• Overview
• 
• Review
• 
• Specs
• 
• Compare
• 
• Images
• 
• User Reviews
• 
• Discuss
• 

There is a nice array of entertainment and work-related features available for this machine. It has a mini-remote control which can be stored in the ExpressCard slot as well as a Webcam for those who love personal snapshots or video-conferencing. The slot-in DVD writer, which can backup files to almost any DVD and CD format in the market, is available with a next-generation Blu-ray option for an additional S$895.59 (US$658.52). The design is also such that it cannot be upgraded in the future. The XPS ships with Dell's proprietary MediaDirect application which allows multimedia content and CDs to be played without having to enter the operating system. This is a boon for those who just want to check out a picture or MP3 without having to wait for Vista to boot up.

Besides fun, the MediaDirect software also includes Instant Office which can look up contacts as well as calendar appointments on your Microsoft Outlook account (for now, it does not work with other email or calendar applications). There is also a fingerprint sensor. However, since it is not coupled with a TPM security chip which stores sensitive passwords and encryption keys on the hardware, the fingerprint reader is best used as a tool for quick logins rather than for data protection.

The XPS M1530 has all the network connectivity features expected of a contemporary portable. Bluetooth, 802.11a/b/g/n and Gigabit Ethernet are present and accounted for. There is even a Wi-Fi catcher button which can detect if there are any available wireless signals in the area. This will save you the hassle of turning on the machine for a little cafe surfing only to find the router down. The only missing network feature is the modem which, unless you intend to use the XPS M1530 for fax or Internet dialup, won't be missed. External peripherals can be hooked up via the miserly three USB 2.0 ports, mini-FireWire or ExpressCard/54 slot. A memory card reader is also available for those with multiple flash cards.

Removing the battery, we were surprised to find a 3G HSDPA SIM card slot even though this feature is showcased only on US models. We checked with Dell Singapore and the response was that though the SIM card slot is present, the HSDPA module is not added as there are no tie-ups with local telcos. However, should that situation change in the future, the unit can easily be upgraded with the HSDPA component at the service center for a fee.

Where this XPS shines is in its trio of external display connectivity. Need to hook up to a monitor? Use the VGA-out. Using a projector for a presentation? An S-video port is ready and waiting. Want to kick virtual butt on a large LCD TV? Plug into the HDMI connector and blast away. However, we do suggest using an external keyboard if you are into serious gaming. Though the keypad is full-sized and quite comfortable to type on, Dell, for some reason, has decided that the right-most row is the best place to put the Home, Page Up, Page Dn and End buttons. Hence, it is very disconcerting to bring your fingers up from the directional keypad, and instead of pressing Enter like you wanted you end up scrolling down. Annoying if you are doing word-processing, hair-ripping suicide if you are in the midst of a game. On the other hand. the touchpad is reasonably sized, while the buttons are soft and comfortable to click on.

« Previous page | Next page »

User Discussion

 

• Most Popular

• Upcoming

What's Hot

 

Latest Downloads