Acer Launches WiMax-Enabled Notebooks

Acer has taken the wraps off its Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 notebooks, featuring WiMax wireless broadband connectivity.

Sprint recently switched on WiMax wireless broadband service in Baltimore—and there are reports Sprint’s Xohm WiMax service is starting to activate in other markets. Of course, if you’re lucky enough to live in an area with WiMax capability—e.g. Baltimore—you still need WiMax-capable hardware. To that end, computer maker Acer has introduced its new Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 notebook computers, each of which feature WiMax connectivity with a module that combines WiMax and 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi networking.

WiMax technology offers wireless download speeds of 2 to 4 Mbps and upload speeds of 1 to 2 Mbps, offering more bandwidth than 3G wireless data solutions.

"With the launch of WiMax in the United States, Acer is building on its commitment to deliver first-to-market cutting-edge PC technology for mobile customers," said Acer America’s director of notebook product management Sumit Agnihotry, in a statement. "By leveraging Intel Centrino 2 mobile technology and the Xohm wireless network capabilities, users will have the availability for anytime, anywhere wireless connectivity."

The Aspire 4930-6862 sports a 14.1-inch 1,280 by 800 pixel display, a 2 GHz Core 2 Duo processor, Intel GMA 4500 HMHD graphics, 3 GB of RAM, a 320 GB hard drive, a super multi DVD burner, and a 5-in-1 media card reader, along with an integrated Webcam and Windows Vista Home Premium. The Aspire 6930-6671 offers similar specs but with a 16-inch 1,366 by 768 display.

Both systems carry suggested prices of $899.99 and are available in the Baltimore area through Newegg and TigerDirect.