Acer Launches Notebooks with Nvidia Optimus, 3D

Three new laptops are available now, while a fourth 3D model is expected in late October.

Monday Acer America announced three new Aspire notebooks geared for consumers who want multimedia and mobility all in one powerful package: the 15.6-inch Aspire AS5742G, the 15.6-inch Aspire AS5745, and the 17.3-inch Aspire AS7745. The company also announced the upcoming Aspire AS5745DG, a new 3D laptop featuring Nvidia 3D Vision technology and Intel's Core i5 processor.

As for the first three, features include Nvidia Optimus technology, Blu-ray drives, quad-core precessing, and AMD Mobility Radeon, depending on the model. With a starting price of $749.99, the AS5742G offers up to 500 GB of storage, Core i3, i5, or i7 processors, a 1366 x 768 resolution, Nvidia Optimus technology, and a black, textured mesh cover. The AS5745, starting at $649.99, is similar overall but without Nvidia Optimus and sports a glossy black finish.

The AS7745 is the meatier laptop of the three, starting at $799.99. The device sports a 17.3-inch HD+ screen with a 1600 x 900 resolution and AMD Mobility Radeon HD 5650 graphics. Also in a glossy black finish, the laptop provides up to 1 TB of storage (via two 500 GB HDDs), up to 16 GB of RAM, and Intel's Core i7 processor.

Acer America's upcoming 3D laptop, the Aspire AS5745DG, uses a 15.6-inch Acer CineCrystal HD widescreen display @ 1366 x 768 resolution and 120 Hz. The laptop also utilizes Nvidia's 3D Vision technology, a pair of active 3D shutter glasses, a built-in IR receiver, Intel Core i5 processing, and Nvidia GeForce GT 420M graphics. Dolby Home Theater v3 surround sound, an HDMI port, a built-in 1.3MP webcam, four USB 2.0 ports, 802.11a/b/g/n wireless and Gigabit Ethernet round out a nice set of features. Pricing for the AS5745DG starts at $999.99, and will arrive in late October.

"Consumers desire the best of both worlds when buying a new notebook PC, including advanced productivity and outstanding entertainment capabilities that may be enjoyed anywhere, anytime," said Preeta Anil, senior manager of product marketing for Acer America. "The new Aspire notebooks uphold Acer’s strong tradition of combining innovation with value by delivering leading-edge technology at a price that’s accessible to many consumers."

Acer America said that the Aspire AS5742G, the Aspire AS5745, and the Aspire AS7745 are available now.