14 DAY TRIAL // We don't know about you, but as far as many computer enthusiasts are concerned, they have probably already lost count of how many of these small-sized, low-power portable computer systems there are out there, not to mention how may of them are based on the same Intel Atom-supporting configuration. However, if you do keep a list with all the netbooks recently released, then we have another for you to include on it - and it comes from Epson.
Before you ask yourself why a company like Epson, which is famous for its printers and projectors, would want to join in this ongoing netbook frenzy, remember that netbooks have helped several companies keep their profit margin despite the worldwide slow economy. While this might not actually be the reason for which Epson developed its very own netbook, it does not change the fact that we will soon be dealing with yet another netbook, which, quite unsurprisingly as a matter of fact, has also been built using Intel's highly successful Atom processor.
As far as performance goes, the Epson MiniNote (probably not the best choice of brand naming) comes in a 10-inch form factor to provide everything you would expect from such a device, namely an Intel Atom N270 processor running at 1.6GHz, integrated graphics, 1GB of DDR2 RAM memory, 160GB hard drive, running at a 5400RPM, and the basic 10/100 Ethernet and wireless 802.11 b/g connectivity options. Unfortunately, no pictures of said upcoming product are yet available, so we can't determine if it brings anything new to the table as far as design is concerned.
No word on pricing just yet, but it appears that the company will be launching the netbook in Japan sometime next month. When it comes out, the Epson MiniNote will run on Microsoft's Windows XP SP3 operating system, with details regarding a Linux version not having been disclosed to the public so far.