ASRock's Updated ION 330 Nettop to Boast Blu-ray Drive

With Microsoft having launched its highly-anticipated Windows 7 operating system, a number of PC vendors are updating their portfolios with new systems that have been optimized to provide users with a high-quality Windows 7 experience. In addition, all those NVIDIA ION-based nettops that have been launched in the last couple of months are now becoming available on the market, providing users with an affordable choice for a low-power HTPC system. Such is the case with ASRock's ION 330 nettop, which will reportedly become available in three different models.

 

According to a recent post on a Dutch technology website, the Taiwanese company is readying three different models of its NVIDIA ION-based nettop system, one of which will be featured with a built-in Blu-ray optical drive. The company's new lineup will include the Ion 330HT, Ion 330Pro and the Ion 330HT-BD, all of which will be built on NVIDIA's first-generation ION chipset. The last of the three, as you might have figured it out, will be featured with a Blu-ray optical drive option, providing users with a choice for a true HD-ready HTPC system.

 

As far as technical specifications go, the new systems will ship with a dual-core Atom 330 processor, which should deliver a noticeable performance boost over the single-core Atom 230 model, available on the majority of NVIDIA Ion-based nettops. Additionally, the nettop will also make use of up to 4GB of DDR2 RAM, a 7.1 channel audio, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI and VGA outputs, no less than six USB 2.0 ports and even a powered eSATA port.

 

Designed as a true alternative for HTPC enthusiasts, the new nettop also comes bundled with MCE remotes and a large-capacity 500GB hard drive. The 330HT and 330Pro will be made available with a DVD Super Multi optical drive, as compared to the third model. Unfortunately, there's no word on the pricing and availability details at this time.