HP decided to enter in a direct competition with Asus EEE PC and Intel’s Classmate and unveiled Mini-Note (previously called HP Compaq 2133), a new laptop based on Via processors, which offers a large 8.9-inch 1280 x 768 WXGA display, user-friendly full keyboard (QWERTY) and touchpad. The machine weighs less than 3 pounds and will cost about $500 for the Linux-powered model, with Vista version to cost more due to licensing costs and upgraded hard drive ($1,200).

“Education shouldn’t end at the bell,” said Jeri Callaway, vice president and general manager, Personal Systems Group – Americas at HP in an official statement. “HP believes providing each student with an affordable, creative multimedia tool like the HP Mini will better prepare them to live, learn and work in an information-rich society,” Callaway said.

The company revealed that these new machines, aimed at children, would go on sale later this month.

The main features include:

* Anodized aluminum shell that is both sturdy and lightweight

* HP DuraKeys, a clear coating applied over the notebook keys that protects the finish and printed letters

* HP 3D DriveGuard, a safety system which shuts down the hard drive upon sudden movement or shock

* Scratch-resistant display and magnesium hinge bracket

* A large 8.9-inch diagonal WXGA display, user-friendly full keyboard (QWERTY) and touchpad;

* Optional integrated VGA webcam

* Two battery solutions – standard three-cell or optional six-cell for longer battery life;

* Integrated Wi-Fi Certified WLAN and optional Bluetooth

* A choice between SUSE Linux with a 64GB solid-state drive, or Windows XP or Vista with up to 160GB shock-proof HDD