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Review Dell Precision M4600 Notebook

Workstations are viewed by many users as the elite class of mobile notebooks, since they possess high performance reserves and good features, as well as satisfying other aspects such as upgradability, reliability and compatibility, to a certain extent. Dell UD535 A long availability of replacement parts, guaranteed software compatibility, generous warranty periods, and support services are also provided by the manufacturers, even if at a nice premium though. It should therefore come as no surprise that the basic version already costs in excess of 1000 Euros after tax.

Alone the configuration possibilities in the Dell online shop are already surprisingly elaborate, and cover a large number of individual requirements. Six different dual-core and quad-core CPUs, four displays, and three graphics cards are available for selection. With a slightly adjusted configuration the 2000 Euro mark can quickly be reached, especially since even smaller features such as a webcam and a backlit keyboard require an additional expense. Dell TD612 More affordable and better equipped models are partially preconfigured, and are available from various online retailers. Our reviewed model represents one of the higher performance configurations, and provides an Intel Core i7-2920XM CPU, Nvidia Quadro 2000M graphics, 256 GB Solid State Drive, Blu-ray, Full HD display, and much more which we will elaborate on in this review. The price however already lies at over 3000 Euros after tax, and underscores the premium demands associated with it. Dell TD611

The case, as has already been mentioned, has been completely renewed and doesn't have anything in common with the predecessor model Precision M4500, with the exception of many good features. What stands out is the metallic exterior with an unusual umber brown color scheme. The adopted materials altogether make a robust and high quality impression, although the work area surfaces are made of plastic. There aren't any shortcomings in this area though. Dell TD429 The palm resting area is firm, the gaps are even, and the surface feels pleasant. The same is true to a similar extent for the display lid, which can be warped a little with some force, but also makes a very robust impression. The back of the lid can be dented a little, but changes on the display are not generated as a result. The display hinges are more rigid than usual, and can be operated in both directions with one hand. The battery integrated into the front also assists in this case, since it provides for the necessary counterweight under the palm resting area. Dell KD186

However, the battery is also responsible for the first real point of criticism, since this sits relatively loosely in the case, and in addition contains one of the four feet. If the battery is removed the case is no longer stable and dips down towards the front right. Otherwise the base unit is very firm due to the omission of any maintenance panels. This has the disadvantage though that the whole base plate or the keyboard have to be removed in order to exchange or upgrade components. Dell HD438 To reach the mass storage for example seven screws have to be removed. There is no exchange shaft for quick swapping of drives. We also found the rigid power cable which stands out towards the back unpractical, since this always necessitates a certain gap at the back of the notebook.

The measured weight of our reviewed device is approximately 3.2 kg, which is relatively heavy for a 15" notebook. Other than this the dimensions of 376 (W) x 256 (D) x 36.5 (H) mm also exceed the usual by several millimeters. The bulky overall impression is however created by the omission of curved surfaces on the case, which at least provide for an optically slim impression on many competitor models. Dell CGR-B-6E1XX

Performance

Our configuration of the Dell Precision M4600 definitely has high performance components. Intel's Core i7-2920XM quad-core CPU is currently the third fastest mobile CPU (see our comprehensive CPU benchmark list), and the Nvidia Quadro 2000M belongs among the most powerful professional graphics chips, which is optimized for use with CAD software. There is therefore no need for concern when it comes to worrying about a lack of performance from this workstation. Dell 312-0416 What is also outstanding are the RAM possibilities: In altogether four sockets the quad-core variants can address up to 32 GB of DDR3 RAM. Models with the dual-core CPU in contrast have to make due with 16 GB. In our reviewed model the two sockets under the base plate are fitted with two 4 GB modules, and both of the slots under the keyboard were empty. There is hence still more than enough room for upgrade potential. Dell 312-0366

