This article needs to be updated.(January 2024) |
Developer | IBM (2003–2005) Lenovo (2005–present) |
---|---|
Manufacturer | IBM (2003-2005) Lenovo (2005-present) |
Type | Desktop/All-in-one |
Release date | May 2003 |
Operating system | Microsoft Windows |
CPU | Intel Core, AMD Ryzen PRO |
Display | Up to 24" 1440p screen (AiO models only) |
Graphics | Nvidia GeForce, AMD Radeon, Intel Graphics |
Camera | 1080p camera (AiO models only) |
Power | Up to 750 W |
Platform | Think |
Online services | Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Acrobat |
Marketing target | Business purpose |
Predecessor | IBM NetVista |
Website | Efficient and Reliable Lenovo ThinkCentre Desktops | Lenovo US |
ThinkCentre is a brand for a family of business-oriented desktop computers, the early models of which were designed, developed and marketed by International Business Machines (IBM) since 2003. In 2005, IBM sold its PC business, including the ThinkCentre brand, to Lenovo. ThinkCentre computers typically include mid-range to high-end processors, options for discrete graphics cards, and multi-monitor support. [1]
The ThinkCentre line of desktop computers was introduced by IBM in 2003. The first three models in this line were the S50, the M50, and A50p. [2] All three desktops were equipped with Intel Pentium 4 processors. [2] The chassis was made of steel and designed for easy component access without the use of tools. [2] The hard disk was fixed in place by a 'caddy' without the use of screws. [2] The caddy had rubber bumpers to reduce vibration and operational noise. [2]
Additional updates to the desktops included greater use of ThinkVantage technologies. [2] All desktop models were made available with ImageUltra. [2] The three desktop models also included an 'Access IBM' button, allowing access to onboard resources, diagnostic tools, automated software, and links to online updates and services. [2] Select models featured IBM's Embedded Security Subsystem, with an integrated security chip and IBM Client Security Software. [2]
In 2005, after completing its acquisition of IBM's personal computing business, leading to the IBM/Lenovo partnership, IBM/Lenovo announced the ThinkCentre E Series desktops, designed specifically for small businesses. [3] The ThinkCentre E50 was made available in tower and small form factor, with a silver and black design. [3]
In 2005, Technology Business Research (TBR) observed an increase in the customer satisfaction rate for ThinkCentre desktops. [4] According to TBR's "Corporate IT Buying Behavior and Customer Satisfaction Study” published in the second quarter of 2005, Lenovo was the only one of four surveyed companies that displayed a substantial increase in ratings. [4]
In May 2005, the ThinkCentre M52 and A52 desktops were announced by Lenovo. [5] These desktops marked the first time the ThinkCentre line incorporated dual-core processors and 64-bit technology. [5] At the time of release, Lenovo also announced plans to incorporate Intel Active Management Technology (iAMT) in future products. [5]
The ThinkCentre desktops available from IBM/Lenovo are:
The ThinkCentre X1 is a mid-range all-in-one desktop computer announced by Lenovo at the 2016 International CES. The X1 is powered by a 6th generation Intel Core i7 processor paired with 16 gigabytes of 2,333 megahertz DDR4 RAM and a variety of storage media such as hard drives, hybrid drives, and solid state drives. The display uses 23.8-inch 1920 pixel by 1080 pixel panel with an anti-glare coating. A 1080p webcam is mounted just above the screen. Five USB 3.0 ports, DisplayPort video output, and an Ethernet port come standard. A memory card reader is optional. [6] One variant of the X1 is a display-only device. [7]
The ThinkCentre Tiny-In-One II is Lenovo's second-generation all-in-one desktop computer. Its modular design allows its display and internals to be upgraded as needed. The ThinkCentre Tiny-In-One II comes in versions with 22-inch and 24-inch anti-glare displays with thin bezels and optional multitouch input. Both versions use 1920x1080 display panels. Two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, one minI USB 2.0 port. and a Kensington security slot is included. Options for Microsoft Windows and Google's ChromeOS are both available. [8] [9]
The Chromebox Tiny is a small desktop computer with a Core i3-5005U processor, 4 gigabytes of memory, a 16 GB solid-state drive, integrated graphics that runs Google's ChromeOS. It was designed for education and business. Its largest side measures about 7 inches square. It is 1.4 inches thick and weighs 2.2 pounds. Computers with this form factor are called "one-liter" machines in some countries that use the metric system. The Tiny can be mounted on the back of monitors or placed on walls with a VESA mount. The Chromebox Tiny has two USB 3.0 ports on its front and two more on its rear. [10] Dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 are both supported. An external antenna is included to improve reception. A mouse and keyboard come standard. [11]
