Gateway’s new netbook utilizes AMD/ATI, a system not common in today’s market. The 1.2 GHz single core AMD CPU may seem insignificant at first glance, but it is actually much more advanced than the 1.6 GHz Atom in many ways – including its 64-bit capability. The new Gateway LT3103u/LT3114u is definitely expected to be a top competitor in the market – its reasonable price of $400 and its large 11.6 inch display are qualities that will not go unnoticed. In addition, its revolutionary processor, 2 GB of RAM, and 250 GB hard disk further accentuates its appeal. By now, I’m sure you are intrigued, because we felt the exact same way when we were first introduced to the Gateway LT3100 series of netbooks. In particular, its unique specs were what attracted us to the product in the first place. The LT3100 series comes equipped with Windows Vista due to the restrictions set by the XP OEM installations, which does not allow systems that are sized 1 GB or more. If you don’t mind waiting for Windows 7, it would be wise to do so because it is more compatible with low-end systems in comparison to Windows Vista.
The Gateway LT3103 weighs 3.14 pounds and measures about an inch thick. Thus, it is one of the most portable, compact, yet powerful netbooks that are currently available. Additional extras include standard features such as Wi-Fi 802.11b/g (not draft-n), Ethernet, and a VGA port that would allow connection to an external monitor or T.V. Although it does not come with a HDMI port, it is understandable for its economic price. A webcam is also included with the package, which is the case for all netbooks of the Gateway LT3100 series.
Most netbook users have problems feeling cramped with their tiny, low resolution displays, but the Gateway LT is equipped with a 11.6 inch screen and a HD capable 1,366 by 768 resolution. Additionally, its improved graphics capabilities make the Gateway LT one of the best netbooks to use for High-resolution graphics. In contrast to Atom-run netbooks, the Gateway LT has the ability to handle HD in a much more efficient fashion. Its “Ultrabright” screen (LED) boasts a ratio of 16 to 9, proclaiming the Gateway LT3103 as one of the best netbooks in the market for a high-performance multimedia experience.
In addition, the Gateway LT3103 is supported by integrated ATI Radeon X1270 Graphics, a revolutionary system that is capable of taking netbook graphics to another level. Although it’s not as impressive as a gaming GPU, it should be noted that it can outperform the Intel GMA950 – which is the utilized by almost 99 percent of most other netbooks. These advanced features are likely to consume a lot of power, but its 6-cell battery takes care of that minor issue. It can last up to five hours, which is pretty good taking into account its 64-bit CPU and enhanced graphics card.
At $400, the Gateway LT3103 is a presence to be reckoned with. Its 64 bit AMD single core CPU is a new concept in the netbook world and will thus be a fresh alternative to the Atom processor that is used by nearly every other netbook in the market.
Processor: AMD Athlon™ 64 L110 Single-Core Processor (1.2GHz, 800MHz FSB, 512KB L2 Cache)5
Operating System: Genuine Windows Vista® Home Basic (32-bit) with SP1
Display: 11.6″ HD WXGA Ultrabright™ LED-backlit Display (1366 x 768 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio)6
Memory: 2048MB DDR2 533MHz SDRAM Single Channel Memory7
Hard Drive: 250GB SATA hard drive2
Color: Classic and Elegant Design with Nightsky Black finish
Wireless Network: 802.11b/g Wi-Fi CERTIFIED®3
Adapter: AC Adapter
Application Software: Microsoft® Works, Microsoft® Money Essentials, Microsoft® Office Home and Student 2007 (60-day complimentary trial period)1
Battery: 6-Cell Lithium Ion (5200mAh)
Chassis: Chassis with ATI Radeon® X1270 Graphics and AMD RS690E Chipset7
Dimensions: (Box) 3.1″ (H) x 14.8″ (W) x 10.1″ (D) or 80mm (H) x 376mm (W) x 256mm (D)
Dimensions: (System) 1.03″ (H) x 11.26″ (W) x 7.99″ (D) or 26.4mm (H) x 286mm (W) x 203mm (D)
External Ports: (3) USB 2.0, VGA Connector
Keyboard and Mouse: Keyboard with Multi-Gesture Touchpad
Media Card Reader: Multi-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader (Memory Stick®, Memory Stick Pro™, MultiMediaCard, Secure Digital™, xD-Picture Card™)
Network 10/100: Ethernet LAN (RJ-45 port)
Security Software: Norton Internet Security™ 2009 (60-day trial) & Gateway Recovery Management4
Sound: High-Definition Audio Support, Built-In speakers, Microphone, Headphone (with Dolby® Headphone Technology)/Speaker/Line-Out Jack9
Web Camera: 0.3 Megapixel Integrated Webcam
Weight: 3.04 lbs. (1.38 kg) system unit only / 3.93 lbs. (1.78 kg.) box