In this review, we're testing the Fujitsu MHV2080AH, a high-end, high-performance model of Fujitsu's "MHV" series. It is an 80GB, 5400RPM, 8MB Cache, ATA-6 (ATA-100), 2.5" Hard Drive, for use in notebook computers or devices which support 2.5" drives.

Please visit Fujitsu for other 2.5" hard drives and 3.5" hard drives.

Micro-Computing Is Increasing

The need to go smaller and more portable, is increasing with today's computer users. Due to data storage being not just used for a person's own computer, files are often wanted to be used wherever the computer user desires. The DVD burner is certainly a welcome alternative to data storage, but it has quickly become outdated, simply because the common computer user stores so much data, it would take dozens of DVDs to make a dent in the data collection. Currently, the solution is simply purchasing more drives.

While purchasing 3.5" drives at record low prices in the industry is great, there still remains the issue of portability of those files, stored on those drives. Enter the 3.5" external enclosure, for those who want to take their files with them. 3.5" portability is better than the fixed 3.5" drive in a computer, but a problem still remains: size. Toting around a 3.5" hard drive with a notebook is rather tedious, at best. Add to the size issue, the power issue, the heat build up, and even noise, this 3.5" portable beauty becomes the 3.5" troll, minimizing the reason an external enclosure was purchased in the first place.

2.5" Drives: Sleak, Slim, and Very Portable

After notebooks became popular and prices were reduced because of the popularity, more and more designers began to create enclosures which supported notebook hard drives independently. This was a new twist on portable file transferring. It was now even more convenient and a person could take an external 2.5" enclosure where they more than likely could not take a 3.5" enclosure, due to the power restrictions.

As of the date of this review, you can purchase a 2.5" hard drive for as little as $60 (20GB HDD). Average price is around $100. And they will only get less expensive.

The Fujitsu MHV2080AH

Fujitsu's MHV2080AH is not your average 2.5" drive, which is why it carries the justifiable pricetag (around $120-$200). There are two lines of 2.5" drives: The MHV and MHT. The MHV line of drives is Fujitsu's best and high-performance line. Second, is the MHT line. Due to the inherent form factor demands of a 2.5" drive, the MHT line is still a performer.

Let's get started on the Fujitsu MHV2080AH...