Since the full graphics performance is not always required, the system can use the Intel HD Graphics 3000 graphics core integrated into the processor during times of low graphics load instead of the Quadro-GPU, thanks to Nvidia's Optimus technology. The best graphics processor for the particular task can be chosen either automatically or manually. Optimus can be deactivated in the BIOS, following which only the Nvidia graphics are available. We only tried this briefly, and didn't carry out any performance tests. Dell 0XD184

The CPU benchmark results provide the expected outstandingly good scores. Cinebench R10 Multi-CPU Rendering for example results in 20651 points, and the wPrime-1024m calculation is completed after 274 seconds. This shows that above all else multi-core applications profit from the high performance of the i7-2920XM CPU. Since the difference compared to the significantly more affordable Intel Core i7-2820QM CPU (Thinkpad W520) is however relatively small, only performance enthusiasts are likely to opt for the variant in our reviewed model. Dell PU556

For the processing of displayed images Dell provides a choice of three dedicated graphics chips: ATI FirePro M5950, Nvidia Quadro 1000M and Nvidia Quadro 2000M. The latter is included in the reviewed model, and represents the most expensive and thus also the most powerful variant. The ATI solution is not compatible with the IPS RGB Full HD display though. Dell WR053

The GPU benchmark results are convincing, and rank more or less between those from an AMD Radeon HD 5850 and Nvidia GTX 460M. 6659 points with 3D Mark Vantage, 1421 points with 3D Mark 11, and 38.44 points with Cinebench R11 OpenGL shading speak for good performance capabilities.

Dell 312-0567 The performance only varies marginally depending on whether the notebook is used with the power connected and the battery attached, or with the power connected without the battery attached. A few points more or less here or there are also scored following successive iterations of benchmarks under identical conditions. A clearly noticeable performance reduction when battery powered becomes apparent when it comes to the graphics performance though. Dell 0WR053 Under these conditions the GPU clock speed reduces to a mere 202 MHz, and provides up to 70% less performance with graphics intensive applications. The setting 'prefer maximum performance' in the Nvidia graphics driver doesn't improve this either. When it comes to the CPU performance we weren't able to detect a similar behavior. In addition there was no CPU throttling during the test. The AC adapter is sufficiently rated, and the good ventilation prevents any potential thermal problems. Dell PU563

Battery Life

Dell generally provides three different batteries for the Precision M4600. The online shop currently only allows the workstation to be equipped with the small 60 Wh battery though. Our reviewed device used the 97 Wh battery (143 Euros, 451-11742), and a further 87 Wh battery (132 Euros, 451-11744) is currently only available as an accessory or from other online retailers in preconfigured models. Dell 312-0543

The measured power consumption with the power connected spans from a minimum of 12.3 Watts to 104 Watts with a medium load, up to a maximum of 156.7 Watts with a full load. This power can be provided by the 180 Watt AC adapter at all times. Throttling due to a too low rated AC adapter, such as for example with the Lenovo ThinkPad X220 or the Apple MacBook Pro, wasn't detected by us. Bttery for Dell 2G218

The battery life is fortunately very good during use with moderate power consumption when carrying out tasks with a low load thanks to the very high capacity battery. During the Battery Eater Readers Test (minimum display brightness, Dell Maximum Battery Life, all wireless modules disabled) we reached a maximum battery life of 646 minutes. With an adjusted brightness (level 7, 200 cd/m²), enabled wireless modules, and using the power saving plan, we were able to surf the web for about 418 minutes and movies lasted for just over 5 hours with the full brightness. Bttery for Dell 2G248 During the Battery Eater Classic Test (maximum performance, everything enabled, maximum display brightness) the battery lasted for 73 minutes, whereby the clock speed reduction of the GPU when battery powered also played a part in achieving the relatively good battery life.

