Test: Alienware Aurora m9700 UK

Connection options

The Aurora m9700 is feature packed with connection options.

The back

VGA port
DVI port
SVHS out
SVHS in
DC in
TV-in
Audio in
USB port (one of four)
RJ 11 Fax/MODEM port




The right hand side

Headset out
Microphone
Audio out - centre / rear / front
SPDIF port
USB port (one of four)
Volume scroll wheel





The left hand side

Kensington lock
Card-Reader
Express Card slot
2 x USB PORT (two of four)
RJ 45 Ethernet port
Firewire 1394 port
Two hard drive slots




The m9700 truly has scores of connection options. Many more than what most other laptops offer. There is room for connecting all the stuff that you currently hook up to your stationary PC.

Another great feature is the built-in TV-card. This is something that is seldom seen in laptops. The m9700 also has both DVI and VGA, which gives you the opportunity of connecting two monitors. Furthermore, surround sound is a viable option on the Aurora.

The strategically placed positions of the USB ports are great. I often find it a problem when all ports are placed on the same side of the laptop, or just two sides. If you're gaming it is nice to be able to have a mouse pad directly on one side of the laptop, with the USB based mouse plugged into the rear or opposite side.

Let's move on for a closer look at the technology used.