The ThinkCentre M83 Tiny is a ultra small-form-factor desktop computer released in 2014. The M83 Tiny uses an Intel Core i5 processor. It comes standard with one DisplayPort jack, and Ethernet port, five USB 3.0 ports, and a VGA port. There is a customizable port that can be configured with another DisplayPort jack, a serial port, another USB port, or an HDMI port. Wi-fi is 802.11ac. Wireless accessories are supported via Bluetooth 4.0. [12]
In 2004, an ultra-small version of the S50 was announced, the smallest desktop PC introduced until that time by IBM. [13] The ultra-small ThinkCentre S50 desktop weighed approximately the same as IBM's first notebook (IBM 5140 PC Convertible). [13] The ultra-small desktop was roughly the size of a New York City phonebook, or a box of cereal. [13] The ultra-small desktop also featured a tool-free tool-less steel chassis and IBM ThinkVantage Technologies. [13]
In August 2006, the ThinkCentre A60 desktop was announced. [14] It was the first ThinkCentre with AMD processors. [14]
In September 2006, Lenovo announced that its ThinkPad, ThinkCentre, and ThinkVision products received high ratings from EPEAT. [15] A total of 42 products were rated by EPEAT. [15] The ThinkCentre desktops received an overall rating of EPEAT silver. [15] This indicated that all criteria for environmentally safe computing had been met – including the minimum requirements and additional optional implementations. [15] Some of the criteria met included reduced levels of cadmium, mercury, and lead, energy efficiency, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. [15]
In September 2006, Lenovo announced several desktops in the ThinkCentre line, including the M55p, M55, M55e, A55 and A53. [16]
In January 2007, the ThinkCentre A55 small-form-factor desktop was announced by Lenovo. [17] The A55 was approximately 64% smaller than Lenovo's traditional tower desktops and 25% smaller than Lenovo's traditional small desktops. [17] In September 2007, Lenovo announced the ultra-small-form-factor A61e. [18]
Also in September 2007, two new M Series desktops were announced: the M57 and M57p. [19]
In March 2009, two small, low-cost desktops were announced by Lenovo: the ThinkCentre A58 and the ThinkCentre M58e. [20] The A58 desktop was designed for small and medium businesses, while the M58e was designed for medium-sized and large enterprises. [20] The desktops were made available in both tower and small form-factor versions. [20]
Timeline of the IBM Personal Computer |
---|
Asterisk (*) denotes a model released in Japan only |
A laptop computer or notebook computer, also known as a laptop or notebook, is a small, portable personal computer (PC). Laptops typically have a clamshell form factor with a flat-panel screen on the inside of the upper lid and an alphanumeric keyboard and pointing device on the inside of the lower lid. Most of the computer's internal hardware is fitted inside the lower lid enclosure under the keyboard, although many modern laptops have a built-in webcam at the top of the screen, and some even feature a touchscreen display. In most cases, unlike tablet computers which run on mobile operating systems, laptops tend to run on desktop operating systems, which were originally developed for desktop computers.
ThinkPad is a line of business-oriented laptop computers and tablets, the early models of which were designed, developed and marketed by International Business Machines (IBM) starting in 1992. IBM sold its PC business, including laptops to Lenovo in 2005, and since 2007, all new ThinkPad models have been branded Lenovo instead. The Chinese manufacturer further developed the line, and is still selling new models in 2024.
Lenovo Group Limited, trading as Lenovo, is a Chinese multinational technology company specializing in designing, manufacturing, and marketing consumer electronics, personal computers, software, business solutions, and related services. Products manufactured by the company include desktop computers, laptops, tablet computers, smartphones, workstations, servers, supercomputers, data storage devices, IT management software, and smart televisions. Its best-known brands include its ThinkPad business line of laptop computers, the IdeaPad, Yoga, LOQ, and Legion consumer lines of laptop computers, and the IdeaCentre, LOQ, Legion, and ThinkCentre lines of desktop computers. As of 2024, Lenovo is the world's largest personal computer vendor by unit sales.
Subnotebook, also called ultraportable, superportable, or mini notebook, is a type of laptop computer that is smaller and lighter than a typical notebook-sized laptop.
ThinkVision displays are high-end computer monitors manufactured, designed and developed by IBM and Lenovo.
A personal computer, often referred to as a PC, is a computer designed for individual use. It is typically used for tasks such as word processing, internet browsing, email, multimedia playback, and gaming. Personal computers are intended to be operated directly by an end user, rather than by a computer expert or technician. Unlike large, costly minicomputers and mainframes, time-sharing by many people at the same time is not used with personal computers. The term home computer has also been used, primarily in the late 1970s and 1980s. The advent of personal computers and the concurrent Digital Revolution have significantly affected the lives of people.
