Date: Fri, 27 May 2005 12:40:29 -0700 (PDT)
From: David Chien <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Libretto U100 at Microcenter.com stores
Just came back from the microcenter store where they had the Libretto U100
on display for $2000.
Notes:
1) The screen doesn't fold 180 degrees back. You'll probably stop around
120 degrees or so.
This is a design flaw IMO - this makes it difficult to use the Libretto
on your tummy or lap because the screen won't have folded back far enough for
you to see the screen straight on (rather, only from slightly angeled and
above).
2) The baby runs HOT. Bottom of the Unit is hot to the touch after being
on the display counter all day long. Definitely generates a lot of heat, and
the bottom (metal) casing will pass a lot of heat to your lap. Not so hot that
you can't leave it on your lap wearing pants, but definitely uncomfortable if
you try it without.
3) Screen is as bright and as gorgeous as you'd expect. Like the L100/110
screen with antireflective film applied, but even better - more like a regular
notebook that has the latest AR film. Contrasty, easy to read, bright.
4) Sadly, screen doesn't go edge-to-edge as far as it should, so it's a bit
small for the highest resolution setting. Here, we're talking about MICROPRINT
characters if you don't adjust the display properties - so you literally have
to put your eyes right up to the display and squint to read the regular
10pt-12pt fonts that are now <4pt on this display.
It is easy to zoom in - just press the FN + Spacebar. But remember to
turn OFF font smoothing or the zoomed in display will look horrible!
When you do finally zoom into 800xwhatever resolution, it's like having
the L100/110 again, but because it's not the optimal resolution for the
display, a touch fuzzier than normal.
You can adjust the overall zoom in display properties -> advanced to
150% - this makes everything easier to read, but it won't help with splash
screens, prompts, etc. which are still displayed at the usual 3-4pt size. And
zoomed to 150%, it also clashes at times with these prompts, so you may not
read everything that the prompt has because it is pushed off the window.
5) Definitely looks like a Libretto at first, but with the design and color
changes in the casing, it's like a hybrid. Bottom side isn't as elegent as a
Sony T series.
6) Button pointer is just plain odd - it's in the right place, but the ring
around it makes one wonder what does it do (nothing as far as I can see). And
the nub is too short!! Ack! It should be taller like a regular notebook, but
it isn't, so it's as if it got worn down to a stub! It is responsive enough
however to cross the entire screen quickly.
You'll have to use the Windows Extra Large mouse pointer to see it
clearly - the default size gets lots very, very easily.
7) Keyboard is different - more clicky, less beveled. And the layout is a
bit different vs. the L100/L110 keyboard. As a result, I get more errors and
it's harder to adjust to. The keys need a firm press to activate, and a
half-press won't get you anywhere. The keys are not beveled, so you can
accidentally press two keys at once, and it's a touch harder to touch type on.
Backspace key is simply not tall enough - my fingers wish it was twice the
height, and I keep missing it . Enter key and backspace keys feel like they're
a bit too far to the right for the pinkie finger.
8) Sound is decent, and has an external wheel for the volume.
---
Well, in the end, do I like it?
It definitely has the workings of a Libretto, and can replace the current
L100/L110 models although it's a bit deeper than those earlier models (you may
have to buy new cases/carry bags) due to the battery sticking out the back.
But the design flaws in the pointer stick, the keyboard, and the screen
hinge all pose a potential problem for those who are used to the older
Librettos - they're simply not as 'good'. as what they were before.
The screen resolution is like the Sony U50/70 series, and IMO, almost too
high for the laptop - would have prefered they use the extra bevel space to put
in a larger screen, or used a lower resolution screen instead. Microprint is
nice for some, but it's absurd when even I have to put my face less than a foot
away from the screen just to read the "About" text in the splash screen of
Office.
But here's the point - for $1000, sure, maybe I'd buy one. But for $2000,
I expect a flawless example of notebook computing, and here, even the 1lbs
heavier and larger Sony T-series notebook as it down better than the Libretto
U100 (better keyboard & mouse, bigger screen, direct-push-to-play-DVD
capability, built-in DVD drive), although it is larger.
The JVC Interlink XP, despite the poorer screen, would be another 2lbs pick
I'd look at as well -- the pointer works much better, as is the keyboard layout
and feel (although both are cramped vs. a normal laptop keyboard).
So for now, I'm sticking with my trusty L110.
=)
adorable toshiba libretto
The latest news and information for the Toshiba Libretto owner.
http://www.silverace.com/libretto/
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