Sunday, January 24, 2010

Enjoying Sex Post Menopause - How to Make it Work Again

Ever been privy to middle aged women's whispers corner? You know what to expect. The talks of 'my husband can't just get me hot anymore', 'maybe you should get a younger man' 'eat more cabbages'. Well, you may find one thing that may work, but you will surely find is that you are not alone!

Encouraging, is it? But also depressing to know that after all, most of the fancy women you see wallowing in wealth and seemingly happy are after all not happy!

Let's first of all understand what every woman should expect at some stage in life, and men at a later stage. What is in this post menopause period?

Menopause is the period during which most women stop experiencing the monthly period. It simply indicates that the period of sexual activity is diminishing. The body is no longer able to make babies, which to Mother Nature that is the main purpose of sex. The body therefore cuts off most of the resources associated with sex. This includes the hormones such as estrogen and the energies that go along with the event. This simply turns off the mind from menopause sex.





Now that we know what menopause is, let's explore the things that make menopause sex boring or steals off the fire.

Previous disappointments: this is mainly related to previous disappointments in sexual intercourse. Failure to experience orgasm in previous encounters can leave a bad taste and take away expectation. Similarly, painful experiences that are often caused by wounds or illness that affect the sexual organs such as STIs can also diminish desire for sex.

Guilt: this may be as a result of rape, of abortion or any other event in which one feels that they could have done something to avoid the result.

Poor communication with sex partner: you may be complaining about lack of satisfaction to yourself. Yet your sex partner holds the key to changing that. Many women get to their menopause with spouses who are not aware of their failures to making the woman happy.

Lax muscles: this is part of the natural process of aging, the vaginal wall loses its ability to have tensile effect.

Diminishing estrogen levels: this too is a natural process that comes with age. It leads to thinning of vaginal wall and diminishing vaginal fluids.

So how can you get back the fire?

Communicate: tell your spouse what really makes you tic. Speak to a sex therapists and physician; it may be a medical condition.

Eat well: no better solution. Even in the case surgery or exercises, you need to eat well.

Exercise: this works by increasing the energy levels and making the body responsive to sex.

Selengkapnya....

Saturday, January 9, 2010

How to Fix Outlook RPC Error

An RPC error can occur when the registry values that connect Outlook to your Exchange Server become corrupted. Outlook communicates with Exchange Server using Remote Procedure Calls (RPCs). A procedure is a small piece of code designed to do one particular thing. The programs you run on your computer may be made up of hundreds, even thousands of procedures.

In most desktop programs, all the procedures will run on your computer, but for some applications procedures may be run on a remote computer. Outlook, for example, has many procedures that run on your computer, but it communicates with Exchange Server by executing remote procedures.

Checking the Registry

The good news is that the Outlook RPC error can often be fixed. The bad news is you need to edit the Registry by hand to fix it. The Registry is a database used by Windows to keep track of information used to run the different applications you have installed, as well as Windows itself.

The first thing to do is to open RegEdit.exe, a built-in Windows program for editing the Registry.

WARNING: Changing or deleting entries in the Registry can make it so that Windows does not run. Be very careful and change only exactly what you need to change to fix this bug


You can run regedit.exe by typing it into the Windows Address bar. If that isn't visible, you can choose Run from the Start menu (in Windows XP) or type "regedit.exe" directly into the program search edit box on the Start Menu (in Vista).

In RegEdit, navigate through the folders on the left to the following location:

• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Rpc\ClientProtocols
On the right side you should see four entries:
• ncacn_np
• ncacn_tcp
• ncacn_udp
• ncacn_http.

In the data column next to each entry, it should say "rpcrt4.dll". If there are not four entries or any of the data doesn't reference the rpcrt4.dll, then you may have found your problem.

Adding an Entry
To add a missing entry:

• Right click on Client Protocols on the left side.
• Point to New, and then select String Value from the context menu.

Modifying an Entry Value
To change the value for an entry:

• Double click on the entry
• In the Edit String dialog window enter "rpcrt4.dll" (no quotes), then press the OK button.

