IBM tops ThinkPads with T30

IBM has launched the newest addition to its ThinkPad laptop range, the T30.

Based around a mobile Pentium 4 processor, the laptop is available as a 1.4, 1.6 or 1.7GHz machine. All models include 256MB DDR RAM and a 14.1in TFT display, and the battery life is around 3 hours.

The machine will cost between £2,162 and £3,042, depending on its specification, and incorporates several major new technologies from IBM.

Jim Alfaro, worldwide ThinkPad consultant, commented: "We are trying to differentiate ourselves in a market which is not so hot - not by price, but by how complete our solution is and with our innovations."

The first is UltraNav, a multi-pointing system which combines the standard ThinkPad TrackPoint device with a programmable touchpad.

Corners of the touchpad can be used as 'hot buttons', launching up to four different software applications.

Andy Brown, research manager for mobile computing at IDC, believes that UltraNav enables IBM to compete more effectively with Dell laptops.

He said: "By adding a navigation choice, IBM can make sure that the pointing device isn't a deciding factor in large rollouts."

IBM will also offer wireless connectivity using built-in Cisco Aironet 350 Series 802.11b technology on selected models. To address the security concerns associated with wireless networking, IBM has also incorporated its Embedded Security Subsystem 2.0.

This subsystem provides support for PKI (Public Key Encryption). But rather than using software to handle the encryption process and storing keys on the hard drive, it includes a separate processor that retains key details separately.

This makes it more difficult for sniffer programs or viruses to locate encrypted information.

Other security enhancements include optional fingerprint and proximity badge readers.

IBM has also added a hard disk drive shock absorber to reduce the risk of damage to data if the laptop is dropped. The absorber provides a protective cushion of air around the drive.

IDC's Brown said the T30's features are a strong point. "It's a very well balanced product. IBM has been good at adding manageability and future-proofing features in the past, but hasn't been very good at shouting about them. The T30 should enable them to make their advantages clearer."