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IBM is one of the leading computer software and hardware manufacturers in the world. The company also sells various software-related consulting services and hosting services.
IBM manufactured its first PC in 1981, and by 1986, came out with its first laptop, the PC convertible. In 1992, the company introduced the ThinkPad-700C, the first notebook with a colour TFT (10.4-inch) display screen. It had a 25 MHz Intel 80486SL processor, removable 120MB hard drive, a 4MB RAM (expandable up to 16MB) and a TrackPoint pointing device.
The brand ThinkPad was conceived by a researcher who was inspired by a leather-bound pocket notebook issued by the company. The motto “Think” was embossed on the cover of the notebook. Despite disagreements over the name, it stuck because it had a good reception from the media.
The range of IBM ThinkPads evolved with an integrated CD-ROM and a butterfly keyboard. This butterfly keyboard appeared with the 701 series and was considered a masterpiece in design. Currently, it is on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The ThinkPad 760 series also came out with an unusual keyboard design. It featured an elevated keyboard with two arms riding on small rails on the side of the screen to achieve a more ergonomic design.
The ThinkPad further integrated a DVD-ROM with its next laptop series called the ThinkPad 770 in 1997. A year later, the company introduced another innovative feature to its laptops called the ThinkLight. The ThinkLight was a small lamp that illuminated the keyboard and made work easier in a low-lighting conditions.
IBM went on to introduce the first mini-notebook which weighed three pounds despite the standard ports and keyboard. They are also responsible for introducing the first PC with an embedded security chip.
ThinkPads are traditionally black and thin, inspired by a Japanese lunch-box design. They have magnesium and carbon fibre reinforced plastic or titanium composite cases with a LCD screen, ThinkLight and an LED keyboard.
The latest ThinkPads have an Active Protection System, which is an accelerometer sensor that shuts down the hard drive when an accident is likely to happen. Drain holes are provided to help eliminate damage to the keyboard from an accidental spillage. A biometric fingerprint reader keeps the users privacy intact and a roll-cage design removes any motherboard flex. A Client Security Solution improves security with a built-in TPM, which aids computer usage in corporate environments.
ThinkPads are appreciated for their great quality and system reliability. Their presence for over 15 years in the consumer market has earned them the reputation of being pioneers in the manufacturing of personal and notebook computers. By 2005, Lenovo –the Chinese manufacturer of the ThinkPad – bought over the brand from IBM in a deal that still allows IBM to contribute to the marketing and support of these products.
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Dealtime.co.uk Popular Products : IBM ThinkPad
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