Asus Launches Mac Mini Clone ($899)

Asus too saw the potential of a mini-PC in their repertoire and so they rolled out the P22 Nova. The small (9x7x2), light (under 4 lbs), yet sexy living room PC is powered by a 1.86 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, sports 160 GB HDD, a Slot Loading DVD Burner, 1 GB of RAM, 802.11n WLAN. And it sports Bluetooth connectivity as well. Had it not been almost identical to the Mac-mini, we'd have given it an A+.

Above all, Asus' P22 Nova also packs internal Hi-Fi speakers, while the deck itself matches the company's newly released MK241 24" LCD Monitor with HDMI and Webcam perfectly, so those who went for it when it was out can have more wet dreams starting now.

So, here's what you're employing for $899, if you're keen on owning the Mac mini clone:

The P22 Nova CPU is an Intel Core 2 Duo E6320 1.86 GHz, 1066 MHz FSB, Chipset - Intel 946GZ + ICH7, 1 GB DDR2 667, Slim Slot-loading 16X DVD (Super-multi) Optical Drive, Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps), USB 2.0 x 4, DVI-I Out, 5.1 Channel Digital Audio Optical In x 1 (Out x 1). Video capabilities are also Intel, particularly GMA 3000, while the system ships with Microsoft's Windows Vista Home Premium. The hard drive is a 160 GB SATA2 (5400 RPM).

Its front panel sports a HiFi Speaker, a Touch Sensor Power Switch (with LED Light) and a Touch Sensor Drive Eject Button while the rear port connector boasts four USB 2.0 ports, VGA out (adapter), mic jack, DVI-I Out, RJ 45 x 1, DC Power in x 1 and 5.1 Channel Digital Audio Optical one In (Sur. R/L), one Out (Sub/Center).

Clearly, Asus will hit the jackpot with its newly introduced mini-PC. Leaving aside that it's better equipped than Apple's Mac mini, it's also quite breathtaking from a design point of view. That doesn't mean it's Asus' feat 100%.

"The Smallest 2L Dual Core Desktop PC" put there is now available for $899 in North America.