Sony launches VAIO BX-series notebooks

Sony has unveiled a range of notebooks designed for business users. The BX-Series is all about flexibility. There are four screen choices, all enhanced with X-black LCD technology. Users can opt for either a 14.1-inch or 15-inch XGA screen, or a 15.4-inch WXGA resolution panel if wide screen is more suited to their needs. At the top of the range, the VGN-BX197XP offers a 17-inch Wide UltraXGA screen providing a massive desktop area almost three times as large as standard XGA.

Each notebook has a removable modular bay which comes by default with a DVD±RW Drive Bay Unit. It can be replaced with a Weight Saver which allows frequent travellers to leave the optical drive in the docking station to keep the carrying weight to the absolute minimum. Alternatively, a second hard drive could be installed in the docking station, or even in the notebook, and used for additional storage space and for keeping backups. To make life easier, the Multi Function Docking Station option is compatible with all models in the range. A slot in the unit lets users keep a spare battery fully charged at all times, so it’s always there for that long-haul flight.

Every BX-Series comes as standard with a finger print recognition sensor and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) security chip, effectively barring any unauthorised access to data. Users can be confident that precious and confidential information stored on their notebooks is securely protected.

Although the BX-Series is aimed at the professional market, it loses none of the strong design values associated with the VAIO brand. The distinctive and elegant appearance of the machines is underpinned by key ergonomic strengths. The keyboard is carefully laid out for maximum comfort, and both conventional touch pad and track pointer devices are standard. Essential ports like i.LINK (IEEE1394) and 3xUSB ports are located accessibly at the side, rather than the back.

All processors in the range include the latest Intel Centrino mobile technology, and for that extra bit of edge, the BX-Series only uses high-speed 533MHz DDR2 memory. The entry-level VGN-195EP is based on a 1.6GHz Celeron 380, with step-up models based on the Pentium M 740 and 750, including the 14.1” BX194VP model. This model has been specifically designed for professionals who need a complete mobile office solution in an ultra-portable format (only available on Sony Style and selected dealers in France). The flagship VGN-BX197XP features a Pentium 760 running at 2GHz. Hard disk options range from 80GB to a capacious 160GB of storage, courtesy of the twin disk array in the VGN-BX197XP. All models come with Double Layer DVD±RW drives as standard, as well as high-speed 802.11b/g wireless networking.

Selected models are equipped with a built-in camera which is designed to open up the full potential of Internet telephony and video conferencing. By combining video with high speed wireless networking, the BX-Series represents the next step in the development of communication technology.

Users have a choice of models with integrated Intel 915GM graphics and dynamic memory sharing, or the powerful ATI M26-P GPU with a full 128MB of dedicated video memory.

Professionals can select from a range of optional warranty packages for peace of mind that fits their needs. This can be as simple as extending the standard warranty by a further year, or for users in the UK, France and Germany, to three years on-site repair or replace service with next business day commitment.

“To date, this is the most complete VAIO offering for business,” says Jun Koyama, IT Director for Sony Europe. “It embodies our determination to provide professionals with quality and design values they can see and feel, backed by the level of support business requires in the real world.”