as meet the other aspects, such as upgradeability, reliability and compatibility, to some extent.

Dell Vostro 3555 Notebook Review

Back in Black. Dell currently offers the Vostro 3555, the Vostro family member existing around 500 euros. 15.6-inch black model features a quad-core processor, 6 GB of RAM and the Radeon HD 6620G graphics chip. One of the strengths of the laptop keyboard is lighting it easy to type at night.

Dell Vostro 3555 AMD Vision Technology is a new addition to your existing set. This laptop uses AMD CPU A8 3500 with integrated graphics chip. This graphics chip to handle all the graphics on your laptop. Quad-core is a standard 1.5 GHz clock speed and activate the "Turbo" to increase the clock speed of the processor maanitteli performance of the group.

Dell Vostro 1540 Notebook Review

Base. Dell has a 15.6-inch laptop designed for business use so-called Vostro 1540 available. The device is not updated with an Intel Core i3-370M processor. Is supposed to be a simple typewriter, for smart investors. The price starts at 369 euros plus VAT and shipping.

Dell is expanding its line of portable B2B own entry-level Vostro 1540, which has a 15.6 inch, 1366x768 pixel resolution and a matte surface. In addition to the Vostro 3555 and Vostro 3550 laptops, the Dell Vostro 1540 is the third book of this size and should attract buyers especially sensitive to prices.

Alienware M18x (GTX 580M SLI, 2920XM) Notebook Review

Alienware M18x is one of gaming laptops largest and most powerful available, and we have already tested the model with two AMD Radeon HD 6970M units (CrossFire). Is now the alternate version with 2x GeForce GTX 580 in SLI mode has reached us, and seems to reach new heights of performance with the SSD and integrated CPU Core i7-2920XM.

Dell XPS 15z Notebook Review

The Dell XPS 15z has an ultra-slim metal frame, 1080p display and a backlit keyboard. Add to that an Intel Core i7 processors and dedicated Nvidia GeForce graphics for multimedia presentations serious. It is a worthy competitor for the Apple MacBook Pro?

Our test unit is about two times more than the starting configuration of this laptop. Compared to the basic configuration, we have a 1080p resolution screen, faster processor, more than 2 GB of RAM, two year warranty, and of course the 256GB SSD, which adds more than $ 500 for single price. Without the SSD comes to $ 1499.99 with a 750 GB hard drive.

Dell Latitude E5520 Notebook Review

Dell Latitude range is aimed at professional users in the field of business. The Latitude line is to make an offer to the users of robustness, security and easy to handle. You can mark with many useful details of the solutions.

Whether it's the solid tri-metal construction, locked or base alloy of zinc powder coated, Dell has been really creative with the Latitude E series laptops. Business customers are also offered some form of hardware. For example, the latest Intel processors Sandy Bridge installed.

Dell Vostro V131 Notebook Review

Dell launched a thin line and mobile business in its range of entry level Vostro with V130. It is also supposed to convince in terms of design. Intel beach powerful bridge follow the first tests with ULV processors. Some changes were made also in the case. As its name suggests, the new Vostro V131 is an update of Dell Vostro V130. Slight modifications were made to the case and completely renovated inside.

Dell Vostro V131 Review

Evolution. In launching the Vostro V130, Dell began a series of cases and mobile thin entry-level, must also convince in terms of design. Powerful Intel processors with sand tests successfully bridge principles ULV processors. The case was also modified.

As the name suggests, the Vostro V131 is an updated Dell Vostro V130 (reviewed by us), so the case was a little changed and the interior completely renovated. At first glance, seem V131 to look exactly like its predecessor.

A closer look, you will find that the connectivity options (new: USB 3.0) and the bottom has been changed. In the dark, the keyboard lights up. But you must order this option at an additional cost. Processing of your V131 is still the same high level predecessors. We first review, the only point of criticism was too low tension hinges.

Specifications Dell Vostro V131 :

• Processor : Intel Core i5 2410M 2.3 GHz
• Mainboard : Intel HM67
• Memory : 4096 MB, DDR3 1333MHz, max 8GB
• Graphics adapter : Intel HD Graphics 3000
• Display : 13.3 inch , 1366x768 pixel, AUO312C, LED Backlit LCD, glossy: no
• Harddisk : WD5000BPKT-75PK4T0, 500GB 7200rpm
• Soundcard : HD Audio
• Connections : 1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: Kopfhörer/Mikrofon Kombiport, Card Reader: 8in1 card reader (SD, SDXC, SDHC, MS, MS-Pro, MMC, MMC+, xD-Picture Card), 1 Fingerprint Reader,
• Networking : Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller (10/100/1000MBit), Intel Centrino Wireless-N 1030 (bgn), 3.0+HS Bluetooth, optional (Dell Wireless 5550 HSPA Mini Card)
• Size : height x width x depth (in mm): 21 x 330 x 238
• Weight : 1.85 kg Power Supply: 0.35 kg
• Battery : 65 Wh Lithium-Ion
• Price : 780 Euro
• Operating System : Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64 Bit
• Additional features : 12 Months Warranty.

