Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience for ThinkPads, Review and Video Overview
October 12, 2009
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Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience for ThinkPad’s
If you’ve been anxiously awaiting the release of Windows 7 then you’ll be pleased to hear the latest news from Lenovo. The company will soon begin offering customers what they call “the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience.”
Microsoft has been trying hard to reestablish their brand in the minds of consumers ever since the first version of Vista rolled off the assembly line and the company’s leaders have put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into making sure that the system is flawless. And Lenovo, to improve upon near-perfection, has completed a full optimization of the operating system for its machines.
The Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience features a number of upgrades to, and optimization of, the Windows 7 platform to give specific advantages to ThinkPad and IdeaPad users. Combine the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience with the imminent releases of the new ThinkPad T410, ThinkPad T510, ThinkPad SL410/510 and the ThinkPad X210 series, the Lenovo Thinkpad range is going to be difficult to beat in the Business notebook sector
Let’s take a look at what’s in store for users taking advantage of the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience.
Faster Start-Up/Shut-Down
The Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience makes sure that you can get to work right away.
The programmers at Lenovo have totally optimized the new speed capabilities of Windows 7 – which already has much faster start-up and shut-down times than the ancient Windows XP and the buggy Windows Vista – by optimizing hardware settings, reorganizing system files and by preventing the system from booting up unnecessary processes. The end result is readily apparent.
Measured against a non-optimized Windows 7 machine, start-up times were up to 33 percent faster and shut-down times were 50 percent faster, meaning that 10-minute start-up and shut-down times are a thing of the past.
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Windows 7 Advanced Entertainment and Graphics
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Equipped with DirectX10, digital audio, and the latest high-definition graphics technology, Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience machines offer unparalleled entertainment.
With the enhanced graphics cards and video decoders on the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience you can be sure that all of the high-definition video that you watch will be free of screen jitters and stutters. Combining this with the upgraded digital audio components provides absolutely seamless playback of even the most data-rich videos.
Gamers, too, will appreciate the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience since the operating system can make use of Aero Peek and Aero Flip, both of which create flawless transitions while playing advanced, graphic-intense 3D games.
Easy Restore/Repair
Both Windows XP and Windows Vista have had problems with backing-up data and setting system-restore points. Now you can rest assured – with the combination of Windows 7 backup and the Lenovo Rescue System 3.0 – that your data will be there when you need it.
The update also allows users to fix individually affected files and folders rather than having to revert the machine to point in the past, which means you won’t have to lose data like you would have previously.
Security
With an eye for business users, the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience offers extreme security of sensitive data. Specially enhanced ThinkPad machines will not only run faster, but they will also protect your data more effectively with the integrated multi-layered security processes.
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The front line of the new security features are the same as in the past. ThinkPad machines provide quick login and easy access to users with the built-in fingerprint reader, so you can forget about login passwords and remain confident that you will truly be the only person allowed access to your machine.
A new second layer of security is added in the form of the new Password Manager ThinkVantage Technology, which allows you and your company’s IT people to set individual passwords for hard drives and individual folders and files in a single location.
The technology also features a number of options for self-encrypting of your sensitive data in case someone should get through the first two layers of security.
Communication
The ThinkPad series is already a teleconferencing machine, with webcam’s and integrated microphones standard equipment, but now the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience ThinkPad provides users with a variety of new tools to ensure that they’re in constant communication with colleagues from anywhere in the world. With everything from wider integration of video and audio tools to streamlined conference programs, you’ll never be far from the action.
To support these communication tools, the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience gives users unprecedented connectivity options. Not only can ThinkPad owners use the already standard Wi-Fi and LAN connections, but they can also incorporate optimized 3G Mobile Broadband, Bluetooth 2.1 and 4G WiMax. And since Lenovo has made the most of Windows 7, there will be seamless transitions between connections depending on the availability of each method of access, so you won’t have to deal with annoying cut-outs and reconnection processes.
Touchscreen Optimization with Multi Touch and SimpleTap
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The new Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience will be most striking to users of the ThinkPad X200 tablet and the ThinkPad T400s; that’s because Windows 7 offers unrivaled touchscreen technology. With pressure-sensitive screens, ThinkPad tablets can now make use of a variety of simpler, more intuitive interactivity when they work with the Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience. Imagine an iPhone with a 14-inch screen and a dual-core processor and you’ll begin to understand.
The true advancements remain to be seen, but both Microsoft and Lenovo assure consumers that a new day has dawned in touch-screen technology.
The new Windows 7 Lenovo Enhanced Experience promises to bring both the superb ThinkPad and IdeaPad notebooks to the forefront of Windows 7 performance, so whether you’re a general-purpose user or an extreme business user, you’ll love what the company has to offer.
