CES: 3D-capable, multigraphics-chip Lenovo IdeaCentre B520 coming to U.S. in June
Lenovo announces its IdeaCentre B520 all-in-one desktop with multitouch display, multiple graphics chips, and support for Nvidia's 3D Vision technology.
LAS VEGAS--Lenovo just demonstrated a sharp-looking, powerful new home entertainment-oriented all-in-one PC for us, and while it wasn't the most seamless presentation we've ever seen, the IdeaCentre B520 has potential. The 23.6-inch B520 comes with Intel Sandy Bridge Core i5 and Core i7 CPUs, as well the option for multiple Nvidia graphics chips, a Blu-ray drive, and HDMI output and input, among other specs.
But unlike the Acer Aspire Z5673, Lenovo is actually bringing its Nvidia 3D Vision-capable all-in-one to the U.S. We watched a few movies and played some games on the IdeaCentre B520 during the Lenovo demo, and the games in particular looked great. Considering the emitter, the specialized monitor, and the glasses required to make 3D Vision work on a piecemeal basis on a typical desktop, we think the more streamlined design of building 3D Vision into an all-in-one makes more sense.
Lenovo will have to do some work to get the IdeaCentre B520 ready for market. It's possible the issues we saw were due to the rough treatment products tend to get during trade shows, but Lenovo had to try three times, including a reboot, before it could launch the touch software or play music. The configuration we tried out, complete with dual Nvidia 500-series graphics chips, was also so loud we thought we were standing under an exhaust vent.
Lenovo will also sell more modest configurations of the IdeaCentre B520, with prices starting at $999.