This laptop also comes preinstalled with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, which includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center. In addition to easily playing your DVD movies and managing your digital audio library, you'll be able to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV). Vista also integrates new search tools throughout the operating system, includes new parental control features, and offers new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures.
The Basics
- Processor: The Intel Core Duo T2060 processor is built with the Mobile Intel 945PM Express chipset, and it has a 1.60 GHz processor speed, fast 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and 1 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.)
The Intel Core 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 is ready to support the next version of Microsoft Windows, code-named Vista. It can simultaneously 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. It's more efficient, thanks to Intel's Power Coordination and Deeper Sleep, which help to transfer power only to those areas of the processor that need it. It also features Intel's Digital Media Boost, which delivers enhanced performance on floating point-intensive applications such as CAD tools, 3-D and 2-D modeling, video editing, digital music, digital photography and gaming.
- Hard Drive: The 80 GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 RPM) has become the average size for notebook PCs. It provides enough capacity for storing documents, digital media files, and productivity software. This SATA hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to FireWire and USB 2.0.
- Memory: The 1 GB of built-in memory (PC4200, 533 MHz, DDR2 SDRAM, 2 x 512 MB) is a good start out of the box, but you'll want to maximize the 2 GB capacity of this machine to make your multimedia hum along.
- DVD/CD Drive: The double-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/-R, 8x for single layer DVD+RW, 6x for single layer DVD-RW, and 24x/16x for CD-R/RW. It reads DVD-ROM discs at 8x and CD-ROMs at 24x.
- Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a standard 86-key keyboard (2.5mm stroke and 19.05mm pitch) and electro-static two-button touchpad.
The 15.4-inch WXGA LCD offers Sony's XBRITE-ECO display technology and has a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. The widescreen display gives increases the width of the notebook's display while giving the computer the form factor of a smaller computer, so it takes up less space on your desk or in your briefcase Video is powered by the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950, which uses Intel Dynamic Video Memory Technology (DVMT) and provides up to 224 MB of total graphics memory from the system memory. Audio is powered by Sony's Sound Reality audio enhancer.
Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
This notebook has an integrated Atheros 54g wireless LAN that's fully compatible with 802.11b/g wireless networks. It also includes a next-generation ExpressCard/34 card slot (though no PCMCIA card 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 connection 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
- 1 ExpressCard/34 slot
- 1 VGA monitor out
- Stereo headphones/speakers/line-out
- Microphone/line-in
- Memory Stick slot (supports optional Memory Stick and Memory Stick DUO media with MagicGate functionality)
- Secure Digital memory card slot (also compatible with MMC cards)
Operating System
Windows Vista Home Premium 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 to your favorite WiFi hotspot.
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
Includes Sony Click to DVD (for easy DVD creation), Microsoft Works, Microsoft Office 2007 Student and Teacher Edition (60-day trial), Symantec Norton Internet Security 2007 (with 60 days of Live Update).
Dimensions & Weight
This notebook measures 14.4 x 10.5 x 1.6 inches (WxDxH) and weighs 6.8 pounds.
Power
It's powered by the VGP-BPS2A/S rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which has a battery life of between 3.5 and 5.5 hours (depending on usage).