Display
Specifications of the display remains the same. Your V131 features a 13.3-inch matte screen. However, according to our measurements, the brightness is less than its predecessor. In particular, the ability to suffer from this.

Performance
Notebook supports up to 8 GB of RAM in two modules of DDR3 1333 MHz entry-level offering an Intel Celeron ULV 847 CPU speed 1.1 GHz clock speed. Performance gain can complies selecting the Intel Core i5 i3 or m-2310-2410M processor.

But not only choose the CPU can cause large power reserves. Dell now also offers users built-in Fast Solid State Drive (128GB) from the factory. In contrast, the traditional 7200-rpm hard drives, which offer alternatives, such as not only to reduce boot times, and start programs, but also to work quietly and are insensitive to shock.

Emissions
Although the decision to offer only Vostros 7200 rpm hard drives are measured when considering the performance of the system noise is reduced. Clearly audible above the sound of the hard drive is always present, and to stifle the fan. From this perspective, the results so far speak for the SSD.

Battery life
According to Dell, the Vostro V130 a non-replaceable major point of criticism from customers. Now it's a thing of the past, and the laptop has a standard 6-cell battery with a capacity of 65 Wh (in comparison: Vostro V130 - 30 Wh). Detrimental to the battery protrudes from the bottom, so a laptop thinner and smaller a slight increase in total weight (V130: V131 1.6 kg vs. 1.8 kg), capacity was more than doubled.

4-cell battery should also be offered for the Vostro, but for now, not in Europe. We could surf the Internet via WLAN for about 8 hours with 6 cell battery. It would be a multiplication of the results of the V130 battery 30Wh. Further tests will follow.

Unlike V130, maintenance of cover that can be opened in a simple way to allow access to the RAM modules and hard drives.

At first glance, advertising, entry-level prices are attractive. Start form the € 419 Vostro V131 is available with Celeron ULV. The Core i3-2310M model with 4 GB of RAM, 320 GB hard drive, Bluetooth and Windows 7 Professional costs € 539. The same configuration but with i5-2410M processor starts from 639 euros - all prices exclude VAT.

Alienware M17x R3

The M17x is now in its third iteration with the R3 edition. Unlike its predecessors, the R3 has a single graphics card; to get a dual graphics card setup (AMD CrossFireX or Nvidia SLI), you need to step up to the monstrous 18.4-inch M18x. Still, the M17x R3 packs serious firepower as configured.

Options include the slightly faster i7-2720QM processor (the i7-2630QM is standard), AMD Radeon HD 6970M graphics card with a whopping 2GB of its own memory (a 1GB HD 6870M is standard), the upgraded Intel 6300 AGN wireless card, and the 1.5TB RAID 0 hard drive array.

Dell Latitude E5410

The Dell Latitude E5410 is a 14.1-inch business notebook with an affordable $809.99 starting price. The E5410 is a step above the Vostro 1014 with a greater focus on business needs, but priced lower than the Latitude E6410. Read our full review to find out what we think of this new notebook.

Our Dell Latitude E5410 Specifications:

• 14.1 LED-backlit WXGA+ 1440x900 Display
• Windows 7 Professional 32-bit
• Intel Core i5 520M processor (2.40GHz, 3MB cache)
• Intel GMA HD Integrated Graphics
• 3GB DDR3 RAM
• 250GB 7200RPM hard drive (Western Digital Scorpio Black)
• Intel Wireless Wi-Fi 6200AGN
• Built-in Bluetooth v2.1+EDR
• 8X DVD burner
• One-year limited warranty
• 9-cell Li-ion battery (85Wh)
• Weight: 5.21lbs starting
• Dimensions: 13.3 x 9.6 x 1.31-inches
• MSRP: $927 as configured ($519 starting price)

Build and Design
The Dell Latitude E5410 looks a lot like its bigger brother the E6410, but with a plastic shell instead of metal alloy. This notebook is for Dell what the lower-priced R-series ThinkPad is for Lenovo. It gives businesses another option, with a greater business focus, over the standard consumer-oriented models. From a design standpoint the E5410 looks a lot like the E6410, but with a plastic body. The design is very business, with black and grey panels, squared off edges, and a pointing stick located on the keyboard. Dell kept the look and feel almost exactly like its E6410, instead of giving it the routine of most small-business notebooks which look or feel much cheaper.

