The Dell XPS 13 Ultrabook is really a head turner.  On the front, it’s got a beautiful aluminum lid and a really smooth carbon fiber base, although lightweight the build is pretty much solid.

I love how everything looks black on the inside, with the (not so obvious ) white XPS logo  below the screen . The bezel on the screen is really thin and the Gorilla glass display is just brilliant. I also like that there’s a lot of room for the hand rest/touch pad area. Too bad I was not able to get a photo of utrabook’s carbon fiber base.

The Dell XPS 13 is available in 2nd Gen Intel Core i5 and Core i7 config, I think this one has a Core i5  processor.  The Dell XPS has an SRP of USD 999 UPDATED: Abe’s contact from Dell said that the unit will be around the 60k range.

The Dell XPS 13 is yet to be launched here in the Philippines and I’m just happy to have spent a couple of minutes with this ultrabook. (drool )

Check out Dell Philippines’ Facebok page  or Dell.com for more on the Dell XPS 13 Ultrabook.

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I was installing Windows XP on a newly bought Lenovo IdeaPad z470 Core i3 laptop last night when I encountered this error. The Windows XP installation will launch and after a while will prompt me with a blue screen with the STOP: 0x0000007B Error.

A Google search led me to this Microsoft link explaining the probable causes and troubleshooting steps of the  STOP: 0x0000007B Error.

I’m ruling out hardware or boot virus issues and think that this might be a configuration related issue. I read a number of forums and they’re pointing out the RAID settings in the BIOS.

I checked out the BIOS settings and on the Configuration, the SATA Mode was set to AHCI. I changed it to IDE  and it fixed my problem.

I called Lenovo Store by Villman at the Mall Of Asia where I bought the laptop first thing in the morning and the technician told me to do the same. Although he didn’t (or couldn’t) explain to me the SATA Mode settings.

It was also kinda funny that the guy I talked to told me that I cannot use the laptop with Windows XP and that it only runs with a Windows 7  (maybe he was pointing out that some features might not work with Windows XP). Last time I checked, you only need drivers to use the hardware/devices (please correct me if I’m wrong).

The package I got was the one without OS installed. Unlike other stores, they did not test or try to install Windows first (then reformat after) even though I asked the sales guy if he can do that. He told me that they don’t do that in their store.

I told him that I’m bringing back the laptop to the store and have them install a Windows 7 (and reformat after) just in case.

I’ve read on some forums about users having a hard time installing Windows XP on their Lenovo IdeaPad z470. I hope I won’t have the same challenges installing the drivers.

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Check out the full details below.

Surf in Style with Smart Bro Rocket Chic

[03 February 2012] Wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has officially launched the first 4G Internet dongle designed for women – Smart Bro’s Rocket Chic.

Featuring a glossy pink acrylic finish, the Rocket Chic is a class of its own. The sliding USB plug allows the device to disguise itself as a regular cosmetic product or even a piece of jewelry.

And like the modern Filipina, the Rocket Chic is more than meets the eye. Inside the sleek shell is the bona fide brains and brawn of a true 4G device. Powered by Smart’s unparalleled High Speed Packet Access Plus (HSPA+) network, the Rocket Chic can blast off into the Internet at speeds of up to 12 Mbps.

“This is a limited time offer and the timing is just right because the Rocket Chic is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift,” said Smart Broadband Internet and Data Services Manager Anne Binuya. “Guys, here’s your chance to prove just how serious you are—is your love for your lady as strong and resilient as Smart’s network?”

The Rocket Chic is priced at P2,345 bundled with a Smart Bro prepaid SIM and is available in select Smart Stores nationwide.

Also available are the 12Mbps Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It, the first prepaid 4G dongle in the Philippines which is now more affordable at P2,345 and the 20Mbps Smart Bro Rocket WiFi, the country’s fastest pocket WiFi router, for only P6,495.

Well, this will surely be a great Valentine’s gift for your wife, girlfriend, sister, friend and loved ones.

To purchase your very own Smart Bro Rocket Chic and for more information, check out the links below:

http://store.smart.com.ph

www.smart.com.ph/bro

http://www.smart.com.ph

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Growing up as a kid, my Christmas wish list would include new clothes, a pair of pants, pair of shoes or sneakers and on top, the latest action figures or robot toys.

