Acer unveils Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000: new Ferrari dual-core notebook range

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Power-Doubler

28-May-2006 - Montecarlo

Acer, Sponsor of Scuderia Ferrari and the leading vendor in the notebook sector for EMEA – Europe, Middle East and Africa (source: Gartner data, 1Q 2006), presents today the new Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 series, a family of Acer notebooks engineered to conjugate state-of-the-art performance, finest design and absolute reliability.

The Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 are the world’s first notebook series to make available to the wide public the exclusive and cutting-edge technology pioneered and perfected in the world of Formula One. The exclusive carbon fiber casing of the Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 conceals the very latest dual-core technology, defining a notebook that offers all the performance and elegance gained from the alliance between two companies constantly focused on innovation and renowned for pushing the boundaries of technology.

“After almost three years of partnership and successful and innovative notebooks such as the Ferrari 4000 and 3400,” says Gianfranco Lanci, President of Acer Inc, “Acer has designed a truly exclusive notebook range that expresses our firm intention to stay at the forefront of innovation, an ambition that has always characterised both the worlds of Formula One and Information Technology.”

“Technology is essential to achieve objectives”, says Jean Todt, General Manager of Scuderia Ferrari. “We believe that innovation leads to constant evolution, and we are delighted that one of our Sponsors places such importance on the research and development of advanced technological solutions.”

The Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 are based on the latest AMD Turion 64 X2 Mobile Technology. Harnessing the natural power of the latest dual-core technology, the new Acer systems deliver added performance with intelligent power management features. In addition, the new 64-bit architecture delivers leading-edge power and provides a taste of the performance gains promised by future 64-bit applications.

Ferrari 5000
Especially crafted with a thin and light carbon fiber casing – styled in black and in the exclusive ‘Ferrari red’ – this inimitable notebook is equipped to be the technology leader in 15.4" desktop replacement segment.

Performance: the AMD Turion 64 X2 processor delivers the best power output for heavy-application users seeking for a notebook to keep peace with today’s data processing needs.

Communication: coming bundled with the handy Acer VoIP Bluetooth phone, the Ferrari 5000 also exploits the potential of visual communication with Acer Video Conference solution that comprises Acer OrbiCam, a 1.3 megapixel webcamera mounted at the top of the LCD panel. Sporting every kind of wired and wireless connectivity option, it comes complete with WLAN (with Acer InviLink 802.11a/b/g* Wi-Fi CERTIFIED solution, supporting Acer SignalUp wireless technology), WPAN with built-in Bluetooth 2.0 module, LAN connection with Gigabit Ethernet cards and standard connectivity through the integrated 56K ITU V.92 modem.

Storage capacity: the Ferrari 5000 offers a generous HDD (up to 160 GB) and the choice between a slot-loading DVD-Super Multi double-layer drive or the last generation HD-DVD drive**. In addition a card-reader welcomes 5 types of memory cards.

Ferrari 1000
Ideal for those image-sensitive professional users who desire compactness and vanguard performance, the Ferrari 1000 adds style and distinction to everyday’s mobility. Powered with AMD Turion 64 X2 processor, the Ferrari 1000 delivers the best performance output for users longing for an exclusive ultramobile notebook with long battery life. Its 12.1” Acer CrystalBrite widescreen display presents stunning visuals thanks to ATI RADEON XPRESS 1150 chipset supporting up to 512MB Hypermemory.

The Ferrari 1000 redefines the shape of mobile perfection, with sober design and absolute versatility. In 1,7 kilos, it expresses superlative performance and seamless wireless and wired communication, no matter the environment. In addition, the Acer OrbiCam positioned on top of the LCD panel allows real-time face-to-face communication.

All notebook functions can be efficiently managed with Acer Empowering technology, an intuitive interface that gives users easy control over their notebook’s security, performance, settings and communication with a single touch of the Empowering Key.

Both Ferrari series comes with Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition or Microsoft Windows Professional Edition preinstalled. Additional installed software includes Adobe Reader, Norton AntiVirus and CyberLink PowerDVD or CyberLink Power Producer, Acer GridVista and Acer Arcade Software Suite.