Build quality is very good considering the entire body is made of plastic. The chassis has some increased flex compared to the E6410, but it isn't noticeable unless you are really gripping the notebook hard. The plastic screen cover gives some protection to the display, but we found that under some circumstances, tapping or pressing on the cover created LCD distortions. The screen hinges felt solid pivoting the screen forward or back, and one in position kept the screen in place without wobble. The keyboard and palmrest section of the notebook felt sturdy under pressure, with only mild flex noted directly above the optical drive. Overall we were pretty impressed by the build quality of the Latitude E5410.

Users looking to upgrade the Latitude E5410 very easy to upgrade through a single panel on the bottom of the notebook. The panel comes off after removing a handful of screws and carefully unlatching a number of plastic catches. Once off you gain access to the processor, memory, wireless card and hard drive.
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Dell Latitude E6410

The Latitude E6410 is the latest in a long line of business notebooks from Dell. Sporting a wide range of Intel Core processor options, Intel integrated and NVIDIA NVS 3100M dedicated graphics, and two display options. In this review we see how this Dell business notebook compares to others already on the market.

Our Dell Latitude E6410 Specifications:

• 14.1 LED-backlit WXGA+ 1440x900 Display
• Windows 7 Professional 64-bit
• Intel Core i7 620M processor (2.66GHz, 4MB cache)
• NVIDIA NVS 3100M Dedicated Graphics with 512MB VRAM
• 4GB DDR3 RAM
• 250GB 7200RPM hard drive (Western Digital Scorpio Black)
• Intel Wireless Wi-Fi 6200AGN
• Built-in Bluetooth v2.1+EDR
• 8X DVD burner
• One-year limited warranty
• 9-cell Li-ion battery (85Wh)
• Weight: 4.26lbs starting (5.5lbs configured)
• Dimensions: 13.2 x 9.4 x 1-1.2-inches
• MSRP: $960 starting ($1,865 closest configuration)

Build and Design
The Dell Latitude E6410 has a very modern look and feel, with a few changes this generation to give a nod towards past models. The E6400 brought the latest body style, with a black alloy shell. The E6410 this time around keeps the body style, but switches back to the gunmetal gray coloring scheme which was found on the D630 and D620 before it. The finish has a pseudo-brushed appearance (painted, not actual brushed metal like on the HP EliteBook) that seems to resist fingerprints more than the real thing. The lower half of the notebook keeps the black metal design, with a large service panel that lets you access everything in the notebook by removing a single screw.

Inside the E6410 the look is matte black on everything besides the keyboard and model lettering. Compared to what you might find in a consumer model, there are no glossy or reflective surfaces besides the small chrome lettering on the Dell branding logo. This is nice if you use your notebook in brightly lit areas where reflections can be distracting. It also means that smudges and fingerprints won't be a problem from day-to-day use.

Build quality is very good and if feels very durable with the metal panels top and bottom. In the business notebook market not all makers have stuck with metal body panels. After the T60-series ThinkPad, Lenovo switched to a plastic top cover, which has stuck for every generation since then. The HP EliteBook though keeps the metal top cover and retains the image and feel of a higher-grade notebook over a standard plastic consumer model.

The Latitude E6410 chassis felt very well built and resisted any flexing in the usual spots. The palmrest and touchpad showed no signs of sag under heavy prodding. The keyboard directly over the optical drive stayed firm, even though most notebooks do show some signs of weakness in this area. Grabbing the notebook by the palmrest and carrying it around didn't cause any twisting or creaking noises. With the notebook closed the screen cover gave above average protection for the screen and should prevent any keyboard key marks on from imprinting on the LCD after being transported in a backpack loaded with other items. With the notebook open it took a good amount of pressure applied to the back of the cover before it showed any ripples or distortions on the display.

Users looking to upgrade parts of IT staff looking to replacing components will find the Latitude E6410 very easy to service. Dell designed the entire bottom around a single access panel with a single screw holding it in place. After removing the screen (which is retained with a spring so it never gets lost) you simply slide the cover down about a smidge and pop it off. With the cover removed you gain access to the WWAN, Wi-Fi card, memory slots, processor and heatsink, CMOS battery, cooling fan, and the instant-on OS card. Outside of having a cover that removes by the thought of wanting to upgrade alone, the E6410 is probably the easiest notebook we have come across to upgrade.
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Dell Inspiron 17R (N7010)

The newly designed Inspiron 17R is the latest 17.3-inch desktop-replacement notebook from Dell. Equipped with the Intel Core i3 and i5 processors with Intel GMA HD graphics, this budget-friendly system is aimed at the masses. In this review we take an in-depth look at this new system and see how it performs.

