IBM has unveiled a new range of ThinkPad laptops that integrate both old and new 802.11 wireless LAN (WLAN) standards, and come with easier access to service and support. They are designed to integrate seamlessly into rapidly changing corporate infrastructures, the firm said.

The new ThinkPad R40 range, shipping now, offers dual 802.11a and 802.11b WLAN capability integrated into selected models, providing better network performance for firms that need it, and backwards compatibility with current WLANs.

IBM's ThinkPad R series is a budget corporate range, designed to offer businesses a good blend of portability and essential features. The R40 models will be available with Mobile Pentium 4-M processors up to 2.2GHz or Mobile Celeron chips up to 1.6GHz, and up to 1GB of memory.

Versions of the R40 with dual WLAN capability will ship with IBM's Access Connections location-manager utility. This tool can automatically switch the laptop between networks based on speed or user preferences, allowing users to roam seamlessly between LAN and WLAN connections.

ThinkPad R40s will come with Access IBM, described by the company as a portal to IBM support. As well as providing onboard diagnostic tools, accessed via a dedicated button on the ThinkPad, this feature connects to online resources such as IBM's software update service.

IBM's traditional TrackPoint pointing device, which consists of a pressure-sensitive button in the middle of the keyboard, has also been given an update in the new ThinkPad R40. All models will be fitted with IBM's UltraNav, which combines a TrackPoint with the TouchPad device found on most other laptops. Users will have the choice of three different cap styles for the TrackPoint control itself.

IBM has also introduced two new ThinkPad docking ports. The Port Replicator II offers full port replications, while the Mini Dock also features a four-port USB 2.0 hub for extra peripheral connectivity.

Prices start at £1,069 + VAT for a ThinkPad R40 with 1.6GHz Mobile Celeron processor, and £1,191 + VAT for a 2GHz Mobile Pentium 4-M model.

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