Sony's latest ultraportable notebook combines ultra-low-voltage Centrino technology with impressive multimedia features. We preview what looks like a traveller's dream machine.

Sony's Vaio laptops (the name, pronounced "vay-oh," began life as an acronym for "Video Audio Integrated Operation") have gained a reputation as the BMWs of portable computing.

Sony offers surprisingly little hand-holding, leaving out the usual follow-the-pictures set-up poster and including a Quick Start booklet that omits any information specific to this model.