Samsung last week launched the first notebook to feature a 19-inch display at a trade show in Berlin. Besides having the high-end specifications worthy of a true desktop replacement, it will possibly feature the industry`s first detachable 19-inch LCD display which is capable of 1,680 x 1,050 native resolution. The LCD panel will also have a DVI port which will allow it to function as a desktop monitor.

The rationale for a detachable display is driven by cost. Traditionally one of the most expensive components of a notebook, the M70 is upgradeable by simply switching the base component and reusing the display. The cost is further reduced since the display can double as a desktop monitor. Though large-screen notebooks tend to weigh the same as a bag full of bricks, the 4.4kg M70 is not much heavier than other 17-inch LCD desktop replacements like the Toshiba Qosmio G20 and the Fujitsu LifeBook N6210.

Upside: With a 19-inch display, this notebook is wonderfully suited for those doing publishing and graphics work. The 290-nits brightness ensures that even in direct sunlight you can see the display clearly. Coupled with a remote control, a dedicated Nvidia Geforce Go 6600 graphics card and a 2.1-channel speaker system, the M70 can be used for a romantic movie with that special someone on a Saturday night, or a session of intense gaming with your buddies.

Downside: Though the base system is upgradeable, it may not be cost-effective to do so unless Samsung intends to implement a trade-in deal for older M70 base systems.

Outlook: Depending on the price, this system has the potential to become a worthwhile solution to notebook upgrading. The fact that the 19-inch LCD is detachable and uses a common input gives the M70 both versatility and reusability. Though it is certainly innovative in terms of notebook design, we feel it is likely this design will be confined to niche product lines.

asia.cnet.com
sections: World News, Hi-Tech