- Good Dedicated Graphics Processor
- Low Price
- Multimedia OS Installed Without Features Such as a TV Tuner
- Web Site Automatically Selects Recommended Upgrades
- Intel Core Duo T2300 (1.66GHz) Mobile Processor
- 512MB PC2-4200 DDR2 Memory
- 80GB 5400rpm SATA Hard Drive
- 8x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
- 15.4" WXGA (1280x800) Wide Screen LCD
- ATI Mobility Radeon X1400 Graphics with 128MB Memory
- v.92 56Kbps Modem, Gigabit Ethernet and 802.11a/b/g Wireless
- Four USB2, FireWire, Type II PC Card Slot and 6-in-1 Reader
- 14.1" x 10.4" x 1.4" @ 6 lbs.
- Windows XP MCE 2005, MS Office Basic,
5/23/06 – Many companies are dropping dedicated graphics processors in favor of the integrated controllers that are less expensive. This prevents the systems from being used with many 3D applications or taking advantage of the Aero interface with the upcoming Vista OS. The Gateway NX560XL uses the ATI Mobility Radeon X1400 graphics processor. This provides it with decent although not spectacular 3D performance. It is matched up with a 15.4” wide screen LCD panel that provides a very large graphics workspace.
The system is powered using the new Intel Core Duo T2300 mobile processor. This dual core unit provides excellent multitasking performance while still providing strong battery life. The 512MB of PC2-4200 DDR2 memory allow it to run most basic applications without any slow downs.
Storage is on par with most thin and light notebooks. An 80GB 5400rpm hard drive provides plenty of storage space for programs and data files. An 8x DVD+/-RW dual layer burner allows the system to create music, movie or data CDs and DVDs.
One of my big pet peeves with the NX560XL is the use of the Media Center OS but lack the multimedia hardware such as TV tuners and remotes to really take advantage of its features. Also, while the system is very affordable, Gateway pads this with preselected recommended items that consumers often don't require.
