Competent, semi-rugged notebook at a low price
(by Conrad H. Blickenstorfer)

Twinhead's Durabook D14RI, introduced in the summer of 2006, offers a new enhanced rugged design in the popular Durabook 14" format. While the original N14RI has a classic black case, the new D14RI has a sleek silver casing with four black bumpers surrounding the edges of the machine, providing greater protection for the notebook and increased drop-resistance. As its predecessor, the new D14RI combines state-of-the-art technology with common sense rugged design features. You can get the machine with a Pentium M 740 or better, or a Centrino 350 or better, and RAM is up to 2GB.

The D14RI uses a magnesium ally case that's 20 times stronger than the commonly used ABS plastic. A spill-resistant keyboard and additional sealing protect against common accidents. Anti-shock material protects the hard drive and other components from the effects of an occasional drop. Unlike the D13RI, the D14RI uses a standard format 1024x768 XGA 14-inch display. Pricing starts at an astonishingly low US$999.