Viewsonic enters the netbook market

Unusually for a netbook, the VNB100 has an ExpressCard slot

Viewsonic is expanding its product line beyond displays, and diving into the burgeoning market for mini laptops, otherwise known as netbooks.

Available immediately, the VNB100 and VNB101 feature portability and power in a sleek, sturdy package, according to Viewsonic.

The entry-level VNB100 is based on Intel's 1.6GHz Atom N270 chip with 1GB memory and a 160GB hard drive. It weighs 1.4kg and has a claimed life of up to six hours from its 4600mAh lithium polymer battery.

Unusually, the VNB100 has an ExpressCard slot for expansion, enabling devices such as 3G modems and TV cards to be fitted. It carries a suggested retail price of £299.

The slightly more expensive VNB101, at £329, is a lighter 1.1kg model, and is based on the 1.66GHz N280 version of Intel's Atom chip, with 1GB memory and a 160GB hard drive. It has a smaller 3400mAh battery, quoted at lasting for up to five hours.

Both models have a 10in display, a five-in-one slot for multiple formats of Flash storage card, and come with Windows XP Home Edition.