Our Dell Inspiron 17R (N7010) Specifications:

• Intel Core i3 370M processor (2.4GHz, 3MB cache)
• 17.3-inch 1600x900 display with LED backlighting
• Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
• 4GB DDR3 memory
• 500GB 5400rpm HDD
• Intel HD integrated graphics
• 10/100 Ethernet, 802.11n wireless, and Bluetooth
• 6-cell Li-ion 48Wh battery
• Dimensions: 16.54 x 10.87 x 1.24-1.38-inches
• Weight: 6.67lbs starting
• MSRP: $679

Build and Design
The newly redesigned Inspiron 17R offers a much cleaner and sleeker look and feel compared to past models. Similar to the Adamo-series, the layout has a hinge-forward design with the screen positioned just slightly in front of the back edge of the chassis. This has the added benefit of moving the screen closer to the keyboard and bringing the action to you. The outside appearance of the new 17R is very stylish, with a faux-brushed metal screen cover. The look gives the appearance of metal, although with an easier to clean painted surface. This look it also shared inside the notebook, with the palmrest and keyboard trim.

Build quality is great with a strong chassis and very durable feeling plastic. Even with its large footprint, the thin chassis resist flex and doesn't creak when you lift it up from the corners. The keyboard and palmrest both have more than adequate support, and don't sag under strong pressure. The screen cover has moderate protection for the LCD, with only strong pressure to the back of the panel causing ripples. The large 17.3-inch screen has no problem staying put with two strong hinges that get the display into position and hold it without any wiggle.

Users looking to upgrade the Inspiron 17R will find it easy through one access panel on the bottom of the notebook. With a few Phillips head screws removed, you gain access to the system memory and hard drive. Components like the wireless card and processor require more disassembly to get at.
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Dell XPS 15

The new XPS 15 (also called the XPS L501X) is a completely redesigned multimedia notebook from Dell. Sporting a JBL sound-system with subwoofer, NVIDIA GT420M dedicated graphics, and an Intel Core i5 processor, this system is designed with performance and entertainment in mind. In this review, we take an in-depth look at the new XPS and see how it stacks up against the competition.

Our Dell XPS 15 Specifications:

• Intel Core i5 460M Processor (3MB cache, 2.53GHz)
• 15.6-inch 1366 x 768 glossy display with LED backlighting
• NVIDIA GeForce GT420M with 1GB DDR3
• Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
• 6GB DDR3 memory
• 500GB 7200rpm HDD (Seagate Momentus 7200.4)
• Realtek gigabit ethernet and Intel 1000 802.11b/g/n wireless
• Bluetooth 3.0
• 6-cell Li-ion battery (56Wh)
• Dimensions: 15 x 10.4 x 1.3-1.5-inches
• Weight: 6.21lbs
• MSRP: $899.99 (Closest configuration)

Build and Design
The new Dell XPS 15 has a silver on grey color scheme, using metal panels and plastic for the body. Compared to past XPS designs that were trend setters that distinguished themselves from the lower models, the new XPS doesn't seem to spark much visual interest. In theory, mixing alloy panels with a brushed metal palmrest and backlit keyboard usually yields good results. The redesigned XPS 15 doesn't seem to really set itself apart, though, from the standard Inspiron 15R until you take a much closer look. Standing back five feet, the panels look like average plastic on the exterior, and the body itself even seems more bloated than the 15R. Overall, it seems like Dell missed a big opportunity to make the XPS-series the unique notebooks they once were. The result is a rather bland looking multimedia notebook where its budget-oriented sibling --the Inspiron 15R--outshines it.

Nevertheless, the XPS 15 feels nicer than it looks. The metal panels on the interior and exterior add strength to the body, reduce flex, and give the notebook a high-quality feel. Holding the notebook for the first time is a weird experience, as most of the panels look like plastic until you feel the cold metal. The screen cover does a very good job at protecting the display from impacts and seems to resist flexing when opening the screen from one of the front corners. The inside of the notebook features a large brushed metal panel that makes up the palmrest and keyboard surround. The bottom of the notebook is completely plastic (including the access panel) but still resists flex and feels durable. The only problem we noticed was the high use of plastic clips holding most of the notebook together (in addition to metal screws).

Users looking to upgrade the Dell XPS 15 will find it easy or not so easy, depending on which components they are looking to swap out. The single access panel on the bottom of the notebook houses the two sticks of RAM, wireless card, and WWAN/TV tuner slot. To get at the hard drive, you must fully disassemble the notebook, which isn't a task for the faint hearted. We counted about 16 screws, but didn't want to go further and risk breaking plastic clips or gouging the trim around the perimeter. That's an awful amount of work just to swap out a hard drive for a full-sized notebook.
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Dell Latitude 2120

Once just a consumer's gadget, netbooks have found a market in the business world as well as among educators. Today we look at Dell's offering, the Latitude 2120 featuring a 10-inch display and eight hours of battery life.

