Laptops and notebooks have many advantages over stationary computers but there are of course cons as well. One of them is the hardship and limitations when you want to upgrade your computer. We’ve earlier reported about how Intel has been working on a platform for upgradeable notebooks. Now it seems that the first portable that has been certified by Intel for its platform with upgradeable components has been launched by a system builder called Micro Express. The computers are made by Compal and will be easier to both upgrade and repair through the better adapted design.
“The HEL8016 notebook built for Micro Express by Compal features interchangeable parts, such as the keyboard, battery, LCD screen, disk drive, AC power adapter and optical drive. Moreover, the top cover of this notebook can be customized by applying a customizable notebook panel. In addition, the newcomer is drop-in compatible with Intel Core 2 Duo processors for mobile computers (Merom) and can also carry Intel Centrino Duo and Intel Viiv platform trademarks.”
As we’ve earlier reported Intel has specified seven different component categories for its upgradeable platform and they are the harddrive, optical units, the LCD panel, the battery, upgradeable notebook panels, power adaptors and the keyboard. That Intel’s concept comes with many advantages is pretty obvious, but how well this will work in practice remains to be seen. Several large manufacturers are expected to follow soon.
