ASUS G2P Gaming Notebook Preview
Introduction
Recently, we were given the opportunity to take a look at a preproduction sample of a new gaming platform coming from ASUS. Dubbed the "G2P", this is a robust new product that combines the latest flagship mobile components with a unique new aesthetic and gaming-specific features in one convenient package. Although we've opted to wait a few weeks so we can review the complete retail package the notebook will ship with, we've taken the liberty of posting some images to whet your appetite in the interim.
At the heart of the ASUS G2P is a platform which utilizes a 17" LCD. The sample we were provided with features a 17" WXGA+ panel with a low 8ms response time to minimize ghosting when gaming or watching movies. In addition, the model also includes support for Intel's new "Merom" mobile variant of the Core 2 Duo architecture. Rounding out the graphics segment, we find an ATI Radeon Mobility X1700 with 512MB of memory. 2GB of DDR2 memory completes the package and solidifies the fact that this is a very capable gaming platform indeed.
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Processor ._Intel Core 2 Duo T7200 processor (2GHz) Memory ._Two SODIMM sockets ._2x1GB DDR2 667 Unbuffered Non-ECC memory ._Supports maximum memory capacity up to 4GB Graphics ._ATI Radeon X1700 512MB ATA ._1 x DMA 100/66 ._160GB 7200rpm HDD ._8x Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW Communications ._10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ._Intel Pro 3945e(802.11a/b/g) Wireless LAN ._56K v.90 Fax/modem Display ._17" WXGA+ TFT LCD (8ms response rate) Audio ._2 stereo speakers ._24-bit High-Definition Audio |
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One look at the G2P chassis and you get the feeling that this notebook could endure plenty of abuse. With a rugged faux-aluminum casing protecting the top of the LCD panel and a nearly overwhelming size, the G2P is built to survive countless trips and LAN parties. Make no mistake, this is a gaming notebook that is destined to reside on a desk and not often on one's lap.
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As previously mentioned, the top of the ASUS G2P is covered with a rugged plastic panel with a faux-aluminum finish with the ASUS logo residing in the middle of the A-panel. Turning the system around, we find a large copper heatsink peering through a collection of vents. Moving our way from the left side of the system to the right, we also find an S-Video port, 15-pin VGA port, DVI port , and four USB ports. The addition of the USB ports in the rear of the system is key for gamers as it helps eliminate any clutter near the mousing surface caused by the mouse cable itself. Unlike the more common side USB ports, the cable can now be cleanly routed to the back of the system and out of the way of the gaming surface.
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Turning our attention to the right side of the system, we find only a dual-layer DVD burner and the inlet for the DC power connector. However, turning to the left side of the system we find a wealth of ports and connectors. Here, we find a modem port, RJ-45 ethernet port, AV-IN port, audio headers, mini-Firewire port, and a 4-in-1 card reader. In addition, there is also an Express card slot for mobile expansion components as well as a switch for enabling the wireless radio. Although it may sound somewhat congested, the ports on the left side have a very clean and organized orientation which should not be a problem for most users.
