IBM (now Lenovo) has once again raised the bar with secure business computing, unveiling its fastest performing thin-and-light laptop computer to date. The ThinkPad T43p even comes with an optional built-in fingerprint reader, offering a new layered approached to data protection. Partnered with the industry's most advanced mobility, security, data recovery and power management features - along with an excellent keyboard and high-resolution display - the ThinkPad T43p is perfect for high-end business users who want solid performance, robust security, and new levels of control.

Pros: High-res display; biometric security; excellent support features
Cons: Expensive; screen isn't very bright; no FireWire port


Big brother to IBM's ThinkPad T42p, the ThinkPad T43p (329x268x31mm, 2.5kg) is the most complete corporate workhorse we've reviewed. However, while it is far from being the fastest laptop in terms of graphics performance, its market-leading build quality, outstanding support and excellent battery life help distance the system from its competitors.

IBM has again raised the bar by adding an optional built-in biometric security device to the ThinkPad T43p. The 'custom' model carries a slight price premium of some £100, but combines a fingerprint reader with an Embedded Security Subsystem that adds a layer of security that is built-in, not bolted on - further adding to the system's corporate appeal.

To use the reader, which is located on the wrist rest below the arrow keys, you swipe your finger across a small, horizontally-oriented sensor to log onto the system, software applications, Web sites, or databases. The scanning process takes only seconds, but you may need to repeat the process a few times in order to get a correct scan. This type of fingerprint reader captures more data than a traditional 'picture' capture window because it scans more of the fingertip's surface area, helping to prevent misidentification.

The ThinkPad T43p is physically indistinguishable from the ThinkPad T42 with biometric security, which we reviewed at the beginning of the year, but leverages performance and mobility for business users. The model we've reviewed is the basic configuration, which perfectly suites a highly mobile user who works in the office, on the road and everywhere in between.

The system is equipped with the new generation of Intel Centrino mobile technology (codenamed Sonoma), which includes new Intel Pentium M Processors with 533MHz front side bus, the new Intel 915 Express chipset family, and Intel PRO/Wireless 2195ABG or 2200BG network connection. Additionally, the ThinkPad T43 supports up to 2GB of DDR2 533MHz system memory, up to 80GB of hard disk capacity and has an Express Card slot.

It ships as standard with an Intel Pentium M Processor 760 (2.00GHz, 533MHz FSB), 1GB of PC2-4200 DDR2 SDRAM (upgradeable to 2GB), 60GB hard disk drive (5400rpm), ATI Mobility FireGL V3200 graphics card with 128MB of memory (maximum output resolution of 2048x1536 pixels), and a 15in. (1600x1200) TFT display.

The high-resolution display is ideal for viewing spreadsheets, presentations and Web pages, but there are brighter screens from the likes of Dell and Sony if high-quality DVD-Movie playback is a priority. A 4X DVD±RW drive (single layer) and moderate SoundMAX audio chipset round the package off, along with Windows XP Professional operating system.

Similar to all IBM laptops the ThinkPad T43p is built for business, so IBM has catered well in terms of connectivity options. High-performance wireless networking comes in the way of built-in 802.11b/g Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Gigabit Ethernet, V.92 modem, and an infrared port (4Mbit/s). You also get an S-Video port for hooking up to a larger display, headphone and microphone jacks, Type II PC Card slot (as well as one Express Card), two USB 2.0 ports and a parallel port.

Unfortunately, there's no FireWire port (useful for connecting external audio and storage peripherals), serial port, memory card slots, or dedicated buttons to turn Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g) and Bluetooth on or off. There are, thankfully, dedicated volume controls and a mute button.

The great thing about the ThinkPad T43p is that it integrates lots of hardware technology and software solutions that aren't instantly obvious, but make computing on the move a lot more accessible and safer compared to competitor offerings. For instance, the laptop's enclosure is made of titanium composite carbon fibre reinforced plastic that is around three times the strength of ABS plastic.

The system's thick metal hinges that connect the core of the base to the top cover might add a little weight, but it keeps it extremely durable. A ThinkLight keyboard light located on the top edge of the display even illuminates the keyboard to let you work in low-light conditions - this sounds pathetic but is actually a godsend when working on an aeroplane or in bed.

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