ASUS A6J (Core Duo T2500 Processor 2.0GHz, 1GB RAM)

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Intel has retired the Pentium M branding and Core Duo is the new name given to the latest dual-core Yonah chip. Instead of processing data in a single stream, the new technology allows software to split computing tasks into two paths so both cores simultaneously crunch the numbers for speedier performance. Coupled with the latest Centrino platform the front side bus speed has been bumped up from 533MHz to 667MHz, increasing the speed of data transfer and overall performance.

The ASUS A6J is one of the most connected notebooks available. Wirelessly, it can hook up to 802.11a/b/g, Bluetooth and infrared devices. The modem and Gigabit ethernet ports provide speedy access to wired networks. For external peripherals, four USB 2.0 and mini-FireWire are provided for high-bandwidth connection. Digital camera buffs will appreciate the integrated memory card reader which is compatible with SD/MMC and Memory Stick formats. The only omission to this impressive array is the odd decision to stay with the PCMCIA standard for its PC card slot. With the faster and smaller ExpressCard devices coming in this year, users may find their expansion options limited in the near future.

The lack of an easy-access USB port is puzzling for a business machine.

The 15.4-inch transflective screen is the standard 4:3 aspect ratio. We are glad the display brightness is high enough to eliminate irritating reflections which are the bane of this LCD technology. Just above the screen lies a 1.3-megapixel Webcam which can function via ASUS video application as well as any third-party software. Though image quality is nothing to shout at, it is still adequate for video conferencing and quick picture shots. The graphics is driven by ATI's Mobility Radeon X1600 chip. With a 256MB of dedicated VRAM, it is able to utilize the HyperMemory technology to share up to 256MB of system memory for graphics-intensive tasks. Gaming and high-definition movies have no problem running on this machine. Users who bemoan that a 15.4-inch display cannot do justice to the video will be glad for the S-video, VGA and high-resolution DVI output options, though the latter can be replaced with a parallel port if connectivity to legacy peripherals is a priority.

The audio capability of the A6J does not fall short of its video capabilities. Using Realtek's HD audio chip, the aural output is easily optimized to the environment. The stereo speakers are adequate and loud enough for most users, though true AV buffs will link their Hi-Fi sets using the notebook's S/PDIF port for greater audio clarity and reproduction. The location of the speakers, however, leaves much to be desired. Found under the laptop, using the machine on a soft surface, such as a bed or cushion, muffles the sound significantly. ASUS has also enabled this mobile to play music discs without having to boot into the OS. Though a step-down compared with models such as Samsung's X1 which can also display videos, this does not weigh too heavily against it as the A6J is not coined as a multimedia machine.

The DVD dual layer Super Multi drive (DVD±R/DVD±RW/DVD-RAM) has an interesting feature rarely seen on portable devices, the LightScribe feature. Using compatible LightScribe discs, the optical drive uses its laser to burn black-and-white images on the label side of the CD. This is a wonderful convenience for those with a massive collection of backup discs and dread having to paste stickers on every single one.

Shortcut keys give quick access to Power4 Gear +, email, Internet and touchpad lock functions. The former is ASUS' own power management application that adjusts performance to battery life ratio. To prevent undesirable cursor movement during typing or gaming, the touchpad can be deactivated with the latter button. ASUS also includes its proprietary live update and NB Probe software which monitors your system status and keeps the machine in top-notch shape.

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