First Take

Editors' note : We have received word from Asus that there are two configurations of the U5A notebook available. The high-end model includes a Pentium M 780 2.26GHZ processor, 100GB harddisk, 512MB RAM and a larger nine-cell battery. Either color can be selected regardless of laptop specifications.

In the technology race for ever smaller and more powerful PCs, it is often easy to forget that the making of each and every notebook requires the use of hazardous materials which, if improperly disposed of, could severely impact the environment. Asus latest laptop series, the U5A, distinguishes itself by following the EU (European Union) legislation to restrict the use of heavy metals and brominated flame retardants in its manufacturing process. Available in either white or black models, the Asus U5A is scheduled to be in Singapore stores next month.

Upside: Based on the 533MHz Centrino platform and DDR 2 memory, the Asus U5A should be able to stand shoulder to shoulder in performance with the current generation of notebooks. Asus offers this model in two colors. The black unit houses a Pentium M 760 2.0GHz processor and has a smaller and slower 80GB harddisk, six-cell battery and 256MB RAM. The white version has a faster Pentium M 780 2.26GHz chip, 100GB hard drive, 512MB RAM and a nine-cell battery. Both versions integrate the DVD Super Multi drive into the chasis, making them capable of burning CD and DVD discs.

At only 1.4kg, this is one of the lightest thin-and-light models in the market, rivaled only by the smaller but slower Sony Vaio VGN-TX17GP and Fujitsu LifeBook P7120. Other than infrared, the Asus laptop is able to connect to Bluetooth and 802.11a/b/g networks, making it a very versatile machine for wireless networking. Last but not least, users of the U5A unit can sleep well at night knowing that no dangerous heavy metals or brominated substances were used that could be leaked into the environment.

Downside: Unfortunately, the computing technology in the laptop is not in step with its manufacturing advances. Though we can accept that a notebook this size is unable to contain a dedicated graphics processor, allowing the memory to max out at only 1.5GB sidelines this unit for memory-intensive applications. Moreover, with ExpressCard peripherals due in the market this year, the U5A will be left out in the cold should future expansion options neglect to include a PC Card version.

Outlook: Kudos to Asus for leading the way in eco-friendly notebook manufacture. It is a nice touch to offer two color schemes to suit different individuals. Compelete with its light weight, Bluetooth connectivity and capability to connect to almost all Wi-Fi networks, the Asus U5A is a versatile and portable work machine.

Rate It Now

Rating guidelines

Asus U5A (Pentium M 760 Processor 2.0GHz, 512MB RAM)

Rate this product:
1 - Abysmal 2 - Terrible 3 - Poor 4 - Mediocre 5 - Average 6 - Good 7 - Very good 8 - Excellent 9 - Spectacular 10 - Perfect

Need help? Read our guidelines for what each number rating represents.

Submit your opinion

• Most Popular

• Upcoming

Latest Downloads

What's Hot