Dell New Laptops

Dell has announced the newest members of the Vostro line, the 3000 series. Ranging in size from a portable 13-inches to a desktop replacement 17-inch, the new Vostro series features second generation Intel Core processors, switchable graphics, and an assortment of productivity and security features.

The new series offers several size models: The Vostro 3350 (13.3-inch), the Vostro 3450 (14-inch), the Vostro 3550 (15.6-inch), and the Vostro 3750 (17.6-inch). All models of the Vostro 3000 series include second generation Intel Core processors with up to 8GB of DDR3 memory, AMD switchable or Nvidia Optimus graphics, speedy USB 3.0 and Bluetooth 3.0 connections, and battery life of up to 12-hours on select models with extended batteries. The line features an updated design with a durable aluminum finish in one of three colors: Silver, Bronze, and Red.

While the Vostro 3350, 3450, 3550, and 3750 are all available with Core i3, i5, and i7 dual-core processors, the 17-inch Vostro 3750 is also available with a quad-core i7, for customers that need more processing power. In addition to Intel's integrated graphics processing, the 3000 series also offers switchable graphics, which provide superior graphics capability when needed, and relying on integrated graphics processing when sufficient in order to maximize battery life.

Dell has also equipped the new Vostro models with the latest collaborative tools, like full HD-webcams on the 14-, 15- and 17-inch models. SRS Premium Voice Pro software and a digital array mic provide clear noise capture, helping reduce ambient noise. Skype comes pre-installed on the systems, and a customizable dedicated dashboard button lets you launch the VOIP or video conferencing application of your choice with one click of the mouse.

Reliability and security are built in, with an integrated fingerprint reader in the palm rest, Trend Micro virus protection, and optional protections like Dell's ProSupport IT services, and LoJack tracking for lost or stolen laptops.

The new Vostro 3000 series will be available starting March 22, though availability and pricing may vary by region. The 13-inch Vostro 3350 is expected start at $599, both the 14-inch 3450 and the 15-inch 3550 will start at $499, and the 17-inch 3750 will begin at $549.

Thunderbolt MacBook 2011

Mac addicts rejoice. Just one day until the Macbook Pro 2011 line is revealed, or so the flock hopes.

Already the rumor mill is working overtime. What kind of heat will these laptops be packing and what is the mysteriously named "Thunderbolt?"

When the 2011 Macbooks will be reportedly revealed on Thursday, users can expect the usual list of annual tweaks. Official laptop specs are still unknown, but one notable upgrade is the use of Intel's new Sandy Bridge graphics chips, according to a report from CNET. Intel says the fastest of these new chips run at 2.7GHZ. Previously, Macbooks used two graphics cards to power their visuals, but it seems Intel has come out with a new chipset that satisfies the perfectionists over at Apple.

One of the most intriguing upgrade rumors is around "Thunderbolt."

The buzz around industry blogs is that Apple is going to include Intel's new "Light Peak" interconnect under the Thunderbolt moniker. The technology is like a USB port only much faster - like 10 gigabits per second fast, and potentially 100 gigabites per second in the future.

Intel released a statement on Tuesday saying it will "discuss a new technology that is about to appear on the market." Interesting timing, isn't it?

We can't know for sure until tomorrow, but for now it seems like where there's Thunder, there's Light Peak.