Averatec AV3225HS-01 Laptop (AMD Athlon XP-M 2000+, 512 MB RAM, 40 GB Hard drive, 802.11g, DVD+CD-RW combo)

by Averatec

Product Details

Product Manual [3.37mb PDF]

• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 10.9 x 1 inches ; 4.2 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 5.7 pounds
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B00021BYZC
• Item model number: AV3225HS-01
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (40 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: April 8, 2004

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

Get your motor running and ready for the road with the highly mobile Averatec AV3225HS-01 notebook PC. This tiny laptop weighs just over 4 pounds and runs on a mobile AMD Athlon XP-M 2000+ processor with battery-saving features. It also features a 12.1-inch screen, combo DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive, 40 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and integrated 54g (802.11b) wireless connectivity. For a step up in price, the Averatec AV3255P1-01 features Windows XP Professional.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 40 GB IDE hard drive is on the small side compared to other notebooks. However, it does offer a decent enough capacity for storing documents and productivity software for road warriors--but not enough for much multimedia storage.
• Processor: The AMD Athlon XP-M 2000+ processor is a moderately fast processor that delivers similar performance to a 2.0 GHz Mobile Intel Pentium 4 processor. The "M" stands for mobile, and its PowerNow power-saving features will help extend battery life. It also offers a 266 MHz processor system bus and a 640 KB high-performance processor cache.
• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (DDR SDRAM) is adequate for power users, but not overpowering. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 512 MB (2 x 256 MB), which is rather small in comparison to other notebooks.
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes equipped with a combo DVD/CD-RW drive, which enables you to play DVD-ROM discs and DVD movies as well as burn data and record music to CD discs. The CD-RW drive has 24x write, 10x rewrite, and 24x read speeds. The DVD-ROM has an 8x playback speed.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook is outfitted with a standard keyboard (19mm pitch) and large Synaptics TouchPad with graphics tablet mode.

Sound and Graphics
This notebook features integrated audio and video/graphics cards. The S3 UniChrome video controller is an affordable 128-bit graphics engine with internal AGP 8X and 32 MB of shared video RAM that delivers adequate DVD playback and and video streaming. It features a 12.1-inch display. It also has an sound card that's integrated into the main board, and offers built-in stereo speakers.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
This AV3225HS-01 model has an integrated 802.11g (or 54g) wireless LAN, which is quickly becoming the most popular wireless standard and is compatible with 802.11b connections as well. The notebook is fitted with a dual 54g antenna, and it can achieve speeds 5 times faster than 802.11b and offers improved reach and added security. You get a standard range of external connections, including:

• 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 PCMCIA (or PC Card) slot (Type II)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems).

Preloaded System and Software
This AV3225HS-01 notebook comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). It also is loaded with applications for playing DVDs, burning CDs, and protecting your system from viruses (titles are not noted by Averatec

Dimensions and Weight
Measuring 1.2 x 10.9 x 9.6 inches (H x W x D) and weighing just 4.2 pounds, the AV3220H1-01 is an amazingly compact and lightweight notebook that road warriors will barely notice as they shuttle from plane to taxi to hotel.

Power
The included "smart" rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers over 3 hours of battery life (depending on usage).

What's in the Box
This package contains the Averatec AV3225HS-01 notebook PC, rechargeable li-ion battery, AC power adapter, and printed operating instructions. The notebook PC is backed by a 1-year limited warranty; the battery is backed by a 6-month warranty.

Product Description

MODEL- 3225HS VENDOR- AVERATEC FEATURES- 3200 Series Ultra Portable Computer The next generation of the 3000 series just got thinner and lighter. The 3200 series is only around 1 thin and around 4 pounds light. The thinner and lighter 3200 continues to provide up to 3 hours of battery power while utilizing the latest in portable technology such as integrated 54g wireless technology with dual antenna integrated 24x CD burner smart lithium ion battery and ultra-fast DDR333 memory. Configured in this full-featured notebook is an integrated DVD+CD-RW a bright and sharp 12.1 XGA LCD screen and the performance and efficiency of the Mobile AMD Low Voltage Athlon XP-M processor.* Integrated DVD+CD-RW Optical Drive allows you to watch DVD movies burn CDs or listen to music CDs while on the go.* Integrated 54g Wireless Network (up to 5x faster than 802.11b in a G only environment and 2x faster in mix mode environment.* Integrated 100 Mbit wired LAN and 56K Modem (no cable/dongle to lose or break).* Standard video out port for presentation and viewing on a projector or larger display.* Large Touch Pad with Scroll and Graphics Tablet function.* USB 2.0 (3 ports) connectivity at 480 Mbit/s per port.* UniChrome Graphics with DuoView technology for Extended Desktop and Multi-Display.* Active USB Hub- charge your cell phone MP3 and other USB powered portable devices with the notebook powered off. -- SPECIFICATIONs ---------------------------------------PROCESSOR - AMD Low Voltage Mobile Athlon XP 2000+ CPU with PowerNow! and 3DNow! Technology and QuantiSpeed Architecture. 266 MHz Processor System Bus 640 KB of high-performance processor cache High Performance 533 MB/s North + South Bridge Bandwidth CHIPSET - VIA KN400 Core Logic MEMORY - 512MB DR333 (PC2700) System RAM Not expandable. One 200-pin SO-DIMM Socket 4 Mbit System BIOS VIDEO - 12.1 XGA TFT (1024x768) Dual Display (LCD and external monitor) S3 UniChrome Integrated Video Controller Internal AGP 8x Performance 128-bit 3D...

