MSI intros first netbook with hybrid storage
updated 04:15 pm EST, Tue December 30, 2008
MSI intros U115 netbook
Taiwanese computer maker MSI has announced the U115 netbook, which, the company claims, will be the first to offer both a solid state drive along with a conventional hard disk. The 10-inch computer will be offered with an 8 or optional 16GB SSD, as well as a 120 or 160GB HDD. Processing power comes from a 1.6GHz Atom Z530 chip, aided by 1GB of RAM.
The system is capable of running both drives at the same time, or just the SSD in order to save power, while retaining access to the most common functions of Windows XP Home. Other advantages of the SSD drive include faster load times and greater shock resistance. The U115 additionally offers 802.11n Wi-Fi, optional Bluetooth support, a 1.3-megapixel camera and a 4-in-1 card reader. Connections include three USB 2.0 ports, a VGA output and jacks for mic, headphone and Ethernet cords.
With a standard three-cell battery –- a six-cell option will be present -– the netbook is expected to tip the scales at about 2.2lbs. No pricing or release dates have been announced.
