{"id":9638,"date":"2009-07-21T00:41:02","date_gmt":"2009-07-21T00:41:02","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=9638"},"modified":"2009-07-21T15:16:54","modified_gmt":"2009-07-21T15:16:54","slug":"toshiba-satellite-u405-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/toshiba-satellite-u405-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Toshiba Satellite U405 Review"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px\" title=\"Written by: Leon Hyman\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405articleimage-jpg.jpg?resize=500%2C150\" border=\"0\" alt=\"Written by: Leon Hyman\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/> <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Introduction<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http:\/\/laptops.toshiba.com\/laptops\/satellite\/U400\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/laptops.toshiba.com\/laptops\/satellite\/U400', 'Toshiba Satellite U400 series']);\" target=\"_blank\">Toshiba Satellite U400 series<\/a> offer small, lightweight and fully functional notebooks. They are not to be confused with netbooks, whose duties include the most basic of tasks such as working with office documents, messaging and browsing the net.<\/p>\n<p>In this review, I will be taking a look at one of Toshiba\u2019s U400 series laptops; specifically the Toshiba Satellite U405-S2915.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405open-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405open-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Toshiba Satellite U405-S2915 Specifications are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Operating System: Windows Vista Home Premium with SP1 (64-bit) <\/li>\n<li>Processor: 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T6400 (800MHz FSB, 2MB Cache) <\/li>\n<li>Graphics: Intel GMA 4500MHD <\/li>\n<li>Screen: 13.3&#8243; WXGA Display (1280&#215;800) <\/li>\n<li>Memory: 4GB DDR2-800 (PC2-6400) <\/li>\n<li>Storage: 320GB SATA HDD (5400rpm) <\/li>\n<li>Optical Drive: DVD SuperMulti 8X DVD+\/-R\/RW with Double Layer Support <\/li>\n<li>Communications:\n<ul>\n<li>10\/100Mbps LAN <\/li>\n<li>Intel Wi-Fi Link 5100AGN WLAN <\/li>\n<li>Bluetooth 2.1 with Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>Extras:\n<ul>\n<li>5-in-1 Card Reader <\/li>\n<li>FM Tuner with antenna <\/li>\n<li>Webcam <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>Power: 4800mAh 6-cell Li-Ion battery, 75W AC adapter <\/li>\n<li>Dimensions: 12.4&#8243; x 9.0&#8243; x 1.13-1.38&#8243; <\/li>\n<li>Weight: 4.41lbs <\/li>\n<li>Warranty: 1-year <\/li>\n<li>Price as configured: $899.99 <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Note: Service Pack 1 (SP1) was only used in this review because it is what came on the machine by default. I highly recommend updating this to SP2.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><!--pagetitle:Introduction--><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Build &#038; Design--><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Build &amp; Design<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The built quality on this machine is excellent. It has a small form factor measuring only 13.3\u201d diagonal across the screen and weighing in at 4.4 pounds. Being less than 1.5\u201d at its thickest point, this machine will not disappoint those persons that want a lot of power in a small package. As we say in Jamaica\u2026\u201cSmall axe fall big tree.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405packagingremoved-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The chassis is mainly plastic but it does not feel flimsy. The lid\u2019s hinges are very strong and usually requires both hands to open it. There are no lid latches or magnets.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405open-thumb1.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The design overall is definitely appealing. My first reaction was indeed, \u201cWow!\u201d. I know that people generally have different likes and dislikes but the styling on this laptop is sure to please most persons. It is sleek yet subtle and stylish yet simple. I really like the design and the mirror finish.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405mirrorfinish-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405mirrorfinish-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Display--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Display<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>The 13.3\u201d glossy display is clear and crisp. Text is easy to read and fast motion (such as games and movies) does not blur or ghost. This is good for both you and your friends. I say friends because we all show stuff to our friends and as such it is good to know that they will not have anything bad to say about your machine\u2019s display.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenglossy-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenglossy-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Another other good thing is the viewing angles of the LCD. Your friends will not have any problems looking at what you are showing them, whether they are to your left, your right or standing over your shoulder.<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 550px;\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"2\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><\/td>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screentop-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screentop-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=180%2C135\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenleft-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenleft-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=180%2C135\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screencenter-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screencenter-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=180%2C135\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenright-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenright-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=180%2C135\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><\/td>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenbottom-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405screenbottom-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=180%2C135\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<td width=\"183\" valign=\"top\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The top view is a bit washed out but not as bad as other displays I have seen. The bottom view however, does not wash out but inverts the colours. This is normal for TN LCD panels though and is not that much of a concern seeing as though nobody usually looks at the screen from the keyboard\u2019s viewpoint.<\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Keyboard &#038; Touchpad--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Keyboard &amp; Touchpad<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>This machine features a very nice keyboard. The keys are big and easy to press. The number pad is accessed by holding the function modifier key (\u201cFN\u201d) along with the corresponding key which is clearly labelled.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405keyboard-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405keyboard-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The keys are easy to press and it is overall very comfortable to type on this keyboard. However, the drawback that I have found is that the keys are a bit <em>clicky<\/em> in that they are not very quiet. They are not loud either but for a reasonably fast typist like myself, it can get very noticeable.