Zenith Director Notebook

Specifications:-

• Dimensions IWxHxD): 357 x 40 x 265 mm;
• Weight: 2.5 Kg;
• Processor: Intel Pentium Dual Core
• T2080, 1.73 GHz;
• Chipset: ATI RS400;
• Memory: 2 GB DDR2-667;
• Hard disk: 120 GB;
• Display: 15.4-inch, 1280x800;
• Optical drive: DVD writer;
• USB ports: 3; OS: Windows Vista Starter.

With the maturity of multi-core processor technology and mobile platforms, dualcore laptops have now made their way into the entry-level segment. Let's take a look at the dual-core Zenith Director laptop, which is aimed at basic home and office users seeking good value for money.

FEATURES :-The major challenge in offering a laptop at an affordable price is striking a good balance between features and performance. Hence, Zenith has configured this laptop with an entry-level dual-core processor, generous amounts of memory and storage, and other features required for everyday computing. The Director is powered by a 1.86 GHz Intel Pentium Dual Core processor and 2 GB DDR2 memory which is sufficient for running Windows Vista Home Basic which also comes preinstalled.

To ensure you don't run out of storage space soon, Zenith has packed in a 120 GB hard drive and a DVD writer. The wide screen display measures 15.4 inches and sports a resolution of 1280x800. Other essential components that round out the feature set are Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/g, and a dial-up modem.

BUilD QUALITY: Being a budget laptop, we were a bit apprehensive about the build quality. However, on opening the lid and examining the quality of the chassis, we were pleased by the unit's sturdiness. For a budget laptop, the Zenith Director is quite a good looker as well-except for the metallic grey lid, it's all black.

ERGONOMICS: The Director is quite well designed keeping in mind the comfort
of the user. The keyboard is well laid out with the page navigation keys grouped in
a single column at the right edge. Zenith has provided plenty of space below the keyboard for resting the palm comfortably while typing. The left side of the laptop features a USB port, modem jack and D-sub port. We weren't too happy to find only the DVD writer placed on the right side. It would have been better if Zenith would have utilized the unused space for the Ethernet port and two USB ports that are placed on the rear. The speakers are placed on the front in line with the headphone and microphone jacks.

PERFORMANCE: Coming to performance, the laptop is only meant for basic home and office applications. You can use it for some light entertainment such as listening to music or watching movies. The only qualm with this laptop is its battery life which isn't more than an hour. Thus, more than a mobile device, it's a compact entry-level desktop replacement.

Zenith Director LAPTOPThe Zenith Director is a good pick for those who are on a tight budget. But keep in mind that it's certainly not meant for the road unless you have a couple of spare batteries.
FOR: Good value for money.
AGAINST: No PC card slot, poor battery life, USB ports placed at the rear.