HP is like a netbook gatling gun at the moment: weeks after the Linux based Mini 101, they’ve fired off the next round in the shape of the Mini 5101.
The starting price will be $799, although you’ll be able to upgrade to a six-cell battery, or opt for an SSD which will drive up the cost. They’re also planning on releasing a USB 2.0 docking station which will house a heap of connections like audio, video and USB. Should hit shelves next month…
HP Blends Functionality, Durability and Style with New HP Mini Notebook PC
SYDNEY, Australia, July 29, 2009 – Hewlett-Packard (HP) Australia today announced the HP Mini 5101, its new mini top-of-the-line notebook PC for on-the-go professionals.
The HP Mini 5101 features a sturdy, lightweight anodised aluminum display enclosure with a black, brushed finish. Complementing the aluminum is the use of magnesium alloy in the lower case of the Mini frame. Soft-touch paint on the base and palm rest further advance the mini notebook PC’s look and feel. This combination of materials, an industry first in the mini notebook PC category, delivers an eye-catching design and improves durability.
Furthering the stylish look of the HP Mini 5101 is a newly designed, spill-resistant keyboard that is 95 per cent of a full-size QWERTY keyboard. It features a visually open and spacious keyboard design with keys raised from the surface. HP DuraKeys, a clear coating over the keys, makes the keyboard 50 times more resistant to visible wear than keyboards without it.(1) In addition, the mouse buttons are located in the traditional space below the touchpad, making for a familiar user experience.
“HP Mini PCs have no equal when it comes to cutting edge, industrial design; use of innovative materials; and overall feature sets,” said Kerry Pynor, Market Development Manager, Commercial Notebooks, Personal Systems Group, HP Australia. “Starting at 1.18 kilos,(2) the HP Mini 5101 is perfect for professionals who need a lightweight, portable device that delivers on functionality, and will survive the everyday bumps and knocks a business notebook PC should.”
It features a large 10.1-inch diagonal LED display available in either WSVGA or high-definition (HD)(3) resolutions. Customers can also choose either the four-cell battery for lighter weight or six-cell battery for longer battery life. When configured with the optional six-cell battery, the HP Mini 5101 delivers up to nine hours of battery runtime.(4)
Mobile professionals can stay ultra-productive with the small, low-power Intel® Atom processor found in the HP Mini 5101, which enables the unit to run cooler, use less power and improve battery life. A fast-performing 7,200 RPM hard drive comes standard with the unit. Alternatively, an optional Solid State Drive (SSD) is available in either 80 or 128 gigabytes.
An optional, integrated Gobi-powered HP Mobile Broadband module allows users to conveniently access the Internet, corporate intranet, email and other critical information around the world.(5) Other wireless technologies include integrated Wi-Fi Certified WLAN(6) and optional Bluetooth® 2.0. An integrated 2-megapixel webcam allows for easy still-image capture, web-conferencing or video-enhanced instant messaging with no additional hardware.
HP QuickSync software, planned to be available as a web download in September, allows quick synchronisation of the HP Mini with notebooks or desktops so users can avoid maintaining multiple documents, media files and email. Information can also sync to portable storage devices.
The HP Mini 5101 is built to last, featuring HP 3D DriveGuard, which offers a three-axis digital accelerometer chip that sends a signal to shut down the hard drive upon sudden movement or shock. The HP Panel Protection System includes a scratch-resistant acrylic LCD cover and magnesium hinge bracket for added durability in demanding environments.
The HP Mini 5101 has been engineered for reduced impact on the environment by eliminating or reducing substances of concern, using fewer resources and reducing energy consumption. Configurations of the HP Mini 5101 are ENERGY STAR® qualified when shipping with a Microsoft Operating System.
New accessories designed for use with the HP Mini include a USB 2.0 Docking station that adds a variety of audio, video, networking and USB ports to allow for greater productivity. A lightweight, functional messenger bag, designed specifically for the HP Mini, or a neoprene slip case offers added protection for professionals while on the road. Other accessories available for the HP Mini include an external optical drive or USB-powered external speakers.
For further information, product specifications and high resolution images, or to request a review unit, please contact Alan McGuinness on 02 9928 1519 or alan.mcguinness@bm.com.
Pricing and availability
The HP Mini 5101 will be available in Australia in August with a starting RRP of $799.