The system has a sturdy look and feel. It's fast and responsive, update screen displays lightning fast, and overall seemed to perform every bit as well as similarly equipped desktops. The processor is equipped with SpeedStep, a feature that toggles the CPU's horsepower, depending upon whether it's connected to AC power or running on its battery. When running on battery power, the processor steps down in clock speed, saving power and extending battery life. Subjectively, it was difficult to tell whether the processor was running at full or limited capacity.
Memory is an important component in a notebook's overall performance.
Its 20GB capacity should be more than sufficient for the vast majority of users. The drive comes almost empty, though - the only bundles software is Window Me and a DVD player. That leaves a lot of hard disk available for application and data storage. In addition to the spacious hard disk, ProStar includes a permanently mounted floppy disk drive and an 8X DVD-ROM drive. If desired, the system can be downgraded to a 24X CD-ROM drive.