The ThinkPad T series is a line of laptop computers. Originally developed by IBM, and introduced in 2000, the brand was sold along with the rest of IBM's business computer division to Chinese technology company Lenovo in 2005, who have continued to produce and market succeeding models.
The ThinkPad X series is a line of laptop computers and convertible tablets produced by Lenovo with less power than its other counterparts. It was initially produced by IBM until 2005.
The ThinkPad W series laptops from Lenovo were described by the manufacturer as being "mobile workstations", and suit that description by being physically on the larger side of the laptop spectrum, with screens ranging from 15.6" to 17.3" in size. Most W series laptops offered high-end quad-core Intel Core processors with an integrated GPU as well as an Nvidia Quadro discrete GPU, utilizing Nvidia Optimus to switch between the two GPUs as required. Notable exceptions are the W500, which has ATI Mobility FireGL integrated workstation-class graphics, and the W550s, which is an Ultrabook-specification laptop with only a dual-core processor. The W series laptops offered independent software vendor (ISV) certifications from various vendors such as Adobe Systems and Autodesk for computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modeling software.
The A Series desktops are part of Lenovo’s ThinkCentre product line. Formerly an IBM brand, Lenovo acquired the ThinkCentre desktop brand following its purchase of IBM’s Personal Computing Division (PCD) in 2005. The first desktop in the A Series was the ThinkCentre A50p. Lenovo has released A Series desktops in multiple form factors, ranging from traditional tower, to small form factor, and all-in-ones (AIOs).
The M-series of desktops are part of Lenovo's ThinkCentre product line. Formerly an IBM brand, Lenovo acquired the ThinkCentre desktop brand following its purchase of IBM's Personal Computing Division (PCD) in 2005. Following its acquisition of IBM's PCD, Lenovo has released M-series desktops in multiple form factors, ranging from traditional tower, small form factor, to ultra small form factor, and all-in-ones (AIOs).
Lenovo's IdeaCentre A Series is a line of all-in-one desktops designed primarily for home use and the consumer PC segment. The sections below describe the IdeaCentre A Series desktops, categorized by their year of release.
The Lenovo IdeaCentre Q series are a line of nettop computers meant primarily for home and personal use. The Q Series nettops are described by the manufacturer as being multimedia-oriented nettops. Comparing the size to a typical paperback book, Lenovo describes the Q Series nettops as the smallest desktops in production. The general features of the Q Series desktops are the small size, low energy requirements, ability to play HD video, and low noise levels.
The Lenovo IdeaCentre is a line of consumer-oriented desktop computers designed, developed and marketed by Lenovo. The first IdeaCentre desktop, the IdeaCentre K210, was announced by Lenovo on June 30, 2008 as a consumer-focussed alternative to the business-oriented ThinkCentre and ThinkStation brandnames acquired from IBM. While the IdeaCentre line consists entirely of desktops, they share a common design language with the IdeaPad line of laptops and hybrids. One such feature is Veriface facial recognition technology.
Lenovo’s line of Essential desktops is a collection of budget-conscious machines designed for consumers, and advertised as being "affordable, space saving, and energy efficient". The Essential desktop line is different from both Lenovo’s ThinkCentre line and Lenovo’s IdeaCentre line. Lenovo defines its ThinkCentre desktops as business-oriented computers, while the IdeaCentre desktops are meant primarily for entertainment. The Essential range of desktops can be categorized as being between the two – meant more for ordinary everyday use.
ThinkStation is a brand of professional workstations from Lenovo announced in November 2007 and then released in January 2008. They are designed to be used for high-end computing and computer-aided design (CAD) tasks and primarily compete with other enterprise workstation lines, such as Dell's Precision, HP's Z line, Acer's Veriton K series, and Apple's Mac Pro line.
The ThinkCentre Edge is a series of desktop computers from Lenovo, designed primarily for home offices and small businesses. The product series features desktops in both tower and All-in-One form factors, designed to save up to 70% desk space as compared to traditional tower desktop PCs.
A Chromebox is a small form-factor PC that runs Google's ChromeOS operating system. The first device debuted in May 2012.
The ThinkPad X1 series is a line of high-end ThinkPad laptops and tablets produced by Lenovo.
The ThinkPad Yoga is a 2-in-1 convertible business-oriented tablet from Lenovo unveiled in September at the 2013 IFA in Berlin, Germany. It was released in the United States in November 2013.