Sony VAIO VGN-SR250J/H 13.3-Inch Laptop (2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 Processor, 4 GB RAM, 320 GB Hard Drive, Vista Premium) Grey

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Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 16.1 x 5.5 x 11.8 inches ; 7 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 6.6 pounds
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B001FB6TA8
• Item model number: VGN-SR250J/H
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #937 in Computers & PC Hardware (See Bestsellers in Computers & PC Hardware)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: September 10, 2008

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description
The sleek, portable and durable Sony VAIO VGN-SR240J/B packs a variety of advanced security, performance and entertainment features into a compact notebook PC, from biometric fingerprint reader to a shock-resistant hard drive to wireless Bluetooth stereo music streaming. It also includes a new, uniquely Sony Switch mode that enables you to set three distinct usage personalities, each with its own shortcuts and wallpapers, to suit your mood or mode of work. Lightweight and easy to handle at just over 4 pounds with a 13.3-inch high-definition display and a durable magnesium alloy chassis (in gray), this VAIO SR notebook features a spacious keyboard for comfortabl typing and a rounded hinge at the back that fits perfectly in your hand.

Thin, lightweight and durable, the magnesium alloy Sony VAIO SR notebook weighs just over 4 pounds and offers an LED-backlit 13.3-inch screen.

It's powered by the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processor--with Centrino 2 technology--which boosts speed, reduces power requirements, and saves on battery life. The 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 includes a lightning-quick 1066 MHz front-side bus and 3 MB of L2 cache, providing an optimized, multithreaded architecture for improved multimedia and multitasking performance. Other features include a 320 GB hard drive, 4 GB of installed RAM (maximum), Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics with up to 1750 MB of available memory, a dual-layer DVD±RW drive (which also burns CDs), ExpressCard 34 slot, quad-mode Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth connectivity (including A2DP stereo music streaming), a 1.3-megapixel webcam built into the bezel, both Memory Stick and SD card readers, and pre-installed 64-bit version of Windows Vista Home Premium (SP1).

This Sony notebook is Energy Star 4.0 certified, and has received a Silver EPEAT designation for meeting standards to help reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, it is RoHS-compliant, effectively reducing the environmental impact by restricting the use of lead, mercury and certain other hazardous substances.

VAIO Switch Mode
The new Switch mode enables you to tailor your SR notebook to the way you use your computer. A set of buttons above the keyboard lets you set three distinct usage personalities, or modes. You can base your modes on the scenarios in which you use your PC--such as home, work and entertainment. For instance, you can get your favorite websites and personal email at home; business productivity applications when your at work; and multimedia programs when you're ready to play. Each mode is customized with its own unique wallpaper and set of 5 shortcuts to your preferred programs.

Security Enhancements
Sony's VAIO SR notebooks take security seriously, employing a biometric fingerprint sensor and proprietary hard disk drive protection software to ensure your data is protected from unauthorized use as well as accidental damage. It also stores passwords to secure web sites you visit, so authentication and access are quick and easy--you only need your fingerprint. It also includes an integrated Trusted Platform Module (TPM) TCG Ver.1.2 compliant chip that enhances security by allowing you to control access on a specific client/user basis.

Spec Check Color: Gray 13.3-inch LCD screen 2.26 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 processor 320 GB hard drive 4 GB RAM (maximum) Dual-layer DVD±R drive Quad-mode Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n) Intel GMA 4500MHD graphics (up to 1750 MB available) Windows Vista Home Premium 64-Bit (SP1) Weighs 4.14 pounds

The Basics

• Processor: Experience improved energy efficiency, expanded wireless connectivity, and amazing battery life with the 45nm Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 processor featuring Intel Centrino 2 technology. This processor has a 2.26 GHz processor speed, super-sized 1066 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and a extra-large 3 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)

  Formerly codenamed Montevina, Intel Centrino 2 processor technology improves upon every facet of a laptop's main features, including performance and battery life via new processors and chipsets, faster draft 802.11n wireless, and new business-class manageability capabilities. The new hafnium-infused circuitry--which reduces electrical current leakage in transistors--conserves even more energy, giving you more time away from the wall outlet.

  The Intel Core 2 Duo processor has two computational execution cores in a single processor, providing greater system response when running multi-threaded applications simultaneously with no significant increase in power consumption. It's optimized for multitasking and it can run multiple demanding applications--such as graphics-intensive games or serious number-crunching business productivity applications--while downloading music or running virus-scanning security programs in the background.

