Intel's newest release on the processor market, the Atom chip is touted as the best option for low cost, low power portable devices that are still able to allow users run a wide range of applications. Intel is now pitching its upcoming processor at a new line of desktop computers that will come with a price tag of between $100 and $250: the NetTop.

The Atom processor has had its time under the spotlight as part of the upcoming Eee PC 900 from Asustek, but despite the fact that its technical specifications are widely known, the NetTop concept is still confusing.

The NetTop is a basic PC configuration that will cut costs to the bone and will be the desktop equivalent of the ultra-mobile PCs. It will be centered on the low-cost "Diamondville" variety of the Atom processor, and will feature extended cost-saving measures, such as the lack of system fans and CPU socket. It will most probably come with an optimized power source and an inexpensive or free operating system.

Also, important platform savings will be achieved by shifting from hard-disk drives to the newer, more energy-efficient solid-state drives. The 45-nanometer technology in the processor will also help reducing the energy costs.

Intel's new product is expected to deliver an extremely good price / performance ratio. Of course, there is not too much you can do with a $250 desktop system, and that is why its primary use is expected to be Internet surfing and sending e-mail messages. However, Intel's "Business Client Group" presentation alleges that the company will be able to sell about 60 million "Basic NetTop" units by 2011.

However, considering the fact that Asustek managed to attract its customers by delivering a rugged, low-cost / low-performance machine, the same thing could happen to Intel's NetTop, although once you have the Eee, you won't need a low-performance desktop computer.