See all Product Description

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

88 of 89 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Impressed with Averatec, June 10, 2004

By 

John C. Derrick "JCDerrick" (HI/SC, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Averatec AV3225HS-01 Laptop (AMD Athlon XP-M 2000+, 512 MB RAM, 40 GB Hard drive, 802.11g, DVD+CD-RW combo) (Personal Computers)

First and foremost, I too was hesitant about buying this laptop given it's mixed ratings. I'm pretty tech savy, so I do my research and I make sure I'm getting a good product before I buy ANY PC. So after reading reviews, I took the plunge, and I myself became a skeptic; the one I took home from a local store had a keyboard that was messed up, typing two characters for each key (talk about weird typing).

However, since buying mine about a month ago, I've been pleased with it's results. I've given serious thought to this review, and will try and point out all the good, and the bad. In a nutshell, you really need to think about WHAT you want to do with your labtop PC before you buy this computer. First let's look at the basics.

First, if you're looking for long battery life, this isn't the one for you. In fact, if battery life is very important to you, just spend the extra cash for one with Intel's Centrino Mobile Technology (you can't beat them for battery power). Averatec's PC will give you about 2.5 hours of battery life on this model (why they say 3 is beyond me). For most people doing typing, spreadsheet work, scanning, etc that's going to be enough. You could always buy a second battery too (they aren't THAT much.) It makes a good PC for Office, Library, Class, Home, etc work. If you're looking to run DVD's all the time, or constantly stay on the Wireless network, then you're not going to get good battery life. It's the ideal PC for a student in my opinion for class; especially given it's small size. The wireless network is also great, and it's easy to cut on and off (button right on the top)... so you can save battery life easily.

The next factor is Size. This labtop is one of the best money can buy for it's size and weight. That's one of the main reasons I looked at it, and purchased it. Sony's smaller labtops cost an arm and a leg, and just aren't worth it. If you need a small, compact PC, Averatec is for you. It's a powerful little PC with a lot built in... again, just consider how much battery life you need. I use mine mostly for work at the University and Documentation stuff. I also will use it for business when I travel for photo's, etc. So to me, this is ideal.

Next thing, like others have said, the keyboard may take some getting used to. But it's a trade for the small size, so I can't complain. It hasn't been a huge annoyance for me; nothing as bad as some make it sound anyway. My main complaint was the same as another reviewer; that the Control key (Ctrl) has been replaced with the Function key and is now situated to the right of this Function key. It can be annoying at times. Other than that, no problems honestly.

Another thing is how the PC can heat up. While I don't personally care how much it heats up, if you do, then you might want to avoid the PC. I've been surprised how heated it gets. Again, if you're using this thing on a desk, no problem. If it's sitting in your lab, just use a book; otherwise avoid the PC... it can get rather warm.

The last thing that I can think about is the Speakers and Sound. This is NOT a PC for good sound quality, it just sounds flat. Again, if you're using this for an Office/Classroom PC, that's not an issue.

One thing I love about Averatec's PC is the three USB ports on the front side on the right. While the location is a bit weird, it's great having them for flash cards, scanner, a mouse, etc.

The PC can also support great monitor resolution... another perk if you're using it in an Office setting with a larger monitor.

Another downside is the fact it lacks a normal Printer cable connection. Most printers use USB now anyway, but it still would be nice to have it at times.

I'll close out with one last thing. Performance wise I'm very impressed. I really pushed my labtop hard to see how much I could get it to run at the same time, and it did very well. I used heavy photo programs, Macromedia Flash, GIS software, etc all at once to test it; not bad if I may say so myself, and I'm very picky about speed. It was one of the reasons I was hesitant to buy it, but AMD has impressed me again here. I also loved the wireless network feature... it's great and I can go anywhere in my house now and surf the net, access files on my desktop PC's, etc. It's great! A lot of University's are building these wireless networks into their campuses now, which makes it even better for the student.

