Impressing me with the HP 2133 Mini Note PC for Education

Advantages of the HP 2133 Mini Note PC for Education: Designed from the ground up for PK-12 Education. Link to HP 2133 Mini Note KX868AT Specs, Reviews, and News Starting Price: $499 [(XP/Vista models: $599 (w/ discounts)] The HP Rep Tina Justice, who presented the session, made a point of beginning by emphasizing HP's market share. Sorry, but it's hard to sell me on a new product when I'm typing a blog on a MacBook Pro. But, I can afford a Mac. And, besides, this is designed for young persons in the educational setting. Don't believe it? Consider that at the end of the presentation, I asked 3 questions, and the answer seemed to be clear. Q: "How easy is it to pop off the keys?" A: Didn't get a clear answer. (Students will always pop-off keys. We did it to the demo passed around the session, and it was easy to pop-off keys and press the keys back on. Q: "What about ergonomics of the keyboard design: A: Size of keyboard may seem small to an adult, but it was designed for the student in mind. Q: "What about the 'lean-in' factor I've noticed when adults use this 8.9" screen design?" A: Display Size may seem small, but students who have tested it liked it. Besides, they are used to looking at much smaller screen displays using their vid/cell phones, gaming devices Overall, I was impressed with this new educational tool. I know my school is getting it for Fall2008. That's why I attended this session. If you'd like to see some of the points highlighted in this session, read below. Use the link at the top of this blog for the company specs. Ease of Use

• Thin and lightweight (about 2.5lbs)
• 8.9" display
• Battery run time
• On the battery itself, is a little battery checker. Hmm, kind of like Apple has had on the bottom of their computers since...?
• HP Fast Charge enables you to recharge your primary battery up to 90% in 90 Minutes (claim is 100% in 45 min)
• Standard 3 cell = < 2 hrs battery run time (battery designed with the bump)
• Upgrade to 6 cell = < 4 hrs battery run time (battery designed without the bump)
• Large touchpad (92% full size. Surprise!!!)
• Webcam (optional)
• HP Smart AC adapter
• HP Fast Charge
• Stereo Speakers & Mics
• no optical drive (but they have an optional external USB $42 on the KETS bid list, with an interchangeable pop-in, pop-out design)

Security

• Computrace Persistence Module supported in BIOS
• Kensington Lock Slot
• Case: $69 list

Reliability (i.e. How did HP design it to keep students from destroying it)

• 95,000 hrs of testing
• There are no screws on the bottom that students can take out.
• 3D Drive Guard senses and protects hard drive against impact, bumps, or drops (temporarily parks it)
• Recovery Manager

• HP DuraKeys keeps keyboard finish looking newer longer

• Metal Alloy Hinges designed for students excessive opening/closing
• No latch, instead it uses the Panel Protection System. Sort of like a rubber cushion-bump
• Spill Protection
• Panel Protection System (see Metal Alloy Hinges above)