When you have all four entries correctly installed, close RegEdit, and run Outlook to see if this fixed the problem.

Selengkapnya....

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Facebook Farmville Cheats = Free Farmville Cash

Farmville can appear to be a basic farm simulation at first glance, I mean all you have to do is plant crops and harvest them right? There's so much more to the game than that! Not only do you have to plow, plant, and harvest crops, you have to decide what crops to crow and when. Some crops take a just a few hours to grow while some take a few days. Obviously the longer the crop takes to grow, the higher the reward for harvesting it.

Don't plant quick growing crops and think you can come back a couple days later and reap the rewards. If you don't harvest the crop in time, it will die and you'll be stuck with having to clean up the mess, not getting any rewards. The time it takes for a crop to die is the same it takes for it to fully grow. For example, if the crop takes one day to grow, you have another day on top of that to harvest it before it dies.



But there's more to Farmville than just crops. There's also animals and trees. These are very different compared to crops because not only can you move them around your farm after getting them, they never expire once they're ready to harvest. You could have a whole forest of banana trees ready to harvest and they would never go bad. Now the rewards for harvesting trees and animals isn't as high as crops, but it's much less work and they take up a lot less space.

A good idea is to visit your neighbors' farms every day. When you visit their farms, Farmville will ask if you want to help them out with a random task. Always say yes because you get a nice reward for helping and this can really provide a nice reward in the long run, especially if you're just starting out.

Don't waste another moment. Start playing FarmVille with FarmVille Secrets today - trust me, you'll never look at this game the same again. Don't waste another second wondering if your crops are going to make it. Get the guide that the entire Internet is using to blast through FarmVille at top speed! Go to http://www.squidoo.com/secretsoffarmville to learn more!

Selengkapnya....

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Skin treatment for acne

Many people are looking for the best skin treatment for acne and they thought that the best skin treatment for acne is the creams sold in the pharmacies. The constant search for the most effective treatment also means that they are spending large amount of money on products that do not work.

Instead of buying products that advertised heavily in the market which works mostly on hype, we can use natural products in our skin treatment for acne to help us solve our acne problems. Follow these 6 steps to help treat your acne now.

1. Avoid touching your face with your hand. Acne sufferers tend to have the bad habit of touching their face with their hand regularly and this will lead to more breakouts.

2. Try to add on more fruits and vegetables into your diet as it will help you to keep a strong immune system that will prevent more breakouts.

3. Make sure that you drink at least 8 - 10 glasses of water daily to ensure that your body is able to eliminate toxins efficiently.





4. Use aloe vera to help you cure your acne. Aloe vera has the properties that can help deal with inflammation and promotes healing. Another upside of it is that it is affordable and does not pose any harm to your skin even with daily use.

5. Maintain a regular exercise routine and keep in mind to wipe away the perspiration to prevent your pores from clogging up. Exercising will help to maintain your immune system that can help to fight against acne.

6. Try to drink more green tea. Green tea has anti bacterial properties and it can help kill off the bacteria that causes acne.

These 6 steps are easy to implement, affordable and also effective. Your skin treatment for acne need not necessary be medications or creams, maybe all you need is to use some natural ways such that the 6 steps mentioned above. There are lots of ways to cure acne naturally but it will be overwhelming to try them all out. Just find a few ways that you feel that is effective and stick to it.

Selengkapnya....

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Cell phone radiation

Cell phone radiation protection is a huge concern among doctors and scientists worldwide with 208 million cell phone users in the United States alone and the fear of a health crisis epidemic is very real. Experts predict 500,000 new cases of brain and eye cancer each year by 2010 as an effect of cell phone use which is staggering in comparison with the less than half figure of years past. If these figures are true then the financial and healthcare strain would be immense.
Cell phones are linked to headaches, high blood pressure, brain tumors, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and much, much more. Although these diseases can take years to develop into life threatening and ending conditions. It is currently believed that future studies will confirm these estimates so pre-measures can protect you from being a future statistic.
Here are some easy to follow cell phone radiation protection measures to keep you safe and radiation free from cell phones.



