REDMOND, Wash. — Aug. 14, 2012 — Back to school used to mean the smell of fresh pencil shavings, an undented lunch box, and the sharp crackling of new Velcro on that new Trapper Keeper.

Although those simple pleasures may still echo through the hallways, today’s students need a bit more in their backpacks to help them keep up with their studies. The latest Windows laptops and tablets can help them research that big science report, look up their grades online, and email their teacher about assignments. Even a new Windows phone can help by enabling them to stay in touch with classmates and coordinate after-school activities — and while they’re waiting for the bus, they just might sneak in a game or three All this cool, new technology could make anyone want to head back to school!

With that in mind, here’s a look at some helpful technology products to get students back to school and keep them on track with their studies. To sweeten the deal, students buying a new Windows PC worth US$699 or more before Sept. 9 can get a free Xbox!

114

Acer Aspire S3

August 14, 2012

At 13 millimeters, the Acer Aspire S3 Ultrabook is one of the thinnest Windows 7-based notebooks on the market. Enjoy life on the go with Innovative Acer Green Instant-On technology, which provides instant-resume functionality and ensures battery longevity, while Acer Instant Connect delivers Internet access in 2.5 seconds. This techno-wonder comes in an ultra-aerodynamic, superslim design, yet delivers everything you expect from a standard-size notebook.

Image: Web

See also: More Information

---

ASUS K55 Series

August 14, 2012

The new K55 series notebook offers an expressive combination of technology and style, featuring a host of convenient features that translates into an incredible value. It also boasts Super Hybrid Engine II with exclusive instant on functionality, which resumes in just two seconds from sleep ensuring that you are always connected.

See also: More Information

---

Dell XPS 13

August 14, 2012

Weighing less than three pounds, the XPS 13 Ultrabook is perfect for the student headed back to school. Featuring high-performance computing and thoughtful design, the XPS 13 offers bonded Corning® Gorilla® Glass for exceptional durability, while the razor-thin bezel and sleek form factor puts a 13-inch screen in a portable 11-inch footprint. Additional features include a unique, cool-to-the-touch carbon fiber base, a full-size, backlit keyboard, Windows 7, rapid response SSD drive, powerful Core i3, i5 and i7 processors, and a brilliant HD WLED 300-nit display.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information, Xbox Offer

---

HP ENVY Ultrabook 4

August 14, 2012

The HP ENVY Ultrabook 4 is ideal for students whose schedules keep them on their feet from morning to night. Weighing a scant four pounds and measuring one-inch thin, the HP ENVY Ultrabook 4 can go a full day without recharging, all while students listen to music with Beats Audio, look through photos and watch videos.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information

---

Lenovo IdeaPad U310 Ultrabook

August 14, 2012

The affordable IdeaPad U310 Ultrabook, available in a range of colors, uniquely combines a super-slim design with intelligent features such as Lenovo Smart Update that downloads your emails even while in sleep mode. An extended battery life of up to seven hours makes sure you are on top of your game, even while on the go.

Image: Web

See also: More Information

---

Samsung Series 5 Ultra

August 14, 2012

Be inspired at work or play. The Series 5 Ultra’s careful design features simple connectivity, a stunning form and a breathtaking display.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information

---

Sony VAIO T

August 14, 2012

The T Series Ultrabook has big-time battery life in a slender form factor that goes anywhere — from bedroom to classroom. With instant response the moment you open the lid, not to mention plenty of performance and full-fledged connectivity wrapped up in a beautiful brushed-aluminum design, every student will love to show off.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information

---

Toshiba Satellite U845

August 14, 2012

Toshiba’s newly announced Satellite U845 Ultrabook is bringing high-end performance to students this year, without burdening their backpacks, weighing in at just four pounds. The Satellite U845 brings everyday productivity and entertainment to a thin and light design with great battery life at a highly affordable price.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information

---

VIZIO Thin + Light PCs

August 14, 2012

Available in both 14- and 15.6-inch screen sizes so you can fit your PC to your lifestyle, not the other way around. Stylish, thin and light, but powerful enough to run your most demanding applications, this impossibly slim PC easily slips into a purse, briefcase or backpack. This is more than just another pretty case — there’s plenty of power under the hood, thanks to third-generation Intel® Core™ processors. Combined with crystal-clear HD screen and expertly tuned audio, VIZIO Thin + Light PCs are great for watching movies or editing videos. Lightweight, durable, unibody aluminum design makes transporting your digital life a snap.

Image: Web

See also: More Information

---

Nokia Lumia 900

August 10, 2012

Give your children a phone that’s as unique as they are. Windows Phone is the only phone with Live Tiles that kids can design to reflect their interests and personality. It gives them the information that matters most — from friend updates and photos to soccer practice reminders. The Nokia Lumia 900 with speed connectivity and high-res imaging is a brilliant choice for back to school. With Nokia’s largest display, at 4.3 inches, it delivers a rich content experience from a phone that still fits easily in your hand.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information

---

Wedge Touch Mouse

August 14, 2012

The Wedge Touch Mouse is perfect for your mobile lifestyle. Small enough to fit in your pocket, it is designed for smooth use with Windows 8, providing four-way touch scrolling and navigation at your fingertips. Plus, it features BlueTrack Technology, so you can use it on virtually any surface, whether you’re in a conference room, a coffee shop or at home on your couch. Its sleek design also comes free of cables or USB transceivers — you simply turn it on and connect it to your Bluetooth-enabled laptop or tablet for a clutter-free experience.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information

---

Wedge Mobile Keyboard

August 14, 2012

Tired of trying to type on your tablet screen? Make life easier with the Wedge Mobile Keyboard from Microsoft. Designed specifically for tablet users, the Wedge Mobile Keyboard includes some of the most commonly used Windows features, such as Windows 8 Hot Keys and built-in media keys. Plus, it has a durable cover that not only protects your keyboard from scratches but also quickly converts into a tablet stand. It also uses Bluetooth technology, so you can wirelessly connect to your tablet without a cable or transceiver.

Image: Web | Print

See also: More Information

---

LifeCam Studio

August 14, 2012

The LifeCam Studio sets a new standard in the LifeCam family featuring Microsoft’s first true 1080p sensor, crystal-clear video at virtually any resolution, premium optics, improved autofocus and a high-precision glass element lens for superior clarity. When you can’t be there to share your life’s big moments in person, LifeCam studio delivers the next best thing.

Image: Web

See also: More Information

---

Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Limited Edition Artist Series

August 14, 2012

Show off your personal style by sporting your mouse of choice. The Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Limited Edition Artist Series combines precision, portability and style with its newest designs by this season’s hottest artists. This mouse is perfect for life on-the-go — it features a battery life of up to eight months and BlueTrack technology so you can work, browse and play on any surface. Plus, its snap-in Nano transceiver lets you remain plugged into your computer at all times, giving you clutter-free portability and wireless freedom in a comfortable, compact and stylish mouse.

See also: More Information

---

Click here to embed this slideshow in your website or blog