Fast forward to today, if you’re going to ask the kids for their Christmas wish list, pretty sure topping the list would either be a PC, tablet, smartphone, gaming console or a music player. I remember my daughter asking me for a PC for Christmas present as early as the first quarter of this year.

Of course it is not only our kid who would be glad to have a PC as a gift this Christmas, a PC would be a good and useful gift idea for my wife (and for me) too.

I am a software developer and my job requires me to have a powerful PC for programming, a fast, reliable PC that can handle multiple running applications and databases at the same time.

A PC that’s flexible both for work and home use and one that can be easily carried is the best choice for my wife, who mostly uses Microsoft Office 2010 applications.

My daughter (who loves everything pink) would simply love an ultra slim PC that’s perfect for surfing, playing games and watching videos on the web.

PCs have become an integral part of our daily life. It has significantly evolved and changed the way we live: how we communicate with friends and families overseas, how we work and how we do business.

At home, it provides us all sort of entertainment: music, movies and games. PCs also serve as an important tool in my kid’s learning.

My kid, my wife and I share the same interest in PCs and I’m just glad that technology brings us closer together.

It’s a great time to be a family with Microsoft

This holiday season, Microsoft provides families with the capabilities of connecting and enhancing their relationship through technology by offering a Windows Holiday Campaign. The promo presents a variety of Windows 7 PCs that suit every member of the family. Check out Microsoft’s different Windows 7 PC offering below.

For Dads: High-performance workhorse PCs that will let him be the best Dad he can be

ASUS UX21

GROUNDBREAKING
The Asus UX series are the first PCs to market to feature the fast SATA III solid-state drive, ingeniously integrated into the circuit board to maintain the slim design. The “Instant On” feature allows it to resumes from sleep in 2 seconds and hibernate for 7 days without risk of losing your data.
HEAD-TURNING
Little details make a big difference. The stunning lid has a brushed “spin pattern” inspired by the spiral grooves of a vinyl record. The design speaks of elegance; a glass trackpad, metal keys, even the bottom case is detailed with a unique serial number for each machine. Just 0.67″ at its thickest point, but don’t let the slim profile fool you; durability is enhanced with a strong single piece anodized aluminum design.
CAPABLE
Easily handling the jobs of much larger machines, the Asus UX21 features a speedy Intel Core i5 processor. It is ready to connect to larger displays with a mini-HDMI and proprietary VGA ports. Around 5 hours of battery life enhances productivity, allowing you to work longer and without interruption, even while transferring data through the super-fast USB 3.0.

Samsung 900X1A

CAPABLE
Under that beautiful hood this notebook packs power. The second generation Intel® Core™ i3 processor and 64 GB solid-state hard drive work seamlessly with Windows® 7 to provide a faster and more responsive experience while extending battery life.

FEATHERWEIGHT
At 1.06kg and with a design inspired by the curves of a racecar, this notebook refuses to sacrifice performance for good looks. The case is made of Duralumin, a lightweight material that is twice as strong as aluminum and commonly used in aircraft construction.

VERSATILE
Light enough to carry everywhere, this small and powerful notebook will keep up with your life and style. Backlit keyboard and anti-reflective SuperBrightPlus LED screen allow you to enjoy movies and games day or night. Finally, you can relax knowing that TPM hardware works with Windows BitLocker software to protect your data from falling into the wrong hands.

Sony Vaio S-Series

PERFECTLY MOBILE
VAIO S Series achieves the ideal balance between mobility and performance. It packs a 13.3″ widescreen display and a built-in optical drive in a body that’s just 23.9mm thin and weighs a mere 1.72kg.

ALL-ROUND EXCELLENCE
With no moving parts, the SSD* (Solid State Drive) is highly resistant to shocks and vibrations, and greatly speeds up access to data and launching of applications. It also enables VAIO S Series to boot up in under 17 seconds.

STYLISHLY FUNCTIONAL
The isolation keyboard automatically lights up when used in dark places for better typing comfort. An ambient light sensor even adjusts the screen brightness according to the level of surrounding light.

