Computer maker Lenovo announced a line of notebooks aimed at small to
medium-size business (SMB) computing with contemporary designs and extra
features to help companies go beyond business computing. The ThinkPad Edge
E220s and E420s laptops feature an infinity screen, a matte finish and real
metal accents. The notebooks are also engineered for business performance,
featuring increased processing capabilities and integrated graphics in the
upcoming second-generation Intel Core processor technology, Lenovo's Enhanced
Experience 2.0 for rapid bootup and a range of wireless connectivity
technologies.
The notebooks also offer multimedia features such as Dolby Home Theatre
audio and high-definition video conferencing. The 12.5-inch ThinkPad E220s
measures less than 1 inch thick and weighs less than 3.5 pounds with a 40.7 Whr
prismatic battery; the 14-inch ThinkPad E420s starts at just 1 inch and 4
pounds. Both feature metal accents that frame the black, soft-matte exterior.
The keyboard is spill-resistant, and the E420s has a hidden, slot-loading DVD
player and burner.
The Edge E220s and E420s will be available beginning in April through the
company's Website and business partners. Models begin at approximately $899 and
$749, respectively. The Edge E420 and E520 will be available beginning in April
with models starting from approximately $599. The E420 and E520 will sport
upcoming Intel Core technology and the Lenovo Enhanced Experience 2.0 with Rapid
Drive on select models.
The notebooks come equipped with Lenovo's enhanced video conferencing
technologies, including a high-definition Web camera, noise-canceling keyboard
software, and upgraded microphones and speakers. They also feature an HDMI port
to show presentations to clients or to watch media on a PC monitor or
flat-screen TV. Additionally, the notebooks feature wireless connectivity
technologies including WiFi and optional mobile broadband and 4G/WiMax.
Lenovo created the Lenovo Enhanced Experience 2.0 for Windows 7 to speed up
boot time by 30 percent on select models with Rapid
Drive technology (comparing averaged data from
Lenovo EE2.0 PCs with averaged data from 42 competitor products of similar
configuration). Rapid Drive takes advantage of an SSD
for faster boot speed. Lenovo also optimized the preload, drivers and BIOS for
speedy startup.
"How we think about PC design and the entire computing experience is
changing," said Peter Hortensius, senior vice president of the Think
Product Group for Lenovo. "The new ThinkPad Edge premium laptops give
users technology that's extremely personal, beautiful and powerful so they can
accomplish their business goals and keep up with their personal lives."
SMB Partner 