Our Dell Latitude 2120 review unit has the following specifications:

• 10.1-inch display with anti-glare coating (1024x600 resolution)
• Windows 7 Home Premium 32-bit
• Intel Atom N550 dual-core processor (2.0GHz, 512k cache, 533MHz FSB)
• Integrated Intel GMA 3150 graphics
• 2GB DDR2 RAM
• 250GB 5400RPM Western Digital hard drive (WD2500BEVT)
• Dell Wireless 1520 802.11n wireless LAN
• No internal Bluetooth
• No internal optical drive
• 6-cell extended battery (11.1V, 56Wh)
• 1-year limited warranty
• Weight: 3.1 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.43 x 0.89-1.57 x 7.36 inches
• MSRP: $608 (starting price: $414)

These are rank-and-file specifications for a modern netbook. The dual-core Atom processor is notable as the base 2120 comes with a single-core Atom N455; the N550 is significantly more powerful. The MSRP of $608 is well on the high side; typically netbooks go for $400-500. We'll see if the Latitude 2120 is worth extra.

Build and Design
The 2120 at first glance looks like something out of a toy catalog – it's thick, block-like, and blue. My first impression was, "There's no way Dell is serious with this design." But they are, and the kid-friendly design fits with the education market, so let's take a closer look.

The blue exterior is actually a rubber coating; it has an inlaid square pattern and feels soft yet durable. It extends to the underside of the machine as well, save for the battery. As a computer intended for business use, this might not have been the best color choice though. The 2120 is constructed out of high-strength ABS plastic. The matte black plastic has a slightly granular texture and is quite solid. Keeping in tradition with business notebooks, there is no glossy plastic used on the exterior.

The overall build quality is excellent. None of the plastics flex under pressure. The display resists twisting well yet could use more protection from the back; I was able to produce some ripples by pressing on the back. The display hinges are strong and do not allow the display to wobble back and forth.

There is a meager array of design features. The most noticeable physical feature is actually the extended battery, which protrudes out the bottom and effectively doubles the thickness. A 3-cell battery is available that sits flush with the chassis. The volume control buttons, keyboard status lights and power button are all characterized by overly-bright blue LEDs. Power, hard drive, battery, and wireless indicator lights are located at the bottom left corner of the chassis. There is a light bar at the top of the back of the display, which does not appear to serve any functional purpose.

Upgrading the 2120's internal components is tedious and time consuming; replacing the memory module or hard drive requires removing the keyboard and access panel. Overall the 2120 has impressive build quality for a netbook, Although the toy-like external appearance makes a perfect fit for K-12 education, it seem out of place in the business world.
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Dell Inspiron 15R (N5110)

The latest generation of the Dell Inspiron 15R (the N5110) features Intel's "Sandy Bridge" Core processors and your choice of surprisingly powerful integrated graphics or AMD Radeon discrete graphics for gaming, all wrapped in a stylish notebook with a reasonable price tag. Keep reading to find out why the Inspiron 15R is one of Dell's best-selling laptops.

Our Dell Inspiron 15R (N5110) Specifications:

• Intel Core i5-2410M processor (2.3GHz, 3MB cache, 2.9GHz Turbo Boost)
• 15.6-inch 1366x768 display with LED backlighting
• Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
• 6GB DDR3 memory (1333MHz)
• 500GB 5400rpm HDD
• Intel HD integrated graphics
• 8X Tray Load CD/DVD Burner
• 10/100 Ethernet, 802.11n wireless, and Bluetooth
• 6-cell Li-ion 48WHr battery and 9-cell 90WHr battery
• Dimensions: 14.7 x 9.6 x 1.2 inches
• Weight: 5.84lbs
• MSRP: $889.98

The starting price of the Inspiron 15R N5110 is only $499 at the time of this writing but that includes a slower Intel Core i3-2310M processor, less RAM, a smaller hard drive and only the standard 6-cell battery. The point here is that Dell offers a number of different configurations of the new Inspiron 15R.

Build and Design
The updated Inspiron 15R N5110 features a number of design changes compared to last year's Inspiron 15R. The overall look is essentially unchanged with a clean and sleek exterior, but at its core the 15R remains a budget laptop with a mostly plastic construction. The new 15R uses a hinge-forward LCD lid design that Dell first used in the premium Adamo series. I'm sure Dell designers will say it's a way of reducing the size of the screen bezel with a 16:9 ratio widescreen display. However, as far as most people are concerned, it just means the back of the notebook sticks out more behind the screen.

Build quality is generally pretty strong for a mostly plastic notebook, but you'll notice some minor flexing in the plastics if you firmly squeeze the notebook in your hands or press hard on the keyboard while typing. The main chassis, while reasonably strong, has a "hollow" feeling which makes you think there is some unused space inside this black box. Speaking of black, that's the standard color for the Inspiron 15R. You can select an optional "Fire Red" or "Peacock Blue" for an extra $35 when you order your laptop from Dell, or you can choose a more artistic lid for an extra $60. Honestly, I feel like customers should be able to pick black, red, or blue at no additional cost and the artistic lids should be half their current price ... but that's just my opinion. At least with the new "SWITCHable Lids" you can buy a fancy screen lid at a later time if you want.

