- Realtively Inexpensive
- Fairly Heavy
- Software Packages Extra
- No FireWire Port
- Intel Core 2 Duo T5500 Dual Core Mobile Processor
- 1GB PC2-5300 DDR2 Memory
- 160GB 5400rpm SATA Hard Drive
- 8x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
- 12.1" WXGA (1280x800) Wide LCD Display with Built-in Webcam
- SIS M671 Integrated Graphics
- v.92 56Kbps Modem, 10/100 Ethernet, 802.11b/g Wireless
- Three USB 2.0, ExpressCard/54, 4-in-1 Card Reader
- 11.8" x 8.7" x 1.4" @ 4.1 lbs.
- Windows XP Home
3/4/08 – The PolyNote M212SC is a departure from Polywell's normal notebook business. This low cost laptop aims for the ultraportable market and barely manages to squeeze down into this segment. While the dimensions are very close to many other 12” notebooks, the weight of the system is definitely much heavier than competing units. This is definitely going to be a distraction for those looking for an extremely light system.
The PolyNote M212SC has a variety of processor options but the preconfigured unit is packaged with the Intel Core 2 Duo T5500 dual core processor. This processor provides decent performance but does tend to use more power than the newer low voltage and ultra low voltage models used in most ultraportables. This does reduce the battery life somewhat. The 1GB of memory is also less than most system provide now, but it is sufficient to run the Windows XP Home operating system.
Storage for the PolyNote M212SC is about what one would expect from an ultraportable market. The 160GB hard drive provides a good amount of space for data and applications. In an unusual move though, Polywell offers 7200rpm drives as an option. While these will increase drive performance, they also tend to draw much more power and are generally not recommended in an ultraportable. A standard dual layer DVD burner handles all CD and DVD tasks.
The real problem is that lack of some basic features. For example, the laptop does not feature a FireWire port that might impact those who might want to use a digital camcorder. Also, they system ships with no software beyond the OS. Any software installed at purchase will add to the overall cost of the system.
