Portable Solution for Desktop Necessities!
Written: Jan 08 '06
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Pros: Speed and ability! Notebook computer with a desktop workhorse atttitude.
Cons: Weighs approx 8lbs, 17-inch width makes finding carrying case difficult but not impossible.
The Bottom Line: Perfect machine for those wanting desktop functionality in a notebook computer. 17-inch ultrabright wide screen major bonus. Terrific portable computer for work and play especially considering screen clarity.
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| paisleyplace's Full Review: Gateway NX850X PC Notebook |
General Information:
The Gateway NX850X Notebook Computer has to be one of the greatest substitutes for people on the go that require the use of a full-size desktop computer. Each time I think of notebook computers, PDA devices, several types of cellular phones, along with other portable devices a certain funny phrase made famous by Robin Williams when he played the role of the genie of the lamp in the original and subsequent sequels to the animated Aladdin movies. Robin, as the Genie, talks about how living in the lamp for ten thousand years can give one such a crick in the neck. He goes on to describe the whole genie gig as: Phenomenal Cosmic Powers but Itty Bitty Living Space! That is about the part and parcel of working with the latest and greatest of technological devices. The latest craze and phase seems to be that the more technologically advanced an item, the tinier the item becomes. If this trend continues, we will need to use Great-Aunt Fanny's magnifier from you-know-where to see the unit itself. Thankfully, Gateway does not follow this trend on computers, particularly notebook computers. The average person, without Aunt Fanny's magnifier, can see the display screen without difficulty. The NX850X Notebook is a full-fledged notebook computer with desktop functionality.
In the world of computers, I consider myself somewhat of an expert. My computer experience began with TRASH-80 or more technically known as the Tandy TRS-80 Personal Home computer from Radio Shack. My computer experience spans more than 20 years. I worked through the TRASH-80 in the days when hard drives did not exist and a floppy drive, as such as it was, consisted of a cassette tape drive identical to those rectangular shaped plastic cartridges that held the latest and greatest musical albums. I watched as computers grew to include DOS operating systems with small hard drives and finally more than a megabit or two of ram that opened the door to the first versions of Windows and extensive hard drive space, ram chips, and the plethora of input devices that exist today. I remember the days before the internet when there were no modems as well as I remember the days of signing into bulletin board services where we spoke to others using MUDs or in more technical terms, multi-user domain systems.
Over the years, computers grew larger and finally technology came into play where computers could become smaller than anyone from the early days of computers could ever imagine. A prime example of tiny computers is today's PDA, Blueberry, cellular phones, and the most recent Fly Pentop Computer. See My review on the Fly Pentop Computer at http://www.epinions.com/content_216086449796
Gateway understood the need for a larger computer with heavy computing ability and made one for the heavy computer user that needed desktop power in a portable machine. Fortunately, the company's engineers understood that not everyone wanted to use heavy magnifiers to read the screen display so they did a wonderful job including an optional 17-inch screen.
Personal Customized Specifications:
The Gateway NX850X includes many specifications of unbelievable proportions. Please bear in mind that Gateway allows for extreme customization so I can only attest to what is in my particular machine. Since I am a computer junkie in full glory of my geekiness, my machine may include more than an average computer user may need or want.
Operating Specifications:
Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Home Media Center Edition w/ XP Media Center Backup CD
Application Software: MS Works Suite (I have software so no need to purchase again)
Antivirus Software: McAfee Internet Security Suite 90-day complimentary subscription (Don't like or need so deleted immediately, will give more later in review)
Additional Software: Adobe Acrobat Reader 6.0, McAfee AntiSpyware 30-day trial offer, Google Toolbar (More later in review)
Internet Service Provider: Six months America Online Internet Access (deleted immediately, more later in review)
Hardware Specifications:
Processor: Intel Pentium M processor 740
Clock Speed: 1.73 GHz, 533 MHz FSB, 2mb L2 cache
Mainboard Chipset: Intel 915PM
Memory: 1024MB (equals 1GB) Ram) – upgradeable to 2048MB (equals little over 2 GB Ram)
Hard Drive: 60 GB 7200rpm Ultra ATA hard drive
Floppy Drive: No floppy drive per se but does include 4-in-1 media card reader including Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Multimedia Card, and Secure Digital.
