*IDEA* Improve performance/cooling/sound for the W230ST

Aye. You are correct at that part.
And besides, the SSD Prices are starting to drop. So it isn't much of a matter really.
But if you extend the back of the laptop a bit more like an Asus, it could fit one.

 

They already have made it taller if you pay close attention to the bezel around the display and dimensions.

 

The ideas of improving cooling have come since gaming laptops started to shrink. I had a mod planned with W110ER, removing the 2.5" drive, using an mSATA to SATA converter (since it only had the single SATA bay), placing a fan there, with a heatpipe leading directly over the CPU. I just never had the courage or took the time to do it. I still have a W110ER, maybe I'll give it a run and see the results. If it works and have enough gumption maybe I'll do the same to my W230SS (or maybe buy a used W230ST barebones).

Bottom line is that there are only so many ways to skin a cat, er, build a laptop, and they've all mostly been done. It just depends on what you're after: cooling, weight, thin/thickness/size, performance. Without using some very expensive and exotic technologies and/or materials it's hard to get to the holy grail of laptops.

 

Now with SSDs getting smaller and cheaper the 13 inch segment will really shine though. Helps you cut less corners

 

Yea, in that, you are right.
Well, the companies should create them faster and more efficiently. A lot of people need it.
But for those who want a greater bang for buck. Probably a thicker version with a hotswap? That could work. But that could also ruin looks.
:/

 

Well, hope it works. Good luck trying!