• Hard Drive: The extra large 320 GB Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive (5400 RPM) offers a wealth of storage space, perfect for storing a vast multimedia collection or for editing digital video. This SATA hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to Firewire and USB 2.0.

  The G-Sensor Shock Protection feature makes your data even less vulnerable to loss or damage. When the built-in 3D acceleration sensor detects a risky movement like being dropped, the HDD-head will lock up to secure its position and protect the disc from scratching. An intelligent algorithm, unique to VAIO PCs, judges whether or not a movement is risky, activating disk drive protection only when your hardware is at risk.

• Memory: The 4 GB of installed RAM (PC6400, 2 x 2 GB, 2 x 1 GB) maximizes the capacity of this notebook, and it also offers an ultra-fast 800 MHz speed.

• DVD/CD Drive: The dual-layer DVD drive is compatible with a wide range of formats, including both DVD+RW and DVD-RW discs, CD-RW discs, and dual-layer (DL) DVD+/-R discs, which can hold up to 8.5 GB of data--great for backing up your MP3 collection or your most important documents. It features the following speeds: 4x for DVD+R DL, 4x for DVD-R DL, 8x for both single layer DVD±R, 8x for single layer DVD+RW, 6x for single layer DVD-RW, 5x for DVD-RAM, and 24x/16x for CD-R/RW. It reads DVD-ROM discs at 8x and CD-ROMs at 24x.

• Keyboard & Mouse: This VAIO SR notebook features an innovative keyboard design with keys that are individually raised above a solid, one-piece piano-black bezel layer, providing a quieter keyboard and more durable panel. It has a standard 82-key keyboard (2mm stroke and 19.05mm pitch) and electro-static two-button touchpad.

The VAIO SR notebook features an innovative keyboard design with keys that are individually raised above a solid, one-piece layer providing a quieter keyboard and more durable panel.

Screen, Video & Audio
You'll enjoy razor-sharp graphics and widescreen movies with the 13.3-inch WXGA high-definition screen, with its 1280 x 800-pixel resolution. The XBRITE-ECO technology (with LED backlighting) delivers brilliant colors and stunning clarity with efficient power usage, and it features an anti-reflective coating to minimize reflection and ensure a beautifully clear image from any viewing angle.

Video is powered by the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD, which uses shared video memory (up to 1750 MB allocated from the system memory). This graphics card is built with Intel Clear Video technology, which delivers clearer, more detailed images by eliminating many of the jagged edges and video artifacts seen when viewing interlaced content and features powerful color control to ensure videos are not too dark, overly bright, or washed out.

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
Be ready for the next platform in wireless connectivity with the integrated quad-mode Intel Wireless 5100AGN Wi-Fi chip. Based on the draft 802.11n Wi-Fi specification, it offers up to five times the performance and twice the wireless range as existing 802.11g wireless. It's also backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found in home routers and wi-fi hotspots) as well as 802.11a networks (which has a higher throughput, but more limited range--great for closed office environments). With the Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity, you can communicate and synchronize with Bluetooth-enabled peripherals such as PDAs and cell phones as well as enjoy wireless stereo music streaming (thanks to its embedded A2DP profile).

This notebook also includes a next-generation ExpressCard 34 card slot (though no PCMCIA slot), which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. Here's the full list of connectivity options:

• 2 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• Analog video output: 1 VGA
• 1 ExpressCard/34 slot
• Memory Stick/Memory Stick DUO slot (with MagicGate functionality)
• Secure Digital memory card slot (compatible with MMC cards)
• 1 headphone jack, 1 microphone jack
• 10/100 Fast Ethernet
• 56K modem (V.90)

Operating System
The 64-bit version of Windows Vista Home Premium (with SP1) is the operating system for users with advanced computer needs, and it includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center for watching DVD movies and accessing your digital audio library. You can also use Windows Media Center to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV) and to access new kinds of online entertainment content. Computers that include Windows Vista Home Premium and an auxiliary Windows SideShow display will also allow you to access key data even when your computer is off. It is also easier than ever to share files between other PCs in your household and to manage your laptop computer settings to more securely connect via Wi-Fi.

Every edition of Windows Vista provides the essential tools and technologies to help protect you whether you are browsing the Internet, connecting to a wireless network, or just reading e-mail. All editions of Windows Vista include new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures long before you have lost any important personal data. And, all Windows Vista editions include parental control features that allow you to manage and monitor your family's use of games, the Internet, instant messaging, and other activities.