What's in the Box
This package contains the VGN-N220E/B notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, and operating instructions. It is backed by a on
e-year limited hardware warranty, and Sony offers 1-year of toll-free telephone technical assistance.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
This notebook features Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, a version of Microsoft’s latest operating system, that has built-in features to increase your productivity and enhance your enjoyment of creative and entertainment applications. Windows Media Center allows you to enjoy all of your digital media in one location – in your living room on your TV. The brand-new Aero desktop is more than just a new 3D interface. For example, Flip 3D is a new and unique way of browsing through open programs. You see images of each program and can cycle through them with your mouse’s scroll wheel. You also get Windows Mobility Center for a one-stop location to your laptop’s mobile device settings, and Windows Meeting Space, which allows you to simultaneously collaborate on file from anywhere. Combining this functionality with powerful hardware, this notebook has what you need to compute in style when you’re on the road. Dual Layer DVD Writer – (write speeds) up to 4x DL DVD-R, 4x DL DVD+R, 5x DVD-RAM, 8x DVD-/+R, 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 24x CD-R, & 16x CD-RW Dual Layer DVD Writer – (read speeds) up to 8x DVD-ROM & 24x CD-ROM Multimedia Card Reader – supports Memory Stick(R) PRO and Memory Stick(R) PRO Duo with MagicGate ExpressCard 34 Slot 15.4 Widescreen LCD with XBRITE-ECO Technology Native Resolution – 1280×800 Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 with 224MB of shared memory (memory is shared with the main system) Ports – 10/100 Ethernet, 1 VGA Out, 1 Headphone Out, 1 4-pin Firewire, 1 Secure Digital (SD), 1 Microphone In, & 2 USB 2.0 Integrated 56k Fax Modem Integrated 802.11b/g Wi-Fi Wireless LAN Adapter Includes – lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, Windows Vista Home Premium, Microsoft Works 8.5 (60-day trial), Norton Internet Security 2007 (60-day trial), & more Unit Dimensions – 14.4 (w) x 1.6 (h) x 10.5 (d) Unit Weight – 6.5 lbs.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Betty
2007-02-10
I purchased this laptop as a replacement for my 5 year old Dell, which died n me suddenly, as I was getting ready to head out of town for a series of meetings. Having already been using Vista Easy Transfer and OneCare backups for several months, getting my settings onto the new laptop was a breeze, and I was up and running in just a couple of hours (with all files right where I left them no less).
I have noticed that the Vaio is considerably faster than my old Dell, and with the dual core processor, it very seldom maxes out the resources, even while browsing the web, reading email, building a spreadsheet, and modifying CAD drawings all at the same time (usually in to 35-60% range). It runs very quiet and cool. The screen is bright and clear. I also love the clean lines and lack of all those “helpful” shortcut buttons that seem to be popping up on every surface of laptops these days.
Three minor problems… The hard drive is a bit small at 80 GB, but easily rectified with an external USB/Firewire drive. I’ve gotten used to and prefer a 1680 x 1050 display at 15.4″, and this is only 1280 x 800. I can live with that. The speakers are a little on the quiet side, and distort very easily, but… they are built in laptop speakers. All of these add up to one star deduction. Overall, a very solid, good-looking, and well-performing laptop.
Edit (4/5/07) – Some people have mentioned a problem with seemingly random back paging in the web browser. This is a feature of the ALPS touchpad called “web Assistant”, and can be turned off. The area of sensitivity for the Web Assistant is right where your thumb is likely to brush the touchpad while typing, and therefore pretty much a pain, but is a problem with the ALPS driver, not Vista or Sony. On the Control Panel, go to Mouse Properties, and open it. Then, click on the “Function” tab. Uncheck the box next to “Use Web Assistant”, and then Apply and OK. You should not have the backpage problem anymore.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Mark
2007-03-20
i got two of these, and they both have the same glitches, but i don’t know if they are coming from vaio or vista? the pages turn back by themselves, OFTEN, and when they do, whatever you have been writing disappears forever. it seems like a weird version of timing out. i think that might be a vaio problem, because our old vaio does its own clicks sometimes too. it’s annoying and frustrating tho, and you lose a lot of text.
the volume on the speakers is low only.
there is no word processing program included that works, no pun.
the free trials interfere with your own programs.
wireless only has two bars, sometimes one, and that’s not a problem with our non-vaio computers using the same connection.
the microsoft picture editing software included is good, and simple. no need for bought software or software that came with your camera.
the interesting new low-charge standby mode is useful and pleasant.
it has win-dvd, which works, but–
the escape key on my keyboard doesn’t work at all, ever, (!) and i have to shut down the computer completely to get a movie off the full screen.
there are only two usb ports, but you don’t need one for pics anymore, and there are two picture card ports.
i can’t watch videos on the internet for more than three seconds without their freezing up.
sometimes the computer gets confused, freezes, and jumps around the internet. also, i can’t escape once there is a problem with freezing or stuttering because the escape key really doesn’t work, neither does ctrl/alt/delete.
i got these to replace my two young hps, which were complete crap, and i chose vaio because we have a very old vaio that still runs. even with everything wrong with the new vaios, they are not as bad as the hps, they are better-looking, and they were around half the price i paid for the hps about a year ago.
i will probably buy external hard drives for these, and hope vista will send me patches for some of my stranger problems, but i think you could do worse than this vaio (you could obviously do better, also.) the battery is not showing any bad symptoms of overheating or other fatal things to come.
