Samsung Electronics launched its Samsung NC215S netbook today, the world’s first solar powered 10" netbook.

The NC215S features an integrated solar panel on the front of the netbook, allowing it to automatically charge whilst in sunlight. According to Samsung, just two hours of sunlight can provide the notebook with up to an hour of power.

Road warriors will appreciate the overall battery life of up to 14.5 hours from a single full charge, its 1.32 kg weight, as well as Samsung’s Duracase. The latter boasts scratch-resistant protection, adding an extra level of durability and assisting in the protection of the netbook from everyday wear and tear.

Fast on the go

Powering the Windows 7-operating netbook is a capable dual-core Intel Atom N455 (1.66 GHz) CPU combined with an Intel GMA 3510 graphics processor. It also features 1 GB of DDR3 RAM, three USB 2.0 ports, a 4-in-1 (SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC) card reader and 320 GB (5400 rpm) HDD.

Also featured is Samsung’s Fast Start technology that enables “Instant on”, allowing users to get started within a few seconds of opening the display or pressing the power button. The company’s hybrid sleep mode also combines the fast start-up of sleep with the stability of hibernation, so users don’t have to wait 30-60 seconds for the netbook to boot-up.

Another handy feature is the Sleep-and-Charge USB port which allows for portable devices, the likes of smartphones or MP3 players, to be charged via the USB, even whilst the PC is in sleeping mode, turned off or if the battery has run out, all through the use of solar power.

Let the sun shine on your PC

Samsung’s PowerPlus battery uses intelligent charging technology, making the battery’s lifespan three times longer than that of conventional batteries, capable of performing 1000 charging cycles over a three year period. The intelligent charging technology also allows for quicker charging, creating further economical savings and cutting carbon emissions.

The netbook was awarded TCO certification based on its environmentally friendly and ergonomic design, with other requirements for the certification system including the fact that manufacturers must demonstrate an active commitment, in improving work conditions in the manufacturing process.

 

Bright display

Samsung’s SuperBright 10.1" (1024 x 600) anti-reflective display means that the NC215S Netbook screen is bright and clear whatever the conditions. The device’s 300 nit brightness, which according to Samsung is up to 50% brighter than competing netbooks. This ensures that images are vivid and text is clear, sharp and easily readable, while the anti-reflective technology means you can work longer, without the risk of eye strain.  

Pricing & availability

Samsung’s NC215S netbook will be available locally from September 2011 at a recommended retail price of R3499. For more product information and multimedia content, visit the company’s website or Facebook group.

“Samsung is committed to ecologically-sound product innovation; we are very proud to be bringing the world’s first solar powered 10” Netbook to the market,” said Philip Henning, notebook PC product owner at Samsung Electronics South Africa.

“The NC215S demonstrates Samsung’s continued innovation, delivering superior performance, mobility and satisfaction to our customers.”

 

In related news Samsung also recently filed a counter lawsuit against Apple Down Under, over wireless-technology patents that it says the iPad 2 and iPhone violate.