IBM Unveils Dual-Band ThinkPad

IBM on Tuesday took the wraps off a new line of ThinkPad notebook computers with integrated wireless technology and new cursor control options.

The new ThinkPad R40 is the first IBM notebook to feature built-in dual-band Wi-Fi technology. High-end models will come with both 802.11a and 802.11b to take advantage of the faster data transfer rate and greater number of communications channels available on 802.11a networks.

IBM said it will also offer 802.11b-only models, as well as models that can be upgraded later to support wireless technology.

The R40 includes an antenna built into the display cover for optimal wireless LAN (WLAN) signal reception, and the dual-band models also feature the IBM Access Connections location manager utility, which automatically switches network settings when users to move from a wired connection to a WLAN connection.

ThinkPad R40 models equipped with both WLAN technology and IBM's Embedded Security Subsystem (ESS) can store 802.1x authentication credentials, such as digital certificates, with the security subsystem. 802.11 a/b models also include Cisco LEAP support for customers who are using a Cisco wireless infrastructure with LEAP security.

In addition to the wireless options, customers will also have a choice of cursor controllers. Users can choose from three different TrackPointsIBM's signature red button that sits in the middle of the keyboard and controls the on-screen cursor placement. The new ThinkPad also includes a touch pad.

The ThinkPad R40 is available now. Prices range from $979 for a model with a 1.6GHz Intel Celeron processor to $1,499 for one with a 2.0 GHz Intel Pentium 4 processor.