Both running on Intel's Atom processor

Oct 19, 2009 10:10 GMT  ·  By

Just a couple of days ahead of the official debut of Microsoft's next-generation Windows 7 operating system, MSI has announced the expansion of its portfolio of low-power Wind computer systems, with the debut of the new Wind Box DE200 and DC200, both of which have been designed for the entry-level and mainstream market segments. The two nettops have been packed with a couple of features that should make them an ideal choice for home users looking for an HTPC or an HD-capable computer system that can maintain its power requirements below those of traditional machines.

According to the technical specifications of the two Wind nettops, users will be able to take advantage of the performance of an Intel Atom 230 processor, coupled with the now traditional 945GC and ICH7 chipset. Both systems run on 1GB of RAM memory and boast integrated 802.11 b/g/n, Mini PCI-e card, a 3.5-inch, 160GB hard drive, a total of four USB 2.0 ports and a multi-in-one memory card reader. Both systems are expected to become available with Microsoft's old Windows XP operating system.

The difference between the Wind Box DE200 and the Wind Box DC200 is that the first will be featured with an undisclosed discrete DirectX 9-capable graphics card, while the second will only boast Intel's integrated GMA 950 graphics chip. In addition, the connectivity options on the two are a bit different, with the DE200 boasting an integrated HDMI port, while the DC200 only comes with a regular VGA Out port. Aside from that, the back panel on the two Wind Box systems offers two USB 2.0 ports, Ethernet LAN port, Mic-in and Audio-Out (SPDIF out) connectivity and the standard DC-in for power.

MSI's latest Wind Box systems have been featured with a compact form factor, making them an ideal choice for users looking for a basic computing solution to use in the comfort of their own homes.