AsusTek (or ASUS) has just launched its new Merom-based F2 laptop series. Merom, the code name for Intel's second generation of dual core processor, the Core2 Duo, can be choosen to power-up the notebook. Currently, there are four members of the Merom family available - T5500, T5600, T7200 or T7400. However, if you just want to play Solitaire on the laptop, purchasing the Core Duo or even Core Solo (T1350) version will be more suitable for the budget.

Currently, there are four configurations on this F2 laptop series - F2F, F2HF, F2J, and F2JE. The first two models will have Mobile Intel 945GM of 940ML Express chipset, while the other duo will incorporate Mobile Intel 945PM Express chipset. All of these notebooks can have either a 128MB ATI Mobility Radeon X1400 or a 512MB Radeon X1450 graphics card, as well as up to 160GB of SATA HDD. Furthermore, they all are equipped with a 15-inch LCD display, intergrated 1.3 megapixel webcam, WiFI, Ethernet LAN, Bluetooth, fingerprint reader, and MiVo module. The last mentioned feature allows users to connect to Skype and place a mobile-to-mobile, mobile-to-PC, or PC-to-mobile call anywhere in the world for the price of a local call, as long as the module is connected to a broadband connection and regular phone line.

"Once connected, MiVo monitors the Skype session and automatically forwards any incoming as well as outgoing Skype calls to any designated phone/PC, giving users the ultimate wireless freedom even away from the notebook", Asus announced.

No words on pricing and US availibility yet.

Asus F2 Laptop Specifications

• Intel® Centrino® Duo Mobile Technology
  • Intel® Core™ Solo Processor T1350
  • Intel® Core™ Duo Processor T2050/T2250/T2300E/T2400/T2500
  • Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T5500/T5600/T7200/T7400
  • Intel Celeron M 420/430
  • Mobile Intel® 945GM/940GML Express Chipset (F2F/HF)
  • Mobile Intel® 945PM Express Chipset (F2J/JE)
  • Intel® PRO/Wireless 3945ABG Network Connection
• Microsoft® Windows® XP Home / Professional
• DDRII 667 MHz
• 15″ XGA LCD, 15″ XGA & SXGA+ Color Shine LCD, ASUS Splendid Video Intelligence Technology
• ATI Mobility Radeon X1400/1450 DDRII 128MB, 512MB HyperMemory™
• SATA 80/100/120/160G GB
• 1.3 M pixel web-camera (optional)
• 10/100/1000, 802.11a/b/g, Bluetooth® V2.0+EDR (optional feature)
• 3x USB, 1x TV-Out, 1x Express Card, 1x 7-in-1 Card Reader, 1x Fingerprint reader, 1x TPM (optional)
• 34.3 x 28 x 1.7~4cm, 2.7kg (6-cell battery pack)

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