Less than a year after predicting emergence of 200GB hard disk drives (HDDs) for mobile computers in 2007, Fujitsu Corp. unveiled so far the world’s largest 200GB hard drive in 2.5” form-factor, about one year ahead of its own schedule. However, in order to create the world’s largest mobile HDD, Fujitsu had to sacrifice its weight and height.

Fujitsu MHV2200BT hard disk drive comes in 2.5” form-factor, but with increased to 12.5mm height (typical height for 2.5” HDDs is 9.5mm) and increased weight (135 grams). In order to achieve record 200GB capacity, Fujitsu had to install three platters instead of two into its MHV2200BT product. The drive features Serial ATA-150 interface, 4200rpm motor speed and 8MB buffer.

It is interesting to note that Fujitsu decided not to use perpendicular recording technology along with the MHV2200BT HDD, which may be an indicator that the company is planning a very cautious approach to the new technology.

The company positions its new HDD for high-performance notebooks, small form-factor home digital video recorders and other devices of this kind, where increased sizes and weight do not matter a lot.

Fujitsu aims to start shipping its new 200GB 2.5” HDD in May, 2006, and to sell 700 thousand of such devices during the year.