Acer launches new Aspire laptops
Acer has refreshed its Aspire laptop range to incorporate Intel’s Core range of processors, launched a new Timeline X range and introduced the Aspire Ethos high-end entertainment model.
Timeline was launched as a thin-and-light range in 2009 and the new Timeline X is a redesigned version of this incorporating the latest mobile Core CPUs (i3-330M up to i7-620M), beefing up the processing power from the current Core 2 models. Graphics are either integrated on-chip Intel HD graphics or a dedicated ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 GPU with 1GB of video RAM. The 8-hour design goal for battery life has been maintained by using more power-efficient LED backlights, fans and hard drives. Up to 12 hours autonomy is claimed with an optional 9-cell battery pack. Although the overall design has not been radically altered, the Timeline X now features a black brushed aluminium cover and other minor cosmetic changes. Weight ranges from 1.8-2.4kg and all are just 24mm thick. At launch, models are available with 13.3in, 14in and 15.6in displays (all 16:9 aspect ratio), although an ultra-compact (1.4kg) variant with an 11.6in screen is expected later this year. Prices start from £599 (inc. VAT) with availability from May.
The Aspire Ethos is a new 'lifestyle' consumer model available from June in two variants. The 8943G has an 18.4in screen with 1920x1080 resolution, whereas the smaller 5943G comes with a 1366x768 15.6in screen. Core i5 and i7 CPUs are used, with graphics supplied by DirectX 11-compatible ATI 5850/5850 GPUs with 1GB of video memory. Both models boast a 5.1 surround sound speaker setup with a mini-subwoofer built into the underside of the chassis. BD-ROM and BD-RE drives are available as options and the dual hard disk option can boost storage to 1.2TB. The novel backlit touchpad doubles as a media controller. Pricing is from £1,099 (inc. VAT).
The new Aspire range is completed with the 5471, 7741, 5745 and 7745 models, again all featuring Core processors. Starting from £599, the x745 range uses Core i5 and i7 CPUs and is available with 15.6in or 17.3in screens (the 14in. 4745 model will not initially be available in the UK). The lower-priced x741 models use Core i3 or Core i5 CPUs and have the same screen sizes and start at £499 (inc. VAT). All feature multi-touch touchpads and LED backlit screens driven by either ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5000-series or Nvidia GT300-series GPUs, and will be available in May.
Kelvyn Taylor