MSI announces launch of new EX310 notebook

MSI, maker of the Wind mini notebook, has revealed its EX310 notebook, which packs a 13.3-inch LCD screen with 1280x800 resolution and slots in between the company's 10-inch Wind and 14.1-inch P400. The EX310 runs on AMD's Turion X2 Ultra dual-core processor and 4GB of RAM, while an ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3450 graphics card with 256MB of RAM handles HD video playback capabilities via the optional Blu-ray optical drive and HDMI output. A TV tuner card is also optional.

As it is meant to be used as an occasional entertainment center, the EX310 is equipped with Dolby Surround Sound support. Wireless connectivity comes through 802.11n Wi-Fi, while Bluetooth 2.0 with EDR allows the notebook to connect with wireless mice and other short-range add-ons.

Storage capacity is optional between 160GB, 250GB or 320GB SATA drives, with Windows Vista Home Premium preloaded on either choice. Web chats are made easier with an integrated 2.0-megapixel webcam, while the noise-canceling, focused microphone makes speech easier to understand. For security, a fingerprint reader is standard fare.

While the EX310 has already launched in MSI's home market of Taiwan with red and blue color options, neither a US release date nor pricing have yet to be revealed. The company regularly exports some of its PCs to North America.