Sony VGN-FS115Z

The first Sonoma laptop we've seen

This is the first desktop replacement we've seen that includes Intel's next-generation Centrino technology, codenamed Sonoma. This supports faster mobile processors, PCI Express graphics, high-definition audio and new memory configurations.

The FS115Z has a 1.7GHz Pentium M with a 533MHz front-side bus and 2MB on-die cache, 512MB of DDR2 memory (expandable to 1GB) and a 100GB hard disk. This hefty combination scored 138 in Sysmark, which is what we'd expect, but a tad slower than some non-Centrino PCs. Battery life was one hour 50 minutes - not great, but only 11 minutes under Sony's quoted figures.

At 2.9kg the FS is light enough to carry on short trips, though we wouldn't want to lug it around for long periods. The keyboard and touchpad are both large and comfortable to use.

Other features include a dual-layer/dual-format DVD writer, Ethernet, 802.11g Wifi, a Memory Stick Duo slot and a 56K modem. Three USB2 sockets join an Ilink connector and a PC Card slot for external expansion, and an optional docking station is available.

The 128MB Nvidia Go 6200 PCI Express graphics chip notched up 796 in 3Dmark05, nudging it ahead of the Dell Inspiron 9200 reviewed last month.

Given the price, the software bundle is generous, and will enable you to get to grips with machine's facilities quickly.

Contact:
Sony 08705 424 424
www.vaio.sony-europe.com

Specifications:

• Pentium 1.73GHz
• 100GB hard disk
• 15in 1,280 x 800 widescreen
• Nvidia Go 6200 128MB
• High-definition audio
• Dual-format/dual-layer DVD writer
• 3 USB2, 1 Ilink ports, Memory Stick Standard/Duo
• 10/100 Ethernet, 802.11g
• 56K modem
• VGA
• PC Card I/II slot
• Windows XP Home
• Software bundle
• 2.9kg