Toshiba Portégé Z830

DURABLE
Magnesium alloy chassis is both thin and durable, ready for the knocks and bumps of daily travel. The brushed-metal lid is stylish, yet professional. In the case of a fall or spill the Hard Drive Impact Sensor senses rapid increases in speed and locks the HDD to prevent damage, and the spill-resistant keyboard buys you time to save your data and shut down safely.

WELL-EQUIPPED
The built-in DVD burner gives it an edge over other thin and light PCs, and you likely won’t mind a couple ounces when you have the capacity to leave your external drive behind. TPM protects your data from thieves, and there is even an alarm to set if you need to step away from your laptop to refill your coffee.

PRESENTATION READY
Dynamic businesses require flexibility, you might not know where your next meeting will be held, but the Z830 is ready for anything. WiDi allows you to wirelessly stream audio and video to an HDTV while HDMI and VGA ports make standard connections a breeze. Want to present on your coworkers PC? The speed of USB 3.0 will transfer that huge file in no time flat.

For Moms: Lightweight PCs to help Mom keep track of everything between the office and the home in style

Acer Aspire S3

LIGHT
At an amazingly thin half inch thick, the Aspire S3 is thinner than some magazines. Crafted of a lightweight aluminum/magnesium alloy, the S3 has a 13.3‖ display and second generation Intel Core processor. You will be delighted at how substantial this lightweight PC will feel in your hands.

SMART
Whether you have made plans or are playing it by ear, the Aspire S3 is ready. The 320 GB hard drive, powerful processor and Dolby Home Theatre V4 allow you to store and enjoy your video and music collection wherever you are without wasting time transferring data from external storage.

READY TO GO

The Aspire S3 is ready to fit into your mobile life. It boots fast, instantly connects to the internet, and features Bluetooth® 4.0 so you can connect peripherals without hogging your ports. (Peripherals that you can afford because you saved a bundle on the S3.)

Dell Vostro V131

DESIGNED FOR WORK VIRTUALLY ANYWHERE, ANYTIME

From its undeniably sleek, ultra-light and ultra-portable design to the optional backlit keyboard for nighttime computing, the Vostro™ V131 shines bright. As thin as 16.05mm and weighing just 1.82kg , the stunningly crafted Vostro V131 travels well anywhere you do.
COMMANDING PERFORMANCE

The power to run multiple applications and deliver fast, uninterrupted multitasking is essential. That’s exactly what you can count on with the Vostro V131 laptop with up to 8GB DDR3 memory. Get the invigorating performance you need with brisk processing options of up to 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ i5 processors plus Genuine Windows® 7 Professional operating system.

COLLABORATION IS KEY

Stay well connected to valuable clients and family members while on-the-go with enhanced video conferencing features like digital array microphones and SRS Premium Voice Pro™ software. This cutting-edge audio suite delivers superb voice intelligibility for improved communication and a maximized multimedia experience.

For Sons: Multimedia PCs that will easily keep up with him as he learns and plays

HP Pavilion dm1

THIN STYLE
Built light and measuring less than 1‖ in the front, the HP Pavilion dm1 is available in sleek charcoal.

FEEL THE EMOTION IN EVERY BEAT
Unlock all the sounds that musicians and producers have perfected in their studio. With Beats Audio™, you can enjoy studio-quality music and hear your favorite song the way the artists intended.

HP PREMIER EXPERIENCE
The HP Premier Experience focuses on the things that matter most. Get quick one click access to grouped applications on the taskbar with HP Launch Box. And with automatic intelligent cooling from HP CoolSense Technology, your notebook stays noticeably cooler.

Samsung 700Z5A

FAST PERFORMANCE
Innovative ExpressCache™ technology provides 8GB of flash memory on the motherboard that works as an ultra fast HDD. Its intelligent, automatic caching takes 45% less time to boot up and starts Internet Explorer and frequently used applications 2 times faster, while still maintaining the safety and integrity of your data.

SUPERIOR DISPLAY
With Max Screen, enjoy a more immersive visual experience and greater value with the same body size providing up to 1 extra inch screen. Seeing is believing. Get the best you can with Samsung SuperBright Technology. With screen brightness 36% – 50% brighter than conventional screens and 16 million colors, every photo, video, website and even document looks stunning.

