What is Centrino? It’s an Intel-developed technology built upon a triad of three interconnected elements -- an Intel Pentium M CPU (with 1 full GB of Level 2 cache), an Intel 855 chipset, and a cord-free network connection – that work hand-in-hand to keep your notebook lightweight, wirelessly connected, power efficient, and faster than its rated CPU speed might indicate. The power section of the VAIO PCG-V505DX Notebook includes a midlevel 1.4 GHz Pentium M processor, 512 MB of DDR SDRAM (expandable to a whopping 2 GB), and a surprisingly capable ATI Mobility Radeon 9200 graphics chipset with 32 MB dedicated video memory. Though the unit can’t be recommended for high-end 3-D design and games or harsh business multitasking situations, it will handle most everything else.

Measuring a mere 10.9 by 9.5 by 1.3 inches and tipping the scales at just 4.4 lbs., the VAIO PCG-V505DX Notebook is easy to carry and easy to use. Yet this level of portability doesn’t come at the expense of creature comforts. Apart from an unexpectedly large 60 GB hard disk and a CD-RW/DVD combo drive through which you can burn audio and data CDs and enjoy the latest Hollywood blockbusters, the unit also features a 12.1-inch XGA TFT display capable of 1024 by 768 resolution, integrated stereo speakers, and three levels of communication -- a V.90 modem, 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet, and an Intel PRO Wireless 2100 Network Connection for those times when you just can’t plug in.

Other perks include a high-speed IEEE 1394 port for high-speed interaction with external peripherals such as digital camcorders, a pair of fast USB 2.0 ports, a Memory Stick media slot and an electro-static touch pad. The impressive bundled software package includes Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft Money 2004, Microsoft epic Age of Empires II game, and a broad array of multimedia utilities. Maximum battery life is estimated at 2.5 to an amazing 6.5 hours.