Difference between revisions of "Siemens-Nixdorf PCD-4ND"

The inclusion of a relatively modern TFT screen on some models, although the contrast ratio, response time and especially colour accuracy (fringing) seems slightly poorer than IBM's offerings, is one of the few saving graces in terms of technical prowess, as most laptops of its era either had poor color LCDs. RAM capabilities are mixed. The lack of standardization means that memory upgrades are quite difficult to find, as the laptop require a clearly proprietary memory module package, that looks as a slightly thick black cartridge. Similarly, CPU upgrades seem to be limited as there is a proprietary connector used for CPUs and CPUs are soldered on a CPU module board. Cooling is, however, adequate, so durability is ensured.

The standard capacity harddrive is not adequate as even modest Windows 95 installations with a Microsoft Office 95 package can take around more than 300MB. The harddrive itself is noisy and very bulky (12mm height) but the plastic drive cage along with the laptop's own casing offer excellent noise damping capabilities as metal frames are almost entirely avoided.The keyboard, trackball and trackball buttons are close to the classic IBM standard of peripherals, which is a nice surprise. The keyboard feel and travel is just right for a classic model. The only discomfort comes from the trackball buttons that have indentations that are slightly unpleasant on longer use. Also, the slightly slanted palmrest creates a comfortable typing position.