Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)
I needed something that could run 24/7 as a file server that could be occasionally used as a Desktop. While I would not recommend this as an everyday desktop, it gets the job done.
Pros:
Size
Solid Build - High quality contruction, feels like a mini business class desktop.
Low Power Usage
Took only 10 minutes to install ram, hard drive and dvd burner.
External power supply reduces heat (laptop type ac adapter).
For much less than $300 I was able to build a 1tb file server that will outperform just about any NAS in that price range.
Cons:
No WDDM 1.1 support for the 945 chipset. This cripples Aero performance when using Windows 7. No linux drivers for this chipset, forcing VESA drivers.
Loud - The single fan is louder than I expected. I'm looking into replacing the fan.
You can not run 2 hard drives at the same time due to power limitations. Not an issue for most people, but worth a mention if somebody is planning on using the ODD sata port for a 2nd hard drive...
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Other thoughts:
After reading rave reviews of Windows 7's performance on netbooks I thought this would be a no brainer. I did not take into consideration the low netbook resolution which is much easier on the graphic chip than my 19" monitor is. Disabling some visual effects like transparent windows and animations helps, but Windows XP may be a better option for everday use.
Edit: After trying everything from Ubuntu to Windows 7, I've found that Windows XP runs better than anything else on this. Everything works the way you would expect it to in XP, while everything else either suffered from less than full hardware support or inconsistent performance. (end edit)
Built in CF slot is perfect for a permanent ready boost solution.
Performance is exactly what I expected. A quieter fan and a chipset that supports WDDM 1.1 would have earned it a 5th star. No regrets here...
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Notes on Amazon:
My first order was dead on arrival. Amazon got a replacement to me less than 17 hours after I submitted the return request. They paid for the return shipping and overnight shipping for the replacement. I can't say enough good things about Amazon.
Click Here to see more reviews about: MSI Wind Nettop 100 Desktop PC (1.6 GHz Intel Atom Dual Core N330 Processor, Barebone) Black
Product Description
Intel atom330 (dual core) 1.6g intel gma950, 7 x usb 2.0 ports drive bays: 1 x 3.5 & 1 x 5.25 wifi antenna 4-in-1 card reader & silver foot stand
Product Details
- Color: Black
- Brand: MSI
- Model: Wind Nettop 100
- Number of items: 1
- Dimensions: 11.80" h x 9.40" w x 2.55" l, 8.00 pounds
- Processors: 1
Features
- Intel Dual Core Atom 330 1.6Ghz CPU on board; Intel 945GC ICH7; Intel GMA 950 Graphics.
- USB 2.0 x 6 (Front 2/ Rear 4); 7.1ch HD Audio, VGA x 1; 10/100/1000Mb Ethernet x 1; CF Card Slot (on board) x 1; Mic-in x1; Headphone-out x1
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