Fujitsu Siemens launches Esprimo 3G laptops

Fujitsu Siemens has become one of the latest companies to integrate 3G connectivity in its laptops.

Fujitsu’s Esprimo laptops will be available in Europe from August. The company is launching three models - the ultra-portable 12.1-inch U9200, the 14.1in M9400 and the top-of-the-range 15.4-inch D9500 desktop replacement model.

All of the models are based on Intel Core 2 Duo chipsets and feature wide screens. Each includes up to 4MB DDR 2 memory running at 667MHz. The range is targeted at business people on the move.

3G is still a fairly new technology for laptops, with wi-fi more commonly employed to get a laptop online wirelessly. Wi-fi does, however, rely on the laptop being in range of a wi-fi zone or hotspot.

Laptops with 3G connectivity, on the other hand, can connect to the Internet wherever there is a mobile phone signal. Consumers can still expect to pay a premium for the more convenient 3G connectivity - the Esprimo models start at £743.

3G connection speeds will vary according to location. A 3G signal in a metropolitan area should give 384kbps, but this can rise to 3.6Mbps, if the 3G transmitter has been upgraded to HSDPA.

Outside a 3G coverage area, speeds are likely to be slower than a dial-up connection.

Other features of the Esprimo range include an ExpressCard 54 slot, Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, three USB 2.0 ports, four-way memory card reader for SD, MS, xD and Memory Stic Pro card.

Users have a choice of Intel Pro Wireless 802.11a/g/n card or Atheros’ 802.11b/g minicard and as well as 3G, Bluetooth 2.0 is provided.