Wave Systems Corp. (fka WAVXQ)

[reach567]

Sony: flexibility meets mobility
12 September, 2005
by Staff Report

http://www.integratedmar.com/ecl-usa/story.cfm?item=19934


Targeted at both business and IT managers, Sony Electronics has developed a new line of business notebooks that combine a choice of display sizes, swappable accessories and multiple configuration options into a single platform. The VAIO BX Series of notebooks features Sony's AdaptivePlus technology, incorporating flexibility, security and communications features for IT resource management. According to the consumer giant, the line's modular approach to accessories and peripherals offers IT managers a variety of options to best fit an organization's workforce from road warriors to desk jockeys.
"By providing a single platform and cross-compatible peripherals the latest edition to the VAIO Professional line provides an innovative approach and flexible option for companies," stated Mike Abary, vice president of VAIO product marketing for Sony Electronics, in a release. "We believe that this new modular solution combined with leading-edge security features will substantially reduce IT manpower and the total cost of ownership for businesses."

Although the BX Series is available with a variety of display sizes -- 14-inch, 15.4 and 17-inch wide screen sizes -- the same optional accessories such as a docking station with battery charger, standard and large capacity batteries and wireless presentation mouse can be used across the series so accessories can be shared and costs reduced. All sizes also feature Sony's multi-function bay. Users can swap out peripherals such as a DVD+/-RW, +R double layer drive (not all DVD media/formats are universally compatible) or an 80GB hard drive bay unit. Each of these optional accessories is cross-compatible with all three size configurations of the BX Series.

The BX Series is also distinguished by a longer lifecycle than the typical retail shelf life for consumer notebooks, ensuring businesses a stable platform. Further, the line is Cisco v.3-compliant, making it easy to deploy over existing corporate networks that utilize Cisco management applications. Security is another top priority for Sony, so the new line incorporates a Trusted Platform Module (TCG Ver.1.1b compliant) to set the level of security on a specific client/user basis. Data can be encrypted over a local network or over the Internet so IT managers have the ability to dial in the specific level of access. Additionally, the BX Series features an integrated biometric fingerprint sensor, which delivers personal security and eliminates the need to remember multiple passwords.

Equipped with the company's SmartWi technology, the BX Series allows users to toggle between various connectivity options including WWAN, WLAN for connections at home, office or hotspots, or Bluetooth technology for communication with Bluetooth-enabled peripherals such as a PDA, cellular phone or wireless headset.

Outfitted with an optional built-in camera and pre-loaded with Sony's Instant Video Everywhere or IVE service powered by GlowPoint, the BX Series is ready for instant real-time video conferencing. The model line also utilizes an advanced power-saving feature for mobile usage called VAIO Power Management Viewer, for setting power modes to control the balance of stamina and performance required.

Finally, exclusively for the business customer, Sony offers VAIO Care (www.sony.com/vaiocare), a new total lifecycle management program for all VAIO Professional notebooks. Components include consultation services, extended service and accidental damage protection options and a trade-in program. VAIO Care also offers dedicated technical support for an organization's IT team.

The BX notebooks will be available in mid-October, starting at about (US) $1,300.