Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Sony VAIO VPC-X115
One is an affordable HD laptop with an optional Blu-ray drive, the other is a carbon-fiber lightweight feather of a notebook with a price that's far from budget. Together, they comprise Sony's Vaio newcomers that are ready to launch along with Windows 7.
Let's start with the sexiest. The Vaio X has been shown off in photo galleries here before, but the details are now confirmed. At half an inch thin, it isn't quite as slim as a Dell Adamo XPS, but its 1.6-pound carbon fiber body makes it the "lightest notebook ever," according to Sony.
Equipped with an 11.1-inch 16x9 LED backlit display that has a scratch-resistant screen, as well as built-in 3G compatible with Verizon, it's definitely an upscale coffee shop notebook if we've ever seen one.
There are more notable features:
An SSD drive instead of a hard disk drive (64 GB)
Built-in GPS that doesn't require an internet connection to function
A multi-touch trackpad that Sony promises will work "like a smartphone"
Both a standard and long-life battery packaged right in the box, which Sony claims will provide up to 17 combined hours of plug-free work.
What's not specified is the processor: "Intel processor, 2.0 GHz" is all that's confirmed, but combined with the small screen size, 2GB of DDR2 RAM, and small-size SSD, the suggestion is high-end Netbook. The Vaio X starts at $1,300--not that you'd expect this to be cheap, would you? The Vaio X comes preinstalled with Windows 7 Home Premium, and comes in either gold, as seen above, or black.
HP Pavilion dm3
If there's a burgeoning trend in laptops these days, it's not just inexpensive, low-voltage 12-inch ultraportables, but also 13-inch (and larger) notebooks dropping their optical drives and going ultra-low-voltage as well. The HP dm3 is categorized as a thin-and-light, but at first glance it doesn't appear to be significantly thinner than the new polycarbonate white MacBook. Clad in brushed aluminum inside and out, it definitely cuts a solid, professional profile. This is a successor to HP's recent 12-inch Pavilion dv2 in spirit, HP's thin-and-light that we reviewed back in the spring. This model, however, has a ULV Intel processor instead of an AMD Neo.
Starting at $549, the HP Pavilion dm3 aims to be an affordable Windows 7 thin-and-light for those who don't want a thicker (and more tricked-out) machine, yet still want to accomplish tasks without feeling limited to Netbook-style performance. Our configuration, was significantly more expensive, with an ultra-low-voltage 1.3GHz Intel U7300 Core 2 Duo processor (instead of the AMD Athlon Neo), a 500GB hard drive and 2GB of RAM, plus 64-bit Windows 7 Home Premium.
With the upgraded processor, the dm3 can still handle most tasks thrown at it by the average user, while claiming an "all day" ten-hour battery life from the included six-cell battery (we're currently testing these battery claims in our Lab).
The dm3 has a feel that's solid and perhaps slightly weighty for its sub-1-inch-thick profile. The external lid's dark gray brushed aluminum theme continues to the keyboard tray and palm rest area inside. A raised black keyboard feels comfortable, with keys that are a little softer than the MacBook's. A gleaming mirrored touchpad has good sensitivity and is surprisingly un-slippery. On the other hand, we didn't feel great traction on our fingers. Mirrored buttons lie below the medium-sized pad area.
The power button is oddly placed, off to the side of the laptop and to the front of the right-side strip of ports. The silver button has to slide to start, also unintuitive. Four USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, and an SD card slot join VGA-out and separate headphone and mic jacks.
Overall, the dm3 looks a little like a budget version of the HP Envy 13, especially in its recessed keyboard area. Glossy black plastic surrounds an inset 13-inch LED display, above which is a low-light-optimized HP webcam. The 1,366x768 display has nice brightness and sharp colors, but sometimes seemed to auto-adjust its brightness in odd ways in our casual office testing. Speakers embedded in the bottom of the laptop displayed strong volume and decent sound quality.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
How to choose a computer.
These days, computers are everywhere - we use them at home, at work or for leisure. Unlike the TV box that sits in the corner, the advent of the internet has made computers the multi-purpose tool of the technological world, its uses ranging from leisure pursuits, to work spreadsheets to social networking. But unless you’re tech savvy or under 25, choosing a computer is still a bewildering experience for the majority of us. So how do we go about choosing the right computer?
