Sony VAIO VGN-FS840/W 15.4" Laptop (Intel Pentium M Processor 740, 512 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive)

by Sony

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 14.3 x 1.4 inches ; 6.3 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 11 pounds
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B000DZUZOI
• Item model number: VGN-FS840/W
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: December 20, 2005

Product Description

Amazon Product Description

The Basics:
Sony describes its wide-ranging "FS" series of VAIO notebooks as "well-balanced", and few could argue the point. Unlike some portable computers, the FS series is sensibly designed from top to bottom with well-matched components and an eye on important facets such as portability, ease of use, and price. Sitting in the midst of the FS series lineup is this model, the VAIO VGN-FS840/W 15.4" Notebook PC, an affordable machine that delivers many of the attributes the modern notebook user requires but does not go overboard in any one area. Serious gamers may want better 3D graphic capabilities than the unit can provide, and its battery efficiency figures aren't quite as strong as other notebooks using Intel Pentium M processors, but the VAIO VGN-FS830/W should otherwise appeal to most.

Processor:
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. Some of today's notebooks are equipped with high-end CPU's on par with those found in top-of-the-line desktop PCs, while others are quick enough only for basic duties such as word processing, email and the like. The VAIO VGN-FS840/W is equipped with an Intel Pentium M processor 740 running at 1.73 GHz. This is one of three components comprising Intel's efficient Centrino system (the others being a specialized Intel chipset and integrated wireless support). Centrino-equipped notebooks are generally smaller, easier on the batteries (though not so with this model), and more versatile than their non-Centrino counterparts. This particular CPU is part of Intel's upgraded Pentium M lineup, featuring a whopping 2 MB of Level 2 cache for extremely fast access to your most utilized information. Its rated clock speed is clearly not on par with that of a high-end Intel Pentium 4, but this CPU will easily handle most common mobile tasks.

Memory:
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they also keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. The VAIO VGN-FS840/W incorporates 512 MB of super fast PC2-4200 533 MHz DDR2 memory. This is a typical allotment but a higher speed than the memory in many other midlevel notebooks, and is certainly quite adequate for virtually any application or multitasking situation you're likely to encounter in the foreseeable future. That said, the unit does permit upgrades to its maximum of 2048 MB (2 GB) RAM.

Video:
CPUs are usually so busy with basic calculations that they need help translating visual output to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). Generally, a controller with dedicated video memory is far preferable to one with "shared" video memory, wherein the graphics controller appropriates a portion of the main system memory. Nevertheless, many notebooks utilize shared memory controllers to keep the overall cost in check and because of obvious space restrictions. Such is the case with this system, which incorporates an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900. The advantage of this comparatively new controller over other shared memory controllers is twofold-it utilizes more refined components, and it commandeers more of the system's memory (up to 128 MB). Still, though it will effectively display 2D and the majority of 3D applications and games, the system won't satisfy hardcore gamers or demanding 3D graphic artists who need powerful, smooth 3D performance.

Display:
The VAIO VGN-FS840/W features a 15.4-inch WXGA widescreen display that allows you to watch DVD movies and play the latest games in their full panoramic glory. Its 1280 by 800 maximum resolution offers enough detail for even the pickiest digital photo tweaker, and Sony's XBRITE Technology provides a brighter, more compelling picture than older and/or less efficient notebooks.

Hard Disk:
The integrated 100 GB hard disk, equivalent to what you'll find in some of today's budget-priced desktop PCs, is a welcome perk indeed for those who require a smaller notebook but need to load a broad range of applications and also keep a library of space-gobbling music and/or multimedia files.

Optical Drive:
An optical drive is essential in today's computing environment. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD burning, so you can also backup your important files to long lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can watch DVD movies, and a DVD-RW drive allows you to "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of a CD). The latest optical drive technology involves double-layer DVDs, each of which sports double the capacity of a standard DVD. This system features a DVD+R Double Layer/DVD±RW drive that will make quick work of all of the above.

Audio:
The VAIO VGN-FS840/W is equipped with two miniature stereo speakers, a mini microphone jack and a stereo mini headphone jack.

Keyboard and Controls:
You'll control your notebook via an 86-key keyboard and standard electro-static touch pad.

Connectivity and Expansion:
The VAIO VGN-FS840/W offers a wide variety of ways to keep in touch, including a 56K modem for low-speed dial-up Internet and email access, a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet port for high-speed wired network and Internet, and an integrated Intel PRO/Wireless 2200b/g Network Connection (802.11b/g) for fast cord-free e-communication at home, at the office or on the road via today's two most popular wireless formats, Wireless-B and Wireless-G. Other key amenities include three high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug and play devices such as external drives and digital cameras, an IEEE 1394 FireWire port (commonly used for data uploads from digital camcorders), a Memory Stick media slot for reading Memory Stick memory cards, and provisions for a Port Replicator interface (3 USB 2.0, Ethernet, VGA, DVI-D, printer, DC in).

