HP revamps dm3 with cooler-running, upscale design
updated 12:00 am EDT, Wed September 1, 2010
HP Pavilion dm3 reworked to run be much cooler
HP's most unique introduction on Wednesday is a complete redesign of the Pavilion dm3. The 13.3-inch ultraportable has been shaped entirely around reducing its heat output and uses a combination of metal, non-conductive surface layers and repositioned vents to keep heat away from the hands and lap. Its heat management is equally clever, as it not only directly talks to fans but can automatically detect when it's on a lap and spool up the fans for extra cooling.
The design is more upscale as a whole with soft-touch paint and other touches to improve the build quality over the old dm3. HP is using Intel chips with this initial model and starts it off with an ultra-low voltage, dual-core 1.2GHz Pentium, although the company told Electronista a faster ULV Core i3 will be an option as well. Intel's video is the only graphics choice, but the system comes with 4GB of RAM and a 320GB, 7,200RPM hard disk even in its base form.
Owners can expect a peak 7.5 hours of battery life and a four-pound weight from the small Pavilion, which is on sale as of today and will start from $550.
