We finally got the first of batch of the supersmall S10 Ideapads in stock. We like the chunky, squared-off design, and the IdeaPad S10 is a little thinner than Asus' thick 10-inch Eee PC 1000. There's a decent-sized keyboard (for a Netbook), which doesn't feel the need to knock out a row of function keys or mess around too much with the standard layout (we're looking at you, Dell). The touch pad is marginally smaller than the one on Dell's Mini 9, but we liked the slightly textured surface on the S10, which kept our fingers from dragging, as can happen on overly glossy touch pad surfaces.

We were also very pleased to see an ExpressCard/34 slot, which is rare on smaller systems, but very useful for adding after-market extras, such as a mobile broadband modem. Speakers, usually an afterthought on Netbooks, were located under a grill that runs along the front lip of the system. One should never depend on tiny speakers like this, but the volume was loud for basic YouTube purposes.

The 10.2-inch wide-screen display has a 1,024x600-pixel native resolution, which is standard for 9- and 10-inch Netbooks, and not too far removed from the 1,280x800-pixel resolution common in most laptops up to 15 inches.

All in all, the unit feels as any of the Lenovo series laptops, strong durable and of good quality even at the price tag of only $499. Come and check them out here in our store, they are on display.

The Ideapad y430 is primarily suitable for home use and it has some some nteresting features, e.g. Dolby Home Theatre 2 Certification w/ stereo speakers. Array microphone. Webcam: 1.3MP. Chassis: Distinctive Anodized Aluminum. Security: Veriface --> Your face is your (Windows) Password. Multiple users can access the same computer on separate accounts. Know who is trying to use the computer: Keeps an image log of users who attempt to log in. Video Message Board: Allows you to leave a 30 second video message to logging on. Q4 2008 version with improved recognition in multiple lighting conditions, the list goes on. Below are some of the details.

Dual core/64-bit processing: This laptop features the dual-core 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T3200 processor. The Core 2 Duo has two processing engines that work together, giving this processor much more power than standard 2GHz processors. This processor built on 64 bits architecture, enabling it to handle twice as much information as older 32-bit processors. Intel Centrino technology enhances mobile performance and extends battery life.

* This laptop features 3GB of DDR2 system memory—enough for the most demanding users, gamers and multimedia professionals. DDR2 is slightly faster than DDR, the previous standard in system memory.

* Data travels to the processor along the frontside bus. The faster data travels, the faster everything works. This laptop features a 800MHz frontside bus.

* Processors search for the same data over and over. L2 caches keep this data neat, organized, and nearby so it can be retrieved more quickly. This 2MB cache gives the processor a boost.

Hard drive: This hard drive features a 250GB capacity—perfect for robust collections of music, movies and multimedia. This drive’s data disks spin at 5400rpm. The faster they spin, the faster the data is read and written.

Blazing-fast wireless N: Built-in 802.11n wireless LAN lets you take advantage of the speed of the latest and fastest networks, as well as networks using the most popular standards.

Built-in Bluetooth: Enjoy easy communication with PDAs and other Bluetooth-enabled devices with the integrated stereo A2DP Bluetooth.

DVD SuperMulti drive: Use this drive to burn DVDs and CDs to share your files, music mixes or home movies. You can even burn DVD-RAM discs—specially-formatted discs that let you drag and drop, or write and rewrite your files up to 100,000 times.

Widescreen display: This laptop features a gorgeous 14.1" high-definition widescreen display with 1280 x 800 pixel (WXGA) resolution. Your documents and movies will look fantastic.

Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium (32-bit) with SP1: Windows Vista Home Premium is the operating system for homes with advanced computer needs. And Vista Premium features the elegant new Aero interface. You’ll be able to use your notebook more effectively and enjoy new entertainment experiences—all with the benefit of added security and reliability. The Service Pack 1 is also included.

Audio/video: This laptop features Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD with up to 1759MB of shared video memory, which is drawn from the main system memory. This video memory is perfect for watching movies and videos or light gaming. Built-in stereo speakers, along with a subwoofer, give the sound extra depth thanks to Dolby Home Theatre 2 Certification.

Media card reader: Seamlessly transfer images from your digital camera or camcorder. This 6-in-1 reader is compatible with Secure Digital, Secure Digital Pro, xD, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO and MultiMedia Card.

ExpressCard/54 slot: This laptop supports ExpressCard, an emerging standard in smaller, faster PC card solutions. The slot is also compatible with ExpressCard/34. Use it to add memory, graphics upgrades, security devices and more.

Built-in webcam/mic: Stay connected to family, friends or business associates wherever you go. Video chatting face-to-face is easy with the built-in camera and microphone.

Face verification: The webcam offers an added layer of security by recording your facial features, so there's no need to remember a password every time you start your computer— the Lenovo will remember you.

Software bundle:
Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium (32-bit) with Service Pack 1, Microsoft Live portal, Microsoft Office Professional 2007(trial version)
Norton Internet Security 2008 (90 days of virus definition)
Lenovo Energy Management Software 3.1, VeriFace 3.0, EasyCapture 3.0, OneKey Rescue System 6.0
Adobe Reader 8.1
Power2GO 5.5
WildTagent
Carbonite
Napster