…it has back-paged several times while i was writing this;
…it makes editing nearly impossible, because you don’t know which draft you’re looking at;
…shopping online is harder too;
…picture uploading is smooth.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Linda
2007-03-28
This is our first laptop so I don’t have anything to compare it to. As the previous review stated, I also was wondering if the back paging while moving the arrow to the left on the screen was due to a Vista or Vaio problem, but I assumed it was Vaio’s touchpad. I agree that it is frustrating when you’re typing an email or review, etc. and you move your arrow across the screen to the left and it just decides to take you back a page before you even click on anything…and usually when you go back forward your text is gone! SOOO FRUSTRATING!
BUT that is the only problem we’ve had with it and I don’t know if that’s major as far as laptops go or not. I contacted Sony about it and they had me try reinstalling drivers, adjusting tap and touch sensitivity, and this and that, (didn’t work) and now they want me to do a system recovery, I haven’t even had it for a month and we just got all our stuff on here! I’m just learning how to maneuver the arrow across the bottom of the screen so it doesn’t flip the pages back as easily, but it still does it sometimes right when you get confident that it’s not going to.
Otherwise it’s a good laptop, looks good, runs good and easy to figure out.
***EDITED 5/26/2007***
Thank you David A. Dunlap for the solution to the back paging problem! Very simple solution that worked! Unbelievable that Sony doesn’t know the solution when you contact them with this problem though. Make sure to read David’s review or his comment in my review if you want to fix the dreaded back paging problem. Thank you!
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Helen
2007-03-24
It’s a Sony Vaio, creat look excellent proccesor and cool features
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Charles
2007-03-29
Great computer for the Price……..much better then the Dell laptop I have and costs about the same……Sony….the one and only!!!
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Mark
2007-05-02
I recently bought this and its my first Laptop, I actually like this Vaio a lot. Nice screen, not too heavy, EXCELLENT PRICE, nice speed & memory and multiple options to play with. The only problem is that without warning the screen goes to the previous page and am not sure what to do with that.
otherwise I think its wonderful machine for its price, come on “ITS A SONY”…
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Betty
2007-09-02
This is a handsome laptop with lots of functionality, but the speakers
can barely be heard – even at full volume. Whats worse, is the sound
is terribly distorted at full volume, forcing one to find a balance
somewhere between crummy sound and no sound.
Great for the library, but don’t plan on watching DVD’s or
playing mp3’s on this unit.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Betty
2007-04-18
I waited for a long time to find a notebook that was affordable and delivered the performance I wanted at a decent price. The VAIO delivers!
For my type of computing, which involves writing, spreadsheets, graphics, photography and web browsing, the specs are fine with the possible exception of the hard drive size (80 gigs of storage is a little skimpy for some). But when you can easily augment the onboard hard drive with a USB external drive, what difference does it make?
The biggest asset here is the 15.4″ display, in a word used by another reviewer, AWESOME! Even better, I’ve plugged my old display into the video port, using it to extend my desktop across both monitors. That’s seriously nice when I’m working with a spreadsheet and I want to still have my browser easily viewable.
Since I’m touting the price and value of this notebook, I would recommend pairing it up with a Kensington 33244 Notebook Docking Station with USB, Ethernet, and Parallel Ports (PC). Again, there might be some sacrifice of glitzy bells and whistles, but you’ll get solid performance from the combination.
Once other nice benefit, there is a small SD card slot that you can use to move pictures from your camera to PC just by slipping the card in. That’s a big benefit over hooking up the USB cable and powering up the camera.
I’m still getting used to the Vista operating system and it’s little quirks, but I love the overall package.
May 20th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
By Mark
2007-11-26
Terrific computer. Never used a Sony before but this is a real quality machine without all the special buttons for things you would never use. Buying a refurbished one is really no different than buying a new one with the exception of the price. Very happy.