Firstly we will decide on either a laptop or desktop. Both fulfil different requirements. On a price comparison, the desktop will win hands down, bringing a higher specification than a laptop at the same price. You can also transfer your work from home to the office using the internet, USB memory drives or CDs instead of a laptop if you so wish. However, if you travel a lot or think you'd like to do your spreadsheet in the garden, a laptop would be more suitable. Laptops are also space savers as they can be stored out of sight when not in use.
Secondly, it is important to ascertain what the computer will be used for. Uses like computer gaming, graphics designing or even video editing usually require higher technological specifications. Uses such as internet, email or work spreadsheets will just require a standard specification, thus saving you money.
So what are the basic technologies we need to look at when choosing a computer? Thankfully, all computers, either laptops or desktops, have the same basic components. Its just their power and speed which varies. We will first categorize these components and then give a sample of current high end and standard specifications.
Screen size - Important for laptops and computers alike. A laptop with a small screen will be easier to carry but may be harder to read. A computer with a large screen can display the latest graphics in full two zillion colour bit glory. Computer screens now also feature flat panel monitors as standard compared to the old CRT(big box) monitors.
Hard Drive - This is where your data and information is stored. Basically the 'memory' of the computer. Like a house, you can never have too much storage. The bigger the hard drive, the better.
Processor - Basically, this is the speed at which the computer can operate. - Usually given as a Gigahertz figure e.g. 1.8, 2.2 etc. The speed can also be affected by the amount of RAM. There are also different types of processor - dual core would be standard at the minute, quad core is fast hitting the shops. Unlike other components such as RAM or graphics cards, processors cannot be upgraded at a later date so its important you buy the best you can afford at the start.
RAM - This is what the computer uses to operate. The more RAM, the better. Think of its like this - you are trying to write an essay and are given the choice of a blackboard or a 2" square piece of paper. Which will be easier write on? The more RAM a computer has, the more space it has for doing calculations. Often, older computers who do not have modern processors can be upgraded with extra RAM to enable the computer work faster.
Graphics Card - These are what allow games or video editing to display. Because a game can utilize massive amounts of resources, using the computer's own RAM can hinder or even stop the application running. Therefore, a lot of machines come with a separate graphics card which have their own inbuilt technologies. Some laptops have integrated graphic cards meaning they share resources with the motherboard. The vast majority of integrated graphic cards are not able to handle modern games.
Wireless Card - This allows the computer connect remotely to the internet without the need for a physical connection such as a phone wire. Comes as standard on most new computers but check before you buy. Some manufacturers or retailers may include this as an optional extra which you must pay more for.
CD / DVD drives - Older computers have separate drives, newer ones combine the two. Most modern computers also allow the ability to burn or rip CDs or DVDs onto either your computer or a blank disc.
USB drives - most external applications are connected to the computer using USB drives. The mouse, keyboard, external hard drive, web cam, mobile phone - all may use USB drives or slots to connect to the computer. Ensure you have enough for the gizmos you wish to use.
Memory card readers - A recent innovation. Phones, PDAs or cameras all utilise memory cards which come in a variety of shape and sizes depending on the manufacturer. Some computers have memory card readers which allow you to take these memory cards and slot them directly into the computer itself, without having to connect the device with USB wires or leads etc.
Printers - There are as many printers out there as there are types of colours. If you are going to be printing masses of high quality photos, a high end colour laser printer might be the best option. If you are just printing boring work spreadsheets for tomorrow's meeting - Save money and buy yourself a black and white ink printer.
So we have the basics of a computer, but how do we distinguish what the difference is between a prima donna computer and a laggard? This is more difficult as computer specifications are constantly changing. What we can do is give you a sample specification of a high end and standard computer so at least when you hit the shops, you'll have an idea of the minimum standards you should adhere to.
High Spec
These will usually encompass the latest technology and will usually be the most expensive as a result. However for the price, you will get the latest cutting edge technologies plus a computer you hopefully won't have to upgrade for a long while. For those interested in gaming or video editing, we'll outline the minimums you should be adhering to at the minute-
Processor - A quad core processor is advisable if you want the best possible graphics. At least dual core.
RAM - At least 2 gigabytes of DDR2 RAM should be included, more if possible. Even 4 or 8 GB should come as standard for a high spec PC.
