According to Digitimes sources, Asustek is set to launch a netbook that will come with an optical drive. This would mark a first for the netbook category where one distinguishing characteristic has been the lack of a CD or DVD drive.
The Eee E1004DN will come with an Intel Atom N280 processor with GN40 chipset, a 120GB hard drive, as well as the optical drive. Expected in mid-April, it will be followed up with the 1008HA in May. The E1004DN should sell for between US$530 and US$590.
The line between netbooks and notebooks has been blurring for some time now. Better specifications and new features have gradually been pushing netbooks into traditional notebook territory. Some manufacturers are even looking to get around some of the rules set up for the netbook category.