HP Unveils Mini 2140, a New Low-Cost Subnotebook

HP has announced the Mini 2140, an update to last year's Mini-Note 2133. Starting at 2.6 pounds and $500, this netbook will feature the 1.6 GHz Intel Atom processor, all-aluminum case, and a range of hard drive or solid-state drive storage options.

This model will include a 10.1-inch diagonal LED display with 16:9 aspect ratio available in either standard-definition (1,024 x 576) or high-definition (1,366 x 768) resolutions.

The Mini 2140's QWERTY keyboard (92% of full size) and its touchpad will be coated in the "HP DuraKeys" finish that protects the finish and printed letters and characters.

Its standard hard drives will include HP 3D DriveGuard, with a three-axis digital accelerometer chip that sends a signal to shut down the hard drive upon sudden movement or shock. An 80-GB solid-state drive will also be an option.

This HP model will have Wi-Fi and optional Bluetooth 2.0,

Thanks to its integrated VGA webcam, users will be able to do web conferencing or video-enhanced instant messaging with no additional hardware to buy or carry.

There will be two battery solutions: 3-cell for lightest-weight configurations or 6-cell lithium-ion battery for longer life.

Pricing and Availability

The HP Mini 2140 starts at $500, and is expected to be available later this month.

See www.hpdirect.com for more details.