Toshiba Satellite A15-S129 Laptop (2.40-GHz Celeron, 256 MB RAM, 40 GB Hard Drive)

Although part of the entry-level Celeron line, the system's processor is nevertheless the most sophisticated mobile Celeron available, the 2.4 GHz model. Featuring a fast 400 MHz system bus clock speed and 256 MB Level 2 cache, this CPU is both fast and affordable. Accompanying the Celeron is 256 MB of RAM memory (expandable to 1024 MB) and an Intel 852GM graphics chipset with 32 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory. Accordingly, the Satellite A15-S129 can't be called upon for complex 3-D rendering, high-end games or ultra-demanding business environments. It is, however, perfectly satisfactory for standard word processing, database and spreadsheet activities, contact management, and Internet surfing.

Measuring 13 by 11.5 by 1.5 inches and tipping the scales at just 6.3 pounds, the Satellite A15-S129 is comparatively compact and comfortably lightweight. Under the hood you'll find such amenities as integrated stereo speakers, a full-size 85-key keyboard with 12 function keys and a TouchPad pointing device, an adequate 40 GB hard disk and a generous 15-inch active-matrix display (1024x768 maximum resolution). With the integrated DVD/CD-RW drive, you can burn and listen to audio CDs, archive files, and enjoy the latest Hollywood blockbusters. In this stock configuration, the unit does not permit DVD burning.

Connectivity options are plentiful but not particularly state-of-the-art. Though the system does feature two USB ports for plug and play peripherals, an integrated 56K modem and an RJ-45 LAN network port, it does not include high-speed USB 2.0 ports or a FireWire port (often used to link devices such as digital camcorders). Furthermore, wireless networking is available only as an option. Bundled software includes Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft Works and Intuit Quicken New User Edition 2003. Battery life is estimated at a commendable 3.13 hours.