Graphics Card - An absolute essential for those involved in gaming - a minimum these days for the latest game such as Call of Duty 4 or GTA IV would be a 256mb Graphics Card. You can also upgrade the graphics card at a later date if you wish. 512mb graphics cards are becoming standard while 1gb ones are starting to appear in shops.
Hard drives - Hard Drives of 500gigabytes are now common. Shortly, we'll see 1TB of storage being offered.
Expandability - When purchasing a high end computer, you will usually upgrade it as you go along instead of having to purchase a new one next year. Make sure that there are expandable ports for extra RAM or a better video card. Even extra USB slots allow you connect all your gadgets and make sure there are easily accessible ones to the top, front or sides.
Standard Spec
For those operating on a budget or who will only be doing internet surfing or typing, splashing out on technologies you don't require is like buying an eighteen wheeler to bring the grocery shopping home. However, that’s not to say that you'll end up with a brick of a computer - standard specs will allow you type and communicate for years to come.
Processor - If you can afford to, get quad core, if not dual core will do. Ascertain the speed also from the details. Stay away from single core processors - these are positively ancient in computer terms. Make sure you purchase the best processor you can afford to as everything else can be upgraded. If you are utterly convinced that you'll never use your computer for anything other than spreadsheets, its safe to buy a single processor.
RAM - RAM isn’t that expensive so a perfectly decent criteria for a standard spec would be 2 gigabytes of RAM. Minimum one gigabyte. Avoid setups offering 256MB or 512 MB RAM. You'll either a) find yourself buying more RAM withing 6 months as your computer seizes up trying to open applications or b) revert to tree hugging and avoiding all technology as some distant alien life form that does not wish to communicate with you.
Graphics Card - Laptops may have integrated graphic cards due to their small size. these cannot be upgraded later. A computer should have at least a 125mb Graphics Card. Be aware, that a card of this nature will not be sufficient to play the latest games releases.
Hard Drives - Like RAM, hard drives aren’t that expensive either so a minimum of 160-250 gigabytes would be recommended. As you fill up this space with all your beloved holiday snaps, you can always buy an external hard drive on which to record your upcoming trips.
Probably the only thing that cannot be changed with modern computers is the motherboard and processor components. All the others such as RAM, Graphics Cards, Hard drives etc can be upgraded as time goes by.
Some retailers, faced with older processors, often compensate by enticing purchasers with larger hard drive storage or flat panel monitors. Be wary of these offers as you can always upgrade RAM, hard drives and monitors later but you’re stuck with the processor.
When choosing also, try shop around. Competition is cut throat in the technology market, especially between computer makers. Many offer complimentary accessories such as webcams or USB memory sticks.
Be careful also of extended warranties and service options which may require you to pay upfront or on a monthly basis - this can add hundreds to the cost of a new computer if people are opting for 3 or 5 year terms. Also check the cost of any finance offered. It may be cheaper to take out a small bank loan rather than accepting a retailer’s finance option.
Only in the most extreme cases, will it be necessary to change a computer yearly. Most should last for 3-5 years or even longer, the majority of people changing computers to upgrade the technology rather than because the workhorse is on its last legs. If you are savvy enough, you can order directly off the internet for a cheaper deal. Otherwise find a retailer you are happy with and who is able to explain thoroughly the pros and cons of any particular computer. Above all, happy computing!
Firstly we will decide on either a laptop or desktop. Both fulfil different requirements. On a price comparison, the desktop will win hands down, bringing a higher specification than a laptop at the same price. You can also transfer your work from home to the office using the internet, USB memory drives or CDs instead of a laptop if you so wish. However, if you travel a lot or think you'd like to do your spreadsheet in the garden, a laptop would be more suitable. Laptops are also space savers as they can be stored out of sight when not in use.
Secondly, it is important to ascertain what the computer will be used for. Uses like computer gaming, graphics designing or even video editing usually require higher technological specifications. Uses such as internet, email or work spreadsheets will just require a standard specification, thus saving you money.
So what are the basic technologies we need to look at when choosing a computer? Thankfully, all computers, either laptops or desktops, have the same basic components. Its just their power and speed which varies. We will first categorize these components and then give a sample of current high end and standard specifications.
