Hitachi & Sotec Have New PC Form Factor

[Thor]

Hitachi and Sotec have come up with a new PC form factor -- and it doesn't even violate Apple trademarks! The Afina 7160 PC is ideal for situations where space is limited, such as the kitchen, bathroom -- or Japan. The keyboard and flat panel LCD are part of the same integrated unit. The guts of the PC are tucked away behind the screen. The Afina supports USB 2.x, Memory Stick and sports both built-in Ethernet and modem. It started shipping in Japan last week; I'll let you know when it goes on sale elsewhere.

http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2003/0602/sot2_01.jpg

More Pics

Pic (http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2003/0602/sotec104.jpg)
Pic (http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2003/0602/sot2_10.jpg)
Pic (http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2003/0602/sot2_07.jpg)

[cash_site]

very interesting Form Factor (quick qn: why would it infringe on Apple?), It would be an excellent spacesaver - what platform does it run? P4, AMD. what about cooling concerns?

[Big Booger]

I don't like those all in one models.. if one component fails.. then it has to be replaced..

If you have separate components, one goes down you can always go out and get a new one, and your system is back up in a few hours :D

[cash_site]

Originally posted by Big Booger
I don't like those all in one models.. if one component fails.. then it has to be replaced..

Good Point BB, Im sure thats what manufacturers want anyway, so You have to replace the entire system... they probably program some EEPROM to fail after 2 years so need new system! ;)

I do hate when CPU goes and it takes MEM, VID and rest of your system, its happened too many times... actually think its the PSU fault.