Linux optimized for Netbooks

Maximum PC Primer: Lightweight Netbook Computing with Linux

[...] Linux is an ideal choice for netbooks for multiple reasons in addition to CPU architecture. Netbooks generally have lower specs than most full-size notebooks (not to mention desktops) so they are ideal for lightweight applications like web browsing, document preparation, etc. Linux does these tasks very well without the bloat that Windows systems have to deal with from anti-malware utilities. This primer will help you set up and optimize Linux for your netbook. [...]

The article takes a look at some Linux distributions that have been optimized for the netbook market, with screenshots.
     

Dell's New Student Netbook, the Latitude 2100

Maybe they should call it "The Snitch", because it let's the teacher know if you are on the Web or networking when you should be doing something else:



The video is about 4 minutes. It shows how this netbook is optimized for classroom use, and it's many unique features. It can be used with Linux, Windows XP Home, and Windows Vista. Price is expected to be $370.00.

Linux-ready netbook touted as "Student rugged"

Dell is readying a netbook for the K-12 educational market with a rubberized case and an optional touchscreen. Incorporating an Intel Atom N270 with 1GB RAM, the Latitude 2100 offers a 10.1-inch display, WiFi, gigabit Ethernet, up to 250GB storage, and Ubuntu Linux, says Dell.

While focusing primarily on the K-12 market, the Latitude 2100 is also a good fit for corporate applications including employee training or order fulfillment, says Dell. Features aimed at the K-12 environment include optional touchscreen, webcam, and lock slots. There are also five primary colors available, as well as a personalized labeling window for easy identification. A network activity light is included that enables teachers to easily spot when a student is using the WiFi connection.

[...]

The Latitude 2100 ships with remote management software that enables features including Wake-on-LAN, Alert Standard Format, and Microsoft's Systems Management Server. In addition, the netbooks will soon be offered in the U.S. with an optional Dell Mobile Computing Station, a specialized cart system designed to ease the process of storing, charging, and managing up to 24 netbooks at once. Students can store the units in charging slots, which are also configured to enable IT administrators to remotely update the computers with new software at night. [...]

It all seems very efficient, and likely to become a new standard in the schools of our Brave New World.
     

An HP Vista mini-note, VS an HP Linux mini-note

A while back I posted about the new HP 2133 Mini-Note PC that was coming out. It's now for sale on Amazon.com, along with it's Windows Vista counter part. Here are two samples, with considerable price differences:

HP 2133-KX870AT 8.9-inch Mini-Note PC (C7-M 1.6 GHz Processor, 2048 MB RAM, 120 GB Hard Drive, Vista Business)

Technical Details

* Full-function laptop with 8.9-inch display, stylish anodized aluminum case, and integrated webcam

* 1.6 GHz VIA C7-M ULV processor, 120 GB hard drive, 2 GB RAM (maximum), tri-mode Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g), Gigabit Ethernet

* Spill-resistant 92 percent full size keyboard; hard drive protected by HP's 3D DriveGuard

* Connectivity: 3 USB, 1 headphone, 1 microphone, ExpressCard 54/34, Secure Digital memory card slot, VGA monitor port

* Pre-installed with Windows Vista Business; trial versions of Microsoft Office 2007 and Norton Internet Security [...]

As of this date, the selling price is $640.98. The Amazon reviews are for ALL the HP 2133 notebooks, all lumped together. Most complaints seem to be about poor performance with Windows Vista.

Here is a model with Linux on it:

HP 2133-KX869AT 8.9-inch Mini-Note PC (C7-M 1.2 GHz Processor, 1 GB RAM, 120 GB Hard Drive, Linux)

Technical Details

* SuSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 10

* It comes equipped with the tools to help you conduct business efficiently on the go with features such as high-resolution, 8.9-inch diagonal WXGA display; 92% full-size QWERTY keyboard; and touchpad.

* Stay connected where you need to work with integrated Wi-Fi Certified WLANand optional Bluetooth wireless technologies. Access the Internet, email, IM, or chat at school, at home or at your favorite hotspots.

* The simple, refined design and all-aluminum case make it sleek, sturdy and lightweight. Features such as HP DuraKeys, magnesium alloy support structure, and HP 3D DriveGuard make a durable mini-note PC that can go the distance. [...]

This model with Linux has a slightly slower processor, but more RAM. As of this date it is selling for $393.94. A considerable savings over it's Windows Vista counterpart.

There are other versions available at different prices, with different specs, such as a solid-state memory drive instead of a hard drive.

But the C7-M processor is not very powerful. In a similar price range, you can find full blown HP laptops with better processors, that come with Windows Vista. Why not buy one of them, and install Linux on it? It would cost a bit more than this Linux machine, but it would have a faster processor, built in DVD drive, etc.

As much as I like seeing an HP notebook with Linux, I'm not sure this is really the best way to go.

Not sure, which means I AM thinking about it. ;-)
     

Jisus is coming, April 25th...

... and in multiple colors, too!



But only to stores in Europe, so far. From DesktopLinux.com:

Dutch UMPC runs Ubuntu Linux

Dutch integrator Van Der Led (VDL) Designs has announced a clone of the Asus Eee PC ultra-mini PC (UMPC) notebook. The WiFi-enabled "Jisus" UMPC is equipped with a Chinese-made 1GHz Loongson CPU, has an 8.9-inch display, and runs Ubuntu Linux.

The unusual name may be intended to remind shoppers of Asus, the better-known brand responsible for the popular Eee mini-notebook. Or, it may be derived from the device's Loongson 2F CPU: the Loongson was code-named "Godson" by its developers in the CAS (Chinese Academy of Sciences) in the People's Republic of China. The Linux-oriented CPU is based on a derivative of the MIPS64 architecture, albeit without patented portions, such as unaligned 32-bit load/store support. [...]

(bold emphasis mine) Wow. I knew that Christianity was taking off in a big way in China, but this it the first time I've seen it's influence manifested in the high tech world. It's not a big deal, but I find it interesting.

The rest of the article deals with the technical specs of the units, and compares them with the Asus Eee, which Jisus was made to compete with. I can only wonder if and when Jisus will make it to the United States. I hope it does. The more, the merrier! Would it keep the same name, and would Americans like it? It might be fun to see.