The overnight emergence of the
netbook or ultra light PC market is one of the strongest statements
testifying to how quickly the computing industry responds to adapt
itself to new user habits. These low cost, super small and
lightweight computers measure on the average of 8" x 11", have an
LCD panel between 7" to 9", weigh in the range of 2 to 4 lbs, and
have a QWERTY keyboard that doesn't cramp your fingers. They are
ideal for surfing the web and what has become known as cloud or
remote computing, where applications and content reside on the web
rather than locally as with traditional computing.
Netbooks are expected to be used by
just about everyone - youngsters, teens, seniors, business types -
and to be taken to just about everywhere -the beach, the park, the
cafe and on trips. This usage model calls for rugged devices that
can work for long periods of time without being recharged.
A key enabler for this market is low
cost. Since applications and content reside on the web, cloud
computing does not require high-capacity storage. Other hardware
and software computing requirements to satisfy this web-centric
usage model are also significantly more modest than those of
traditional laptops. Another important enabler is size. As netbooks
and other ultra light PCs become smaller and smaller in design, the
need for complementing compact storage solution are becoming
essential in enabling thinner and lighter PCs.
The low cost of SanDisk® pSSD™
modular SSDs at the required low capacities makes them an ideal
storage solution for netbooks. In addition, pSSD's small form
factor and power efficiency capabilities allow PC manufactures to
deliver thin, light-weight devices, with longer battery life and
other essential portable features such as less heat and less
noise.
Now it is possible to gain all the
benefits of flash in a smaller package, such as ruggedness to
withstand shock and vibrations; fast computing performance in the
opening and shutting down of computer applications; low power
consumption and all at a competitive cost.