Screen size - Important for laptops and computers alike. A laptop with a small screen will be easier to carry but may be harder to read. A computer with a large screen can display the latest graphics in full two zillion colour bit glory. Computer screens now also feature flat panel monitors as standard compared to the old CRT(big box) monitors.
Hard Drive - This is where your data and information is stored. Basically the 'memory' of the computer. Like a house, you can never have too much storage. The bigger the hard drive, the better.
Processor - Basically, this is the speed at which the computer can operate. - Usually given as a Gigahertz figure e.g. 1.8, 2.2 etc. The speed can also be affected by the amount of RAM. There are also different types of processor - dual core would be standard at the minute, quad core is fast hitting the shops. Unlike other components such as RAM or graphics cards, processors cannot be upgraded at a later date so its important you buy the best you can afford at the start.
RAM - This is what the computer uses to operate. The more RAM, the better. Think of its like this - you are trying to write an essay and are given the choice of a blackboard or a 2" square piece of paper. Which will be easier write on? The more RAM a computer has, the more space it has for doing calculations. Often, older computers who do not have modern processors can be upgraded with extra RAM to enable the computer work faster.
Graphics Card - These are what allow games or video editing to display. Because a game can utilize massive amounts of resources, using the computer's own RAM can hinder or even stop the application running. Therefore, a lot of machines come with a separate graphics card which have their own inbuilt technologies. Some laptops have integrated graphic cards meaning they share resources with the motherboard. The vast majority of integrated graphic cards are not able to handle modern games.
Wireless Card - This allows the computer connect remotely to the internet without the need for a physical connection such as a phone wire. Comes as standard on most new computers but check before you buy. Some manufacturers or retailers may include this as an optional extra which you must pay more for.
CD / DVD drives - Older computers have separate drives, newer ones combine the two. Most modern computers also allow the ability to burn or rip CDs or DVDs onto either your computer or a blank disc.
USB drives - most external applications are connected to the computer using USB drives. The mouse, keyboard, external hard drive, web cam, mobile phone - all may use USB drives or slots to connect to the computer. Ensure you have enough for the gizmos you wish to use.
Memory card readers - A recent innovation. Phones, PDAs or cameras all utilise memory cards which come in a variety of shape and sizes depending on the manufacturer. Some computers have memory card readers which allow you to take these memory cards and slot them directly into the computer itself, without having to connect the device with USB wires or leads etc.
Printers - There are as many printers out there as there are types of colours. If you are going to be printing masses of high quality photos, a high end colour laser printer might be the best option. If you are just printing boring work spreadsheets for tomorrow's meeting - Save money and buy yourself a black and white ink printer.
So we have the basics of a computer, but how do we distinguish what the difference is between a prima donna computer and a laggard? This is more difficult as computer specifications are constantly changing. What we can do is give you a sample specification of a high end and standard computer so at least when you hit the shops, you'll have an idea of the minimum standards you should adhere to.
High Spec
These will usually encompass the latest technology and will usually be the most expensive as a result. However for the price, you will get the latest cutting edge technologies plus a computer you hopefully won't have to upgrade for a long while. For those interested in gaming or video editing, we'll outline the minimums you should be adhering to at the minute-
Processor - A quad core processor is advisable if you want the best possible graphics. At least dual core.
RAM - At least 2 gigabytes of DDR2 RAM should be included, more if possible. Even 4 or 8 GB should come as standard for a high spec PC.
Graphics Card - An absolute essential for those involved in gaming - a minimum these days for the latest game such as Call of Duty 4 or GTA IV would be a 256mb Graphics Card. You can also upgrade the graphics card at a later date if you wish. 512mb graphics cards are becoming standard while 1gb ones are starting to appear in shops.
Hard drives - Hard Drives of 500gigabytes are now common. Shortly, we'll see 1TB of storage being offered.
Expandability - When purchasing a high end computer, you will usually upgrade it as you go along instead of having to purchase a new one next year. Make sure that there are expandable ports for extra RAM or a better video card. Even extra USB slots allow you connect all your gadgets and make sure there are easily accessible ones to the top, front or sides.
Standard Spec
For those operating on a budget or who will only be doing internet surfing or typing, splashing out on technologies you don't require is like buying an eighteen wheeler to bring the grocery shopping home. However, that’s not to say that you'll end up with a brick of a computer - standard specs will allow you type and communicate for years to come.