All Acer notebooks come with a standard 1 year Carry In (International travellers warranty - ITW) which can be extended to 3 years cover with the Acer Advantage service that also covers accidental damage to the notebook.

* Or 802.11b/g
** When available

 

what is the release date?

 

what is the gpu of the 5000?

 

The same like TM8200 - X1600

 

They've not announced a date / price yet. I'd expect them to do that at the Computex Taipei show that's fast approaching.

 

Cant Wait for the review.
Just bought TM 8200, a bit dissapointed as I should had wait for Ferarri 5000.

 

Other than Core Duo vs. Turion 64 X2 Mobile, it looks like there is little difference between the Ferrari 5000 and the TravelMate 8200, so I wouldn't be too upset if I were you. The chassis looks to be near-identical other than the Ferrari branding, and the rest of the hardware spec also looks identical - right down to the Orbicam and Bluetooth VOIP phone. It is possible that they could have made slight changes like overclocking the video chipset slightly, but I doubt there's a lot of difference.

So - basically it boils down solely to which processor you favor - Core Duo, or Turion 64 X2 Mobile. The Core Duo is 32-bit only whereas the Turion 64 X2 Mobile is 64-bit, but Windows Vista is still likely a year away, so it is going to be 12-18 months before that makes any difference at all - probably half the life of your laptop. Early previews I've seen suggest that the Core Duo is faster in the meantime, and uses less power when working, whereas the Turion 64 X2 Mobile is slower, but uses less power at idle.

Frankly, it isn't looking like there's a lot in it either way.

 

Dont be upset people. There is always the Merom. Plup that puppy in when it comes out, and you have yourself a new computer.

 

So long as you don't care about your warranty, yes.

For anybody who has an ongoing warranty - particularly those who spent a little extra for the three year warranty w/ accident coverage from Acer - changing your processor would void your warranty, and hence isn't an option.

Plus buying the Merom at retail is not likely to be very cost-effective.

 

Yeah... dont do it if you like your warranty where its at right now .
I kinda dont have one so its ok for me...
And quite frankly i am ready to shrink my wallet to get my laptop wired up. I mean what do those green papers with faces do? nothing. what does a Merom do? EVERYTHING!!!!

 

Hahah - if you've got any of those green-faced papers going spare, let me know! I'm sure I could bill you for something... Consultation services? I dunno. lol!

 

New images:


Acer Ferrari 5000

The Ferrari 5000 sports a carbon fibre case, is based on AMD’s new Turion 64 X2 processor, and is a relatively portable desktop replacement (364 x 271 x 26.3/38mm and 3Kg) that sports a 15.4in WSXGA+ (1680 x 1050) display, a maximum of 2GB DDR2 RAM, a 160GB hard drive, an ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 with 256MB VRAM (or up to 512MB using HyperMemory) and a 1.3MP integrated camera. Impressively, an HDMI port with HDCP support is available along with more typical connections such as S-video, a 5-in-1 card reader, WiFi, Bluetooth, 4x USB2.0 and FireWire.


Acer Ferrari 1000

The Ferrari 1000 also sports a carbon fibre case, and is also based on AMD’s new Turion 64 X2 processor, but weighs just 1.55Kg (1.7Kg with a six cell battery) and is a 12.1 incher with 1280 x 800 widescreen display. As you would expect graphics are of the integrated variety (ATI’s Xpress 1150) but can still pack up to 512MB via HyperMemory. 2GB of DDR2 RAM is again the max as is a 160GB HDD. There’s no HDMI here, but the rest of the connectivity is all present and correct, while a second battery can be interchanged with the slot loading DVD rewriter to provide up to five hours of battery life.

Courtesy of Trusted Reviews.

 

By the way, for a confirmation that this is basically a TravelMate 8204WLMI with a few changes (AMD Turion 64 X2 Mobile processor, HDMI w/ HDCP port, and 160GB HDD are all I know for sure so far), compare the following two images:


Acer TravelMate 8204WLMI


Acer Ferrari 5000

 

Same or maybe less performance with TM 8200 I guess. The advantage is only 64 bit. Anyone know the price?
I wonder why Acer didnt give higher graphic card? It had been state of the art machine, I can say like Ferarri Enzo.

 

Important points we don't know yet:

* Pricing - will it be the same as 8200? Higher? Lower?