Verdict

Dell Precision M4600

The system noise is not only very low for a professional device of this type, but also ensures that the Precision M4600 is generally one of the especially quiet notebooks despite high performance components. This is made possible thanks to Nvidia Optimus, a successful cooling system, and the almost completely quiet SSD. Bttery for Dell 2N135

The fact that this success doesn't come at the expense of the heat generated or the performance capabilities is a further aspect that speaks in favor of quality of the Dell Precision. The test results are on a very elevated level, and also remain stable during consistent load. While the CPU performance makes an impact in all areas, the professional Nvidia Quadro graphics chip can show its strengths with CAD applications. Bttery for Dell 312-0022 Small disadvantage: When battery powered, the graphics performance is reduced.

The display provides many positive characteristics, and belongs among the above average variants that are currently available for notebooks. Very bright, with good contrast, and a matte display surface - all features that are tarnished by the uneven illumination of the display, which can become noticeable depending on the application area.

Smaller limitations such as the difficult to reach internal components, or the missing module shaft, can be overlooked in light of the exemplary selection of interfaces and the configuration possibilities. Bttery for Dell 461-7299

The only really detrimental disadvantage of our reviewed configuration is the enormously high price of currently about 3800 Euros. With some omissions and a well selected configuration it is however also possible to take advantage of many of the advantages with a more affordable assembly, and to make a high performance entry into the world of workstations. Bttery for Dell 6P848

A good alternative to Dell's online shop is meanwhile also provided by the usual notebook retailers, who have attractive affordable models that have been thoroughly tested.

Review Sony S1 SGP-T111DE/S Tablet

When Sony makes an attempt at a new product, it tries to capture the aura of both uniqueness and surprise in hardware, plastic and commercials. So it has happened with the Sony tablet, which is not sold under the sub-branding "Vaio", but under the trademark "Sony". Bttery for Dell 7F948

If "Vaio" stands for notebooks, "Bravia" for televisions and "PlayStation" for gaming consoles, why is there no "Tabea" or "Bronko" for the new category of tablet PCs? The marketing as "Sony Tablet" could be seen as the high rank that the Japanese ascribe to the tablets. But it's more likely that the brand awareness "Sony" is to be directly radiated on the tablet. Later, when the tablet sales figures bear fruit and the products vary (screen sizes, application fields, etc.), an own brand might be created. Bttery for Dell 8F871

Sony is well-advised with carefully entering the tablet market. The early adopters among the customers, excluding those who are already iPad fans, have equipped themselves with an Optimus Pad, a Motorola Xoom or a Samsung Galaxy Tab. These iPad alternatives have been available since the fall of 2010.

The Sony S range now encounters a matured tablet market split up between Android and Apple iOS. WebOS has disappeared from the market in the meantime. A deterrent example, that subsequently reinforced Sony's decision for Android (here 3.1). Had Sony developed its own tablet OS so late in the day, it would have quickly placed the S series on the sidelines. Bttery for Dell A5534524

We would like to present the Sony Tablet S and its hardware and software, and answer the question: Is it just another Android tablet or a fresh alternative to the "established" tablets.

We have to admit: Sony's search for a unique tablet form was worthwhile. It doubtlessly wasn't easy to plant the unexciting tablet size, 9.4 inches here, into an unprecedented shape. The chassis has been inspired by a folded over magazine. The unsymmetrical form jams like a wedge between the fingers and offers plenty of room for different and thus varied holding positions. The picture is tilted according to the position. Bttery for Dell BAT3151L6

The Sony S is entirely made of plastic, but is very stable and firm. The battery is built-in as usual, but not soldered. We couldn't resist and removed the many screws and covers to take out the battery. The first and most important step is to remove the two screws beneath the glued feet. On the way to the battery, we noticed the stable plastic cage that provides a good torsional stiffness as a screen substructure in association with the mounting plate (comparatively heavy). We wouldn't recommend taking the device apart. The battery is the only part that can be exchanged. Bttery for Dell BATACY13C8

The 591 gram Sony S isn't extraordinarily light in comparison to other tablets. An iPad 2 (9.7 inch, 601 grams) is almost just as heavy, but has a lighter power adapter (95 grams rather than 139 grams). The LG Optimus Pad V900 (8.9 inch, 623 grams) weighs a bit more. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1v (10.1 inch, 574/65 grams) weighs slightly less and has an extremely light power adapter. Bttery for Dell BATACY13L8