Limit your cell phone use to only necessary calls and keeping calls concise will eliminate extended exposure to radiation. Children should only use cell phones in emergencies since developing skulls are more affected by radiation. A wire headset will minimize exposure to a fraction of what is usually taken in. Remember that men who keep their cell phone turned on in their front pocket can reduce their sperm count by thirty percent. If using a phone without a headset keep the phone away from your ear until the call is connected. Do not use your cell phone in a metal enclosure because it focuses radiation on your body. Purchase a low radiation cell phone. Take nutritional supplements that help raise the bodies’ immunity to radiation.
This list is nit complete and there are many other options and information out there so stay informed and abreast of new developments in this area. These steps will prove effective in keeping radiation away from your body but only you can take these measures. Keep proactive and your cell phone radiation will stay low. This is a guide to help keep your family safe using cell phone radiation protection.

Selengkapnya....

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Fujitsu LifeBook T2020

Fujitsu Lifebook T2020 is a tablet PC, designed for business users like most of other tablet PCs. Launched in 2009 only, this tablet PC offers maximum functionality with hosts of features. As it lacks sex appeal but at the same time it is designed for serious business users who like more of its sober and professional look. The main focus of its design is on its functionality instead of looks. It is quite lightweight at 3.6 pounds and quite sleek too at 11.7 by 8.6 x 1.3 inches. High speed is not its virtue which is compensates with its ability to work longer.

It resembles its processor Lifebook T2010 in its serious looks. It features flawless 12.1” screen with resolution 1280 by 800 pixels. The screen delivers graphics, text and photos of exceptional quality. It displays brighter and much vibrant colors.

This tablet comes with stylus which makes it easy to write in various applications like Microsoft word and Google Gmail. T2020 comes with transcription application which can recognize sloppy handwriting also once it captures your style of writing. You can keep this stylus safe in the given groove on the side of this laptop.

If you do not want to use touchscreen, just rotate the screen and you will get a full sized keyboard. The keyboard is all like other ordinary laptop keyboards having a small and soft touchpoint in the centre.

LifeBook T2020 is quite reasonable on its performance front. It comes with Windows Vista, 2GB of RAM and 1.4GHz processor. Its speed is not that impressive as expected but at the same time, it comes with a strong battery. It can run more than 7 hours once fully charged. You can complete most of your jobs with its durable battery.

This laptop features tablet-PC intensive software such as Pen Flicks Training and Handwriting Personalization app. Pen Flicks Training trains the user to increase their efficiency using stylus. The other application is designed for more accurate transcribing. Though not a multimedia machine but it does have a small in-built audio with one speaker located on front of the keyboard.

This Laptop features two USB ports to attach external devices. One of them is located on the right side of the laptop and other is on the back of it. Other features of this LifeBook include FireWire port, 802.11n for Wi-Fi connectivity, a PC Card slot, and a flash card slot good for Memory Stick and SD Cards.

The Fujitsu LifeBook T2020 is excellent device with a blend of computing basics, sound tablet PC features and strong battery life.


LifeBook T2020 is quite reasonable on its performance front. It comes with Windows Vista, 2GB of RAM and 1.4GHz processor. Its speed is not that impressive as expected but at the same time, it comes with a strong battery. It can run more than 7 hours once fully charged. You can complete most of your jobs with its durable battery.

This laptop features tablet-PC intensive software such as Pen Flicks Training and Handwriting Personalization app. Pen Flicks Training trains the user to increase their efficiency using stylus. The other application is designed for more accurate transcribing. Though not a multimedia machine but it does have a small in-built audio with one speaker located on front of the keyboard.

This Laptop features two USB ports to attach external devices. One of them is located on the right side of the laptop and other is on the back of it. Other features of this LifeBook include FireWire port, 802.11n for Wi-Fi connectivity, a PC Card slot, and a flash card slot good for Memory Stick and SD Cards.

The Fujitsu LifeBook T2020 is excellent device with a blend of computing basics, sound tablet PC features and strong battery life.


Selengkapnya....

