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New HP Mini 5101

Now that netbooks have crashed the mobile computing party, every major computer company (and a host of wannabe major computer companies) have come out with their own versions of the netbook. The latest addition to the party is the HP Mini 5101 Netbook, one which HP hopes will appeal to the business community. It’s being called, by HP’s Senior VP Ted Clark, “a work of art,” and something that is designed for the “trend-savvy mobile professional who needs functionally, durability and style.” Since any business professional would like being stroked as a “trend-savvy mobile professional,” the marketing segment is clear, though students are a second-tier option of potential customers.

So far, netbooks are not a business professional’s choice tool. Whether for lackluster style, low-class price, or diminished power, most executives are not toting netbooks…yet. With the introduction of HP’s Mini 5101, the tune may change.

It seems HP had two goals in mind when creating the netbook: 1) beauty, and 2) power. At least that’s where this netbook seems to shine. Rather than a mobile accessory to a traditional notebook or desktop, this machine can essentially replace both of them due to its muscle-stuffed innards. At the same time, the handsome design of the 5101 earns it a few second glances.

From a spec perspective, the Mini 5101 lacks little. At its heart is the somewhat-standard Intel Atom N280 and Mobile 945GSE. Beyond that, it speeds past most other netbooks. The screaming-fast 7200 RPM hard drive, coupled with a 2GB DDR2 SDRAM make for catch-free computing by anyone’s standard. And, if storage is a concern, you can get it loaded with a (max) 320 GB hard drive.

Fun stuff like a 2 MP webcam, Bluetooth, new trackpad configuration, spacious keyboard, a shocking 8-hour battery option, spillproof keyboard, 3 USB ports, and 10.1-inc display all join forces in recommending this as a full-powered computer in the body of a netbook.

And it’s the body of this netbook that gives it that final touch of appeal for high-end users. Like the MacBook Pro’s popular aluminum unibody, HP also utilizes the brushed aluminum look, in a sophisticated black hue, as the device’s main tone. The magnesium touches add a helpful flourish. A touchy-feely tracking device makes it enjoyable to keep one’s hands on the keyboard. Although a bit boxy, the overall design is suitable eye candy.

The price will appeal to the high-end netbook user, too. While the average netbook price slides (thank you, crummy economy) this one appeals to a different breed. So, hopefully, the $450 base package won’t be a deterrent for them. $450 is just a start, though. Any of the add-ons pile on additional cash, meaning that a fully juiced up Mini 5101 could fetch north of $1,000. But you may soon see this netbook on the lap of an executive sitting in first class.

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