VIA Technologies and Everex Systems on October 26 unveiled the StepNote NC1500 notebook, the first Everex notebook to make use of the advanced VIA C7-M processor. Employing a 15.4-inch widescreen display with DiamondBrite Technology, built-in wireless LAN and DVD burner, the US$498 computer utilizes the VIA C7-M processor to provide ultra-low power consumption, advanced security features and 1.5GHz performance at a mere 12W peak power, according to the companies.
"Teaming up with VIA, Everex has been able to create an exciting new category of energy efficient portable computers," stated John Lin, vice president of sales for Everex.
With a shared commitment to developing energy-efficient, environmentally friendly products, the results of the collaborative effort is expected to aid users in reducing their overall electricity usage, resulting in a lower total cost of ownership.
According to the two companies, utilization of VIA Enhanced PowerSaver technology and VIA TwinTurbo allow the laptop to dynamically transition between intermediate power states, providing users with a 20% longer battery life than comparable systems.
| Key specifications of the StepNote NC1500 | |
| Item | Details |
| Processor | 1.5GHz VIA C7- M |
| Operating System | Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack 2 |
| Graphics | VIA UniChrome Pro with Chromotion CE Video Display Engine |
| Memory | 512MB DDR2 SDRAM (2 slots) |
| Hard disk drive | 60GB, 4200 PATA |
| Optical drive | DVD+/-RW with dual layer support |
| Display | 15.4" TFT, 1280×800 (WXGA) with DiamondBrite technology |
| LAN | 10/100 Ethernet |
| Wireless | IEEE 802.11b/g |
| I/O | (1) DB 15-Pin VGA, (3) USB 2.0 ports, (1) RJ45, (1) RJ-11, (1) headphone/line out, (1) microphone/line in |
| Battery | Lithium ion |
| Dimensions (W×D×H, inches) | 14.1×10.7×0.9-1.5 |
| Weight (lbs) | 5.3 |
| Suggested retail price | US$498 |
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Source: VIA, compiled by DigiTimes.com, October 2006