Sunday, December 27, 2009

Reebok i-Run Review

The Reebok i-Run is a highly popular treadmill introduced to the market by Reebok, who are commonly known for their athletic apparel and footwear (as a subsidiary of Adidas) as opposed to fitness equipment. Part of the Reebok i-series range, the treadmill was dubbed 'smart and easy' by Reebok itself. Having tried and tested the i-Run, we were left with no choice but to agree with Reebok.

Smart this treadmill most certainly is. With a sleek design than is targeted to blend into the contemporary home, the i-Run looks great to the eye. It is also extremely compact, which again makes it ideal for the modern user. The Reebok i-Run really does have a clean look. It is also available in five different colors, including, white, black, orange, blue, and pink.

If you want evidence why 'easy' is a good adjective, then just try assembling this product. Most of the hard work is done already for you, and all you just have to do is screw the feet of the treadmill on! The i-Run is a folding treadmill which provides even more convenience. It is easy to use and operate. Nothing complicated, just as simple as most of us want it to be.



Although the Reebok i-Run is targeting the lower-end of the market in terms of pricing, this should not be a sign that it performs like other similarly priced treadmills. Quite the opposite. The i-Run has many features that your standard expensive treadmill will include. It is by all standards a powerful performer for the average user which it is targeting. A solid 1.75 HP motor will do more than an adequate job. It also has a max speed of 14km/h (8.7mph) which will cater for novices as well as experienced fitness enthusiasts. With two incline levels and 6 pre-set programmes, the i-Run is well equipped to deliver. There is a large LCD screen which will display all the vital statistics, including, distance covered, time and calories burned. You will find that although the i-Run is very well priced, Reebok have not compromised on quality.

And not compromising is what the Reebok i-Run does extremely well. Here you have a machine which is available at a bargain price, but does not compromise on performance, ease of use or design. Reebok really have struck the balance well. This is simply a fantastic value for money treadmill, and is highly recommended.


Selengkapnya....

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Latest Computer Processor

The newest computer processors
provides high speed processing, high performance, multitasking and the efforts of a sharp increase in productivity. Get the most out of it with a new computer. Today’s desktops and laptops
propose a high performance, quality and reliability than ever before. These computers have 2X faster performance, fewer lines, sleek design and keep you productive, entertained and informed. New technology provides the performance needed in the design you want. Let’s look at the next generation of processors.

Intel ® Dual-Core processor

Intel launches new computer processors, which are Dual-CPU. Dual-processor to enable exceptional productivity enhancing features and rich multimedia experience. There was only one execution core processor is normal, but a dual core processor has two complete execution cores in one physical processor, so you can do more at once than ever with a dual core

processor. A dual core processor consists of two separate cores, each core handles incoming data strings simultaneously to improve efficiency, and each core has its own cache. In the single core processors or traditional lines of instruction must be order, and then selectively enforce its store in the cache for quick recovery. If the data cache is necessary, it will be received through the system bus to system memory (RAM) or storage devices. Accessing these slows down performance to the maximum bus speed, memory and storage devices will allow, which is much slower than the speed of the processor. The situation is compounded when several tasks. In this case, the processor must switch back and forth between two or more sets of data streams and programs. CPU resources are useless, and productivity suffers.

Intel ® Core ™ 2 Duo processor


Intel Core 2 Duo processors to deliver increased productivity, energy efficiency and more responsive multitasking. In the Intel ® Core ™ 2 processors to reduce energy costs by an average of 50 percent. He uses technology (Intel a unique 45-nanometer technology) offer excellent performance, as well as exclusive energy-saving features to reduce energy consumption on the desktop PC.
Getting the best overall performance: Intel ® Core ™ 2 Duo processor from Intel built a unique 45-nanometer technology, which provides excellent performance and energy-saving features. It is up to 6MB total cache level 2 and up to 1333 MHz front of the bus. Now 3X faster multitasking performance: Intel ® Core ™ 2 Duo processor has two independent processor cores in one package, which allows multi-processing 3X faster multitasking work. The processor operates on the same frequency and share up to 6MB of cache memory and 2 levels up to 1333 MHz Front Side Bus for truly parallel computing world. When we give a few instructions on the computer’s processor, it takes one after another, but in the case of the Intel ® Core ™ 2 Duo processor, it will take the instructions at the same time more instructions per clock cycle allowed for the Intel ® Wide Dynamic performance that will improve the execution time and energy . Intelligent Power Capability, Smart Memory Access, Advanced Smart Cache will provide you with more energy efficient work, optimizing the use of the available data bandwidth and efficient cache subsystem for many and dual core processor.

