Sony VAIO VGN-SZ120P/B 13" Laptop (Intel Core Duo Processor T2400, 1024 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive)

by Sony

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 12.5 x 1.5 inches ; 4.1 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 7 pounds
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B000EE5DAY
• Item model number: VGN-SZ120P/B
• Average Customer Review: 3.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (21 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: January 27, 2006

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

The sleekly designed, lightweight Sony VAIO VGN-SZ120P/B notebook PC delivers intelligent mobile design while placing a priority on usability and performance. Coolly contemporary, it has a magnesium coating and aluminum finish on the palm rest for a great blend of the fashionable and the functional. It measures a mere 1.5 inches thin and features a superb 13.3-inch widescreen display with XBRITE LCD technology, long battery life, and a generous, comfortable keyboard. The integrated tri-mode 802.11 a/b/g wireless LAN enables wireless connectivity on the fly, while the revolutionary Hybrid Graphics System lets toggle between internal and external graphics chips, enabling you to choose lighter battery consumption or better performance depending on the situation.

With an integrated DVD+R Double Layer/DVD+/-RW drive, you can store up to 8.5 GB of data on one Double Layer DVD disc, making it easy to share and save your data and media files. This notebook also features a powerful 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo processor (with Centrino Mobile technology), 100 GB hard drive, 1 GB of installed RAM (with a 2 GB maximum), Bluetooth wireless capability, long battery life (up to 5.5 hours with included battery), advanced security/safety features that include a biometric fingerprint sensor, Windows XP Professional operating system, and a host of Sony multimedia software.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: A welcome size for road warriors, the 100 GB hard drive is definitely above average in size for notebook PCs--great for storing a digital medial library or graphics-intensive presentations--and faster than average at 5400 RPM. This Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to Firewire and USB 2.0.
  
• Processor: This VAIO is powered by a 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo processor T2400, which sits in the middle of the speed spectrum for this processor (as of February 2006). It has a fast 667 MHz front-side bus (FSB) and a large 2 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)

  With its two execution cores, the Intel Core Duo is optimized for multi-threaded applications and multitasking. You can simultaneously run multiple demanding applications--such as graphics-intensive games or serious number-crunching programs--while downloading music or running virus-scanning security programs in the background. Thanks to Intel Dynamic Power Coordination and Enhanced Intel Deeper Sleep with Dynamic Cache Sizing features, the Core Duo is able to transfer power only to those areas of the processor that need it. Featuring Intel Digital Media Boost, the Core Duo also provides enhanced performance on floating point-intensive applications such as CAD tools, 3D and 2D modeling, video editing, digital music, digital photography and gaming.
  

• Memory: The 1 GB of built-in memory (PC4200, DDR2 SDRAM) is a very good start for power users, and it offers a very fast 533 MHz speed. It has two memory slots, enabling you to add more power to handle graphics-intensive presentations and multiple open business productivity applications--up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB).
  
• CD/DVD Drive: Offering the latest in DVD writing technology, the multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer DVD+R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. For DVD-R/RW discs, it has a 4x write/2x rewrite speed, while for DVD+R/RW discs it has a 4x write/2.4x rewrite speed. For double-layer DVD+R, it has a 2.4x write speed. For CDs, it has a 24x write/10x rewrite speed. It also offers an 8x DVD-ROM read speed.
  
• Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a standard 86-key keyboard (with 3mm stroke and 19.05mm pitch) and electrostatic touchpad.

Screen, Graphics and Sound
The VGN-SZ120P/B has a 13.3-inch LCD screen with anti-reflective coating has a widescreen 1280 x 800-pixel resolution. This XBRITE LCD provides higher brightness levels than standard displays, resulting in deeper blacks, brighter whites, true-to-life color, and razor-sharp detail. This notebook uses Sony's exclusive Hybrid Graphics System, which lets you set your graphics performance with a simple flick of a switch, enabling you to toggle between an internal graphics chip for optimal power consumption with excellent performance or an external graphics chip for even more robust performance. You can choose either the integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 (with up to 128 MB of dynamically shared video RAM) and the installed Nvidia GeForce Go 7400 graphics card (with 128 MB of dedicated video RAM).

Nvidia's TurboCache feature increases the performance of this thin and light notebook PC without increasing its size or draining its battery. It's coupled with the PowerMizer 6.0 advanced power management technology, which significantly extends your notebook PCÕs battery life while minimizing the amount of heat it produces.

Security & Safety Features
Sony's line of VAIO SZ 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. Fingerprint biometrics is a convenient and secure way to protect your computer and the information on it with a simple swipe of your finger. It also stores passwords to secure web sites you visit, so authentication and access are quick and easy--you only need your fingerprint.

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.

Built-in Camera
This VAIO notebook features an integrated camera with a microphone. Enjoy this feature with free AOL AIM service to easily chat and video mail with family and friends. And the handy privacy filter masks the environment around you, so you can video chat without giving away your location or how disorganized you keep your desk.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The Intel PRO wireless LAN 3945ABG provides a tri-mode network connection (supporting 802.11a/b/g), with throughput up to 54 Mbps at 5 GHz (802.11a) and 2.4 GHz (802.11g). The Intel Wireless Coexistence System helps reduce interference with certain Bluetooth devices. Speaking of which, this notebook also offers Bluetooth wireless connectivity, which enables you to synchronize and transfer files between the PC and peripherals such as cell phones and PDAs as well as use Bluetooth-enabled headsets for online audio chats.

