We've been keen to hear more about MSI's low-cost Eee-alternative, the Wind notebook, ever since it was announced back in April.
Thankfully, we've now got some more info and we can finally confirm that yes, the Wind will be packing a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, namely the Z530 with a 533MHz FSB, 512K L2 cache and 2.0W TDP.
As we already know, a 2.5in hard drive provides 80GiB of storage and there's a choice of display size; an 8.9in or 10in LCD, both of which will provide a 1,024 x 600 resolution.
According to laptopmag.com, the notebook, available with a choice of Linux or Windows XP, carries the following specification:
| Linux version | Windows XP version | |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 1.6GHz Intel Atom | 1.6GHz Intel Atom |
| Operating System | Novell SUSE | Windows XP Home Edition |
| Chipset | 945GMS+ ICH7-M | 945GMS+ ICH7-M |
| Display | 10-inch/ 1024×600 | 10-inch/ 1024×600 |
| Hard Disk Drive | 80GB / 2.5” SATA | 80GB / 2.5” SATA |
| VGA | UMA | UMA |
| Memory | 512MB DDR2/ 667MHz | 1GB DDR2/ 667MHz |
| Card Reader | 4-in-1 (SD,MMC,MS, MS Pro) | 4-in-1 (SD,MMC,MS, MS Pro) |
| USB Ports | 3 | 3 |
| Mic-in/Headphone | Yes | Yes |
| Webcam | 1.3 MP | 1.3 MP |
| WLAM | 802.11b/g | 802.11b/g |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes |
| Battery | Three Cells / 2.5 hrs | Six Cells / 5.5 hrs |
| Dimensions | 10.23 x 7.08 x 0.748 inches | 10.23 x 7.08 x 0.748-inches |
| Weight | 2.3 lbs | 2.6 lbs |
Curiously, the Linux version lacks Bluetooth, has less RAM and a smaller battery than its Windows XP neighbour. Though, it does save 0.3 lbs in weight.
Online retailer, expansys.com, already has MSI's Wind available for pre-order, with stock expected on or around June 21st. Though prices could yet change, the 10in Linux model is available at £334.95, and the 10in XP model at £364.96.
There's no sign of the 8.9in models yet, but if Expansys' pricing is correct, the smaller-screen Wind notebooks could dip below the £300 mark. Now that MSI's Wind looks set to be the first low-cost Atom-powered notebook to hit the market, expect ASUS to be hurrying the arrival of its Atom-powered Eee.
