Summary:
Features:
- Intel Centrino Duo Mobile processor
- Wifi networking card
- Bluetooth
- 3 cell Li-Ion battery lasts 3 hours
- The price starts from £1,199.97 (Inc VAT)
PROS:
- Ultra lightweight (just 2.5 lbs), and ultra thin (1.0 in)
- Small size, just 11.3 x 7.7 x 1.0 in
- Has optional HSDPA module which allows mobile SIM card to be used for going online
CONS:
- It has only 2 USB ports in the standard configuration
- No built in optical storage
Detailed Specification:
|
Processor |
Intel Centrino Duo Mobile Technology 1.2 GHz |
|
Memory |
PC2-5300 (533MHz) DDR2 SODIMM 1.2 GB |
|
Chipset |
Intel 945GM |
|
Hard drive |
60GB (8mmH 1.8″ HDD 4200rpm) |
|
Optical CD / DVD drive |
External Super Multi DVD Dual Layer Drive (Bundled Accessory) |
|
Display |
12.1″ WXGA LCD panel |
|
Video RAM |
128 MB RAM |
|
Weight |
2.5 lbs (incuding standard battery) |
|
Dimension |
11.3 x 7.7 x 0.7 – 1.0 in |
|
Network type |
Gigabit Ethernet, Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG (802.11a/b/g), Bluetooth v2.0 + EDR, Modem 56Kbps / V.92 |
|
Graphics |
Intel GMA 945 |
|
Audio |
Stereo speakers, headphone (2x)/microphone jacks |
|
I/O ports (Data) |
USB 2.0 x 2, VGA Port, IEEE1394 (6-pin), RJ11, RJ45, Headphone out (SPDIF), Mic-in, 4 in 1 multimedia card slot |
|
OS |
Windows XP Professional Edition |
|
Price starting at |
£1199 |
Expert Review:

Samsung Q40 ultra portable laptop has all the features of the earlier Q30 model and more. It is well connected to the outside world with the optional HSDPA Globetrotter module that can take in a SIM card, a wireless Wi-fi card, Bluetooth, Gigabit Ethernet adapter and a traditional 56 Kbps modem. Thus practically all the available wired as well as wireless connectivity technologies have been incorporated in this mini laptop.
The12.1in widescreen LCD panel display has a resolution of 1,280 x 768 pixels. The high contrast glossy coating on the screen makes the colours appear vibrant even in bright sunlight. The keyboard has fairly large keys for an ultra portable laptop that makes it easy to travel and use. Below the space bar is the touchpad with 2 buttons at the bottom. The touchpad has added functionality of vertical and horizontal scrolling facility when holding the top right corner and bottom left corner respectively.

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The Q40 is driven by Intel Centrino Duo Mobile Technology / Intel Core Solo Processor with 1.2 GHz clock speed. The main memory is PC2-5300 (533MHz) DDR2 SODIMM with 1.2GB capacity. Though it is adequate for running under Windows XP OS, the memory size could become an issue when loading Windows Vista. Mass storage is through a 60GB (8mmH 1.8″ HDD 4200rpm) hard disk while a CD / DVD optical storage is available as an accessory. The hard disk capacity is somewhat on the lower side when compared to today’s needs. The round power button is located on the right side as well as the Ethernet port, modem socket, and a USB 2.0 port while another USB 2.0 port, audio jacks, video output, DC in are all on the left side. The no. of USB 2.0 ports is limited to just 2.

The optional HSDPA slot for inserting a SIM card is one of the highlights of Q40. Data rates of 1.8Mbit /sec throughput are easily attained with the HSDPA Globetrotter data card. The Intel PRO/Wireless 3945 ABG provides Wi-fi connection while the HSDPA module also has another Wi-fi adapter built into it. The Bluetooth 2.0 card connects to peripherals like digital camera, wireless head set etc. In addition, there are the traditional Gigabit Ethernet card and also a 56 Kbps modem for wired connections. Thus the laptop is truly well connected with the outside world. For even better connectivity, Samsung’s optional X-Dock II docking station provides additional PS/2, 4 USB 2.0 ports, TV out, DVI, VGA, serial, parallel and audio ports and connects via a proprietary port on the bottom side of the system. The standard battery has 3cells (Smart Li-Ion Battery) that lasts up to 3 hours under normal usage. There is an optional 6 cell battery for extended usage. Samsung offers 3-year carry-in local warranty (including parts & labour) for the Q40 laptop.To summarize, the Samsung Q40 ultra portable laptop has some impressive features like high quality screen, HSDPA module etc. for a system of its size and price.
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March 1st, 2008 at 10:40 am
“With Q40 Samsung has restored its leadership status among 12″ ultra portables! “
March 2nd, 2008 at 3:42 pm
“Samsung Q40 Pink Laptop, will get noticed… it is a pretty package”
March 3rd, 2008 at 10:10 am
“The Samsung Q40 isn’t too advanced compared to the original Q30”