Computer makers MSI and Gateway are rolling out laptops sporting new chip technologies from Intel and Advanced Micro Devices.
MSI on July 8 unveiled the latest additions to its X-Slim Series of notebooks, including one-the X460-that company officials are calling the lightest to offer Intel’s high-end quad-core Core i7 chip. The 14-inch ultraportable notebook and the X460DX are both less than an inch thick and weigh 4.4 pounds.
The X460 can come with either the Core i7 or i5 Intel chips, while the X460DX comes only with a Core i5 chip, as well as Nvidia’s GeForce GT540M discrete graphics card, which supports the DirectX 11 graphics technology. The laptop also includes MSI’s Boost technology, which enables the chip to shift to the discrete graphics card when more processing power is needed, or to the integrated Intel graphics technology when less power and more energy efficiency are required. A graphics card switch indicator light next to the power button lets the user know which mode the system is in.
Both the X460 and X460Dx come with a host of other features, including the option for a second internal hard drive, an optional SSD (solid-state drive) and up to eight hours of battery life.
There was no word on availability or pricing.
For its part, Gateway is revamping its ID Series and NV Series laptops with the latest Intel and AMD chips. The ID47, introduced July 7, is powered by an Intel Core i5 “Sandy Bridge” chip and offers 4GB of RAM, a 500GB hard drive, a DVD burner and integrated graphics.
With a new bevel design, Gateway designers were able to fit a 14-inch display into a 13.3-inch model chassis, with an edge-to-edge design over the screen. The ID47 system is covered in aluminum and comes in two designs, which the company has dubbed “Infinity Blue Liquid” and “Brushed Platinum.”
In line with the larger display, users will also get a touch-pad that is 20 percent larger than those found on previous versions.
The larger NV Series notebooks come with 15.6-inch screens and offer a choice of Intel or AMD processors. The NV57 Series notebooks run on Intel’s second-generation Core processors, featuring the Sandy Bridge architecture that was introduced in January during the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show.
Meanwhile, the NV55 Series notebooks are powered by AMD’s A-Series “Llano” processors, which rolled out in April. Gateway officials said the NV55 Series offers a strong combination of performance and energy efficiency.
Both lines of Gateway notebooks include a USB 3.0 port, which company officials said is up to 10 times faster than USB 2.0 ports. They also feature HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) 1080p output and media card readers. There also are hot keys designed specifically for social networking.
Steve Smith, senior product marketing manager for Gateway notebooks, noted the multiple roles laptops play in today’s world.
“Notebook PCs are a constant companion in today’s mobile-savvy culture, as we transition through recreation and productivity,” Smith said in a statement. “The stylish new Gateway ID and Gateway NV Series deliver very useful extras for entertainment and social networking and a big boost in performance wrapped up in elegant designs. “
Both Gateway notebooks are available now, starting at $499.99.