* Processor speed - we've only got rumors of the exact processors used so far, only the processor family is definitely confirmed. I'd guess the Core Duo will win, but not by a long way for most tasks.

* Battery life. Early reports say Core Duo uses less power when busy, Turion 64 X2 Mobile uses less power when idle. I'd venture to guess that for what people mostly use their laptops for when away from a power point (office apps, web browser, email, etc.) the T64 will win on battery life.

* Is the X1600 overclocked? Quite possible.

 

I strongly guess it will be more expensive than TM 8200 as they have to pay primium for Ferarri Brand. And also if we see Pricing in South East asia, TM 8200 is same or less than ferarri 4005.

Processor speed maximum will equal to TM 8200, highest turion X2 is only 2 ghz.

I dont understand concept of idle and busy, we use laptop to work, right? So there is no point to have efficient battery when idle.

Hopefully X1600 is OC d, and also acer gives new Driver for X1600 and new OC software so TM 8200 also can be OC safely

 

I think you misunderstood his idea. Most mobile processors have the capablility to run at lower speeds when the full power is not needed. The Core Duo therefore idles at 1GHz and stays there as long as the tasks(like surfing, word etc...) do not require the full power of the processor. In this idle state, most reviewers have found out that the Turion gives better battery life. When the processor is busy or an applicationis using 100% of the cpu resources(like gaming) the Core Duo might offer better battery life. So,the are advantages/disadvantages to both processors, but the battery life will tend to be similar for both processors since they have similar TDP's(31W to 35W).

 

...but initial reports are that Core Duo pricing is significantly more than Turion 64 X2 Mobile pricing. Also bear in mind that, with two models now, the Ferrari line is continuing to become mass market. Also consider that Acer recently signed up as a team sponsor of Ferrari, the cost of which is likely borne across Acer's entire product lineup. It is quite possible that as a full-fledged sponsor, they could be able to manufacture certain Ferrari branded products with minimum royalty payments to Ferrari.

Clock speed is not the only (or even a good) indicator of performance.

Yes, you are quite correct - you don't understand the concept. Currently I am running:

* Microsoft Outlook 2003 checking three email accounts (each checked every 60 seconds, and receiving many hundreds of spam emails per day which is filtered automatically with SpamBayes)
* Macromedia Dreamweaver MX editing three HTML documents
* Windows notepad
* Firefox with multiple extensions installed and three windows open, two of these with two tabs open apiece
* Microsoft word with two documents open
* Windows Media Player, streaming live audio across the internet
* AVG antivirus set to scan every file that is accessed, read or write, plus scan all incoming emails
* MSN Messenger
* Yahoo Messenger
* Clippy (clipboard filtering application)
* Windows firewall running
* Windows Task Manager continuously graphing CPU and page file usage refreshing at "high" update speed

All of this is on an outdated Gateway 7405GX notebook with an AMD Athlon 64 3200+ and 512MB of RAM. In the time that I've been figuring out and typing this list, my processor utilisation has only exceeded 30% three or four times, for a second at a time - and overall it has average around 20-30% utilisation.

In other words, my laptop is mostly spending its time idle.

Unless you're doing something processor intensive like encoding videos, raytracing, or the like, then chances are your laptop's CPU is spending most of its time idle too - even if you *feel* that you're doing a lot with it.

 

Ahem, while the front may look similar, the side does not, it looks like they turned the entire thing around (Vent is shown on the left, while on the 8200 it's on the right).

 

"Ahem" the side view is of the Ferrari 1000 (not the 5000) as the label under it says.

As can be seen in this image, the vent is *not* on the left.

 

Doh, missed that...

Okay, apparently exactly the same as the 8200.

 

No biggie, I'm just a smartass.

 

More photos and expected list pricing in Italy (2,500 euros) are to be found here:

http://www.pcw.it/showPage.php?template=attualita&id=2461

That won't necessarily translate directly to US pricing, but by reference the Ferrari 4000 lists for 1,949 euros (4006WLMi) in Italy. The TravelMate 8200 lists for 2,349 euros (8204WLMi). That puts the Ferrari 5000 at 28% more expensive than the Ferrari 4006WLMi, and only 6% more expensive than the TravelMate 8204WLMi.

