The MSI Wind (Wi-Fi Network Device) U!))
432US is a power packed mobile computing device that boasts distinguishing features. Weighing just 2.6 lbs, it’s easy to carry around and is the ideal size to make full-page web browsing convenient. Available in three colors – black, white and pink – this netbook isn’t just functional but also stylish and comes with a carrying case in matching colors. A first glance, the processor used is might not seem different from all the other netbooks but clearly, efforts have been made to provide something extra. The 1.6 GHz Intel Atom Processor has been given a new structure that helps reduce leakage in the transistors thereby conserving energy and providing you with excellent battery life of up to 6 hours! (Of course, the MSI ECO energy saving technology also plays an important role by adjusting the screen brightness and economically disbursing energy). The processor includes a front side bus of 533 MHz and a 512 KB. 1GB RAM comes installed and can be expanded to a maximum of 2GB.
A whopping 160GB HDD can’t fail to appeal to all those people who prefer using compact devices as a primary laptop or want a portable secondary laptop. This SATA hard drive increases the pace resulting in higher transfer speeds.
The special Insert Mold Roller (IMR) technology that has been used to build the netbooks makes it a sturdy model that can hold its own without fading or getting itself covered in fingerprints. So, it retains its new look.
The 10-inch screen, (1024 x 600 pixel resolution), comes with an in built LED Power-saving backlit technology which not only contributes to the extended battery life but also provides brighter and more vibrant colors. If you find it a strain to work on small screen due to the reduced size of the images and pages, try the option that allows you to magnify text or images.
The 1.3MP web camera embedded in the bezel above the display makes video chat possible and comes with an integrated microphone that works surprisingly well.
The keyboard boasts an ideal design that allows a comfortable space of 0.68 inches between keys and is just 20% smaller than a regular-sized keyboard. The 2.1 inch Sentelic touchpad has just one button which takes getting used to. Integrated speakers located at the bottom tend to be a bit tinny but headsets work well for those who enjoy loud music.
Unlike most Netbooks, the Wind comes equipped with Bluetooth which is a definite plus. The only major con being that the size does not allow for a CD/DVD drive. Interfaces provided include 3 USB ports, a headphone and a microphone jack, a fast Ethernet port , a VGA port and a 4-in-1 memory card reader.
Price: Approx. $350
MSI Wind U100 - 432 US Rating:
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Americans are unwearyingly in the offing until July 7 to get their hands on an MSI Wind. But it’s not the same with the Germans. German consumer electronics producer Medion is serving its Akoya Mini E1210, a re-branded and re-colored MSI Wind, to Deutschland for a price tag of €399. Oh, and did we talk about those Germans get it this week? The appliance sporting almost indistinguishable specs to the Wind will be on retailing at German ALDI from this Wednesday, July 3. While it may lack the Bluetooth connectivity choice found in the Wind, it is bundled with Corel’s Word Perfect. I have dragged out to Medion to check if the Akoya Mini will make a stateside manifestation, but it seems like U.S. patriots will be in the offing for the Wind over the Independence Day weekend.