Solid and secure with a dash of class, Acer’s latest notebook is built for business

Sydney, Australia, 7 February 2012 - Whether on the move or in the office, ensuring employees are productive and proactive is instrumental to any business. The new generation of Acer’s TravelMate 8473 notebook is designed for no-compromise performance, superior security and trouble-free manageability, while offering extended productivity thanks to its 8 hour battery life.

Daniel Goffredo, Commercial Notebook Product Specialist, Acer said, “Security is one of the main concerns for our customers. Their notebooks carry valuable information and more often than not their data is irreplaceable. That is why higher security is extremely important to us. Our integrated management solution allows the TravelMate 8473 to protect data using Acer ProShield security.”

Acer ProShield secures the notebook from unwanted access from BIOS level all the way up to application level. It features pre-boot authentication (PBA) with BIOS/HDD password, alternative Windows log-on with built-in fingerprint reader, and TPM password for data protection. Critical files can be kept safe by encrypting and storing them with Personal Secure Drive (PSD). With the File Shredder utility users can permanently remove unwanted files or folders from the computer beyond recovery. Easy manageability is also provided. Acer ProShield includes the automated solution to actively manage IT assets remotely and on the fly.

Through Acer Backup Manager important data are kept secure also from accidents or crashes, allowing back up of data and files at ease, while Acer eRecovery Management provides recovery on-demand for complete peace of mind.

Powered by the 2nd generation Intel Core™ processors, the new TravelMate 8473 delivers smart performance while sharper images and richer colour are provided by Intel HD Graphics 3000. These notebooks can also be equipped with discrete graphic options featuring NVIDIA Optimus™ technology. In addition, multi-monitor support takes productivity to the next level, allowing easier multitasking.

Integrated in the design of the Acer TravelMate 8473 is next generation DASP (Disk Anti-Shock Protection) technology that insulates the hard disk, providing protections from the tear and wear of usage on the go and guaranteeing the physical integrity of your data. The HDD is also soft-mounted onto the system to provide extra cushioning and helps prevent HDD failure and higher MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure).

To keep the system cool while performing faster, the new TravelMate 8473 features the innovative Acer DustDefender technology, designed to prevent the accumulation of dust inside the system. A smart reversing mechanism in the cooling fan pushes the dust out for better overall system performance.

The new TravelMate Timeline 8473 is available in a 14-inch LED-backlit screen and displays razor-sharp images and enhanced readability with its 16:9 aspect ratio, 1366X768 HD resolution and high brightness. Made for a life on the go, they are also ultra-thin, just about one inch thick, and ultra-light, with weight at only 2.3 kg.

The notebook is also well protected against the wear and tear of mobile life. The resilient case design with a Magnesium-Aluminium case distributes evenly all external forces and can withstand extreme pressure. The metal alloy hinge comes with a reinforced coil for maximum hold strength, while the Autolock feature ensures the notebook lid is tightly secured for LCD protection.

Long lasting battery life is another highly sought after feature. The TravelMate 8473 can provide up to 8 hours battery life. What’s more, it features Acer PowerSmart long cycle battery, ensuring up to 3 times longer battery life cycles (1000 vs. 300 cycles) and maintains 80% capacity after 1000 cycle count. The battery will last longer, reducing the need to replace it.

The notebook also offers a fast way to check important information via Acer InstantView. Acer InstantView is a Linux based light OS designed for fast boot up. Starting up in only 8 seconds, it Calendar, Document, Email, contacts launches almost immediately for quick review allowing for increase in business productivity.

Despite their lightness, the notebook houses spacious hard disks with up to 750 GB of capacity and can be equipped with an additional 128GB Solid State Drive that can be used as boot/OS partition to boost the system. The DVD-Super Multi double-layer drive and integrated multi-in-1 card reader simplifies data sharing and provides more storage options. It can also count on up to 8 GB of advanced DDR3 memory allowing faster multitasking and lowers power consumption.

The TravelMate 8473 also ensure docking convenience thanks to the Acer ProDock featuring advanced I/O ports such as USB 3.0/2.0 ports, Display Port, DVI port, HDMI port, VGA port, and ergonomic design for secured and tangle-free cable management. Measuring 38cm (W) x 16cm (L) x 3cm (H), Acer ProDock has compact design that fits any space requirement and provides single connect capability.

In addition, the USB 3.0 port can transfer data to and from external devices 10 times faster than before. Plus, thanks to Power-Off USB Charging users can charge smartphones or other USB devices without turning on the laptop - travel even lighter as there is no longer the need to carry along multiple power adapters.

“With features to boast and a great user experience to match its good looks, our new notebook design consists of neat lines and a slim profile that creates a feel of efficiency and timeless style.” Mr Goffredo said.

The TravelMate Timeline 8473 offers a range of connectivity options users can rely upon to stay tuned to their business even when on the road, including Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi with Nplify™ wireless technology, Bluetooth 3.0 (depending on configuration) and an integrated 3G module. Acer Video Conference solution, including the Acer Crystal Eye 1.3 MB HD webcam and built-in microphone enables high-quality video conferences so that users can easily keep in touch with your business contacts.

Pricing and Availability
Vendor: Acer Computer Australia
Product Name: Acer TravelMate Timeline 8473
Recommended Retail Price: From A$1,199, NZ$1,399
Website: http://www.acer.com.au
Australian Distributors: Ingram Micro, XIT, Bluechip Infotech, Dove Electronics
Availability: Now

About Acer
Since its founding in 1976, Acer has achieved the goal of breaking the barriers between people and technology. Globally, Acer ranks No. 2 for notebook PCs. A profitable and sustainable Channel Business Model is instrumental to the company's continuing growth, while its multi-brand approach integrates Acer, Gateway, Packard Bell, and eMachines brands in worldwide markets. Acer designs environmentally friendly products and has established a green supply chain through collaboration with suppliers. Acer is proud to be a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Movement, including supporting the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and London 2012 Olympic Games. The Acer Group employs 8,000 people worldwide. Revenues for 2010 reached US$19.9 billion. Visit www.acer-group.com for more information.

2011 Acer Inc. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners.

Media Contact:
Clearwater Communications
Website: www.clearwatercommunications.com.au