Windows & Lenovo Enhanced Experience Short Video Overview
Windows & Lenovo Enhanced Experience Review Video & Full Overview
Lenovo USB to DVI Monitor Adapter, up to 6 Screens – 1080p resolution!
October 5, 2009
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I don’t think there would be one of us that hasn’t at one time craved more space or Multiple screens on our ThinkPad, well, the new Lenovo USB to DVI Monitor Adapter cures that craving!
Or maybe you are in need of a DVI video connection, but find that your notebook has only VGA or HDMI? Well, you don’t need to worry. The new Lenovo USB-to-DVI Monitor Adapter – available for as little as $129 – will allow you to connect that DVI monitor to your notebook with a simple USB.
Similarly, desktop – or notebook – users without multiple monitor outputs now have the option of connecting multiple displays up to one machine, since the Lenovo USB-to-DVI adapter is actually a virtual video card based on DisplayLink’s virtual video card technology, that promises up to 1,920 x 1,200 WUXGA output – supporting 1080p High-Definition video – via a single USB connection..
Setup of the adapter is simple. All you have to do is install a small software package – included with the adapter – and you’re ready to go. Once you’re hooked up, the software utility allows you to completely control the monitor’s color, resolution, display settings, and more.
Also included in the packaging is an additional DVI-to-VGA converter plug which allows you to connect to nearly any display available.
For notebook users on-the-go, the Lenovo USB-to-DVI Monitor Adapter provides a quick and easy way to connect to larger monitors. It’s a great tool for those who make regular presentations or for those who need a larger visual space while on the road.
If you’re scheduled to make a presentation with a non-DVI notebook the Lenovo USB-to-DVI Monitor Adapter will have you covered if you encounter a DVI-only projector.
If you’re in the office and decide you need a bit more visual space in which to work, the Lenovo USB-to-DVI Monitor Adapter can give you the freedom you’re after. Just plug in your second – or third – monitor to the adapter and then plug them into your computer. With the Lenovo adapter you can work on up to six different displays simultaneously. (Note: Each display requires its own adapter.)
Entertainment/Media
With USB-to-DVI adapters of the past, attaching primary and secondary displays caused significant problems for users wanting to enjoy video since the enclosed video cards were poorly designed. Lenovo, however, has hit a home run with its adapter, which provides seamless playback of video at even the highest resolution.
Gaming
If you’re looking to game with the Lenovo USB-to-DVI Monitor Adapter then you may run into slight problems. Playing complex, graphics-intensive games on through the adapter tend to get slow during fast-action sequences when used at the high resolutions. However, this issue can be sidetracked by simply reducing the resolution of the display to around 1024 x 768.
The Lenovo USB to DVI 1080p Adapter is a superb way to add multiple screens to any notebook or desktop. The only real downside is the the more screens you add, the bigger CPU hit your going to take, so to really get the maximum benefit from the Lenovo USB to DVI Adapter and run 6 screens, you’ll need a fairly hefty processor.
Having said that however the Lenovo USB to DVI 1080p Adapter is a superb way to give yourself that extra screen real estate you’ve always wanted.
ThinkPad notebooks reduce Total Cost of Ownership for Enterprise, Small Business and Soloprenuer
September 22, 2009
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When is a notebook purchase not a commodity buy? When its a Lenovo ThinkPad!
If you want real value from your notebook purchase and real return delivered from Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), there is only really one choice, and that is ThinkPad.
We read an interesting article last week about the increasing trend towards treating notebook purchases as a commodity. Read more
Lenovo Thinkpad T400s – Stress testing with Matt Kohut and the DOW
June 23, 2009
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The recently introduced ThinkPad T400s which launched on the 23rd June has had some very extensive field and stress testing during its development.
One of the most amazing tests was to run over a ThinkPad T400s with a 26,000lb DOW truck, or ‘Doppler on Wheels Vehicle’ used by the CSWR and the National Severe Storms Laboratory. Read more
Lenovo and Absolute Computrace team up with the ThinkPad T400
February 7, 2009
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In a further drive to increase the security of mobile data and ‘on the go’ computing, Lenovo has announced that the ThinkPad T400 will be among the first notebook to ship with support for Intel® Anti-Theft PC Protection and Absolute Computrace technology built in.
<– Click to Redeem the latest ThinkPad T400 Coupon Code
The new optional services is now available from Lenovo as an option when you purchase a new ThinkPad T400.
Whilst we couldn’t get a firm commitment from Lenovo, the ThinkPad T500 and the SMB targeted SL Series are sure to follow. Read more
Lenovo ThinkPad USB Portable Secure Hard Drive, The Vault
February 5, 2009
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Lenovo’s ThinkPad USB Portable Secure Hard Drive. Lost laptops and data are becoming an escalating problem with the ever increasing portability of data, and the more we can protect it from prying eyes the better. It’s bad enough when you lose you precious Laptop, but when its actually stolen, it gets really bad.
