SSD
We were able to use a 128GB SSD (a RunCore Pro IV from Japan) that achieved 6 MB/s in a test writing random 4k blocks, which results in very snappy operating system response times. But bear in mind that the disk stayed in UDMA-2 transfer mode under Windows XP (33 MB/s in sequential reading) unless we forced it to run in UDMA-6 mode with hdparm. Then it was capable of a sequential reading rate of 90 MB/s.
Wi-Fi
We used Wi-Fi components (purchased in the United Arab Emirates) that are compatible with MacOS X and enable 802.11n-based Wi-Fi.
Modem
We managed to get our hands on an extraordinary modem (the K3520 sold by Vodaphone, using electronics from the Huawei E169), which reaches a rate of 7.2 Mb/s, and, most of all, enables sending and receiving calls on the cell-phone network. Note that the position of the UX’s antenna, microphone, and speaker make it a natural for use as a telephone.
Built-In Modem
Even if you’re connected to the Internet, the UX will “ring” if someone tries to reach you. This was a very delicate modification to make, given the size of the modem. To get power to the modem, connect it to the motherboard's USB header, and move the chip-card opening towards the UX’s original port took a lot of ingenuity. Note that the UX’s external USB 2.0 port remains fully functional, too.
Mac OS X
Mac OS X was installed and adapted by the members of the forum (including technogeekchris) and by Anh. Finally, there’s a portable Mac you can take anywhere with a touchscreen, 3.5G wireless, and GSM voice mode.
Windows 7
Windows 7 was also installed and works perfectly.
Windows XP And Vista
In fact, in order to study each operating system's behavior on this platform, Windows XP and Vista were also installed, in addition to Windows 7 and Mac OS X.
Regrets
We have two overall regrets with regard to this build:
- There are other features we would have liked to have included (HDTV, GPS, etc.). But since we wanted to keep the original enclosure, the modem didn’t leave enough room. We had to make a choice.
- It wasn’t possible to increase the RAM to 2GB. After we managed to get ultra-high-density RAM components from Elpida, we realized that it was impossible to insert them onto the motherboard.
RAM
Due to a few scant millimeters we weren’t able to gain, even by machining down the components, we couldn't increase the system's memory quantity. The design of the Sony motherboard seems to be out of compliance with standards.
Conclusion
It’s very refreshing to see that in the 21st century, amateurs can still design computers that are more powerful and efficient than what Sony and/or Apple can build when they put their collective minds to it.
The world’s smallest Core 2 Duo computer (and world’s fastest netbook) was built by amateurs brought together by the same passion, the same needs, and a realization that there wasn’t a product on the market that would give them what they wanted.
We can only hope that this type of design will be produced and widely distributed by a manufacturer who also still feels a little of the old passion. Nothing less than the future of humanity is at stake, if we want John Connor to survive!