PREMIUM DESIGN
Weighing just 2.29kg and only 23.9mm thick, the compact design is less than 1″ in height to provide maximum style and portability. But even though it’s one of the thinnest and lightest notebooks in its class it still incorporates comprehensive functionality for optimum performance on the move

For Daughters: Customizable PCs to help her discover herself and express who she is

Lenovo IdeaPad U300s UltraBook

LENOVO BREATHABLE KEYBOARD
Allows airflow through the keyboard which keeps your notebook constantly cool

INTEL TURBO BOOST TECHNOLOGY 2.0
Enjoy adaptive performance that is more intelligent, energy-efficient and dynamic than ever before

LENOVO EE RAPIDDRIVE
Boot up in as little as 10 secs with Lenovo Enhanced Experience 2.0 RapidDrive SSD technology

LENOVO LONG LIFE BATTERY
Up to 8 hours usage and 30-days standby time

Sony Vaio Y-Series

RELIABLE PERFORMANCE
VAIO Y Series features AMD Dual-Core Processor E-350 with AMD Radeon™ HD 6310*, depending on the model. Together with the latest Windows ® 7 operating system, you can handle your daily tasks and special projects with ease, whether at your desk or after hours.

SUPERB MOBILITY
Weighing only 1.46 kg and with a compact profile, you can take VAIO Y Series just about anywhere – from your desk or a meeting room, to the outdoors or back home. And with Wireless LAN and Bluetooth ®, you’ll have connectivity to the Internet wherever you are.

IMPROVED EFFICIENCY
The 11.6-inch wide high-resolution (1366 x 768) screen display provides a comfortable viewing environment perfect for surfing the net, updating your blog, editing or manage your photos and documents and much more.

For the entire family: Entertainment PCs that bring to life the magic of family time

Sony Vaio L-Series

FULL HD ENJOYMENT
Enjoy High Definition in all its glory with the convenience of touch on the roomy 24‖ Full HD Touchscreen LCD of the VAIO L Series. Featuring a wide viewing angle and automatic colour adjustment that syncs with the visual content, it assures you of the best viewing experience always.

A TOUCH OF BRILLIANCE
Featuring a bezel with integrated touch controls, the new VAIO L Series boasts Edge Access technology to give you quick access to frequently used functions, while keeping the screen free of unwanted fingerprints. Now, zooming in and out, flipping pages back and forth, even pulling up the onscreen keyboard, require nothing more than a simple touch of the frame.

ALL-ROUND ATTRACTION
The bezel on the VAIO L Series serves more than just as a beautiful frame. On it you’ll also find integrated touch control sensors that offer easy access to commonly used functions. Highly functional while still maintaining a streamlined design, the VAIO L Series fits any lifestyle and décor.

It’s a great time to get a Windows 7 PC

I’ve been using Windows 7 (Ultimate) for almost two years now. As compared to the previous versions, Windows 7 is faster and more stable. It also has a more appealing UI and themes and provides me an easier way of doing things (file manipulation, etc.). I also don’t have any issues connecting my other devices on my Windows 7 PC. It also provides me more security and user control options which help me in setting up and monitoring my kid’s user account and PC activities.

How about you? Did you get a Windows 7 PC this holiday?

Disclosure: MICROSOFT Philippines sponsored this post

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The HTC Sensation XL with Beats Audio features a 1.5 GHz processor, 4.7 inch touch screen with 480×800 WVGA resolution, 16 GB internal storage and 768 MB RAM and 8MP camera with F2.2 lens (ideal for taking photos in low-lit areas) dual LED flash and BSI sensor with 720p HD video recording

The HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio on the other hand boasts of a 1.5 GHz dual core processor, 4.3 inch display with a 540 x 960 qHD resolution, 4GB internal storage and 768 MB RAM and 8MP camera with auto focus and LED flash, with 1080p HD video recording.

The HTC Sensation XL is available for Php 32,500 and the HTC Sensation XE at Php 31,500

Click on the links below for detailed specs and prices.

HTC Sensation XL price and specs

HTC Sensation XE price and specs

Check out Yugatech and PinoyTechBlog for first impressions and reviews:

HTC Sensation XL on PTB

HTC Sensation XE on PTB

HTC Sensation XE on Yugatech

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