Fujitsu Lifebook P8020 notebook PC

You might think the average netbook is adequate as an inexpensive business computer, but there are benefits to using a fully fledged notebook such as Fujitsu’s Lifebook P8020.

Superior performance and build quality, an integrated DVD writer, Express card slots, a 3G modem and enhanced security are a few extras that set the P8020 apart.

The P8020 is based on an ultra-low voltage Intel U9400 processor running at 1.4GHz. It has a bright LED backlit WXGA 12.1in display, an area that’s much easier to work with than the 10.2in screens in netbooks, but small enough for the P8020 to be called ‘ultraportable’. The P8020 weighs just 1.32kg.

Although it’s lightweight, the P8020 measures 4cm, at its thickest point, a lot more than the Macbook Air. It rivals other ultraportables such as Sony’s Vaio TT series but its appearance isn’t nearly as stylish.

The dual-core Core 2 Duo U9400 outperforms Atom processors by some margin. Cinebench scores were much higher, a respectable 495 for multi-core performance and 3,338 in PCmark05.

A fingerprint reader and Trusted Platform Model (TPM) provide a layer of security. There’s 2GB of PC3-8500 DDR3 memory, and a six-cell battery, although longevity was disappointing at less than three hours.

The 3G module performs admirably, although with most 3G connections you rarely get the maximum 7.2Mbits/sec download speeds, as speeds depend on your location and choice of network. The Intel Wifi Link 5300 module supports 802.11n in both 2.4GHz and 5GHz wavelengths, and there’s also Bluetooth.

The P8020 is nice to use, but its lack of style and average performance don’t do justice to the wad of cash you will need to buy one.