Processor - If you can afford to, get quad core, if not dual core will do. Ascertain the speed also from the details. Stay away from single core processors - these are positively ancient in computer terms. Make sure you purchase the best processor you can afford to as everything else can be upgraded. If you are utterly convinced that you'll never use your computer for anything other than spreadsheets, its safe to buy a single processor.
RAM - RAM isn’t that expensive so a perfectly decent criteria for a standard spec would be 2 gigabytes of RAM. Minimum one gigabyte. Avoid setups offering 256MB or 512 MB RAM. You'll either a) find yourself buying more RAM withing 6 months as your computer seizes up trying to open applications or b) revert to tree hugging and avoiding all technology as some distant alien life form that does not wish to communicate with you.
Graphics Card - Laptops may have integrated graphic cards due to their small size. these cannot be upgraded later. A computer should have at least a 125mb Graphics Card. Be aware, that a card of this nature will not be sufficient to play the latest games releases.
Hard Drives - Like RAM, hard drives aren’t that expensive either so a minimum of 160-250 gigabytes would be recommended. As you fill up this space with all your beloved holiday snaps, you can always buy an external hard drive on which to record your upcoming trips.
Probably the only thing that cannot be changed with modern computers is the motherboard and processor components. All the others such as RAM, Graphics Cards, Hard drives etc can be upgraded as time goes by.
Some retailers, faced with older processors, often compensate by enticing purchasers with larger hard drive storage or flat panel monitors. Be wary of these offers as you can always upgrade RAM, hard drives and monitors later but you’re stuck with the processor.
When choosing also, try shop around. Competition is cut throat in the technology market, especially between computer makers. Many offer complimentary accessories such as webcams or USB memory sticks.
Be careful also of extended warranties and service options which may require you to pay upfront or on a monthly basis - this can add hundreds to the cost of a new computer if people are opting for 3 or 5 year terms. Also check the cost of any finance offered. It may be cheaper to take out a small bank loan rather than accepting a retailer’s finance option.
Only in the most extreme cases, will it be necessary to change a computer yearly. Most should last for 3-5 years or even longer, the majority of people changing computers to upgrade the technology rather than because the workhorse is on its last legs. If you are savvy enough, you can order directly off the internet for a cheaper deal. Otherwise find a retailer you are happy with and who is able to explain thoroughly the pros and cons of any particular computer. Above all, happy computing!
Friday, October 23, 2009
HP's Mini 311 with Nvidia Ion graphics
The Netbook wars have heated up, with PC makers adding upscale features such as larger HD displays and faster low-voltage CPUs to systems, in an effort for push prices up past the usual $299-$399 range.
We've seen HD Netbooks from Sony and others, usually with prices closer to $599, so we're excited to see HP's new Mini 311 packing in an 11.6-inch, 1,366x768 screen, as well as Nvidia's Ion graphics chip, all starting at $399. You're still stuck with the same Intel Atom N270 CPU, 1GB of RAM, and Windows XP, but that's typical for a $399 Netbook. Our review unit added the slightly faster Atom N280 CPU, an optional white lid design, 802.11n Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, for a total of $494.
The real payoff is in the Nvidia Ion, which, while not a true discrete GPU, offers enough power to play HD video files smoothly (a sticking point for Netbooks), as well as do some basic gaming. For nongraphics tasks, it won't affect performance much (and GPU support for Flash video, such as Hulu, is still a work in progress), but it does solve some of the frustrations associated with Netbooks, without driving up the price.
As much as the Mini 311 may be our new go-to Netbook, we'd be hard-pressed to suggest buying one of these right now, when Windows 7 comes out at the end of October. With Netbooks exempt from Microsoft's free upgrade offer, it makes more sense to wait a few weeks and get the new OS out of the box (which should also make it possible to get past the artificial 1GB of RAM limit on XP-powered Netbooks).
