The IBM Thinkpad T30 Notebook PC is hailed as the first IBM laptop to feature a touchpad, a welcome addition for notebook users who haven't got used to IBM's eraserhead-like Track Stick.
Weighing 5.7 lbs (without the AC adapter) and featuring the same high-resolution 14.1-inch Active Matrix LCD (TFT) screen found in the Thinkpad T series, the T30 is powered by an 1.8 GHz Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M which provides enough processor power for running Windows XP and other applications at a decent rate. The battery powers the machine for about 2.5 hours of computing time.
The T30 is a perfect travel companion, thanks to its innovative design and the sturdy hardware and casing typical in a Thinkpad computer. A multipurpose drive bay creates options for an extra hard drive or a Zip drive, while a separate UltraPort connector on top of the display lets you add a camera and other peripherals.
However, the T30 lacks other essentials, like USB 2.0 or FireWire ports to facilitate lightning fast downloads from other accessories or storage devices.
| IBM Thinkpad T30 Notebook PC | |
| Processor | Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M 1.8GHz |
| Installed RAM | 256 MB DDR |
| Maximum RAM | 1 GB DDR |
| Hard drive | 40 GB |
| Includes CD-ROM | Yes, DVD-ROM |
| Includes keyboard | Yes |
| Includes mouse | Yes; Touchpad, Track Stick |
| Includes speakers | Yes |
| Includes monitor | Yes; 14.1" Active Matrix LCD (TFT) |
| Includes floppy drive | No |
| Includes PC Card slot | Yes; Type I, Type II, & Type III PC Card |
| Includes Modem | Yes |
| Ethernet jack | 10/100 Mbps |
| Installed OS | Microsoft Windows XP Pro |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Bottom Line | |
| Price | $589.95 |
| Pros | Touch Pad and Track Stick included |
| Cons | No USB 2.0/FireWire ports |
| Shop | IBM Thinkpad T30 Notebook PC (click the link, then choose Laptops/$599 or Less from the left sidebar) |
Updated October 11 2005