Preloaded Software
Microsoft Windows Live OneCare anti-virus and recovery (trial version), Microsoft Works SE 9.0, Microsoft Office 2007 Home and Student (60-day trial), Sony Click to Disk Editor (CD and DVD burning), VAIO Movie Story (video editing), VAIO MusicBox

Dimensions & Weight
This notebook measures 12.4 x 9.2 x 1.33 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 4.14 pounds.

Power
It's powered by the VGP-BPS13A/B rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which has a battery life of between 2.5 and 6 hours (depending on usage). This laptop is compliant with Energy Star 4.0 specifications, meaning that it uses less power and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by meeting very strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy.

What's in the Box
This package contains the VGN-SR250J/H notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It is backed by a one-year limited hardware warranty, and Sony offers 1-year of toll-free telephone technical assistance.

Product Description
The sleek, portable and durable VAIO SR notebook is powered by new Intel processor technology ¿ the latest and greatest from Intel. Weighing just over 4 pounds (with standard battery) and less than an inch thick with long battery life and a 13.3-inch razor-thin LED backlit XBRITE-ECO display, the VAIO SR notebook packs a variety of advanced security and entertainment features. Protect your notebook with fingerprint security and chat with friends and family with a built-in webcam. You can even customize the on-screen look of your notebook with the new Switch mode, a cool new feature that lets you set up different usage personalities for home, work and play.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A tad frustrating!.....cost wise that is!!!!!, December 5, 2008

By	Derek M. Price "PeoriaBrit" (Peoria, IL USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I received this notebook yesterday. Frustratingly, the price has dropped about $35 in the intervening two days between ordering and recieving the machine. Bummer. Regardless, here are my initial observations.

I am upgrading from the Vaio PCG-TR3A, a lovely little notebook however struggling now with only 2GB's of RAM and, like it's owner, an ageing processor. I was however impressed with the TR3A's monitor which, with a pair of "cheater" reading glasses was clear and sharp, although a little small. My main reason for buying the TR3A was it's portability however, after analysis I realized I really don't travel as much as I would either like or can afford to, so it was time to upgrade.

I decided to stay with Sony as opposed to other PC's primarily for the monitor and research confirmed that Sony still appears to be ahead of the game in this department. I initially considered the new Vaio "Z" series, however I could not warrant paying the extra dollars based on my normal PC usuage and hence I decided on the Vaio SR series. My other major requirement/desire was for a "fingerprint" reader so that I could log on to Amazon that much more quickly to spend my hard earned "dosh".

As usual, my new purchase arrived smack on time, ie, next day delivery at a very reasonable cost based on my "Amazon Prime" membership (highly recommended if you are an Amazon Junkie as I am). Interestingly the neoprene cover I ordered with the PC was delayed, by UPS it appears, but it's not a big deal right now however, when one pays for a "next day" service, maybe one should expect it?????

The PC was well packaged by Amazon and Sony. Out of the box there were no apparent problems. I was struck by how compact and light the SR is even though it has a larger screen size than my TR. I have to also comment on the rubber studs that the machine sits on. I did read in my research that the studs are lacking in tactility (I think I just invented that word) and "pooh poohed" the comments I read. I have to report, however, that on our countertop surface, the SR reacts similar to the puck on a "table hockey" game. This is great if you want to share your recent web findings with your partner on the opposite side of the table, however you have to be aware of it and a little careful. I'll be honest, I was a little dismissive of this comment initially however it is really evident however liveable with.

This is my first machine and real experience with Windows Vista and so far I have no real complaints. Connecting with my WiFi network went smoothly and upgrading Vista also went well. The SR screen so far meets my expectations although I have not challenged the machine graphically.

I am hugely impressed with the speed of the machine, especially on the web. My TR3A was exceedingly slow, even with an "n" wifi adapter. I also immediately notice the SR runs a lot cooler than the TR although I have to report I do not "game" or any such activity.

So far I am a little dissaponted with the "Fingerprint reader". I registered my finger print however it takes constant re-try's to get a good reading when logging on! Now, this may be operator error and I need to work on my technique and consistency, however, I did think that it would be a little more "friendly" and I hope that this aspect improves as it was an important purchasing feature.

The keyboard is nicely spaced which helps as I am a touch typist.....hmmm,.....isn't everybody these days? I am noticing a few errors....missed keys that is......beyond my normal typo's.....but again that may be "operator error" and I need to give it time. I also note a frustrating errant cursor secondary to, I believe, a very sensitive touch pad. Again I think this will impove as I become more familiar with the machine.

