Thinkpad

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If you're in the market for an ultralight IBM ThinkPad, the X40 model is definitely worth looking at. This is an upgraded version of IBM's earlier ThinkPad, the X31. Despite the fact that the X40 doesn't come with any optical drives or FireWire technology, it offers an efficient suite of options for people who need to work while commuting.

Bear in mind that this laptop shouldn't be your primary computer. It's meant for the road. It is extremely lightweight, at only 2.7 pounds, and it contains a number of exciting features which you need on the road, including a solid audio card, a decent modem, a full 256 MB of RAM, and an Intel Pentium M 1.0 GHz processor. The system has only 20 GB on the hard drive, so you won't get to store a tremendous amount of data on it--but again, it's not designed to be used as a data bank.

A great feature about the ThinkPad X40 is that is extremely strong. Unlike plastic laptops, this machine can handle a real beating. Even the most cautious traveler drops his or her laptop now and again. The ThinkPad X40 should be able to brush off such physical abuse with ease. Best of all, batteries are built to last; you won't run out in the middle of an assignment unless you're careless and forget to recharge.

Its titanium housing, easy-type keypad, and light weight all make the X40 ThinkPad an excellent investment. For something more solid and permanent, consider either the ThinkPad T43--it comes with a 60 GB hard drive and 512 MB RAM--or the ThinkPad T40, which is a responsive, battle-tested machine. In any event, you can always access IBM's customer service if any problems arise; this company has taken pains to build a reputation for responsive service.