Lenovo introduces tougher but lighter laptops
04/16/2007 | 10:18 PM

REPORT FROM BUSINESSWORLD

Lenovo has launched a new line of laptop computers built to withstand greater physical damage, reducing the loss of sensitive documents and information from accidental hardware breakage.

The new generation of Thinkpads, including the X60, the T60, the R60 and Z60, contain lighter and more durable packaging and increased robustness. Other features include a fan specially shaped to create more air flow and reduce overheating of the machine.

The T60 in particular has a magnesium alloy rollcage to resist scratches. The strength of the frame causes up to 40% less stress on the motherboard.

The machines also contain hard disks protected by separate shock absorbers to prevent the loss of information from accidental damage while producing less noise.

In a press conference last week, Masaki Kobayashi, executive director of research and technology of Lenovo’s research laboratory in Japan, said PC users put highly sensitive and important information in their laptops. "About 80% of the eventual cost for managing and supporting a computer is for maintenance. Also, consumers nowadays often put very important information into their computers. The cost of losing important files from damage is much more than the cost of a laptop."

Mr. Kobayashi said laptops were improving in areas aside from hardware capabilities, but towards greater mobility. He said the new range of laptops were built with wide-area-network antenna for access to the Internet or company networks while mobile.

Aside from the increased physical security, he said laptops were also being developed with features such as the automatic destruction of sensitive data in case the machine is stolen. — Allan E. Lalisan/BusinessWorld