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Feature-rich, priced just right

This time we got the chance to test the Lenovo model that plays the role of ~computerji~ in the popular TV serial ~Kaun Banega Crorepati~.
 
Sporting a silver-metallic finish, the unit is quite sturdy. Weight is 2 kg. Ergonomics-wise, the keys require light strokes and are placed close together, while the generously-sized touchpad feels smooth to work with, and has ample space for wrist support around it.
 
The WXGA display provides excellent picture quality; viewability from wide angles isn't a problem. It doesn't lack in the performance department either, and that's to be expected – the Y500 runs on a Core Duo processor, and churns out from 38 fps at 1024 x 768 in ~Call of Duty~. It completed our DVD to AVI video encoding test in 182 seconds, which is good.

The feature set is sound: the buttons on the front can be used for battery management, there's a 1.3 megapixel camera on top of the display, and there's a media centre called "Shuttle Center" which can also be controlled using the bundled remote.

The face verification feature is another cool feature: it can distinguish faces accurately, and looks at your face for logging you in to Windows. It even logs a cam-shot of the last user who failed the verification process, though it should be noted that the verification process can be bypassed altogether just by closing the window – no real security here.

The sound subsystem situated on the front of the unit features Dolby-certified surround sound, and can be turned on or off via a switch; ditto the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Battery life is about average with a running time of 2:33 hours under stress. The laptop was almost perfectly cool despite all the stress, thanks to the vents provided on the left and back of the unit.

The price of the Y5000 - Rs 56,000 - is just right, we think, for its configuration.

Specifications
Intel Core Duo T2250 (1.73 GHz); 512 MB RAM; 80 GB 5400 rpm HDD; 15.4-inch 1280 x 800; Intel 945GM chipset; onboard graphics; slot-in DVD-RW; Intel 802.11a/b/g; Bluetooth, 10/100 Ethernet; FireWire; 1.3 MP camera; TV-Tuner, 6c Li-ion batteries; Windows XP Home

Performance : 4
Features : 4
Ease of use : 4
Value for money : 3.5
Overall : 4

Contact : Lenovo India Pvt Ltd
Phone : 080-22108412
E-mail : pc@in.lenovo.com
Web site : www.lenovo.com
Price : Rs 56,000