<\/p>\n<p>The touchpad has a nice, slick finish and your finger literally glides across the surface. There is no depression that separates the touchpad from the rest of the wrist resting area, so the the clear difference in texture is a very nice touch.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405touchpad-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405touchpad-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Overall, the entire area is smooth and so are the silver coloured touchpad buttons. They are both big enough to easily be found without looking.<\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Ports &#038; Features--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Ports &amp; Features<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>The ports and features of this U405 model are impressive but are also what could be called standard or commonplace nowadays. Along the left side you will find the VGA\/D-Sub output, exhaust vents, a blind (where the HDMI connection is located on similar models), an external SATA port, a USB 2.0 port, a Firewire port and the headphone and microphone jacks. Above the last four, you can see the ExpressCard slot, well camouflaged with the machine\u2019s design pattern.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsleft-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsleft-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>On the front, you will find the 5-in-1 card reader slot, the volume control dial and the Wireless LAN off\/on switch. Not much to see here.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsfront-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsfront-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Along the right, there is the DVD Super Multi drive, another USB 2.0 port, the FM Tuner Antenna jack, the RJ-45 LAN port and the security lock slot. One of the most interesting features of this machine is the FM Tuner. I will get to that soon enough.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsright-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsright-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>On the back, the only thing to see is the power connector, all by its lonesome.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsback-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405portsback-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Last but certainly not least, everyone\u2019s personal favourite &#8211;\u00a0 the webcam. It is located in its usual spot, at the top center of the open lid. With its built-in microphone, it is sure to be another crowd pleaser.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405webcam-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405webcam-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Performance--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Performance<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>The 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor in this machine lived up to expectations, delivering performance to be pleased about. The graphs speak for themselves but keep in mind that it is a mainstream notebook that is not heavy on graphics performance.<\/p>\n<p>The following are the systems compared:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Toshiba Satellite U405-S2915 (2.0GHz, Intel Core 2 Duo T6400, Intel GMA 4500MHD)<\/strong> <\/li>\n<li>Dell Inspiron E1501 (1.8GHz, AMD Turion X2 TL-56, AMD Radeon Xpress 1150) <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">wPrime 2.00<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.wprime.net\/\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.wprime.net\/', 'wPrime']);\" target=\"_blank\">wPrime<\/a> is a CPU benchmark that does recursive mathematical calculations (read: square rooting) from 1 up to the requested maximum. For the testing, the number used as the ceiling was 32,000,000. The time is recorded for the process up to 32M. Keep in mind that this benchmark is multi-threaded so it make full use of all available cores.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405benchmarkswprime-jpg.jpg?resize=530%2C338\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">PCMark 05<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.futuremark.com\/products\/pcmark05\/\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.futuremark.com\/products\/pcmark05\/', 'PCMark\u00ae05']);\" target=\"_blank\">PCMark\u00ae05<\/a> is everything you need to reliably and easily measure the performance of your PC and determine its strengths and weaknesses. With PCMark05, you will be able to select the optimal upgrades for your existing PC, or choose the right new PC that fits your specific needs. This easy-to-use product gives you the same tools and knowledge that virtually every professional tester in the industry uses.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405benchmarkspcmark05-jpg.jpg?resize=530%2C290\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">3DMark 06<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.futuremark.com\/benchmarks\/3dmark06\/introduction\/\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.futuremark.com\/benchmarks\/3dmark06\/introduction\/', '3DMark06']);\" target=\"_blank\">3DMark06<\/a> is a PC benchmark suite designed to test the DirectX9 performance of your graphics card.<\/p>\n<p>A 3DMark score is an overall measure of your system\u2019s 3D gaming capabilities, based on comprehensive real-time 3D graphics and processor tests. By comparing your score with those submitted by millions of other gamers you can see how your gaming rig performs, making it easier to choose the most effective upgrades or finding other ways to optimize your system.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405benchmarks3dmark06-jpg.jpg?resize=530%2C290\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">HDTune<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.hdtune.com\/\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.hdtune.com\/', 'HD Tune']);\" target=\"_blank\">HD Tune<\/a> is a Hard Disk utility which has the following functions:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Benchmark: measures the performance <\/li>\n<li>Info: shows detailed information <\/li>\n<li>Health: checks the health status by using SMART <\/li>\n<li>Error Scan: scans the surface for errors <\/li>\n<li>Temperature display <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>Today we are just interested in the benchmarks and the temperature.<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 550px;\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"2\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405hdtunebenchmark-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405hdtunebenchmark-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C208\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405hdtunefilebenchmark-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405hdtunefilebenchmark-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C208\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>The HDTune benchmarks shows that the included hard disk drive performs really well with minimal CPU overhead. We also see that the drive hovers around 45\u00b0C &#8211; 46\u00b0C under load.<\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Speakers, Battery &#038; Radio--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Speakers, Battery &amp; Radio<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>The speakers are located at the top of the keyboard panel on either side of the power button and control touch-sensitive buttons. They are reasonably loud and play clean with minimal distortion. This is great for music on the go or while you work. You may even want to watch movies or play games to relax; the sound will not disappoint.