This notebook includes a next-generation ExpressCard/34 card slot, which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. comes with a basic selection of connectivity options, including:

• 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
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 Memory Stick slot (with support for Memory Stick DUO media with MagicGate functionality)
• 1 PCMCIA (Type II/Type I) card slot with CardBus support
• 1 port replicator connector
• 1 headphone jack
• 1 microphone jack
  It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.90) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Gigabit Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems).

  Preloaded System and Software
  This system comes with the Windows XP Professional Edition (which adds Microsoft's IIS Web server, back-up and recovery utilities, Remote Desktop, and other enhanced business features) with Service Pack 2 featuring Advanced Security Technologies, which helps to reduce unwanted downloads and pop-ups while surfing the Web. It also comes loaded with a bevy of Sony multimedia software: Click to DVD (DVD creation), SonicStage (digital music), SonicStage Mastering Studio (for remastering audio), Vaio Media (network file sharing), DVgate Plus (digital video), and Image Converter (for PSP transfer). Other preloaded software includes Adobe Photoshop Album Starter Edition, Quicken 2005 New User Edition, Microsoft Works 8.5 (with word processing, spreadsheet, and calendar), Norton Internet Security (with 60-day subscription), TrendMicro Anti-Spyware (with 30-day trial), Roxio DigitalMedia SE, and SpySubtract.

  Dimensions and Weight
  This notebook measures 12.5 by 1.5 by 9.3 inches (WxHxD) and weighs approximately 4.07 pounds with the standard battery (included).

  Power
  It's powered by the VGP-BPS2C rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides 2.5 to 5.5 hours of battery life (depending on usage).

  What's in the Box
  This package contains the VGN-SZ120P/B notebook PC, AC adapter, rechargeable battery, and memory card adapter. It is backed by a 1-year limited hardware warranty and 1 year of toll-free technical assistance.

Product Description

Includes: lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition with Service Pack 2, Adobe Photoshop Album Starter Edition, Quicken 2005 New User Edition, WinDVD, Works 8.5 (60-day trial), & more. Sony VGN-SZ120P/B VAIO(R) SZ Series Notebook PC - Battery power is one of the most important aspects of a notebook computer. Which is why this notebook features Sony's unique Hybrid Graphic System. The Hybrid Graphic System features two separate graphics chips that you can switch between -- an NVIDIA GeForce Go 7400, and an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950. The NVIDIA gives you extra graphical horsepower for games and multimedia applications, while the Intel chip preserves your battery power by providing enough support for basic tasks. Built-in 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi Adapter Integrated Bluetooth Technology 13.3 WXGA Display with XBRITE(TM) Technology Native Resolution - 1280x800 Hybrid Graphics System - NVIDIA GeForce Go 7400 with 128MB of memory, and an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 with 128MB of shared memory (shared memory takes it's memory from the main system's RAM) Built-in Camera & Microphone - easily video conference without any extra equipment needed! Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Biometric Finger Print Sensor - secure your laptop without the need of a password! Dual Layer DVD Writer - (write speeds) up to 2.4x Dual Layer DVD+R, 4x DVD-R, 4x DVD+R, 2x DVD-RW, 2.4x DVD+RW, 24x CD-R, & 10x CD-RW Dual Layer DVD Writer - (read speeds) up to 8x DVD-ROM & 24x CD-ROM Integrated v.90 56k Fax Modem Memory Stick Media Slot - supports Memory Stick(R) DUO media with MagicGate PC Card Slots - 1 ExpressCard/34 & 1 PCMCIA PC Card with CardBus Sony Sound Reality Audio Enhancer Ports - 10/100 Ethernet, 1 VGA Out, 1 4-pin Firewire, 2 USB 2.0, 1 Microphone, & 1 Headphone

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

34 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Solid High-End Machine, March 30, 2006

By 

doubleagent - See all my reviews

This review is from: Sony VAIO VGN-SZ120P/B 13" Laptop (Intel Core Duo Processor T2400, 1024 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive) (Personal Computers)

I was on the line between choosing a Sony vaio sz120 and sz160. I'm glad I went with the 120. The main differences between the two are the material they are made from -- fibre carbon for the 160 and magnesium alloy for the 120 (ignore the fact that they describe the 120 as black carbon -- this refers to the color only), the weight -- the 160 is about a half pound lighter due to the fiber carbon, and the screen quality. The last thing made me hesitate, as the 160 screen is both thinner, and brighter than the 120s. But the 120 is still pretty darn nice, and for the price difference, it wasn't worth it to me to go with the 160.

Of cosmetic note -- the 160 model has a smooth black exterior, and the word vaio is in black. The 120 has a rough black surface, and the word vaio is in silver. I prefer the rough surface myself, as it is both less prone to scratches and fingerprint smudges.