Optical Drive: Integrated 24x/10x/24x CD-RW / 8x DVD Combo Drive including Nero Express 6 by Ahead Nero
Expansion Slots: One Type II PC card slot
External Ports: 4 USB 2.0, VGA, TV-Out, S-Video, IEEE 1394 (Firewire)
Screen: 17-inch Ultrabright WSXGA TFT Active Matrix (1680 x 1050 max)
Video: ATI Mobility Radeon X700 128 MB graphics
Keyboard/Mouse: Full-size keyboard w/ integrated 10-key pad and EZ pad pointing device
Multimedia Package: Integrated sound and stereo speakers, headphone/speaker jack, and mic jacks
Battery: Primary 12-cell Lithium Ion battery with AC pack and 1yr limited battery warranty
Modem: Integrated V.90 56K Modem
Network Adapter: Integrated Broadcom 10/100/1000 Ethernet Adapter
Integrated Wireless Networking Adapter: Integrated 802.11b/g wireless networking card
BIOS Information:
Phoenix NoteBIOS 6.0
512 KB flash ROM
SMBIOS (DMI) 2.3 Support
Full ACPI Support
Supports Gateway Battery Recalibrate/Battery Learning
Supports Boot from USB Storage Devices/Flash Memory
Chipset:
Intel 915PM System Chipset, ICH6-M
Audio:
Conexant CX20468-31
3D Sound Support
SoundBlast Pro, MIDI and Windows Sound System Compatible
Display
17.1 Ultrabright WSXGA TFT Active Matrix Color Display (1680 x 1050 max)
1680 x 1050 max at 18-Bit (262K) colors
Dimensions:
16.06"(W) x 10.89"(D) x 1.24" - 1.42"(H)
Weight 7.7 lbs w/6-cell battery ** My setup has a 12-cell battery making it a little heavier at approximately 7.9 lbs
Battery:
Removable 12-cell primary Lithium Ion Battery
6-cell battery capacity 51.8 WHr; 2400mAh (unsure specifics of 12-cell battery)
Weight of 6-cell battery 0.77 lbs
Power Supply:
90W Output External AC Adapter
100-240V Input Voltage
50-60 Hz Frequency
1.25 lbs (with power cord)
System Management:
SMBIOS 2.3 Support
ACPI 2.0 Power Management Support
Wake-On-Lan
The In and Out of the NX850X and More:
Shhhh…. The NX850X is a notebook computer but it acts, and at times, I think it believes it is a desktop unit. The computer contains a 17-inch ultra-bright display screen with crystal clarity unheard of on notebook computers. If you have had the pleasure of working on a notebook in the past, the first thing you notice is the dull, difficult to view video screen. The GW NX850X is not like those notebooks of the past. The crystal clear screen with bright background allows one to view the screen with complete clarity whether indoors, outdoors, in the office, in the car, or even at the closest coffee bar. Having such a screen will cause battery drain but Gateway found a way around this issue. When working on battery only, the computer screen brightness dulls down a few bars to conserve energy. If by chance, you prefer the brighter screen regardless of battery time or if like me you carry a spare battery for such occasions, a simple press and hold of the FN key, which I will explain later, along with the arrow up key will increase the screen brightness a bar at a time until reaching the maximum brightness. The bars show on a display in the upper left-hand corner of the display screen when adjusting brightness using the two keys mentioned above. The fact the screen display is 17 inches wide makes this the perfect notebook computer for viewing movie videos in wide-screen.
