Acer Unveils 'Arrandale' Laptops, 3D Compatible

From Tom's Hardware: Last week at CES 2010, Acer introduced two "Arrandale" laptops that will be equipped with Intel's new HM55 chipset and 32nm Core i3, i5, and i7 processor options. The Aspire AS5740 model will feature a 15.6-inch 1366 x 768 LCD, whereas the Aspire AS7740 will offer a 17.3-inch 1600 x 900 LCD. Both can be expanded up to 8 GB of RAM, and offer 802.11n Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet networking.

Strangely enough, it's the smaller notebook that receives the potent injection of high definition graphics with the installment of AMD's Mobility Radeon HD 5650 GPU. The model is also compatible with TriDef's 3D software, developed to crank out stereoscopic 3D versions of pictures, movies, and PC games. According to Register Hardware, Acer didn't specify if consumers will need to purchase shutter glasses separately, or if the specs come with the notebook. Either way is fine if the software can pull off some groovy 3D visuals.

Although the laptops weren't available for hands-on evaluations during the show, HEXUS reports that the AS5740 base-model will feature a 2.26 GHz Intel Core i5-430M processor, 4 GB or RAM, a 500 GB HDD, and the ATI GPU with 1 GB of VRAM. This model's 4400mAh battery supposedly provides around four hours of battery life, and is also reported to start around $749.99 USB, offering various customizable options.

The $480 USB 17.3-inch AS7740 base-model, on the other hand, isn't quite as meaty, offering a slower 2.13 GHz Core i3-330M processor, 4 GB or RAM, integrated Intel graphics (Intel GMA HD), a 500 GB HDD, and a Blu-ray drive supported by the higher 1600 x 900 LCD. Acer's six-cell battery also claims to provide up to four hours of battery life.This model will also offer customization to meet the consumer budget and needs.

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