The Basics:
Designed with a likeable combination of portability, cost-effectiveness and Wi-Fi wireless capability, the Toshiba Satellite A55-S306 is well suited to the highly mobile user who can't financially justify an absolute state-of-the-art notebook. You'll want to look elsewhere if you need the ultimate in power and multitasking prowess, but for most common remote and home tasks, the Satellite A55-S306 is a sensible solution. Processor:
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a miracle of miniaturization that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. Some of today's notebooks are equipped with high-end CPU's on par with those found in top-of-the-line desktop PCs, though these machines are usually noticeably larger and more power hungry than their less powerful counterparts. For the Satellite A55-S306, Toshiba has selected a 1.5 GHz Pentium M 715 processor. Introduced in 2003, the original Pentium M was a real breakthrough in mobile processing technology, offering more efficient power usage yet a very large (one MB) "Level 2 cache" for more power than the Pentium M's comparatively low clock speed might indicate. The CPU in this computer is a brand new breed of Pentium M chip, unveiled in 2004 and offering double the Level 2 cache (two MB) of the already impressive original Pentium M. Though this particular CPU's 1.5 GHz clock speed may not seem particularly fast, it is a technologically advanced chip that's powerful enough for typical notebook applications.
Memory:
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM). More RAM means faster computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. The Satellite A55-S306 includes 256 MB of RAM, an allotment that's adequate for basic duties but won't be enough for those who intend to run several simultaneous applications. Those who frequently need to multitask or get the most speed from their machine would do well to add more RAM. Fortunately, the unit allows you to expand to two full GB, more than enough for any situation.
Video:
CPU's are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the video card (or controller). This system's video controller is an integrated Intel 852GM chipset with 32 MB or shared (not dedicated) video memory. As such, it cannot be considered a true graphics powerhouse. Though it will adequately handle most typical mobile 2D programs and undemanding 3D applications such as older games, it won't smoothly render midlevel and high-end 3D graphics. Thusly, serious gamers and 3D artisans may want to steer clear.
Display:
At 15 inches, the unit's XGA TFT LCD display is larger than that of early generation notebooks but is now considered the norm. The screen's highest supported resolution of 1024 by 768 is also typical of current midlevel and even some high-end mobile computers.
Hard Disk:
The Satellite A55-S306 features a 40 GB hard disk. This is an average size for today's notebooks, offering enough room for general applications and files and a small library of music or multimedia files too.
Optical Drive:
An optical drive is essential in today's computing environment. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning", so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can watch DVD movies. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of a CD). Some drives allow you to do a combination of any or all of these tasks. This system features a DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive, through which you can do everything above but record DVDs.
Audio:
The unit features an integrated audio processor, two miniature stereo speakers and a microphone jack.
Keyboard and Controls:
Toshiba has fitted the system with a standard notebook keyboard and a TouchPad pointing device.
Connectivity and Expansion:
The Satellite A55-S306 offers a wide variety of ways to keep in touch, including a 56K modem for low-speed dial-up Internet and email access, an RJ-45 Ethernet port for high-speed wired network and Internet, and integrated wireless LAN (Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG-802.11g) for cordless e-communication at home, at the office or on the road via a local public hotspot. The unit also features three high-speed USB 2.0 ports for fast interaction with plug and play devices such as external drives and digital cameras. An infrared (FIR) port for cordless peripherals such as PDAs and an IEEE 1394 FireWire port (commonly used for quick data uploads from digital camcorders) are not provided.
Operating System and Software:
Toshiba has fitted the system with today's most widely accepted operating system, Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition.
Dimensions and Weight:
Notebook computers are manufactured in a wide variety of sizes and weights. Many of today's most powerful notebooks are also the largest, weighing ten or twelve lbs or more and being too big and cumbersome for extensive, continuous traveling. These are often referred to as "desktop replacements". On the other extreme are "thin and lights" or "ultra-portables", super-miniaturized units that typically aren't as powerful as their larger brethren but weigh as little as two lbs and will often fit comfortably inside a large purse. Tipping the scales at 6.1 lbs and measuring 13.3 by 10.7 by 1.4 inches, the Satellite A55-S306 is smaller than today's average yet not so tiny that you'll pay a premium price.
Power:
The Satellite A55-S306 is equipped with a 6-cell Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery that will deliver a commendable 3.54 hours of operation under ideal conditions.
