SZ questions: read SD cards? flimsy machine?

qs for those lucky SZ users:

can the memory card slot on the SZ read SD cards? not a deal breaker but would be nice.

Also, is the SZ premium sturdy enough to carry around in a back pack, perhaps with a case on, and take a few knocks? Or does it feel like it'll break quite easily?

I'm definitely considering buying this piece of kit, mainly because it seems like the only machine with its specs and size that will be available in british shops. I need something portable for work and play.

thanks

 

I travel a lot, and I the travel I do is hard on all of the equipment I use. I am currently awaiting a new LCD, and Chassis for my D600 because of road abuse. Stuff happens. I have no unusual concerns about the SZ120 and being on the road. Take the usual precautions. If your backpack is not designed to carry a notebook, you'll want to get some kind of protective sleeve for it. Pack smart, don't pack it with items against the laptop that can cause damage if it does take a hit. If you can only protect one side, make sure it is the LCD side. This is general stuff that should be done regardless of how sturdy the machine is.

If there is one item I do get concerned about, it is the DVD tray. The smaller the notebook, the smaller the tray, and often less sturdy. This tray is stronger than others I have seen, but it is still a concern. The nice thing about it is that when it is open, the face of the drawer does rest against the table, so there is some support there when you are loading a CD or DVD.

The SZ's come with a multi-card reader that fits in the express slot, in addition to the built-in Sony "Memory Stick Duo" card slot. It does read SD cards.

 

thanks for your reply - you're a star! i was under the impression that sony only make card readers on their laptops that read specific sony memory cards.

 

Just so we are clear, the built-in slot ONLY reads the Sony cards. The multi format card reader is an additional device that fits into the express card slot.