IBM's latest ThinkPad X24 is an ultraportable notebook PC weighing in at just under 1.7kg with diminutive dimensions of only 3.0 by 22.6 by 28.0cm.

It has a bright and clear 12.1in. TFT display with a native resolution of 1,024 by 768 pixels and a full-sized keyboard that's comfortable to type on for long periods.

To minimise heat dissipation and battery life problems the ThinkPad X24 is supplied with a 1.13GHz Intel Pentium III-M mobile processor.

However, coupled with the system's 30GB hard disk drive and 256MB of PC133 SDRam memory, performance is very good for this class of portable system and is more than capable of satisfying the demands of most business users.

Build quality is very good overall with no protruding plastic flaps or covers that could snap off when travelling. The notebook PC also has a titanium alloy top cover that should ensure that it survives most everyday knocks.

Such a portable form factor usually means that compromises have been made by the manufacturer, but the ThinkPad X42's 4,000mAh Li-ion battery has a life of just under four hours when tested with our BatteryMark 4.0.1 benchmark.

The keyboard is up to IBM's usual good standard, offering excellent tactile response and a comfortable wrist rest area.

As with most other IBM portable systems the ThinkPad X24 is fitted with a trackpoint pointing device, which may initially limit user appeal, but should soon find favour once you get used to using it.

Next to the left-hand screen hinge is the volcontrol and speaker mute buttons for the system's single speaker, located under the front right-hand corner of the unit.

However, a stereo output is available via the device's headphone socket, which is located at the back of the left hand-side of the case, next to a microphone input.

Also on the left-hand side of the case are the ThinkPad X24's sole Type II PC Card slot and a CompactFlash memory card slot, which will be useful if you use a digital camera.

The right-hand side of the system's chassis carries only a USB 1.1 connector, with the rear of the case holding just a power connector, external monitor socket, the system's second USB 1.1 socket, a line level audio output and connectors for the integrated modem and 10/100Base-T NIC.

The ThinkPad X24 is equipped with a good range of communication options. In addition to the integrated V.92 modem and 10/100Base-T NIC, this notebook PC is also Bluetooth-enabled, allowing wireless connections to be made to Bluetooth peripherals.

If you're looking for a floppy disk or DVD-Rom drive, serial or parallel ports, or even a PS/2 connector you'll be disappointed unless you also invest in an IBM UltraBase X2 media slice.

This is a small docking base (supplied with our review ThinkPad X24 and costing £142 ex. VAT) that the system clips into.

It also contains stereo speakers and allows the system to be used at a desk, with an external monitor and mouse.

Other similarly sized ultraportable notebook PCs are available, but few can boast a battery life as impressive as the ThinkPad X24.

Coupled with IBM's traditionally good build quality and warranty, light weight and good performance, this notebook is definitely worth considering.

One drawback is the price, but corporate buyers should be able to secure a discount, making it an even more attractive proposition.

Contact: IBM (0800) 169 1458
www.ibm.co.ukPrice: £1,786 (ex. VAT)

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