Finally, here's two tips I'd offer:

Calibrate the Battery. You can find the manual for this PC on Averatec's website, or in the "My Documents" folder of your labtop. It takes a loooong time to calibrate, but it's a good way to keep your battery alive longer.

Speaking of calibration, make sure you also calibrate the fan. It's easy to do, just follow the manual as before and it'll help keep the fan quite more.

Overall, I love this PC. I wouldn't trade it back for another one and have no regrets on buying it. It's not perfect by any means, but for the price, size, weight, and performance, you really cannot beat it. It had PC Mags Editor's Choice award for a reason. I too have found it impressive.

If you buy it locally, get the extended warranty. It's always smart to do this with a PC. I did, and I think it'll be worth it if something goes wrong.

23 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An outstanding notebook in a class of its own, August 14, 2004

By 

CalSteve (Pleasanton, CA, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Averatec AV3225HS-01 Laptop (AMD Athlon XP-M 2000+, 512 MB RAM, 40 GB Hard drive, 802.11g, DVD+CD-RW combo) (Personal Computers)

I thought I would put the record straight on this laptop. I have been using portable computers for over 19 years since the Compaq luggable, and currently own the following notebooks :

- Thinkpad T41

- Sony VAIO K23

- Dell Inspiron 5150

- Apple iBook 12 inch

- Thinkpad 600E

- eMachines M6809 (another AMD - 64 bit Athlon)

....so you will find this review very accurate and unbiased.

First of all, this is an OUTSTANDING laptop for under $1,000. It has a fast processor and hard disk and 512MB of RAM is enough for most tasks and quite a bit of multi-tasking. It is well-built, with a very sturdy magnesium alloy frame, although some would say it could look a bit cheap.

The screen is very bright and sharp and I don't find 1024x768 at all restrictive in a 12-inch screen size....I would say it is just perfect.

The keyboard.....ah yes, the keyboard. Well, all the letter keys are great full-size keys with a good travel and a nice feel. The only thing that may take some getting used to on the keyboard is as follows :

- several keys are smaller than what you will be used to, including all the function keys and all the number keys along the top, but they are definitely usable.

- The PGUP, PGDN, HOME and END keys have to have the FN key pressed as well , so that takes a little getting used to.

- Probably the worst one for me was the size of the BACKSPACE key, as I use this a lot :-)

- The comma and period keys are also smaller.

However, take it from me, this is a VERY usable keyboard.

The wireless card and antenna give the best reception out of all of my notebook computers, which is really nice. The battery life is over 2.5 hours, which is good and well within parameters for its class. The batteries are only $99, so I got a spare one for long trips. Three handy USB ports on the right hand side make connecting peripherals a snap, although they are placed close together.

This machine has the nicest touchpad I have ever come across - a beautiful light feel and tap-and-drag with locking drags means that you never ever have to use the left mouse button! It's a synaptics model, so up there in quality with the best.

The machine does get a little hot, so you will need to put it on a magazine if you have it on your lap a lot - I got a Targus lap desk from CompUSA. This will increase the airflow to the fan as well, so worth the investment.

So do NOT believe the naysayers.....RUN, don't walk to the nearest outlet and buy one of these. You will not regret it for one moment, believe me. FANTASTIC quality, specifications and performance for the price.....unbeliveable, really.

I use this more than my Thinkpad, which is saying something, huh ?

Cheers

Steve

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Very Pleased, May 17, 2004

By 

"jason16760" (Melbourne, FL United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Averatec AV3225HS-01 Laptop (AMD Athlon XP-M 2000+, 512 MB RAM, 40 GB Hard drive, 802.11g, DVD+CD-RW combo) (Personal Computers)

I've had it for about a week now and I'm very pleased. It's small and light and best of all, half the price of a Sony! I've seen both good and bad reviews for this item so I was hesitant to buy one. The construction seems good and it feels nice and solid. The keyboard layout is a little odd, but I'll get used to it. I wish they could remove those stupid "Windows" keys and make the space bar a bit wider. I plugged it into a desktop monitor and was surprised to see it supported up to 1600 x 1200 resolution... and that was just in 32MB video mode.

Pros:
- The price.
- Small and light, a notebook that is actually the size of a notebook!
- Performance, no complaints here! 512MB RAM, 40GB HD, 64MB video, and fast enough for anything I'm likely to do with it.
- DVD+CD-RW combo.

Cons:
- The USB ports could be in a better spot. It makes using a mouse difficult at times.
- The battery life isn't is good as I'd hoped.
- A little on the noise side.
- The speakers aren't very loud, especially with DVDs.