The machine itself seems fairly solid. The battery is slightly loose, but not too bad. The built in dvd dual layer burner is a very nice new feature for someone whose last laptop didn't even have an internal drive. I was hesitant about the fingerprint reader at first, wondering about whether it was really necessary, what happened if it failed to read your fingerprint properly, etc -- but I am surprisingly taken with the feature. Specifically, the ability to use it to do fast switches between two users on the same system. You can scan multiple fingers, and if you simply can't get it to respond, you fall back to your typed-password.

The webcam, on the other hand, is a waste of space and power. It's incredibly poor quality, and because it's a usb powered camera, it runs afoul of the duo core usb-bug issue that causes your battery to drain faster than it should. Here's hoping they patch that soon.

A heads up on the battery life -- although Sony has scaled back from it's original, preposterous claims of six hour battery life, it's still overestating by a long shot. In speed mode, you'll get somewhere over two hours. In stamina, just over three.

You'll hear Sony taking a lot of grief over the keyboard on this model, and at first, I was also taken aback. I'm used to a keyboard where the keys are raised, and narrow towards the top. The keyboard on this model is almost entirely flat, and as a result the keys take up the entire space allotted to them, and are much larger than what I was used to. People have called these keys "plasticky" and "cheap" feeling, but honestly, I think it's the size that's shocking at first, and people may just be taken aback by the new style. As someone with fairly small hands, it took me about a week to ten days to adjust to the new feel. Now I'm fine with it. For someone with larger fingers, this might actually be an advantage.

My 100 gig drive shows only about 87 gigs. I'm told a good chunk has been set away in a hidden system recovery area. The machine also come pre-loaded to crap they were trying to sell you on. (AOL, Anti-spyware software), etc. I spent the first day or so just cleaning off the clutter.

The wireless seems strong, I haven't tried the bluetooth out yet, and physically, the machine is simply lovely. If you're using stamina mode, and the screen seems to dark at first, use Function+F6 to brighten things up, as going into the display management system just resulted in an overbright, washed out screen.

This may sound like a lot of critical material, but I don't regret buying the machine, and think it will serve me well, hopefully for as long as my last vaio did.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Performance with cons and cost, June 11, 2006

By 

Mr. Sahil Jain (Boston, MA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony VAIO VGN-SZ120P/B 13" Laptop (Intel Core Duo Processor T2400, 1024 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive) (Personal Computers)

I believe all of you know that his laptop is fast and cool looking and has a strange feeling keyboard with a non-responsive spacebar corner. also the hdd cannot be upgraded as it is buried deep inside the machine.

Sony does not restock this machine (I bought 2 and they charged me $350 for restocking one) so make sure you know what you are buying.

Battery life is poor, nearly half of advertised. The regular battery is around 3 hours (average brightness and no sound on on speed mode - lower end graphics card). its 5 hours for the extended battery.

As someone else pointed out, the battery has a loose fitting too.

The integrated webcam is of 640x480-interpolated resolution. its crappier than my logitech which has a native resolution of 640x480.

Adapter is BIG, power cord (from wall to adapter) is very small.

Battery sign on the laptop does not work when the laptop is off and charging. It just blinks.

Screen is too delicate. You can literally twist it.

One single switch for wLAN and Bluetooth. Its a pain sometimes.

PROS: Supports Vista completely, light & does not produce a lot of heat.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Light and powerful, May 16, 2006

By 

Sandra M. Kim "sandy" (los angeles. ca USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Sony VAIO VGN-SZ120P/B 13" Laptop (Intel Core Duo Processor T2400, 1024 MB RAM, 100 GB Hard Drive, DVD+R Dbl Layer/DVD+/-RW Drive) (Personal Computers)

I got my laptop a little over a month ago, and I am very pleased with it.

People seem to be complaining about 3 things: battery life, keyboard, and battery "looseness". I tested out the battery life a couple times and it goes about 4-5 hours on stamina mode, pretty great if you ask me. TO make it last longer, I take the battery out when the power supply is plugged in. Also the keyboard? I like the largeness of the keys and how it spans the whole bottom panel. I think it's great. Also the "looseness" of the battery is something I had a concern about before I bought it, but it's NOTHING to worry about! You only notice that it wiggles a tiny bit if you try hard to move it. I wouldn't have noticed it if I hadn't heard so much about it.


Other things: the integrated camera is a great feature but not as clear as my desktop webcam. The fingerprint sensor is a cool tool too, and lets you automatically sign into secure websites (to check your mail, etc) very quickly. The only downside is that it isn't compatible with my browser of choice: firefox. Also a negative is the bulky power supply. I mean, what's the point of a superlight notebook if the power supply is going to still weight you down?


A huge negative that almost made me not buy the thing is the ancient speed of the DVD burner on this notebook. I mean, it's as slow as my 3 year old desktop! However, it does have the new double-layer disc burning capability, which I haven't been able to try yet because those things are expensive right now.


All in all, if you've got the money for it, go for it! I'm very satisfied with my purchase. It's very light for the size. The display is beautiful.