Samsung will officially release will the world's first PCs embedded with a 32-Gigabyte (GB) NAND flash-based solid state disk in the Korean market from early June.

The Korean company said it will launch the Samsung Q1, an ultra-mobile computing device and the Q30, a 12.1-inch screen notebook PC.

The two new SSD-enabled PC offerings are designed for portability and resolve many of the traditional challenges of mobile computers. The data in flash memory are much more secure against external shocks that can occur when transporting a mobile computer. In addition, stored data can be more easily retrieved from flash memory than traditional hard drives when PCs are dropped or liquid is spilled on the device.

The SSD reads 300 percent faster (53MB/s) and writes 150 percent quicker (28MB/s) than normal hard drives. As a result, multiple application programs can operate simultaneously and large volumes of data can be edited and reproduced more efficiently.



The Microsoft Windows XP operating system will boot up 25-50% faster on the SSD than on other drives. Moreover, the typical 1.8-inch hard disk drive weighs around 50 grams; whereas the SSD is 20 to 30 grams lighter, depending on the package type.

The typical notebook PC will generate around 30dB of operating noise, while the Q30-SSD will operate in complete silence, according to Samsung.

The Q1-SSD will show video or still photos as well as play audio without having to be booted up first. This "instant on" feature provides access to multimedia content such as digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) TV at least 30% faster than with a portable multimedia player (PMP).

DMB TV receivers are also embedded in both PCs.

"PC models based on solid state disks have numerous advantages over traditional hard disk-based models. These include faster booting, greater durability, quieter operation, and increased battery life. The new Q30-SSD and Q1-SSD models are only the beginning. Samsung will continue to lead the market, introducing new portable PC models that bring these benefits to both consumers and enterprise users," said Kim Hounsoo, Executive Vice President of the Computing Division of Samsung Electronics.

The retail price for the Q1-SSD will be KRW2.3 million (US$2,430), while the Q30-SSD will sell for KRW3.5 million (US$3,700).

Sony has also anoounced the adoption of NAND flash memory in its VAIO type U UMPC pocket PC, which will go on sale in Japan in late June.