Solar Powered Netbook: Samsung NC215S

The Samsung netbook line has been a bit quiet recently, but the new Samsung NC215S is definitely attracting some attention!

The NC215S is the first solar powered netbook to hit the market and will surely become a big hit for any travellers looking for an ultra light netbook to stuff in a back pack.

Thanks to a forum member for bringing this one to my attention.

According to the Samsung press release, the solar panels are capable of providing one hour of use from two hours of sunlight.  Which sounds pretty good going to me.

The claim is that you’ll be able to run the netbook for 14 hours continuously in ideal conditions.

Unfortunately, living in the UK, I am unlikely to see this for myself!  Summer has been a bit of a washout so far.

Everything under the hood seems to be fairly standard netbook affair, so the real interest here is the unique power system.

Specifications may vary between regions so always check with your supplier before purchase. However we reckon you’ll find the following inside a new NC215S:

Operating system: Windows ® 7 StarterCPU: Atom N570 or N455 (1,66 GHz)Display: 10.1-inch (1024 x 600) SuperBright LEDMemory: 1 GB DDR3Graphics chip: Intel GMA 3150Hard disk: 250 GB (5400 rev / min)Battery: 6-cell (40 W)Dimensions: 259 x 179,5 x 23,6 ~ 35,8 mmWeight: 1.3 kg

This model is due for release in the US, Africa and Russia.  No news on UK availability.  It is thought to go on sale in the US on July 3rd costing $399.

Tagged as: Solar Powered Netbooks