Computer technology has recently reached a new phase in the evolution of technology that caters to the next generation of on-the-go workers often referred to as "digital nomads."

In July of 2008 Sony added the Sony Vaio Z Series of notebook computers which provides on the go workers with extreme portability without sacrificing functionality. If you are seeking a PC notebook that provides ultra portability and mega computing command, and you do not mind the higher price tag, then the Sony Vaio Z is for you.

First Impressions Design

When you set eyes on this notebook for the first time, you will be amazed at its very slender and sleek form. It has a height of about 1.3 inches with a 13.3 inch screen and is very lightweight at 3.3 pounds. Sony's use of aluminum and fiber casing provides for simple yet elegant design that has a unified appearance without sacrificing durability.

The Sony Vaio Z Series notebooks have a very substantial build with multiple layers of carbon fiber casing that protects the LCD panel and internal hardware against shocks. The LCD panel is only 0.13 inches thick and flexible, due to the fact that it employs LED backlighting; however, it is securely attached to the body with a substantial and sturdy hinge.

Keyboard and Control Functions

• Keyboard Design: The keyboard design on the Sony Vaio Z Series PCs is very different from the conventional laptop keyboards that are housed inside a casing frame. Instead the keys are positioned with a relatively sizeable space between them. The experience the user gets when pressing the keys is very different from that of the conventional keyboard, however it is really not bad and you can adjust to the experience within a short time frame.

• Touch Pad and Fingerprint Sensor: The touch pad is very standard in design with two control buttons positioned below it. One problem with this design is that the controls are the same level and color as the palm rest which makes them appear to be somewhat hidden. All of the notebooks in the Sony Vaio Z Series include a biometric fingerprint sensor which is located below the touch pad allowing the user to authenticate their identity before accessing secure information.

Connectivity and Ports

• Five Internet Connectivity Options: Although the Sony Vaio Z Series is compact, it boasts an impressive selection of Internet connectivity options with at least five different methods of accessing the Internet.

• Three Wi-Fi Connections: There are three different Wi-Fi connections that include wireless Ethernet, the latest version of Intel's Centrino 2 platform that provides two additional methods of accessing a Wi-Fi connection.

• Bluetooth: A unique Bluetooth connection allows you to use your cell phone as a wireless modem to connect to the Internet. The Bluetooth feature also contains a really nifty feature that allows the user to use a cell phone as a remote control for business presentations.

• Webcam and Microphone: The webcam and microphone interface is very compatible with Skype and has a 0.3 megapixel motion eye camera to allow users to access teleconferencing on the go.

• Blu-ray Drive: The Blu-ray drive feature makes the Sony Vaio Z Series unique due to the fact that most of the other compact notebooks do not contain this feature. The CD drawer is easily accessible simply by pushing the button located on the tray.

Performance

The Sony Vaio Z Series provides a speedy computing experience with applications loading in one or two seconds with maybe three to four seconds for larger applications. The Z Series is also capable of handling some of the most demanding computer gaming applications to date and surfing the Internet is a dream with an impressive Intel Mobile Core 2 Duo P8600 running at 2.4 Ghz and enhanced Intel Speedstep Technology.

Overall the Sony Vaio Z Series is an exceptional PC that guarantees maximum performance and most of the features of a full-size PC (in some cases exceeding expectations) in the smallest possible mobile package.