HP unveils 14in Ultrabook with workstation horsepower

HP has refreshed its mobile workstation range by introducing a 14in Ultrabook with heavy duty components, as the firm looks to serve the portability needs of power users.

Key features of the ZBook 14 include the ability to choose between Intel's latest Haswell (4th Generation) dual-core i5 and i7 processors, pack in up to 16GB of RAM and store up to 1.1TB data.

The Ultrabook has AMD's FirePro discrete graphics capabilities built-in and ships with ISV certifications so users are guaranteed support for enterprise-level apps. HP is also touting the robust design, with the Ultrabook passing the MIL-STD 810G testing.

The 14in display will be available starting at 1366 x 768 resolution, going up full HD (1920 x 1080). This makes it suitable for those who plan to use it for design, video editing or photography. Touch screen and built-in HSPA+ connectivity will be optional extras.

In terms of ports, the Zbook 14 will feature 3 x USB 3.0 connections, 1 x Displayport, 1 x RJ45 jack, 1 x VGA and a side-docking port.

Business will be able to choose between Linux Enterprise Desktop 11, Windows 7 Professional (32/64 bit) and Window 8 or Windows 8 Pro (64-bit). HP will pre-load its Performance Advisor software to ensure the machine is running at its optimum and its Remote Graphics Software will also allow users to virtually tap into desktop workstations if they need more horsepower on the move.

HP has confirmed it will start shipping the ZBook 14 in October, and although official pricing is TBC, IT Pro has been told pricing for a base-configuration can be expected to start at $1300.

"The new thinner and lighter ZBook 14 is the world's first Workstation Ultrabook in a very sleek design. This product comes in at 3.6lbs (1.6kg) and will be extremely light, very easy to carry around for users that don't necessarily need the top end performance, but still need a workstation calibre system in an Ultrabook [form factor]," noted Jimmy Holbert, Worldwide mobile workstation category manager, during the unveiling in New York.

HP will also be offering 15 and 17in ZBooks. These heavy duty laptops will support up to 32GB of RAM, multiple hard drives, Nvidia's high-end Quadro graphics card range and high-speed Thunderbolt 2.0 connectivity.

Although bulkier than the ZBook 14, the 15 and 17in laptops will still be portable enough for use by field workers.

The ZBook 15 is expected to start at $1700 and the ZBook 17 at $2000.