One additional (and probably unintentional) benefit of the new "SWITCHable Lids" is that the screen is slightly more protected from exterior pressure. The new screen cover offers moderately more protection for the LCD than the old 15R, which means ripples don't show up as easily on this screen if you press on the back of the lid.

Anyone looking to upgrade the RAM inside the Dell Inspiron 15R will find the process is very simple. There is only one access panel on the bottom of the notebook secured by a single Phillips head screw and some plastic retention tabs. Remove that one panel and you can add or replace to the system memory. Unfortunately, removing the hard drive requires almost a complete disassembly of the notebook chassis.

Dell Latitude E6420 ATG

The Dell Latitude E6420 ATG is one of the most well-balanced notebooks we've seen in the semi-rugged class of business notebooks. The system is a bit pricey, however, and suffers in screen resolution options and ease of upgrades. It is also heavy, weighing in at about seven pounds.

If you like the current lineup of Dell business laptops but need something more rugged for use and abuse at work, then Dell's new Latitude E6420 ATG might be the perfect notebook for you. Keep reading to find out more about this semi-rugged laptop. The system is a bit pricey, however, and screen resolution options are limited.

Our Dell Latitude E6420 ATG Specifications:

• 14.0-inch LED-backlit 1366x768 Anti-Glare Display
• Windows 7 Professional 64-bit
• Intel Core i7-2620M processor (2.70GHz, 4MB cache)
• Intel HD Graphics 3000
• 4GB DDR3 1333MHz RAM
• 128GB mobility solid state drive (Samsung PM810)
• Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 802.11a/b/g/n Half Mini Card
• Dell Wireless 375 Bluetooth Module
• 8X DVD+/-RW drive with Roxio and Cyberlink Power DVD
• 9-cell Li-ion battery (97Wh) and 90W AC adapter
• 3-Year Basic Hardware Service with 3-Year NBD Limited Onsite Service After Remote Diagnosis
• Weight: 7.06lbs with 9-cell battery and optical drive (5.95lbs advertised starting weight with 6-cell battery and airbay)
• Dimensions (with 9-cell battery): 14.08 x 10.4 x 1.2-1.5-inches
• MSRP as configured: $3,037.00

Build and Design
The Dell Latitude E6420 ATG represents a fundamental shift in the way that Dell handles its semi-rugged business notebooks. The old ATG models were essentially nothing more than standard Dell Latitude notebooks with a different lid along with a few other bits and MIL SPEC tests. The E6420 ATG on the other hand features a completely unique chassis design made from generous amounts of magnesium alloy, rubber gaskets covering the data ports and a spill-proof backlit keyboard with drain hole. The E6420 ATG is the first Dell ATG model to meet or exceed MIL-STD-810G and IP5x standards for vibration, humidity, altitude, dust, shock, high temperature and low temperature. In short, the E6420 ATG semi-rugged notebook is a serious step up from those older models that were largely just glorified business notebooks.

Opening the lid on the E6420 ATG reveals the matte black and silver metal top plate and durable spill-resistant keyboard with LED backlighting. Dell decided to trim the keyboard with an orange stripe both for asthetics and to help make the keyboard stand out under low light. The keyboard keys are covered in a rubberized paint to help them stand up to more use and abuse in the field. It's also worth mentioning that this is the first ATG-series notebook to feature an optional carrying handle which bolts onto the front edge of the notebook beneath the touchpad. Who needs a laptop bag when you've got a a notebook that looks and feels like a brick of magnesium?

The chassis of the Latitude E6420 ATG feels extremely well built and resists flexing in the usual spots when you apply pressure. I did notice a bit of flex under the right palm rest, but that is expected since the optical drive bay is located directly under this area. With the notebook closed, the screen cover gives above-average protection for the screen and should prevent any keyboard key marks from imprinting on the LCD even if a small child happens to step on the screen lid. To that end, a lightweight adult could probably stand on this notebook without causing any damage (though I do NOT recommend it). With the notebook open I was unable to produce any ripples or distortions on the display even when "punching" the back of the screen. Again, who needs a laptop bag?

Users looking to upgrade parts or IT staff looking to replacing components will find the Latitude E6420 ATG is a bit of a mixed bag in terms of service. The only easily accessible expansion options are the modular drive bay (more on that later) and the hard drive bay. You can remove the hard drive (or SSD) by removing four screws on the bottom of the notebook and pulling the drive out the side. If you want to upgrade the RAM or the wireless cards, you will have to remove the entire base cover from the notebook by removing seven screws along with the port covers which are also secured by six additional screws. My advice is to configure the notebook the way you want it at the time of purchase unless you want to spend a lot of time with a screwdriver.
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Dell Vostro 3350

Mobility. The smallest device of Dell's Vostro refresh, the Dell Vostro 3350, has come in for review. Thanks to a big 8 cell battery, an illuminated keyboard and the latest hardware from Intel and AMD hardware, the mite with a 13.3 inch screen doesn't have any reason to hide.

