The Bottom Line
- Smaller, More Portable Case
- Stylish Design
- Integrated Graphics
- No Productivity Software
Description
- Intel Core 2 Duo T7200 Dual Core Processor
- 1GB PC2-5400 DDR2 Memory
- 80GB 5400rpm SATA Hard Drive
- 8x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
- 14.1" WXGA (1280x800) Wide Screen LCD
- Intel GMA 950 Integrated Graphics with 128MB Shared Memory
- v.92 56Kbps Modem, Gigabit Ethernet and 802.11a/b/g Wireless
- Three USB 2.0, FireWire, ExpressCard/54 and 4-in-1 Reader
- 13.1" x 9.5" x 1.2" @ 5.5 lbs.
- Windows XP Home
Guide Review - Alienware Sentia m3450
11/7/06 – Alienware's Sentia m3450 is a minor upgrade to their previous m3400 thin and light notebook. The biggest change is the use of the new Intel Core 2 Duo processors over the older Core Duo. This provides 64-bit software support and slightly improved battery life over the previous model. They also offer 1GB of PC2-5400 DDR2 memory to let it run through applications smoohtly.
Storage for the Alienware Sentia m3450 is average for a thin and light notebook. The 80GB hard drive provides sufficient space for applications and data. Users willing to spend more can upgrade to the high capacity 160GB or even 200GB notebook drives. An 8x DVD+/-RW dual layer DVD burner allows it to record and read DVD and CD media. Those looking to save some cash can opt for a 24x CD-RW/DVD combo instead.
Alienware is known for its graphics and gaming systems and this is where one of the big flaws of the Sentia m3450 comes out. Most companies offer a dedicated graphics core for their thin and light systems. The Sentia m3450 only offers the integrated Intel GMA 950 graphics that are fine for 2D graphics but lack performance for 3D applications or the upcoming Vista Aero interface.
The use of the smaller 14.1" LCD screen allows the Sentia m3450 be a more portable system thanks to one pound less in weight and several inches in dimensions over 15.4" models. Alienware also keeps its distinctive Alien design that sets it apart from other notebook computers.