Price as reviewed / Starting price $494 / $399
Processor 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270
Memory 1GB, 1066MHz DDR2
Hard drive 160GB 5,400rpm
Chipset Nvidia MCP79
Graphics Nvidia Ion (integrated)
Operating System Windows XP
Dimensions (WD) 11.4 inches wide by 8 inches deep
Height 1.2 inches
Screen size (diagonal) 11.6 inches
System weight / Weight with AC adapter 3.3 / 4.1 pounds
Category Netbook
With a high-resolution screen and better graphics packed into a standard-price Netbook, you'd be right to expect a little cost-cutting somewhere else. The Mini 311 is far from the flashiest-looking laptop out there, even among low-cost Netbooks. Most of the chassis is a dull, generic, gray plastic, with either a black or a white lid with a subtle swirl pattern. The white version, which we had, costs an extra $20 for no particularly good reason, and the very faint gray swirls on it actually made it look a bit dingy from a distance. On the plus side, the system itself feels sturdy enough, and there was no flex in the lid when we pulled it open and shut.
The keys on the keyboard have the same slightly scalloped shape and wide faces that we've seen on HP's other Netbooks, such as the Mini 110. It's a design we approve of, but in this particular case, the keys themselves felt a little loose and wiggly when typing. Likewise, the touch pad did not impress. Made of the same material as the rest of the wrist rest, it offered too much resistance to our fingers. There's a legitimate reason most laptop touch pads have a distinct, slick surface. We also had to go into the control panel to crank up the pointer speed--perhaps the default settings were created with an older 1,024x600 Netbook in mind. Two sliverlike mouse buttons under the touch pad also felt cheap and insubstantial.
The 11.6-inch wide-screen LED display is one of the Mini 311's highlights, with a 1,366x768 native resolution. We've seen this on a handful of other Netbooks, from the Sony Vaio W to the Asus Eee PC 1101. It's still very readable, and provides enough screen real estate that going back to a lower-resolution Netbook display feels positively claustrophobic in comparison. While the screen was glossy, we were actually more distracted by the even glossier black plastic screen bezel.
HP Mini 311 Average for category [Netbook]
Video VGA-out, HDMI VGA
Audio Stereo speakers, single headphone/microphone jack headphone/microphone jacks
Data 3 USB 2.0, SD card reader 2 USB 2.0, SD card reader
Expansion None None
Networking Ethernet, 802.11g Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Optical drive None None
The HP Mini 311 includes a standard set of connections for a $399 Netbook (entry-level models under $300 may be tempted to drop one of the USB ports or HDMI output). Still, extras such as 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth will cost extra. While not as customizable as Dell's Netbook line (curiously also named "Mini"), there are options for the CPU, networking, and mobile broadband.
At tasks which are not graphics-intensive, the Intel Atom N280 CPU performed as expected, roughly matching other Netbooks. As always, we consider Atom-powered systems to be fine for basic tasks such as Web surfing, e-mail, and office tasks, and even basic Photoshop work--as long as your expectations are kept realistic.
Putting the Nvidia Ion to the test, we did the unthinkable, loading up a handful of full-fledged PC games on a Netbook. Most Netbooks can barely handle casual games such as Plants vs. Zombies, to say nothing of full 3D graphics. Despite the hype, this is definitely not going to be your main PC gaming rig, but Unreal Tournament still managed to get 23.2 frames per second at 800x600, which is borderline acceptable. Tweaking the settings could likely squeeze a little more out of that game. We also installed Call of Duty 4, and during a particularly intensive firefight sequence, we ran into some stuttering at the same 800x600 resolution, but overall found it to be fairly playable (although your definition of playable may vary).
The major triumph for Netbooks is still to be useful all-around devices, and as the Nvidia Ion shares much of its DNA with the GeForce 9400 graphics found in the 13-inch MacBook (which is excellent for an integrated graphics solution), the real bottleneck to achieving this goal is the 1GB of RAM and the single-core Atom CPU. We'd be very interested in seeing how the same gaming tests run under Windows 7 with double the RAM.
We also fully expect to see road warriors hacking away at World of Warcraft on the HP Mini 311 at airport departure gates and in coffee shops. In fact, HP should just paint a giant WoW logo on the back of this thing and sell it as a $400 portable Warcraft machine.
Video playback was excellent, and our test 720p WMV file ran flawlessly--something no other Netbook has been able to do. Web-based video is a bit of a different story, but an updated version of Flash (reportedly available in November) will let streaming Web video take advantage of the GPU. For right now, Hulu on-demand content ran decently as-is, but not radically better than other Netbooks.
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