Intel ® Quad-Core Processor

Quad-core processor is built with four separate cores. It’s like a four hard-working brains are in a choir or independently perform major tasks quickly and efficiently. She is very intelligent, a result of tremendous energy. Today, the computational requirements of high productivity, which can be achieved in four performance quad-core processor technology. It provides multitasking and multimedia applications on your desktop, notebook and workstation. The processor speed of 2.83 GHz, 12 MB cache and 2-level 1333 MHz front side bus, making it more efficient and expeditious untouchable. Consisting of four complete execution cores within a single powerful processor Quad-core technology is working with performance-infused accuracy that allows to overcome these new multi-game, enjoy the eye catching multimedia multitasking, and more realism that only the four major

Selengkapnya....

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Best gadgets of 2009

Technological advancements always fascinate consumers. Some of the best gadgets were introduced in the market in 2009 and really altered the meaning of innovative and intelligent devices.

Apple iPod nano 8GB, 5th Generation

Coming with a super music player, advanced video and photo viewer, vibrant video camera, Fm tuner, voice recorder, and pedometer, the iPod nano 8G is a dream come true. Featuring an mp3 player, a photo album and a video camera in one device, the Apple iPod nano weighs only 1.28 ounces and can fit in the palm of one hand as its tiny size is great (3.6 x 1.5 x 0.24 inches), but never feels losable.

Its wide 2.2-inch screen is crystal clear allowing for high composition when shooting with the in-built camera. Although it cannot offer a widescreen experience, the camera has 16 built-in special effects allowing users to shoot solid videos at 30 frames per second with 640 x 480 resolution. Picture quality is great, although when the shot is in quick motion, the video may look a bit harsh.

Although apple has long resisted including an FM tuner in the iPods, in the iPod nano 8GB has included a tuner that takes the FM experience to the next level. Using the headphones as an antenna, users can set favorite stations, tag songs they like to look up and save live radio broadcasts to the iPod’s memory for enjoying them later.

The iPod nano 8G can store up to 4,000 songs, which can unstoppably play for 24 hours. This magnificent gadget adds even more features that include a speaker for playing music and other audio, a pedometer so that users can upload exercise data to the Nike + website, Voice Over accessibility kit; and Genius Mixes


The iPod nano 8G comes in many colors and is, admittedly, a quality upgrade of the previous model. Particularly, the video camera and FM tuner are its groundbreaking features that put iPod nano 8G on the top of the integrated media device roster. All in all, Apple iPod nano 8GB, 5th Generation is plain on the outside, but pretty sophisticated on the inside and this comes at the starting price of $139.99.

(http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-players/apple-ipod-nano-fifth/4507-6490_7-33770785.html?tag=rnav).

Nokia 5800 XpressMusic

Nokia 5800 XpressMusic is an attractive device that, although it doesn’t have the elegance of iPhone’s interface, it performs greatly and it’s easy to handle setup. Being Nokia’s first mainstream touch control device, the phone features a variety of applications making a really attractive music majoring proposition.

Weighing just 109g and measuring 111 x 51.7 x 15.5 mm, the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic features a smartphone that bears the distinct look and feel of Nokia. Its 3.2-inch, 16-million color 640×360 pixels display offers the user space to use the new Nokia touch user interface, while a small stylus is also offered into the back panel for a more precise tapping option. Nokia also offers a plectrum on a wriststrap.

