I have just started using a NetBook – the HP2133 to be exact (the cheap Linux version). The 2133 is a mix of contradictions; the keyboard is sleek and professional looking – reminiscent of something that Apple might produce – but the processor is underpowered, the NetBook has an integrated microphone and camera but no way of running Skype on the default version of Linux (SUSE), it is cheap but has a crisp screen and Express Card slot.

On the whole I like the device. For my use it is near perfect. Something I can easily carry with me on the train and to meetings. The installed version of Linux will disappear. Ubuntu 8.10 will take the place of SUSE. From what I have read Ubuntu will afford me a slightly snappier and more expandable OS. I hope the transition is relatively painless.