Sony unveils 'no compromise' sub-notebook

Sony today introduced its latest attempt to make European computer buyers fall in love with sub-notebooks, pitching its 11.1in widescreen Vaio TX3 series of machines as no-compromise ultra-portable PCs.

The sub-notebook family's members are powered by a variety of ultra-low voltage single-core Core Solo processors from Intel. With the standard battery, the system provides up to seven hours' runtime - though we'd suggest you expect to dim the screen, turn off wireless connectivity, etc. to get it.

Sony said the TX3 line casing is manufactured from carbon-fibre laminate, helping to get the weight down to 1.25kg, despite the integration of a dual-layer DVD±R/RW drive. The material is "230 per cent stronger and 30 per cent lighter than materials used in standard notebook construction", Sony claimed.

There's a range of hard drive capacities on offer, all connected to motion sensors to protect them against sudden drops. And there's a Trusted Platform Module on some models linked to the laptop's fingerprint sensor to ensure data integrity.

But back to that 11.1in display. Its native resolution is the decidedly non-standard 1,366 x 768, but Sony said it makes for perfect 16:9 aspect ratio video playback so there's almost no letterbox effect on standard widescreen movies. It uses a "pure white" LED backlight for better picture colours and improved battery life, Sony said.

The TX3 range is priced at up to £1,699 inc. VAT for the TX3XP, available in standard black or limited-edition slate blue from Sony's online store and retail Centres. The full range is expected to ship mid to late July. ®