Introducing the four new Vostro 3000 series laptops, Dell bids current hardware, a new design and practical features. Beside the devices Vostro 3450, Vostro 3550 and the big Vostro 3750 with a 17.3 inch screen, there is also a compact subnotebook with 13.3 inch display (1366x768, matt) in the range. It is especially aimed at small and medium businesses, abbreviated SMBs. However, even private users could find delight in it. The case's design is identical in all device sizes and only the dimensions and weight deviates.

Besides the comprehensive online configurator in direct sale, the Dell Vostro 3350 is also available at select retailers. However, only pre-configured models are offered here. Our test device moves in the upper range in terms of optional equipment with an Intel Core i5-2410M, the dedicated AMD Radeon HD 6470M and a 4 GB DDR3 RAM. There are also less expensive models, as well as more expensive models available depending on taste and application field.

The smallest entry model alternative of the new Vostro notebooks starts at 489 euros, not including added value tax. The laptops with a 15.6 and 17.3 inch screen are a bit cheaper in their base price in comparison. Our test device is available for 789 euro including added value tax and with a 24 month onsite service.

Performance
The Dell Vostro 3350's current innards present themselves as small and fast. However, the configuration variety via the online configurator is fairly large. In addition to the Intel Core i5-2410M mainstream solution that we reviewed, there is also the less expensive entry CPU, Intel Core i3-2310M (2.1 GHz -60 euros) and the dual core top model, Intel Core i7-2620M (2.7 – 3.3 GHz) available. With a surcharge of 260 euros, not including added value tax, the upgrade isn't exactly cheap. Back to our sample: The processor works with a base clock rate of 2.3 GHz and a 3 MB L3 cache. The clock rate can achieve 800 to 2900 MHz via the Turbo Boost technology depending on the requirement. In contrast to automatic overclocking, that not all CPUs can serve with, all Sandy Bridge CPUs support the Hyper Threading technology. It accelerates multi-tasking (2 cores, 4 threads or 4 cores, 8 threads in quad core processors).

The portable typewriter turns into a multimedia device with small gaming reserves together with the installed AMD Radeon HD 6470M. Dell specifies this GPU with 512 MB GDDR5 RAM, whereas various tools don't permit a clear conclusion about the memory or the core speed (700 or 750 MHz). It could also probably be a slower DDR3 VRAM, whereas the available memory is addressed via a slower 64 bit memory bus. You shouldn't allow yourself to be deceived by the specification of a built-in AMD Radeon HD 6490M. A new feature that is also used in this device is the automatic graphics switching, Switchable Graphics by AMD, which can be controlled via the Catalyst Control Center (driver: 8.811.1.4000). Only few programs were directly addressed with the according graphics in our test and the settings usually had to be set manually. At the same time, we missed a setting that appoints one of the two graphics for general use, like it's possible via Nvidia Optimus technology's system control.

specifications :

• Processor : Intel Core i5 2410M 2.3 GHz
• Mainboard : Intel HM67
• Memory : 4096 MB, manufacturer: Samsung, DDR3-10600, 1333 MHz, maximum 8 GB, 2 banks
• Graphics adapter : AMD Radeon HD 6470M - 512 MB, Memory: 800 MHz, Switchable Graphics, DirectX 11, 8.811.1.4000
• Display : 13.3 inch 16:9, 1366x768 pixel, AUO312C, LED, diagonal: 33 centimeters, glossy: no
• Harddisk : Seagate ST320LT007-9ZV142, 320GB 7200rpm Momentus Thin, height: 7 millimeters
• Soundcard : Intel Cougar Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
• Connections : 1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 eSata, Audio Connections: headphone out, microphone in, Card Reader: 4in1 (SD, MMC, MS, MS PRO), 1 Fingerprint Reader, RJ45
• Networking : Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller (10/100/1000MBit), Intel Centrino Wireless-N 1030 (bgn), 3.0 +HS Bluetooth
• Optical drive : TSSTcorp CDDVDW TS-U633J
• Size : height x width x depth (in mm): 27.3 - 29.8 x 329.2 x 228.5
• Weight : 2.19 kg Power Supply: 0.325 kg
• Battery : 80 Wh Lithium-Ion, 8 cell, 14.8 volt, model: GRNX5
• Price : 789 Euro
• Operating System : Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64 Bit
• Additional features : Webcam: 2 Megapixel, subnotebook, 90 watt adapter with power cable, manuals, program DVD, recovery DVD, driver DVD, webcam central DVD, Adobe Reader X, Intel Wireless Display, Microsoft Office 2010 Starter, Catalyst Control Center, CyberLink PowerDVD 9.5, Roxio Creator Starter, Skype, Trend Micro Client-Server Security Agent, Windows Live Essentials, Dell software, 12 Months Warranty, colors: Aberdeen Silver, Lucerne Red and Brisbane Bronze, spill-proof keyboard with backlight

