The key specifications of this highly portable 915 chipset (Sonoma) Centrino machine include a 2GHz Intel Pentium M processor, an 80GB hard disk and a multiformat DVD writer.

What's interesting is that Z71A's 512MB of memory is DDR--not DDR2 like most Sonoma-based notebooks. Additionally, this Sonoma notebook employs embedded Intel graphics. When the system's main RAM configuration is 512MB, as it is here, the 915GM chipset graphics controller can borrow up to 64MB for graphics.

The Intel graphics controller scored 4128 in 3DMark 2001SE--not a particularly good result. The notebook had a decent battery life in our test, however: 80 minutes in a worst-case scenario.

The 15.4" display supports a maximum resolution of 1200 x 800.

The Z71A's design should easily accommodate most tasks you throw at it. Peripherals such as printers, digital cameras and MP3 players can all be connected via the five high-speed USB 2.0 slots while a FireWire connection is also provided for digital video cameras, external hard disks and more.

Further peripherals can be added via the one Type II PC Card or single PC ExpressCard slot. On the networking side of things, you receive standard 10/100 Ethernet and 56Kbps modem connections in addition to built-in 802.11a/b/g wireless networking.

Nice touches include S-Video TV-out and S/PDIF audio-out ports, an integrated multi-card reader plus Windows-independent CD player and controls at the right of the front fascia. Programmable shortcut buttons are also included on the right side of the keyboard.

A Targus carry bag and AOpen mini optical mouse are bundled with the notebook.