If you need a portable workstation with plenty of speed and power, the Elitebook 8540 W could be an excellent solution. This mid-sized laptop offers a Core i5 processor, 8GB of memory and a 500GB hard drive - plus it comes equipped with webcam and fingerprint reader for added security! Plus its comfortable keyboard has backlit design for working in dimly lit rooms as well as DVD/CD drive access if necessary!
This laptop features high-grade metal components for an outstanding build quality, including minimal palmrest or display lid flex when squeezed and thin brushed-metal panels that remain resilient under pressure. However, at 3 kg it does weigh more than you might expect for workstation laptop of its size, yet remains easier to carry than some competing models.
Performance is outstanding, boasting solid CPU and graphics benchmark scores as well as reasonable energy consumption and emission rates. Unfortunately, battery life could be longer and typing could be made more comfortable on this keyboard.
Software: The notebook comes equipped with various software tools designed to maximize its utility for business users. QuickLook lets you access Outlook email and calendar information quickly without opening an application, while QuickWeb launches web browser quickly after turning on your computer.
There is also a selection of apps designed to help manage and protect personal information more efficiently. For instance, HP Image Capture makes scanning documents and images quick and simple; privacy Manager enables you to set and enforce security policies;
Our review sample did not come equipped with the optional DreamColor display that offers more accurate color representation for animation, video production or product design purposes; however, this could be included as an upgrade if users choose the top-of-the-line version of this notebook.
An available VGA port allows the notebook to connect directly with monitors and TVs, although its use has become less prevalent over time. The video card on this unit supports 1080p displays so should provide enough power for most applications.
This chassis is packed with connections. On its right side are an optical drive bay, two USB 3.0 ports, an RJ-45 port for Intel Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and an RJ-11 for 56K V.92 modem connectivity; three more USB 2.0 ports; an eSATA port; 1394a/Firewire capability and stereo headphone/line-out jacks can all be found here as well as an ExpressCard/54 slot tucked beneath its left side case wall.
