Ethernet port

As it turns out, Dell's new Studio Hybrid PC has little in common with Toyota's thrifty Prius sedan. No high-end batteries. No carpool lane privileges. And I'm pretty sure it won't do much to improve fuel economy on your daily commute.

Instead, this "hybrid" PC is a small computer that puts a dual emphasis on energy efficiency and design. Dell is trying desperately to break from its past reputation as a maker of mind-numbingly beige PCs. The Studio Hybrid is one of its first products to have been styled by former Nike design whiz Ed Boyd.

Long-term storage and recovery of digital information is something that everyone -- from governments and businesses to home computer users -- is struggling with today. Even as more and more information goes digital, there is currently no sure-fire way to ensure that such data will be accessible in the future. According to a Science Daily report, University of California-Santa Cruz (UCSC) scientists are working on a solution.

When Taiwan's Asustek Computer Inc. brought out the Eee PC last year, it created a whole new category of tiny, cheap laptops. Despite its success, the computer had one confounding element: Its keyboard was really small -- good for kids, maybe, but not for adults.

Now, Asus has expanded its line with laptops that are just big enough for a full-size touch-typist, and at least one of the models hits a sweet spot, keeping weight and price low while providing great features and battery life. It compares well with laptops that are three or four times the price.