From reputable retailers in the USA, the 4006WLMi costs $1,850, while the 8204WLMi costs $1,965.

4006WLMi comparison: $1,850 + 28% = $2,370
8204WLMi comparison: $1,965 + 6% = $2,090

So - my guess is the Ferrari 5000 street pricing, once it ships in volume, will be around US$2,250.

 

Another Ferrari 1000 pic courtesy of The Inquirer:



http://www.theinquirer.net/?article=32140

Also another article here with two new pics of the 5000, but unfortunately only as tiny thumbnails:

http://www.cio.com/blog_view.html?CID=21692

 

Computex trade show in Taiwan is June 6 - June 10... im sure we will get a lot more information then...

 

Acer unveils Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000:
New Ferrari dual-core notebook range
Power-Doubler

TAIPEI, TAIWAN (2 June, 2006) -- Acer, Sponsor of Scuderia Ferrari and the world's No. 4 notebook brand presents the new Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 series, a family of Acer notebooks engineered to conjugate state-of-the-art performance, finest design and absolute reliability.

The Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 are the world's first notebook series to make available to the wide public the exclusive and cutting-edge technology pioneered and perfected in the world of Formula One. The exclusive carbon-fiber casing of the Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 conceals the very latest dual-core technology, defining a notebook that offers all the performance and elegance gained from the alliance between two companies constantly focused on innovation and renowned for pushing the boundaries of technology.

"After almost three years of partnership and successful and innovative notebooks such as the Ferrari 4000 and 3400," says Gianfranco Lanci, President of Acer Inc., "Acer has designed a truly exclusive notebook range that expresses our firm intention to stay at the forefront of innovation, an ambition that has always characterized both the worlds of Formula One and information technology."

"Technology is essential to achieve objectives," says Jean Todt, General Manager of Scuderia Ferrari. "We believe that innovation leads to constant evolution, and we are delighted that one of our Sponsors places such importance on the research and development of advanced technological solutions."

The Ferrari 5000 and Ferrari 1000 are based on the latest AMD Turion™ 64 X2 Mobile Technology. Harnessing the natural power of the latest dual-core technology, the new Acer systems deliver added performance with intelligent power management features. In addition, the new 64-bit architecture delivers leading-edge power and provides a taste of the performance gains promised by future 64-bit applications.

Ferrari 5000
Especially crafted with a thin and light carbon fiber casing -- styled in black and in the exclusive "Ferrari red" -- this inimitable notebook is equipped to be the technology leader in 15.4" desktop replacement segment.

Performance: the AMD Turion™ 64 X2 processor delivers the best power output for heavy-application users seeking for a notebook to keep peace with today's data processing needs.

Communication: bundled with the handy Acer Bluetooth® VoIP phone, the Ferrari 5000 also exploits the potential of visual communication with Acer Video Conference solution that comprises Acer OrbiCam™, a 1.3 megapixel webcamera mounted at the top of the LCD panel. Sporting every kind of wired and wireless connectivity option, it comes complete with WLAN (with Acer InviLink 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi CERTIFIED solution, supporting Acer SignalUp™ wireless technology), WPAN with built-in Bluetooth 2.0 module, LAN connection with Gigabit Ethernet cards and standard connectivity through the integrated 56K ITU V.92 modem.

Storage capacity: the Ferrari 5000 offers a generous HDD (up to 160 GB) and the choice between a slot-loading DVD-Super Multi double-layer drive or the last generation HD-DVD drive. In addition a card-reader welcomes 5 types of memory cards.

Ferrari 1000
Ideal for those image-sensitive professional users who desire compactness and vanguard performance, the Ferrari 1000 adds style and distinction to everyday's mobility. Powered with AMD Turion™ 64 X2 processor, the Ferrari 1000 delivers the best performance output for users longing for an exclusive ultra-mobile notebook with long battery life. Its 12.1" Acer CrystalBrite™ widescreen display presents stunning visuals thanks to ATI RADEON XPRESS 1150 chipset supporting up to 512MB Hypermemory.

