New Intel Centrino 2 Platforms

First, Intel has introduced its next generation processors which uses 45nm technology with hafnium-infused circuitry. These new Intel "Montevina" Centrino 2 Platforms offer greater performance and better energy efficiency.

For example, Intel's new X9100, a 3.06GHz 45nm dual-core mobile processor uses 1066MHz FSB and has 6MB L2 cache - more than enough power or performance for the most demanding tasks students can throw at it.

New Nvidia High-End Graphics Cards

Second, Nvidia has released new mobile cards in its series 9 product line which will greatly impove the performance of laptops.

Nvidia which is considered one of the top Graphics Card makers in the world has announced it is introducing five more "high-end" Cards: GeForce 9700M GT, 9700M GTS, 9800M GTS, 9800M GT and the 9800M GTX.

These cards will have DirectX 10 graphics, Hybrid SLI support and will sport the new PureVideo HD video processing which is compliant with MXM 3.0 Graphics module specs. These are top-notch cards with the 9800M GTX sporting a whopping 128 Processing Cores.

These GPUs will no doubt put some more added punch in the latest gaming laptops but they will also improve the performance level of student laptops especially for those college students who major in computer programming, media or video, graphic design or architecture... we tend to forget, top-level graphics is not always used for gaming. Parents take note!

What To Look For When Buying A Student College Laptop

If you're buying a student laptop for yourself or for a son or daughter there are certain things you should consider before plunging down your hard earn cash. Just some things you should look for in a high quality student laptop.

1. Sturdy

You must have a laptop which is sturdy and tough in order to survive in the sometimes harsh student environment. Make sure your chosen laptop can take all that punishment - you might even consider a ruggedized notebook.

2. Portable

Many students go for a small compact laptop which can be neatly tucked under the arm or in a backpack. Long battery life is also important if you're going to be taking your laptop to all your classes. Also make sure it has all the necessary wireless connections so that the Internet is available wherever you go.

3. Performance

As we have just read above, laptops are becoming more powerful and offer greater performance than ever before. You should have no problem finding a student laptop that will meet all your computer or multi-tasking needs. However, a prudent laptop buyer should always check the type of Processor (CPU), how much RAM, Hard Drive size and the OS (Operating System) of any laptop you choose to buy.

4. Cheap Laptops

Lets face it, for most students, money is often very limited so buying a high quality, yet economical laptop is a must. Fortunately, laptop prices have been steadily dropping so finding a laptop you can afford should not be a problem. You can also consider a used or refurbished laptop.

5. Theft and Security

One of your top concerns should be theft and security when buying a student laptop. You can now get many security measures such as fingerprint entry - some now even have face recognition software as seen in the new Lenovo laptops. You can also invest in a good Laptop cable lock which will keep your laptop a little more secure. Plus, you can also check out Anti-Theft software such as LoJack which can track and locate your stolen laptop thru the IP address once it's used to access the web.

So if you're in the market for a student laptop just keep some of these points in mind when you're shopping around for that special laptop. Also remember to look for all that new mobile technology which will greatly improve the performance level of your next student laptop.

Copyright (c) 2008 Titus Hoskins