by : notebookcheck.net

Dell Vostro 3450

Dell introduces a whole range of new laptops with the new Vostro 3000 series. The assortment ranges from a 13.3 inch model over a 14 inch and a 15.6 inch model up to a big 17 inch model. We will take a closer look at the 14 inch model, the Dell Vostro 3450, in this review. We have recently examined the 14 incher's relatives: the 13.3 inch Vostro 3350, the 15.6 inch Vostro 3550 and the 17 inch Vostro 3750 and now complete the series with the Vostro 3450.

The notebook is available in Dell's online configurator or can be ordered at one of the known, large online retailers as a pre-configured unit. Our test model comes from Notebooksbilliger.de and currently costs 794.90 euros.

Performance
An Intel Core i5-2410M processor with Sandy Bridge architecture is used for the CPU. This dual core processor is a midrange model from Intel's second generation of Core processors. The processor already has a good amount of power with a standard clock rate of 2.3 GHz. However it can be increased even more via Turbo Boost 2.0 and sufficient cooling. Thus, the clock rate can be boosted to 2.6 GHz (2 cores under load) or 2.9 GHz (1 core). This happens absolutely automatically without the user's intervention. The new Core i5-2410M's performance is more or less comparable with the "old" Core i5-560M with 2.7-3.2 GHz. The 2410M even surpasses the 560M in a few benchmarks. In addition to the memory controller, the i5-2410M also has an incorporated graphics card at a TDP (thermal design power) of 35 watts. The HD Graphics 3000 graphics card might not be impressive with its pure performance, but it convinces in basic tasks with its low consumption.

Besides the processor's incorporated Intel HD Graphics 3000 graphics card, the Dell Vostro 3450 also has an additional graphics card, the AMD Radeon HD 6630M graphics card. It is a DirectX 11 capable midrange graphics card for notebooks and the successor of the slower clocked HD 5650. The HD 6630M should be slightly better than the "old" HD 5650 in 3D performance due to a higher shader count. The graphics card can automatically be switched so that the energy saving Intel graphics is used in idle and the stronger AMD graphics is used during load (AMD calls this technology PowerXPress 4.0 or BACON). However, it doesn't seem to work quite as well as the competitor's, Nvidia, in practical use. When an application – still unknown to the Catalyst Control Center – a window is opened and the user is asked if the according application requires high performance or if it should be run on energy saving. This is particularly annoying on a freshly installed system because you have to assign a new program to a profile every few minutes. Nvidia's solution, called Optimus, makes a considerably more developed impression. You can read a detailed first impression in our article: AMD 4.0 aka BACON – The Optimus competition in a practical test.

specifications :

• Processor : Intel Core i5 2410M 2.3 GHz
• Mainboard : Intel HM67
• Memory : 4096 MB, Samsung, DDR3-10600, 1333 MHz, max. 8 GB, 2 slots
• Graphics adapter : AMD Radeon HD 6630M, 8.802.1.2000
• Display : 14 inch 16:9, 1366x768 pixel, Chi Mei N140BGE, LED backlight, glossy: no
• Harddisk : WDC WD3200BEKT-75PVMT0, 320GB 7.200rpm
• Soundcard : Intel Cougar Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
• Connections : 1 Express Card 34mm, 2 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 eSata, Audio Connections: Kopfhörer, Mikrofon, Card Reader: 8-in-1 (SD,MMC,MS,MS-Pro,mini SD w/ adapter,MS-Duo,MS-Pro Duo via adapter), 1 Fingerprint Reader,
• Networking : Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller (10/100/1000MBit), Intel Centrino Wireless-N 1030 (bgn), 3.0 Bluetooth
• Optical drive : TSSTcorp CDDVDW TS-L633J
• Size : height x width x depth (in mm): 33 x 343 x 246
• Weight : 2.3 kg Power Supply: 0.28 kg
• Battery : 48 Wh Lithium-Ion, 6 cell battery, 11.1 volt
• Price : 799.00 Euro
• Operating System : Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 64 Bit
• Additional features : Webcam: 2.0 Megapixel, MS Office Starter 2010, Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security Services (15 monthes) Skype for Windows, Adobe Reader 9, 24 Months Warranty, notebook, battery, adapter w/ power cable, documentation, DVDs, colors: bronze, silver, red

by : notebookcheck.net