Now, I promised more information about that lovely FN function key. Here is the skinny regarding that key. The keyboard has two of them available. One sits one key to the left of the control function key on the left side of the full-size keyboard while the second one sits to the right of the arrow-up key on the right side of the full-size keyboard. Not only does this key allow one to control brightness of the screen, when used in conjunction with other keys, it controls various functions of the computer without using windows-based mouse clicks. For example, pressing the FN key with the F3 key will put the computer into sleep mode. Pressing the FN key with the F4 key will change the display from the notebook screen to an externally connected screen. Other key combinations with FN include controlling media player functions for play, pause, stop, increase sound, decrease sound, and mute. Other options include a screen break and print screen. Gateway took the liberty of labeling each corresponding FN key in blue labels to allow one to know to use those particular keys with the FN function.
Not many heavy computer users can tolerate using the touchpad mouse options on notebook computers. I know I cannot stand using them. Thankfully, the extra USB ports come in extremely handy when using a wireless mouse. The added USB ports, four in total, leave plenty of room for other input devices while allowing an empty slot for the USB adapter to use the wireless mouse of one's choice. Personally, I use a Logitech wireless mouse that has the ability to turn the mouse off when not in use to save on batteries.
The S-Video port has to be one of the nicest additions to notebook computers to date when it comes to connecting with various machines second only perhaps to the ability to insert memory cards from digital cameras, mp3 players, and other devices especially considering the fact the memory cards increase in drive space with each passing year. The S-Video port connects directly with a standard television S-Video cable that can connect into another device via S-Video to allow the sharpest and most clear video picture available. The S-Video is much clearer than the RCA jacks notebook users depended on in the past.
Pros, Cons, and Outright Differences:
The same people that argue for the validity of owning small mosquito-sized devices will argue that this machine is too heavy, too bulky, and simply not the machine for them. Well, this is true to a degree but one has to remember that this machine is not for those people who love their tiny minuscule machines. This notebook design is meant for those who want a full-size portable office computer without dragging around separate tower, keyboard, mouse, and monitor and then figuring out how to plug it in while away from a desk let alone deciding where to set it up. This is a working computer and it is an enjoying computer.
At first, the size and feel does put one off but as you use it more often, it becomes to feel as natural as using other notebooks but the major differences are the perks this machine has over all the rest including excellent viewing screen, full-size keyboard plenty big enough for the average human's hand size, and the processing power. It will take additional care because of the size and weight but if one considers that anytime a person puts down more cash than normal that person will be more careful than usual. After all, this is not a tinker toy. This machine is the Cadillac of notebook computers.
Weight and size will play a roll in carrying it around. The 17-inch display screen with full-size keyboard does make this machine wider and heavier than most standard notebook computers. My advice is to test various high-quality carrying cases. Padded backpack cases specifically designed for 17-inch notebook computers work best. The notebook case I use is a backpack unit with padded notebook section. It is a High Sierra pack designed specifically for the 17-inch wide notebook. The notebook carrying section contains extra padding, particularly on the bottom, to prevent as many bumps and knocks as possible. Whatever you do, please DO NOT settle for a cheap backpack case for this computer or any other computer notebook when going with the wide screen units of 17-inches. It pays to be careful and the best payment is a high-quality carrying case.
It is best to test drive any case you purchase with this particular notebook or any other 17-inch notebook to make certain the weight ballast is correct when wearing a backpack case. If the weight cannot adjust, you will find yourself with a terrible backache and wishing you did not have to lug such a heavy machine around. Be sure to pay attention to the weight of the pack as it will add weight to what you carry around with you. Find a pack that breaths to allow less sweating when traveling longer distances with the computer on your back.
Extras to Consider When Buying:
Many people are not into warranties for products. As a general rule, I am one of those people; however, when it comes to items such as computers, household electronics like digital video recorders, and etc… I tend to err on the side of caution and pay the extra for the warranty service. Gateway offers two different types of warranty services. The first is a simple technological service extending the manufacturer's warranty and the other is an accidental damage warranty service. Please do yourself a favor and go for both. Generally, Gateway will offer both at a better deal than if you took one alone. The accidental service warranty covers any and nearly all accidental damages. One unintentional bump outside of a case can cause a crack in the display screen. Notebook computers are expensive and I can attest to the fact, through word from others without accidental coverage, that the cost of a new notebook screen will far exceed the cost of prevention with an accidental coverage warranty. My last computer, which is now in the hands of my daughter, needed a replacement on the CD Burner/DVD combo drive. I priced one for a friend's notebook and you do not want to know what that unit cost to replace. I was glad I could have the part replaced without additional cost or co-payment as the coverage included damages sustained in outright accidents.
