MPC updates fed notebook

At this year's FOSE show, MPC Computers debuted the latest version of its made-for-feds desktop replacement notebook, the TransPort X3100.

This notebook is especially attractive to federal government users because it continues to feature three spindles in a mostly two-spindle world.

What does that mean for users? In three words, a floppy drive. Floppy disks are still prevalent in the government space but with most new notebook computers featuring only an optical drive, floppy users are increasingly being left in the dark.

MPC Computers has updated the notebook with Intel’s 915PM chipset, Gigabit Ethernet and two additional USB 2.0 ports, bringing the total to four. However, existing ports such as parallel and serial remain.

Other features of interest to government users include an integrated Smart Card reader, a tool-less removable hard drive and an integrated fingerprint scanner. In addition, a Mini PCI slot allows users to add optional 802.11a/b/g wireless networking capability.

Another useful feature is a bridge battery that allows you to swap out the primary battery without any down time.

You can order the TransPort X3100 with either a 14.1-inch XGA or 15-inch SXGA+ display and your choice of an Intel Pentium M or Intel Celeron M processor.