The Ferrari 1000 redefines the shape of mobile perfection, with sober design and absolute versatility. In 1.7kg, it expresses superlative performance and seamless wireless and wired communication, no matter the environment. In addition, the Acer OrbiCam™ positioned on top of the LCD panel allows real-time face-to-face communication.

All notebook functions can be efficiently managed with Acer Empowering Technology, an intuitive interface that gives users easy control over their notebook's security, performance, settings and communication with a single touch of the Empowering Key.

Both Ferrari series come with Microsoft Windows® XP Home Edition or Microsoft Windows® Professional x64 Edition preinstalled. Additional installed software includes Adobe Reader, Norton AntiVirus and CyberLink PowerDVD or CyberLink Power Producer and Acer GridVista software suite.

Computex Taipei 2006 runs from 6~10th June, it is Asia's most influential global IT event. Acer' s booth is located in Hall 2, booth F137.

For product details and availability, please contact your nearest Acer branch office. Acer contact details may be found on www.acer.com.

###

Product under license of Ferrari Spa.
Ferrari, the PRANCING HORSE device, all associated logos distinctive designs are trademarks of Ferrari Spa.

About Acer
Acer ranks as the world's No. 4 branded PC vendor, designing easy, dependable IT solutions that empower people to reach their goals and enhance their life. Since spinning-off its manufacturing operation, Acer has focused on globally marketing its brand-name products: mobile and desktop PCs, servers and storage, LCD monitors and high-definition TVs, peripherals, and e-business solutions for business, government, education, and home users. Acer's unique Channel Business Model has been instrumental in the company's latest success. The model encourages partners and suppliers to collaborate in a winning formula of supply-chain management, allowing Acer to provide customers with fresh technologies, competitive pricing, and quality service. Established in 1976, Acer Inc. employs 5,600 people supporting dealers and distributors in more than 100 countries. Revenues in 2005 reached US$9.7 billion. Please visit www.acer.com.

Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. Other trademarks, registered trademarks and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the properties of their respective owners.

 

More photos and a video of the 5000....

http://www.osnn.net/comments.php?shownews=12921

 

Over at Neowin.net they posted some pics of the Acer Ferrari 5000

http://www.digitimes.com/mobos/a20060602A7034.html

 

Great, thanks!

http://www.neowin.net/index.php?act=view&id=33443 is linked from that page, too...

 

They really don't seem different from the previous model, or maybe its' just me.

 

The Ferrari 4000 and Ferrari 5000 are similar in much the same way that any two laptops of similar screen size from the same manufacturer tend to be similar. Both laptops are based on existing Acer models - the TravelMate 8100 and TravelMate 8200. Here's a comparison:


Ferrari 4000


Ferrari 5000


Ferrari 4000


Ferrari 5000


Ferrari 4000


Ferrari 5000

So yeah - big differences on the outside, and even bigger differences under the skin.

 

I like it! I like notebooks that really "hide" their BA-ness(Bad-Ass-ness) and only show it when they are supposed to. But the only difference is when they heat up - they moan.

 

I was going to buy 8204 last week & saw pictures of 5000. I'm thinking of pulling the plug on 5000.

Any idea when it will be available in US?

 

ooh its an AMD aswell :O I think its an TurionX2

 

Nothing's been announced yet. Hopefully an announcement will come early next week, alongside the Computex Taipei trade show.

 

It is an AMD Turion 64 X2 Mobile, the first dual-core 64-bit chip for notebooks. The clock speed isn't known yet, though...

 

and the price and graphic options?

 

Price: unknown so far. Based on the European pricing that we *do* know for it, I am guessing $2250 - $2500. (ie. $2250 street within a month to six weeks of shipping, once stock levels out a bit).

Graphics: Same as the 8204WLMi. ATI X1600 256MB w/ hyper memory, allowing 512MB total after taking 256MB system RAM. Clock speed unknown though, it is possible they'll overclock the X1600 a little to give a better score than the 8204WLMi got.

 

I think they should have pushed a bit higher than the X1600. looks pretty though.

 

Possibly in preparation for the Ferrari 5000, which is based on it, Acer has just dropped the price of the TravelMate 8204WLMi in Canada. Expected street pricing fell from CA$2,499 (US$2,250) to CA$2,399 (US$2,160)...

Might be interesting to anybody who's considering either machine.