IBM recently donated four laptop units to Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines (OB) as part of its corporate social responsibility program (CSR).

Under the CSR Refreshed PC program, the units were re-cloned and refurbished to be given to nonprofit organizations such as Operation Blessing, the humanitarian arm of Christian Broadcasting Network Asia.

A deed of donation was signed at IBM’s main office in Eastwood, Libis in Quezon City to formalize the said contribution. The deed was presented by IBM Corporate Citizenship and Corporate Affairs Specialist Mildred Parbo (leftmost) and IBM intern Thea Palijo (second from right). Present to sign and receive the donation were Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Dr. Kim April Pascual (rightmost) and Corporate Communications and Resource Development Manager Gigilyn Endaya (second from left) from Operation Blessing.

To learn more about OB’s programs, call (02) 812-0592 or visit www.obphil.com.

By Paul Trotter
June 7, 2010

Red Fox Technologies recently released a new model for their Wizbook line, the Red Fox Wizbook N1020i, made available in yellow, green, pink, red, and black, as well as the full-scale Red Fox RN740J and the Red Fox RN766JU aimed towards everyday computing and gaming, respectively.

The Red Fox Wizbook N1020i is the newest addition to the brand’s growing lineup of netbooks, fitted with 10.2-inch TFT LCD displays, 1GB DDR2 667 memory, 160GB or 250GB HDD, 802.11 b/g wireless LAN, and an SD/MMC/MS multicard reader, along with the option of upgrading to 2GB of memory. The N1020i also takes advantage of Bluetooth technology by incorporating Bluetooth 3.0, which gives  data rates of up to 480 Mbits compared to 3Mbits that Bluetooth 2.0 can offer. But getting things done quickly is not the only benefit of using high-speed Bluetooth: it also reduces power consumption, which then translates to longer battery life. Versatility is enjoyed via the Express Card / 34 slot, which supports Firewire 800, SATA external disk drives, SSD drives, Wi-Fi interface cards, TV tuner cards, additional memory, memory card readers, external graphics cards and modems. The inclusion of an integrated 1.3 low-light Web cam also allows photos and videos to be taken even under low-light conditions without compromising quality.

The RN740J and RN766JU alternatively feature 14.2- and 15.4-inch TFT LCD displays, respectively, 7-in-1 multicard readers (MS/ MS Pro/ SD/ Mini SD/ MMC/ RS MMC/ MS Duo), integrated Web cameras, ATI HD audio, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, three USB ports, e-SATA ports, and HDMI ports. HDD options for the RN740J include 160GB and 320GB SATA II, while the RN766JU comes with a 320GB SATA II hard drive. Two models are available for the RN740J-the RN740J S and the RN740J T.

Red Fox Wizbook N1020i

Red Fox RN766JU

Red Fox RN740J

Big performance, small packages
Powering the Red Fox Wizbook N1020i, the Intel Atom processor is the smallest from Intel, built using the smallest transistors in the world and the company’s 45nm Hi-k Metal Gate technology for use on netbooks and nettops. The result? Intel Atom-based devices offer easy mobility with simple interfaces while providing targeted performance. Aimed at those looking for the best online experience, this processor is an affordable solution for devices used for educational purposes, video and photo viewing, VoIP, social networking, messaging, e-mail, browsing, and other Internet activities, as well as basic applications.

On the other end, tucked away inside the brand’s full-scale line is the AMD Sempron SI-40 for the RN740J S and the AMD Turion X2 RM-72 for the RN740J T, while the AMD Turion X2 Ultra ZM 80 pitches in for the RN766JU.

The AMD Sempron SI-40 allows for downloading music and sending pictures, on top of simple e-mailing, Web browsing and word processing, and being able to run more than 60,000 of the most popular software in the world, as well as featuring power-saving technology that extends battery life without sacrificing performance. The AMD Turion X2 RM-72 and the AMD Turion X2 Ultra ZM 80, on the other hand, offer significantly higher bandwidths to support PCI Express 2.0 and HyperTransport 3.0 Technology for increased system performance while their CoolCore Technology also help extend battery life, aided by Multi-Point Thermal Control to prevent too much heat in the processor. Both processors offer dynamic power management for energy efficiency and run both 32- and 64-bit applications. Enhanced virus protection is also enjoyed on all AMD processors.

In addition, the Red Fox RN766JU is equipped with the ATI Radeon HD 3200 (256MB DDRII) chipset plus the discrete ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3470 (256MB DDRII) for top-notch gaming on-the-go, many thanks to ATI’s Hybrid Technology. This means as the RN766JU’s onboard and discrete GPUs work together, users are provided with more crystal-clear graphics and more vibrant colors, along with DirectX 10 support so the latest 3D games can be accommodated.

