If anyone's interested, I've done some more research on Travelstar noise levels. From IBM's product datasheets (prices at Googlegear):
Travelstar noise levels (Bels) 40GN (4200RPM) 20GB ($89): 2.1 idle, 2.7 operation 40GN (4200RPM) 40GB ($128): 2.4 idle, 3.1 operation 40GNX (5400RPM) 20GB ($98) or 40GB ($145): 2.5 idle, 3.1 operation (typ); 2.7 idle, 3.3 operation (max) 60GH (5400RPM) 60GB ($271): 2.5 idle, 3.5 operation My experience with a 40GN 20GB compared to a 40GNX 20GB about match these specs, I'd say; the latter is a little louder, and the sound quality is a little different - slightly more obtrusive. I suppose this is the price of the greater speed. But all these drives are vastly easier to live with than the earlier non-FDB IBM models like the 6/12/18GB (and related 25GB) DARA-series drives that came stock with Lombard and Pismo PBs (IBM's datasheets don't list any acoustic data for these models). Andrew Main -- G-Books is sponsored by <http://lowendmac.com/> and... Small Dog Electronics http://www.smalldog.com | Refurbished Drives | -- Check our web site for refurbished PowerBooks | & CDRWs on Sale! | Support Low End Mac <http://lowendmac.com/lists/support.html> G-Books list info: <http://lowendmac.com/lists/g-books.html> --> AOL users, remove "mailto:"; Send list messages to: <mailto:G-Books@;mail.maclaunch.com> To unsubscribe, email: <mailto:G-Books-off@;mail.maclaunch.com> For digest mode, email: <mailto:G-Books-digest@;mail.maclaunch.com> Subscription questions: <mailto:listmom@;lemlists.com> Archive: <http://www.mail-archive.com/g-books%40mail.maclaunch.com/> Using a Mac? Free email & more at Applelinks! http://www.applelinks.com
