Three ASUS Centrino 2 notebooks

ASUS launches three new notebooks, based on the recently introduced Intel Centrino 2 platform. This platform does not only support faster processors, but also allows better onboard graphics and wireless N. The most luxurious model is the ASUS V1V, featuring an Intel P8600 processor, which runs at 2.4 GHz and 4 GB of DDR2 800MHz memory. On top of that, the model has a 320GB harddisk and an integrated dual-layer DVD drive. The 15.4" screen has a resolution of 1680x1050 and is powered by a Radeon HD3650 graphics card with 512 MB memory.

On the outside of the V1V we find three USB2.0 ports, VGA-output, TV-out, mini-DVI, FireWire and infrared. A standard audio- and microphonejack are also present, as well as an SPDIF output. To contact the rest of the world, the V1V has a WiFi-Link-5100-AGN-module of the 802.11n standard, this of course, is next to the standard ethernet port. The laptop also has a Bluetooh 2.0 receiver, weighs 2.9 kilo and an optional docking station is available as well.

Asus V1V with Intel P8600 processor and HD3650 graphics card

Two 14.1 inch models will also be released, the F8VA and the F8VR. These versions come with respectively an Intel P8600 (2.4Ghz) and P8400 (2.26GHz). The F8VA is the more expensive one with its 4GB memory and 320GB harddisk. The ASUS F8VR has 3GB of RAM and a harddisk of 250GB. 

The F8VA also has a 1680x1050 resolution and like the V1V it is powered by a Radeon HD3650 graphics card. The F8VR has a lower resolution of only 1440x900 pixels and a slower HD3470 graphics card. Both 14.1 models have several connectors, under which 5x USB, VGA, DVI an Expresscard slot, Bluetooth 2.0 and an integrated 1.3 megapixel webcam. The F8VR and F8VA also have the WiFi-Link-5100-AGN card onboard for fast wireless internet. 

Asus F8 series with 14,1 inch screen

Another feature these notebooks share is the Expressgate functionality, a technique which made its debut on a motherboard of the same brand. The Expressgate is a piece of memory on the motherboard that has a small operating system installed, which allows the usage of an internet browser and Skype software only seconds after booting up. 

The new ASUS Centrino 2 notebooks should be available in August. The laptops are priced 1499, 1199 and 999 euro for respectively the V1V, the F8VA and the F8VR version.  Image source: Computerbase.

Tags: 802.11n radeon ddr2 dvi USB firewire bluetooth centrino

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