Overall, we find the tablet comfortable to hold. The 9.4 inch device is very pleasant to hold because of the recesses on the sides. It gives the fingers a non-slip grip everywhere. The glossy, dotted flipside resists fingerprints quiet well, unlike the glossy screen surface that - like unfortunately common for tablets - accumulates a sea of greasy fingerprints. The power button is easy to find and only the adjacent volume controls need a bit of practice. Bttery for Dell BATCY13L8

Battery Life

We measure the Sony S1's power consumption with a voltmeter that is plugged into the tablet's 30 watt power adapter. The battery was fully charged for all measurements. The S1 needs 3.1 to 6 watts in idle. This is quite a vast range that is very close to the load power consumption of 6.3 watts. That is a typical rate for Tegra 2 systems: LG V900 (7.0w), Galaxy Tab 10.1 (8.2w), Motorola Xoom (6.3w). Bttery for Dell MCY13

Striking and relevant for practical use is the comparatively high standby consumption of 1.6 watts. On the other hand, the Motorola Xoom (0.1w) is very economic. The consumption of a Galaxy Tab 10.1 (0.6w) and an LG V900 (0.15w) is also still reasonable. The result of this "leakage" current was that the battery capacity dropped from 75 to 69% within seven hours of standby. Bttery for Dell 1G222

An 18.5 Wh lithium ion battery is responsible for the battery life of up to just under seven hours. This capacity is very low compared with other tablets: iPad2 (25 Wh), Acer Iconia Tab (35 Wh), Motorola Xoom (24.5 Wh). The thus determined battery life turns out poor in comparison. The S1 manages 5:30 hours in the mixed test (WLAN test) at medium brightness. This test is a mix of website browsing and watching video clips. The Galaxy Tab 10.1v (9:35) leaves all others far behind in this test. The LG V900 (7:15), iPad2 (7:30) and Motorola Xoom (7:26) also last longer. Bttery for Dell BAT3151L8

The S1 proves to be a bit more frugal when playing a video clip (DVD test). 6:28 hours are possible when the wireless modules are disabled. The stress test was comprised of a video loop (720 p), a large number of opened games, as well as the maximum brightness in the case of S1. The Sony tablet is drained after 3:52 hours.

Verdict

Bttery for Dell W0391 With the S1, Sony has a tablet in its range that can keep up with the best Android tablets on the market. Multitasking with Tegra 2 is fast and even stays stable with dozens of opened apps. Honeycomb's multi-touch functionality is fun to use and the Android market, respectively Tegra Zone, offers (increasing) loads of applications and games.

Thus, the S1 meets the expectations that we place on tablet PC based on Android - and is capable of more. The color and viewing angle strong IPS screen is very bright. The display is only marred by reflections in sunlight. Bttery for Dell 312-0148 The small, yet light case's mobility has a shortcoming in terms of battery life. 5:30 hours are a long time for notebooks, but a good tablet should last for 7:30 up to nearly 10 hours (WLAN test). The competition makes this possible.

The full size SD card reader seems to be praiseworthy (not MicroSD!). Unfortunately, the benefit of an additional memory of up to 32 GB is minor because videos and music can't be played from the SD directly. These files first have to be copied onto the small internal memory (16 GB). Bttery for Dell 312-0106

Finally, there is the price of 479€ for Sony's S tablet WiFi (16 GB). It is even competitive because the adversaries demand just about as much. Motorola's Xoom is available for starting at 450€, just like Apple's iPad 2. The Galaxy Tab 10.1, currently not available in German retail because of the Apple lawsuit, was available for 450€. Even the Eee Pad Slider with a built-in keyboard is available for starting at 499€. Bttery for Dell X0968

If the best possible battery life is not an issue, the buyer is well advised with the Sony S tablet. The customer can get the Android feeling from other manufacturers, but none of the cases have such a unique form.