When buying any notebook whether it is the Gateway NX850X or other model, do yourself a favor, opt for the Mobile (M) processor. The M processor design works specifically for the mobile computer. This computer works, acts, and at times it even feels like a desktop machine, but it is a portable. Give it the best processor out there. Right now, the best processor for it is the M for mobility.
The Pretty Factor:
Many people do not care about the pretty factor but considering the way this machine looks, I felt it deserved at least a small addition within the review. The NX850X has a sleek design in silver and black colors. The off/on button has a blue light resembling something much like fiber optics but it does a great job of illuminating the button making it easier to see in the dark. At the bottom of the keyboard nearest the area containing the mouse touchpad, highlighted blue options show themselves when engaged. This includes things like cap locks, number locks, etc…. It is not a biggie but it does add to the pretty factor.
The touchpad mouse has an interesting addition to it. In addition to providing movement along the notebook screen, it has a built-in mood detector much like the mood rings from the seventies. I am not kidding; this is true. I did use it a time or two in order to show my children but have not taken the opportunity to put it to use since then.
Overall Impression:
My overall impression of this notebook computer is complete satisfaction. It does everything my desktop can do with the exception of the fact that this computer has the ability to move about with me going from place to place while the desktop machine sits at home holding down a desk with a ton of hardware.
Movie viewing works great on this machine due to the ultra-bright monitor screen. If you plan to purchase this unit, please take my advice and spend the extra $25 to $50 extra to get the best possible screen resolution and brightness. It will pay off in the long run. Upgrade the ram as much as your budget will allow when purchasing or at least ensure the ability to upgrade to a decent amount later on.
Wheeling, Dealing, and Extra Computer Tips and Information:
When purchasing a computer no matter if it turns out to be a desktop or a notebook computer, always get estimates from other companies with similar options. When you decide on a company to approach, this gives you some finagling power to get upgrades at little to nothing or freebie upgrades at absolutely nothing. Ask for free shipping. Ask for coupons for free input devices or upgrades. I am of the mind, and I have proved it on numerous occasions that nearly everything is negotiable if you know how to work the sales person or the company. Work, work, work until you find the price you want for the product you want. Do not be afraid to tell them you are going elsewhere because chances are they will agree to your terms enough to give in or give up the extra amenities, upgrades, offer free shipping, and even handling too.
I cannot imagine this particular notebook computer going to anyone who would not be satisfied with everything it can do and does well for me. I use it to write, watch movies, send email, conference call, network with friends through messenger programs, compute, research, and even provide aid to my daughters in the world of grade school research. It connects easily into a home network too in addition to picking up well at any WiFI serviceable area. It works great at our local coffee shop and other areas with wifi access.
*** Regarding the included AOL and McAfee services, there are many other services available in the land of the bit and the baud that provide better functionality and service. DSL or Broadband is the best regarding connections but if that is not possible, locate a dial-up service such as Earthlink or a local smaller company. Any anti-virus program is better than McAfee. Try AVG Anti-virus before going with McAfee. It works better and does not clog up your computer nearly as much as the other brand.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1800
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Intel Pentium
Processor speed: over 1000
Screen Size: Greater than 15 inches
RAM: More than 256
Internal Storage: CD-RW and DVD
Hard Drive (GB): Over 50
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Epinions.com ID:
paisleyplace
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Member: Samantha Thomas
Location: NC, US
Reviews written: 46
Trusted by: 7 members
About Me:
Mother of two, freelance writer who enjoys movies, computing, and spending time with good friends.
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