We all like to take our files with us when we travel or quickly drag and drop files onto a portable Hard Drive to synchronize between home and office, and vice versa.
Whilst ThinkPad laptops have always been the most secure notebooks around, with fingerprint readers, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Chips) and now support for Intel® Anti-Theft PC Protection built in, what if your portable Hard Drive goes missing?
The new Lenovo ThinkPad USB Portable Secure Hard Drive, or the ‘Mobil Vault’ as Lenovo calls it, has a key code system to ensure that your data is protected at all times. Key in your number via the neat little keypad to access your data. The 128-bit advanced encryption security standard ensures your data remains secure, and real-time encryption means you don’t experience any ‘lag’ time whilst your data is being encrypted.
The ThinkPad USB Portable Secure Hard Drive has been specifically designed to give ThinkPad notebook owners the extra portable storage they need, without compromising security. Up to 10 users can have their own unique ID plus an admin account, so this is a great way to share data amongst colleagues, and the home and office.
The drive itself is powered from the USB port which eliminates the hassle of stuffing another power cord into your case. The High Speed USB 2.0 interface and cable makes transferring data simplicity itself and the cable stores neatly into the hard drive’s case.
The “Vault” is now available and the 160GB model is $179, while the 320GB is priced at $219.
At 3” by 5” it will slip away anywhere, even in the proverbial shirt pocket or purse! The Consumer Electronics Association recently awarded the ThinkPad USB Portable Secure Hard Drive the CES Innovations 2009 Design and Engineering Best of Innovations Award in the Computer Peripherals category.
If I am going on a trip, my Seagate 40GB drive always goes in my laptop bag but it’s long overdue for replacement so a ThinkPad USB Portable Secure Hard Drive will be my traveling companion from here on in.
If you carry data around with you, synchronise between offices or home, collaborate at work, the ThinkPad USB Portable Secure Hard Drive is a must have accessory.
ThinkPad T400 and T500 Keyboard Stiffness: Myth Busted
September 3, 2008
When we did our quick review of the ThinkPad T400 and T500 a couple of weeks back we were impressed by the usual outstanding build quality that this latest incarnation of the T Series displayed.
We were particularly impressed with the keyboard, which for us, has always been one of the most important features of any ThinkPad. Typing on a ThinkPad keyboard has always been a joy and it has been a feature that most other manufacturers just dont seem to be able to get close to.
In other words, ThinkPad keyboards are just the best of any notebook, period!
We started to get concerned when we saw posts appearing on several blogs that the keyboard on the new ThinkPad T400/T500 was not as good as previous models and had a lot of flex.
We just did not think this was true and it seems that David Hill from http://lenovoblogs.com/designmatters/ was also concerned. Well, he would be, he is one of the lead designers at Lenovo and has a hand in making sure that all is well with traditional ThinkPad values!
You can read David’s full post here, and it debunks the myth that the keyboard on the latest ThinkPad T series is not as good as the T61.
http://lenovoblogs.com/designmatters/?p=228
Thanks David, keep up the good work!
Lenovo Introduces SSD and Backlit LED’s on new ThinkPad’s
July 24, 2008
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SED and LED options for the new ThinkPad T400, T500, ThinkPad W500 and the New ThinkPad X200
Lenovo has announced several new full laptop ranges which will include SSDs (solid-state drives) as a storage option and LED backlit displays.
The new ThinkPad T400 may have an SSD option (soon as we have news we’ll let you know) but the ThinkPad T500 will have a 64 GB Solid State drive as an option and will also include an LED display Read more
How to refurbish an old IBM ThinkPad
July 14, 2008
A real quickie this one but just read a great post on the PCWorld Site about revitalizing an old laptop. Really super stuff and great for anybody who has a much loved older IBM ThinkPad and just wants to keep it because it works!
PC World Article ‘Revitalize an Aging Notebook on the Cheap’
Very often we can spend more than we need when a simple home refurb will suffice, or maybe you’ve bought a bargain from ebay and want to spruce it up?
Great article by Brian Nadel.
Lenovo ThinkPad R61 based Thin Client
June 20, 2008
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Lenovo ThinkPad R61 based Thin Client. Lenovo and Devon IT, the Pennsylvania Server Based Technology Company has teamed up to produce a thin client laptop.
Devon IT, Inc., an alternative desktop solution company and the fastest growing provider of thin client terminals, has announced the availability of the new SafeBook LVO, a mobile thin client laptop built on the Lenovo R61 ThinkPad. This is a bold move and collaboration by Lenovo and Devon is a pretty exciting development in the thin client world. Read more