The Nokia 5800 XpressMusic features a built-in 3.2-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, an autofocus system, LED flash, and a new touch-based user interface. Shooting quality is great and Nokia has also included a variety of online-based features allowing users to share stills and video content, and a spread of online links to services such as Facebook, and a full web browser.

The phone features a S60 music player with a fine interface and 8GB in-box MicroSD storage supplements that come extra to the 81MB onboard storage. Sound quality is great and the device is capable of producing an exceptional audio performance, with clear and deep sound and hefty bass thanks to the 3.5mm headphone socket on the top of the phone.

The Nokia 5800 XpressMusic features more applications including A-GPS location finding and mapping technology; instant messaging and email; Wi-Fi support plus HSDPA high-speed 3G mobile data connectivity allowing users to render quickly on pages, zoom in and out on pages and swipe around; and a host of smartphone multimedia gadgetry.

Overall, the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic is a powerful phone with unique functionality that can deliver up to 400 hours on standby in 3G coverage when fully charged, while average talktime is up to 5 hours on 3G or 8.8 hours on GSM networks.

Starting price for the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic is at $269.99

http://www.amazon.com/Nokia-XpressMusic-Unlocked-Card-U-S-Warranty/dp/B001SEAOC6

Sony Vaio P Series Lifestyle PC

Sony Vaio P series Lifestyle PC introduces an inimitable combination of style, mobility and connectivity. Featuring a groundbreaking design that matches the dimensions of a mobile phone and weighing just 1.4 pounds, this innovative notebook is so thin that can fit into the pocket of a jacket or a handbag. Besides, it is so practical, advanced and user friendly, that it, admittedly, introduces the new era of notebooks.

The Vaio P series can simultaneously deliver entertainment and computing due to its pioneering features. Introducing high resolution 1600 x 768, Sony’s XBRITE-ECO LCD technology that replicates high quality images and LED backlit 8-inch ultra-wide diagonal display, the Vaio P series Lifestyle PC becomes a tool that extends beyond a typical notebook.

Some of the great features of the P series include a larger keyboard area, GPS navigation, Bluetooth, integrated wireless WAN 3G Mobile Broadband and Wi-Fi. Besides the notebook has an instant mode option that gives direct access to files and to Sony’s Xross Media bar interface for quick boot up and a built-in webcam. Sony Vaio P series Lifestyle PC comes with Windows Vista operating system and is available in exceptional colors like classic black, emerald green, crystal white, garnet red, and onyx black.

Starting price for the Sony Vaio P series Lifestyle PC is at $849.99 (www.sonystyle.com)

HP dx9000 TouchSmart Business PC

Featuring a strong Intel Core2 Duo P8400 processor, a 320 GB high-speed hard drive and a Virtual LAN (VLAN) driver, HP dx9000 TouchSmart business PC is much more than a PC. It is practically an all-in-one touch enabled desktop that addresses the advanced needs of business users through the use of innovative, interactive technology.

Coming with a Hi-Fi diagonal widescreen HP BrightView LCD display and Windows Vista Business operating system at 64-bit, HP dx9000 TouchSmart business PC allows users to use video conference options, enable e-mail and internet connection and manage their calendar, contacts, images and photos without using its wireless keyboard and mouse. Besides, the desktop carries a built-in camera and microphone, an integrated SuperMulti DVD drive, premium stereo speakers and built-in five-in-one Media Card Reader.

Starting price for the HP dx9000 TouchSmart Business PC is at $1,399 (www.hp.com)

Palm Pre Web OS smartphone

Being widely viewed as the iPhone’s rival, Palm Pre has captivated consumers as soon as it debuted in the market. Featuring a groundbreaking technology based on Palm’s new platform, Palm Pre web OS smartphone stands out primarily for its Web OS that allows users to enjoy a unique web-connected experience. The new OS is extremely user-friendly, integrated in a great design that gives users a unique feeling when touching the interface, while the phone’s look is advanced featuring fluid animations on its 3.1- inch touch screen features a 24-bit color 320×480 resolution HVGA display.