According to Abijane Mulgada, product manager for Red Fox, “Mobility these days is more than just about convenience-it’s become a need that a growing number of people are coming to realize. But besides simple mobility, our laptops aim to address specific needs to ensure great experiences every time, which then allows users to truly enjoy what mobility can offer. The addition of new colors for our Wizbooks? Laptops are already personal. We just wanted to make things more fun for everyone.”

For those wanting to have that much sought-after digital edge in this digital age, Acer, one of the world’s most trusted computer manufacturers, introduces the Acer Aspire 3935 that boasts of a captivating brush metal finish in a less-than-an-inch lightweight frame. 

The Acer Aspire 3935 targets the get-up-and-go user of today and hopes to pull them in via its high-end computing qualities, and also those who want their digital environment filled with defining and stylish expression. This wonderful gadget also assures users of fast connectivity as they seek constant connection to the World Wide Web regardless of their location.  

Aesthetics aside, the Aspire 3935 dons the Intel Core 2 Duo P7450 (2.13GHz, 3MB, 1066MHz FSB) processor for a more flawless PC functionality, and in tandem with the Mobile Intel GM45 Express chipset, this new powerhouse product from Acer is a definite hit among major user types.

In terms of optimum operational performance, the Aspire 3935 comes with a 3 GB DDR3 memory (upgradeable to 4GB) for speedy multitasking performance. Video type is of the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD with up to 1759MB DVMT 5.0 kind (64MB dedicated video memory and up to 1695 shared) for crisper video and images especially when viewing high-definition movies through its 13.3-inch high-definition, high-brightness Acer CineCrystal LED-backlit TFT LCD display. This display also features a super-slim frameless design to present bright, life-like images regardless of lighting conditions. 

For storage capabilities, the Aspire 3935 provides a sizable 500GB SATA hard drive for an unbelievable storage space for both work and entertainment-related files. Connectivity on the road with the Aspire 3935 is also a non-issue with its built-in Wireless LAN that’s 802.11 b/g/Draft-N WiFi certified network connection that ensures fast and ultra-reliable connectivity for mobile digital aficionados. 

Talking of security against theft or unauthorized use while on the road, this aspect is assured with the built-in Acer Biometric Fingerprint solution. But most of all, this powerful digital companion would be less of a burden in terms of carriage with its thin and lightweight frame (1.9 kilos with the 4-cell battery pack) that makes it the most convenient, easy-to-carry laptop around.  

Easily, for work or for play, the Acer Aspire 3935 lives up to its promise of giving each user a reassuringly delightful digital edge that one cannot easily find among laptops in its category in the market today at a remarkably low and affordable price range. 

Finding out more about how this piece of masterful work from Acer, brought here locally by Acer (Philippines), Inc., is also so easy. Just go to the nearest authorized Acer reseller and ask for a short presentation for you to discover how this digital dynamo can change your life.

With the objective of fusing the idea of taking care of our environment and providing top-notch technology at the same time, Acer introduced to the local Lifestyle and IT media the new Timeline series of notebooks, Inc., brought to local shores by Acer’s local office, Acer (Philippines), Inc.

Thriving on the fact that it has one of the longest-if not the longest-battery life among notebook computers in the market today, this chic and ultra-modern gadget is out to prove itself as an efficient piece of equipment that allows everyone to perform more digital tasks without fear of using up its power quickly and yet feel environmentally pro-active about it. Excellent energy-saving qualities aside, one also gets better-quality performance and unmatched usability in an eye-catching less-than-one-inch form factor.

The Acer Aspire Timeline AS4810T and the Acer Aspire Timeline AS3810T both bank on the Intel Core 2 Solo SU3500 (1.4GHz, 3MB, 800 FSB) processor partnered with the Mobile Intel GS45 Express Chipset to deliver steadfast, unequaled computing functions. And with the 2GB DDR3 memory module for the Aspire 4810T and 3GB DDR3 for the Aspire 3810T that’s both upgradeable to 4GB, multitasking is such a breeze.

Both also carry the Intel Graphics Media accelerator 4500MHD with up to 1759MB DVMT 5.0 (64MB dedicated memory, up to 1695MB shared) for more powerful and life-like images that can be viewed in the Aspire 4810T and Aspire 3810T’s 1366×768 resolution of its high-bright Acer CineCrystal LED-backlit TFT LCD (14 inches for the Aspire 4810T and 13 inches for the Aspire 3810T) display screen. With this kind of graphics quality and display feature, no wonder these two will soon become favorites of mobile cyberwarriors who prefer to go out in the open and carry out their computing tasks at the most convenient and relaxing environments possible (aka, coffee shops and malls).

