3. Ergonomics

When designing a small form factor personal computer manufacturers must always strike a balance between size and weight and usability. The Sony VAIO VGN-UX180P represents a number of compromises. Most of the UX180P's compromises work. A few don't.

Sony's latest tiny PC seems to be very well built. The device has a very solid feel and fit and finish are excellent. The keyboard slides open quietly and locks in place smartly and securely. Don't go throwing the UX180P around the house, but I expect it would survive a few one foot or lower falls with little or no damage, especially if nestled in its well cushioned case. For the record, the case is included with the computer.

Though it's quite light the included port replicator also feels sturdy and is well made. When the computer is in the replicator, it sits at a perfect angle for viewing its display and accessing its keyboard.

The UX180P fits my fairly large hands perfectly. I can easily reach everything from the keyboard to the mouse joystick and mouse buttons. There is even a scroll button. When you press it and move the mouse around the Window you're in scrolls up and down or side to side.

I find the small amount of space surrounding the mouse joystick a bit disconcerting. Sometimes my thumb slips in between the square mouse button and the space surrounding the joystick. When this happens, it's really difficult to move the mouse in any direction except the one opposite where my thumb has slipped. For example if my thumb falls into the space at the bottom of the joystick, it's easy to move the joystick up, but not in any other direction. See the photo below for a visual presentation of the problem. I'm getting used to keeping my thumb on top of the joystick and not letting it slip down to the edge of the stick and into the surrounding space.