In general, I am pleased with the Sony Vaio SR250J and I hope as I become more familiar with the machine I will become even more enamored with it, and it with me!!!! In today's economy, it may be worth waiting a week or two to purchase the machine if you are considering this computer, as, with luck, it will be half the price I paid for it, however, that being said, it is definitely great value compared to my TR3A as the SR is at least $600 cheaper and is a much more powerful and up to date machine.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Small, Sexy, Powerful, April 12, 2009

By	Vidit Bhargava (Memphis, USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This is my second laptop, upgrading from a Toshiba Satellite. Sony has done a lot of good and bad things with this one. It is meant both for home and office. A powerful performer with a small size. As with other Sony products, it is a beauty.

PROS:
1. Speed - The laptop I got has an Intel Core2Duo P8600 which is blazing fast and coupled with ATI graphics (128mb graphics card in my laptop) it works perfectly fine. The RAM in this can be upgraded to a DDR3 (it comes with DDR2-800 standard).
2. Screen - LED backlit LCD 1280x800. The screen is awesome and vibrant, excellent colors and extremely bright (I keep the brightness to 4 out of 6 levels normally) and it very good for watching movies.
3. Keyboard - The full-size VAIO-style (or Macbook-style) chiclet keyboard is great to type on. Well-spaced keys with low errors while typing. You know this when you start using it.
4. Touchpad - Ok. This is no Macbook with multi-touch but it has a nice matte textured, large touchpad. It is very responsive and convenient.
5. Switch-Mode - This is a new feature Sony has brought up. It allows up to 3 custom settings for 5 buttons. For instance, you can have a setting for home use and specify 5 applications which can be easily accessed by 5 buttons located just above the keyboard. You can also set different wallpapers for each setting. Quite a handy feature.
6. Integrated webcam and microphone - These are pretty standard on laptops these days but the picture quality and sound quality from microphone is good.
7. Styling - The new Vaio design (tube-styling or whatever they call it) is amazing and it looks pretty good. Overall the laptop looks sexy.
8. Construction - The laptop is quite sturdy and has a solid feel to it.
9. Cooling - This machine has ample cooling vents and at the right places. I can hardly hear the fan even when I am playing games on this (yes, I do play games and they run smoothly). The bottom hardly heats up and you can keep working with this on your lap for prolonged hours.
10. Wifi and bluetooth - Well, these come standard with wifi-n and bluetooth. I find Sony's SmartWi application quite handy (don't know why people complain about this). I can turn on/off bluetooth right from window's sidebar easily and its easy to setup.
11. Battery Life - Well, don't know if its really high but it gives about 3-3.5 hours battery life with normal use, wifi on, bluetooth off and LCD brightness at 3.

CONS:
1. Sony bloatware - Well, a common problem with all the Vaio laptops/desktops - Sony's pre-loaded softwares. I find some of them handy while some of them are junk and are just taking up space.
2. Speakers - The sound from the speakers is acceptable but not loud. Come on, this is just a 13" laptop...you're not going to make it into a boombox.
3. USB ports - It has just 2 USB ports, could have had at least 3.
4. No HDMI out - Well, I think the new systems have a better graphics card and HDMI out. My machine is a SR190 model and one of the earliest. The subsequent SR290 and SR390 (and similar numbered models) have better graphics and HDMI out, but 2 USB ports still.
5. LAN port and modem-port cover - I don't know what Sony was thinking when they came out with this cheap idea of putting a flimsy, plastic cover on these ports. It would have been better if they were open. The plastic cover hangs out once in a while with the slightest of touch. Quite annoying.

UPDATE 07/06/'09: I am running Windows 7 RC dual-booted with Vista on this laptop and it works absolutely fine. The 'Switch Mode' buttons do not work as Sony has not yet made a driver for Win7.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Good laptop, but with the unhappy lack of choice for the OS, April 10, 2009

By	A. B. Carvalho "Bernardo Carvalho" (RIo de Janeiro, Brazil) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

The laptop seems to be very good, but I had to spend many hours to replace the original (and heavy) Vista operational system by XP. Sony's web-site says that this laptop is compatible only with Windows Vista. I found in the internet a detailed guide on how to install XP (http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?p=4080662) on Vaio laptops. However, SONY's website does not have XP drivers for the VGN-SR250 model, and I used instead those for VGN-SR240N (and everything seems to be Ok). The customers should not be forced to use the Vista OS.