Sharp introduces new Actius AV18 notebook

EDP Weekly's IT Monitor, June 9, 2003

Sharp Systems of America recently announced a new addition to its award-winning Actius line of notebook computers.

The Actius AV18 expands Sharp's family of ultramobile notebook computers by providing a powerful Actius computer at a budget-friendly price.

"The Actius AV18 offers advanced powerful computing performance plus audio-video entertainment in a slim design," said Terry Hanly, product marketing manager at Sharp Systems of America. "It's an ideal notebook for students as well as business professionals. Complete with a budget-conscious price, the Actius AV18 is perfect for anyone looking to benefit from the portable yet powerful benefits that have become the Sharp Actius trademark."

"Notebook users today want to be connected at home, school, work and while on-the-go, and the new Actius AV18 is an excellent choice to help them meet their mobility needs," said Marc Warshawsky, director, Mobile Business Segment, AMD Computation Products Group, "Low-voltage mobile AMD Athlon XP-M processors let world-class computer manufacturers like Sharp design high-power, thin-and-light notebooks with excellent battery life and crisp, clear graphics, keeping notebook users productive no matter where they are."

The new Actius AV18 is an ultramobile notebook that includes an integrated combo DVD/CD-RW drive. With an extremely compact 11.1" x 9.4" footprint, the AV18 features the low-voltage mobile AMD Athlon XP-M processor 1800 , CD burning and DVD playback capabilities, Windows XP Home Edition, 256 MB memory and a 40 GB hard drive in an ultrathin, lightweight design. Measuring just one inch thick and starting at 3.9 pounds, the Actius AV18 is one of the thinnest and lightest notebooks in its class.

The Actius AV18 also includes 'sharp-fx,' Sharp's proprietary DVD optimization software. This included module for InterVideo's WinDVD player automatically adjusts image contrast for optimum clarity. Combined with the Actius AV18's high-quality 12.1" LCD screen, this image enhancing software brings out the best in DVD picture quality.

"With the new Actius products, we're continuing our quest to provide maximum productivity on the go," said Hanly. "The Actius AV18 continues that tradition with a very thin, yet powerful machine at a great price."

The Actius AV18 is competitively priced with an estimated street price starting at $1,499.

Sharp Actius notebook computers are available immediately through Sharp directly (www.sharp.smartermall.com), or through Sharp's network of retail partners and reseller channels.