New lightweight notebook PC delivers full mobility for Middle East Executives

The TravelMate 3000, which weighs in at just 1.40kg and is the size of an A4 notepad, is designed for busy people who are constantly on the move. Featuring Intel Centrino mobile technology and Intel's new Sonoma platform, the notebook also comes with a host of innovative software applications, such as Acer GridVista, Acer eManager and Acer eRecovery, designed exclusively for Acer.

"Business professionals in the Middle East have often been let down by notebook PCs that promise superb functionality and extended battery life, only to discover that neither meet their expectations," said Graham Braum, business development manager mobile products, Acer Computer (M.E.) Ltd.

"Battery longevity is consistently cited as one of the main concerns by professionals who need day-long battery performance, but, in a world first, Acer is now bundling two batteries with the TravelMate 3000, maximizing productivity wherever they go," he added.

The TravelMate 3000 stands its ground when it comes to performance, featuring state-of-the-art Intel® 915GM Express chipset with dual channel DDRII memory , the latest generation Intel Pentium M processors, and a 12.1" WXGA colour TFT LCD widescreen with a picture resolution of up to 1280x800 pixels at 16.7 million colours.

"With model options of processors up to Pentium M 760 (2.0Ghz/533FSB), 1024MB of DDRII memory and a 100GB HDD, including Bluetooth, 802.11g wireless, Gigabit Ethernet, infrared and a 4-in-1 card reader this lightweight computer packs a powerful punch," adds Braum.

The notebook is Acer's latest entrant into the ultra-Mobile category, and senior regional executives are predicting strong demand from Middle East users who require a notebook PC solution that can meet their high expectations.

Ground-breaking Acer designed applications include GridVista, a software tool which automatically resizes open windows, splitting the display into dual, triple, or quadruple screens, creating fast multi-tasking for users who are able to work on a Word document, look at graphs on an Excel spreadsheet, as well as keeping an eye on incoming e-mail, all displayed on the same screen.

The Acer ezDock which connects to a unique 124-pin connector on the TravelMate 3000 is the first docking device with PCI Express™ technology, delivering a desktop-replacement solution that can hook up to 24 commonly used peripherals.

"The ezDock is a sound long-term investment decision, whether kept in the office or in the home," explains Braum. "It allows a user to keep their workplace simple, smart, stylish and only takes a second to convert your notebook into a full-function desktop computer, catering for legacy devices like serial, PS/2 and parallel as well future devices like DVI and SPDIF."

Modeled on the stylish "Folio" design, the TravelMate 3000 also features Acer's eManager software, enabling people to optimize power management, easily change their PC settings, and simplify projector presentations, all at the touch of a button.

A new addition to the eManager suite of applications is Acer eRecovery, which lets users conveniently restore their default settings, and back up their data.

"Other ultra-portable notebooks are available in the market, but what differentiates the Acer TravelMate 3000 from the rest is the unique technology and software utilities in our notebooks. These make them a more attractive value proposition for on-the-go business users who do not want to settle for second best," added Braum.