Hitachi Builds Water-cooled Notebook Computer

Feb. 28, 2002

Hitachi Ltd. has developed a notebook computer with a water-based radiator system, which could become the first of its kind used in mass-produced portable computers for cooling, reports David M. Ewalt in the current issue of InformationWeek.

Water-based solutions have long been used to cool processors in more complex supercomputers, which must be carefully maintained by refilling the liquid if it evaporates or degrades. But by refining the quality of the solution, Hitachi has made it virtually maintenance free and practical for use in cooling notebooks.

The company says the innovation eliminates the need for fans, making the machine quieter and more durable, without raising costs or reducing power. The notebook works by pumping the solution past the hot processor through a stainless steel tube, absorbing the heat. That hot water is then pumped behind the notebook screen, where the heat radiates out into the surrounding air.

The system currently exists only as a prototype, but Hitachi plans to release a commercial version in Japan in the third quarter of this year, according to a spokesman. While there are no formal plans beyond that, he says, the notebooks will show up in the United States eventually, and the system could be used in other components, such as servers and plasma display panels.

Source: InformationWeek

Sponsored Recommendations

Blower Package Integration

March 20, 2024
See how an integrated blower package can save you time, money, and energy, in a wastewater treatment system. With package integration, you have a completely integrated blower ...

Strut Comparison Chart

March 12, 2024
Conduit support systems are an integral part of construction infrastructure. Compare steel, aluminum and fiberglass strut support systems.

Energy Efficient System Design for WWTPs

Feb. 7, 2024
System splitting with adaptive control reduces electrical, maintenance, and initial investment costs.

Blower Isentropic Efficiency Explained

Feb. 7, 2024
Learn more about isentropic efficiency and specific performance as they relate to blowers.