Carbon Neutral Linux Notebook Computer

Zonbu have added a Zonbu notebook computer to their low cost, low power, "carbon neutral" desktop Linux computer. As with the desktop Zonbu, this machine is sold with Internet based software support and file storage. The laptop is US$475, plus a monthly support fee of US$14.95 Like a mobile phone plan, the hardware is cheaper if you sign up for a longer support plan. Without the monthly fee you do not get the software upgrades or online storage, but can still use the unit.

Processor: 1.5GHz, VIA C7-M
Intel-compatible, low energy use

Display: 15.4" WXGA Widescreen (1440 x 900) and VGA output

Memory: 512MB

Hard Disk local storage: 60GB (58GB for your data)

Optical Drive: DVD-ROM/CD-RW

Graphics: VIA Chrome9 HC IGP (64MB shared memory, 128MB maximum)

Audio: built-in speaker, microphone and headphone ports

3 USB 2.0 ports

Ethernet: 10/100 Mbps built-in - broadband ready

Wifi: Built-in 802.11b/g

Power Supply: 65W AC-DC Adapter, 15W average power usage

Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 2h30 to 3h, depending on usage

Measurements: 14.1" x 10.7" x 1.5" (35.8cm x 27.2cm x 3.8cm)

Weight: 5.3lbs (2.4kg)

The Zonbu notebook is similar in concept to the ASUS Eee PC, but is a full size laptop with a hard disk and DVD drive, unlike the Eee's diskless sub-notebook design.

There is room in the market for more such machines, with a size and features between the Eee PC and the Zonbu. These would have screens between 12 and 15 inches, with or without hard disks and DVD drives. A 12 inch wide screen device with no hard disk and no DVD drive might do well. This would be small enough to be very portable but still have a good size screen and keyboard. The Eee PC's SD card slot could be omitted in favor of a USB "thumb dock". This would be one of the USB ports positioned in a recess in the unit, large enough to accommodate USB Flash Drives which are commonly available. It could also be used for 3G wireless, TV tuners or other USB devices.