If you are heavily into photography and video then this laptop was made for you. Everything you need is already onboard eliminating those all too common compatibility problems. Firewire and S video is supported and there is a modulated TV out. Great for watching DVD's in your motorhome as the sound is very acceptable. You could in fact buy a DVD recorder and just use the Sony as your entertainment unit whilst on the road - forget about iffy TV reception! The pointing device is very sensitive and takes some getting used to but it has a really nifty scrolling device - that roller gadget right at the front. Make no mistake - this is a high end computer that wont disappoint.

The screen is fantastic and is a gigantic 16 inches with excellent colour accuracy and depth. There is no floppy disc drive, but the built in DVD doubles as a CD writer and you can always plug an Iomega Zip drive into one of the three USB ports. Power consumption is just manageable at 4.6 amps. The Sony is fitted with a dual head video card and can drive two monitors with each running different programs if you wish. We use ours with a Hitachi LCD drawing another very economical 1/2 amp so it can be run off a small inverter. The Vaio comes with XP professional. Our machine is used for website creation running high end programs and after 2 months we have had zero problems. Cost is a bit high at $5,300.00 but as the screen is so large you can dispense with your home machine and use the Sony for both jobs. The keyboard has an excellent feel and is a touch typists dream! Allow another $65.00 at least for a case a bit larger than normal. You can pick these up on Ebay.com.au for about $1000.00 less but be aware you may have to pay extra for a world wide warranty. There is a model in the USA with a built in DVD burner for just US$200.00 more! Watch out with models as USA and Australia differ with the USA always getting the newest models way before Australia by about 6 months. Absolutely recommended!