Weighing only 135 grams and having a thickness of 0.67 inches with rounded corners, the new OS comes in a totally comfortable size and weight that makes it fit in hands and pockets. However, in spite of its size, Palm Pre integrates great technology. Featuring a 3-megapixel digital camera with LED flash and extended depth of field, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g with WPA and 8GB memory, Palm Pre is a phone that can offer everything to the user.

Besides, Palm Pre allows synchronization with Facebook and Google contacts and features iTune capability that makes it function like an iPod when synched to iTunes. Users can transfer music and videos rather easily although some files are not supported by Pre.

Selengkapnya....

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Sony Vaio X, A New Notebook Series



Its chassis is crafted out of carbon fiber and is designed to not only be incredibly light but also sturdy enough to withstand 150kg of force.

Like other Sony notebooks, the keyboard on the VAIO X is island-style, but at 88 percent of full size, it’s a bit smaller than most netbooks with 10- to 12-inch screens. Measuring 9.5 x 3.5 inches, the keyboard is about half an inch smaller in both directions than the Toshiba mini NB205, even though the VAIO X has a larger keyboard deck. This is because there’s about half an inch of space on either side of the keyboard.

The display itself again split opinion, though. It has a notable red bias, which affects skin tones, and its horizontal and vertical viewing angles are a little limited. You could also argue that its 1,366 x 768 resolution is too high for an 11.1in screen, although if you’re finding it a struggle to read system text you can enlarge it easily via Windows 7. In terms of features, the X-Series includes pretty much everything you could ask for. There’s Bluetooth, 802.11bgn WLAN, an integrated 3G modem that supports up to 7.2Mbits/sec, and a 0.3-megapixel camera.

With a single core Atom processor
, the Vaio X Series was never going to be a great performer. Even though the 2GHz Z550 chip supports hyper-threading, this is no substitute for the performance of the dual core processors used in most other laptops, and the Vaio felt a little sluggish at times. Our review unit was rated at just 2.5 under the Windows Experience Index built into Windows, but this score was held back by the low performance of the Intel GMA 500 graphics function in the chipset, while the memory and disk scores were quite respectable. However, like netbooks (which also use Atom processors) the Vaio has ample performance for productivity tasks such as word processing, email and delivering presentations.


Performance was also possibly affected by the presence of various pre-installed applications, such as 60-day trial versions of Norton Online Backup and McAfee Security Center, which run every time the computer starts regardless of whether you accept the 60-day trial conditions or not.

The netbook’s 128GB Samsung SSD booted to Windows 7 Home Premium in 50 seconds (while the average is 55 seconds), and was able to copy a 4.97GB folder of mixed media files at a rate of 27.2 MBps—close to twice the netbook average of 15.2 MBps. When converting a 114MB MPEG-4 to AVI using HandBrake, the VAIO X took 26 minutes and 45 seconds; that’s just under 3 minutes faster than the netbook average, but the average ultraportable laptop takes 14:06. The Acer Aspire Timeline 1810T, for example, took 11:24.

Despite its low weight, the X Series still provides a decent range of connectivity options, consisting of 802.11b/g/Draft n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a built-in Everywair HSDPA modem for wireless broadband, enabling buyers to stay connected virtually anywhere. It also has two USB ports, VGA output, Ethernet connector, headphone jack socket and two slots along its front edge for SD Card and Sony’s own Memory Stick Pro Duo Flash storage cards. As a measure of just how thin the Vaio X series is, a hinged cover forms one half of the Ethernet connector, because the laptop’s chassis is too thin to accommodate a standard size Ethernet jack.

The laptop’s 11.1 inch screen and 6.5 hours of battery life is also respectable. Snap on an optional larger battery and your battery life jumps to 14 hours. This is of course also thanks to the Windows 7 OS and solid state hard disk under the hood which is optimized to greatly improve battery life compared to past laptops.

Sony’s Vaio X Series is incredibly thin and light and, with a better battery life than we expected, seems an ideal machine for those who need to carry a laptop around with them. However, this model is pricey even by Sony Vaio standards, and buyers would be advised to treat it with care as we have doubts about the system’s robustness.

Selengkapnya....