Given this scenario, what would be more appealing to consumers is that both the Aspire 4810T and Aspire 3810T are both capable of up to three hours of battery life with its six-cell batteries. However, due to the revolutionary Acer PowerSmart Manager, with its centralized control over system-wide power, battery life can extend up to 8 hours long. It’s like charging fully your laptop before leaving the house and not worrying anymore about losing battery power and having problems looking for a recharging station elsewhere, which is pretty scarce. With this wonderful feature, Aspire Timeline notebook series is dubbed as the world’s first Ultra Low Voltage notebooks.

Other energy-saving and environment-friendly features of the Aspire 4810T and Aspire 3810T include the Acer PowerSmart key, a one-touch energy conservation element, and the Acer PowerSmart Adapter, which gives the two laptops the ability to save up to 66% more power when put into sleep mode. The two also have the Laminar Wall Jet Engine design that air-cools the processor and the notebook case for a more comfortable use, especially when you put the laptops well, in your lap.

Some basic differences, though, like in terms of storage, a 250GB SATA hard drive for the Aspire 4810T and 350GB SATA hard drive for the Aspire 3810T, and weight (1.9 kilos for the 4810T and 1.6 kilos for the 3810T), where the latter quality serves as a more persuasive and fascinating feature about the Acer Aspire Timeline series of notebooks, aside from the fact that their super-thin dimensions makes both notebooks as perfect companions that you can bring anywhere.

Designing the Aspire Timeline Notebooks, Acer broke another barrier: creating the finest and lightest notebooks to provide all-day computing. At its thinnest point the Aspire Timeline is just 24mm thick (less than an inch) and thanks to the aluminum cover it’s a featherweight, ranging from 1.6kg for the 13.3-inch model up to just 1.9 kg for the 14-incher, making it both lighter and easier to carry around than anything else. The Aspire Timeline notebooks open up a new dimension where lightness and more time meet and you have total freedom to get things done unhurriedly anywhere you want.

If you want to experience how revolutionary and inspiring the Acer Aspire Timeline Notebook Series – Aspire 4810T and Aspire 3810T are, then head off to the nearest authorized Acer reseller and ask for a quick demo to get hold of one and see how light and thin these babies are, definitely more affordably-priced compared to its competitors. You can also take a sneak preview of these featherweight yet powerful notebooks via www.acer.com.ph.

Lenovo Philippines recently unveiled the latest additions to its Idea brand of personal computers for consumers, – the IdeaCentre A600 all-in-one desktop and the new 16-inch IdeaPad Y650 and 14-inch Y450 laptops.

Targeted at the space and design-conscious user, as well as the entertainment and gaming enthusiast, the sleek IdeaCentre A600 all-in-one features a 21.5-inch frameless screen in a modern design that measures only one inch at its slimmest point, making it one of the slimmest all-in-one desktop PCs.

For the entertainment enthusiast, the IdeaCentre all-in-one features a 16:9 aspect ratio screen for cinema-like viewing and support for 1920×1080 full HD resolution, delivering outstanding image quality. The integrated speaker system includes a bass sub-woofer and Dolby Home Theatre audio certification, while the optional Blu-ray player completes the home cinema experience. Users can also take advantage of a digital TV tuner for watching and recording their favorite TV programs. Users can opt to include the Microsoft Vista Media Center for easy recording of TV programs and interactive navigation between videos, music and TV programs.

For gaming enthusiasts, Lenovo developed the 4-in-1 optional remote controller. It is the first to bring PC users the ability to play games using the remote control’s ‘motion drive’ feature, which controls on-screen objects according to the movement of the remote.

The Y-series is designed for HD and multimedia, making the series ideal for the entertainment enthusiast. The Y Series is equipped with 16:9 format glossy widescreen panels, optional latest generation NVIDIA GFX graphics for gaming and smooth HD video playback and Dolby Home Theater surround sound. The IdeaPad Y650 laptop also features JBL speakers for a rich sound. The Y Series includes the new Lenovo OneKey Theater software to enhance the audio and visual experience.

 
The IdeaPad Y650 laptop will retail at PhP82,995, while the IdeaPad Y450 laptop will retail at PhP47,500. The IdeaCentre A600 all-in-one desktop will retail at PhP63,900.

The Y Series laptops and the IdeaCentre A600 all-in-one desktop are now available in the Philippines through leading retailers and Lenovo business partners. For product inquiries, consumers may call 1800-1651 0438 or visit www.lenovo.com/ph.