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405speakers-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405speakers-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The battery life was above average, giving me 3 hours and 42 minutes before it shut down. This was while browsing the web using a Wi-Fi connection, with the screen at 50% brightness and Vista\u2019s power mode set to \u201cBalanced\u201d. Anyone should be happy with that kind of performance.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405adapter-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The radio is an exceptional feature in my opinion. It frees you from getting bored with your own media. This has happened to me many times. You do not have to let it happen to you.<\/p>\n<p>It is nice to know that when you want to listen to something fresh or you want to catch up on the latest news from around the world, you can just plug your little adapter in and switch on your FM Tuner Utility.<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 550px;\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"2\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405fmtunerutilitybad-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405fmtunerutilitybad-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C150\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405fmtunerutilitygood-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405fmtunerutilitygood-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C150\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Simple yet very effective, the reception is just as good as your signal meter indicates. With a good signal (which is not hard to achieve by the way), the radio plays clearly and is a very welcome feature. Thumbs up to Toshiba on this one.<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 550px;\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"2\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405radioantenna-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405radioantenna-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405radioantennapluggedin-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405radioantennapluggedin-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=179%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Heat &#038; Noise--><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Heat &amp; Noise<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Throughout testing I found that heat was not much of an issue. I was able to use the machine in my lap for extended periods without feeling uncomfortable from heat output. The room temperature was a constant 25\u00b0C.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405tempsback-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405tempsback-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>As for the keyboard side, it was also comfortable to use and the actual heat output was unnoticeable. I was surprised that the touchpad measured 35\u00b0C because I really could not tell the difference. The only heat that I <em>did<\/em> notice was the heat from the side vent when the system was put under a full load. When tested, it registered 56\u00b0C.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405tempsfront-jpg.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405tempsfront-thumb-jpg.jpg?resize=240%2C180\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>As for noise, the fan is actually off most of time during light usage. Whenever the temperature actually goes up, the fan kicks in to cool the machine. It is inaudible in a quiet room both with the machine in my lap or on a desk in front of me. In most cases, the only time you know the fan is running is if you feel the warm air coming from the vents on the side.<\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle:Conclusion--><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Conclusion<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>As you would expect from Toshiba, especially at this price point, the positives significantly outweigh the negatives, none of which are deal breakers by the way. To summarize, I will use the usual pros and cons list, which is as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Pros:\n<ul>\n<li>Thin and light <\/li>\n<li>Great screen <\/li>\n<li>Nice keyboard and touchpad <\/li>\n<li>Wide cross-section of ports <\/li>\n<li>Built-in FM Radio <\/li>\n<li>Excellent performance <\/li>\n<li>Long battery life <\/li>\n<li>Great bang-for-buck value <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Cons:\n<ul>\n<li>Integrated graphics <\/li>\n<li>No S-Video or HDMI ports <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p>A very nice machine overall. I think that anyone purchasing this machine for office work, web browsing, multimedia fun and\/or light gaming would be really satisfied with it. The Toshiba Satellite U405 is a great value and I fully recommend it.<\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 550px;\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"2\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/greatvalueaward11.png?resize=150%2C251\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/td>\n<td width=\"275\" valign=\"top\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/recommended-png.png?resize=150%2C251\" border=\"0\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Leon Hyman<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Senior Editor<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><br class=\"spacer_\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong><em><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>Please join us in our <\/strong><\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/abt\/index.php\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>Forums<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>Follow us on <\/strong><\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech', 'Twitter']);\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>Twitter<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>For the latest updates from ABT, please <\/strong><\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?feed=rss2\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>join our RSS News Feed<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>Join our Distributed Computing teams<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>Folding@Home &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech &#8211; 164304 <\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>SETI@Home &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech &#8211; 138705 <\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1', 'World Community Grid &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech']);\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong>World Community Grid &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech<\/strong><\/span><\/a><span style=\"color: #80ffff\"><strong> <\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=9638\"><img decoding=\"async\" align=top title=\"Author: Leon Hyman\" src=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/07\/u405articleimage.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":9657,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7814,7],"tags":[1876,1183,1877,87,1874,395,1875,1878],"class_list":["post-9638","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","category-technology","tag-1876","tag-laptop","tag-light","tag-review","tag-satellite","tag-toshiba","tag-u405","tag-u405-s2915"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9638","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9638"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9638\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9657"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9638"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9638"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9638"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}