Operating System and Software:
Sony will preload Microsoft's most popular operating system, Windows XP Home Edition, and a versatile application package that includes Microsoft's Works 8.5 productivity suite, Intuit's Quicken 2005 New User Edition financial package, Adobe Photoshop Album Starter Edition, and an impressive assortment of Sony's highly-respected photo, music and video utilities.

Dimensions and Weight:
Notebook computers are manufactured in a wide variety of sizes and weights. Many of today's most powerful notebooks are also the largest, weighing ten or twelve lbs or more and therefore too big and cumbersome for extensive, continuous traveling. These are often referred to as "desktop replacements". On the other extreme are "thin and lights" or "ultra-portables", super-miniaturized units that typically aren't as powerful as their larger brethren but weigh as little as two lbs and will often fit comfortably inside a large purse. The VAIO VGN-FS840/W is marginally smaller than today's median notebook size at 6.28 lbs (with standard battery) and a mere 14.33 by 10.41 by 1.0-1.41 inches.

Power:
The unit is equipped with a Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery that delivers 1.5 - 2.0 hours between charges. This is a slightly less impressive figure than most notebooks featuring the efficient Pentium M CPU.

Product Description

Includes: AC adapter, lithium-ion battery, Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack 2. Sony VGN-FS840/W VAIO(R) Notebook PC - Powered by an Intel Pentium M Processor 740 (1.73 GHz), and 512MB of DDR2 Memory, this notebook can handle most, if not all, of your daily tasks. It even features a built-in 802.11b/g Wi-Fi wireless networking adapter. So you can surf the Internet and check e-mail from any one of a number of Wi-Fi Hot Spots around the world. 100GB EIDE Hard Drive Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900 with up to 128MB of shared video memory (memory is taken from the main system's RAM) Double Layer DVD Writer - supports Double Layer DVD+R, DVD-RW, & DVD+RW media Integrated 802.11b/g Wi-Fi Wireless Network Support

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Sony's FS series is mediocre at best!, June 12, 2006

By 

Adam L. Safianow "Kiddo" (Dallas, TX) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony VAIO VGN-FS840/W 15.4" Laptop (Intel Pentium M Processor 740, 512 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive) (Personal Computers)

Okay, there are some great pros about this laptop, but there is also a lot that Sony could've done better. The FS series has always been their consumer laptop, with low cost in mind, and it shows. Because of this, the FS series has always seemed to dampen Sony's quality as a computer manufacturer. Sony is most notable for their S and SZ series notebooks (13.3" Screen), or their ultraportable T and TX series, so the FS series kind of has a lack of flare in comparison.

PROS:

-VERY CRISP screen with 1280x800 native resolution

-Great number of ports on connections, including memory card reader

-Very portable

-Great pricing

-Pentium M

-Dual Layer DVD Burner

-Battery Life is better than Toshiba's (I got 2.13hours... manufacturer claims 3 hours, but I had it with max brightness and Wi-Fi, so that's pretty good... 25% more battery)

-100GB Hard Drive

CONS:

-Outdated processor, as well as not even top of the line

-Only 512MB of RAM, and not even the fastest (only 533MHz... they make 667MHz)

-Graphics Media Accelerator - uncommon in Sony notebooks, but not good for anything more than causal use nonetheless - GMA's use shared memory for its virtual memory, so you could get as low was 384MB of RAM remaining if the GMA kicks in.

-Useless Sony programs - Sony has terrible program interfaces, erase them once you set up everything else on your computer

-XP Home - You don't have much RAM, and now you'll have lots of spyware filling it up

-Heavier than it looks - I weights roughly 6lbs, but judging by how thin it is, I would've guessed closer to 5lbs.

BOTTOM LINE: A step up from some of Dell and HP's buttom of the line notebooks with 40GB hard drives and 256MB or RAM, but not enough to justify a purchase, unless you want the mobile experience with the Sony name.

21 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, Just what I expected, March 2, 2006

By 

Panta - See all my reviews

This review is from: Sony VAIO VGN-FS840/W 15.4" Laptop (Intel Pentium M Processor 740, 512 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive) (Personal Computers)

At first I was kind of doubting on purchasing this product because of a bad review I read. At last this notebook was just what I expected for my home business, great screen, great performance, excellent interaction with digital photo and video cameras. Nothing more to ask from a notebook.

4.0 out of 5 stars good for home use, January 4, 2007

By 

Ravichandra Juluri (newyork, NY) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony VAIO VGN-FS840/W 15.4" Laptop (Intel Pentium M Processor 740, 512 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive) (Personal Computers)

it was great laptop, its display is very good-bright,vibrant, and rich colours, but the battery back up is not too great,