Business Netbook: HP Mini 5102 With SUSE Linux

Amid the pomp and circumstance of tablets and hybrid netbooks from CES 2010, there’s a few notable introductions that slipped under the radar. The HP Mini 5102 — backed by a SUSE Linux option — is one of those devices. Coming soon from HP, the Mini 5102 is shipping with some interesting features. Here’s the deal.

Pictured, you’ll note that it has a handle and a square business-like frame. That’s the point, since HP is leveraging this device for the business world. What’s so special about it though? Well, it’s featuring a touch-screen. And while that’s not too unusual, it’s nice to see that addition in a work-related device. (Especially after the iWork rumors.)

It’s also sporting 3G capabilities, and according to HP’s site, you can get service from Verizon, Sprint or AT&T. GPS is built in, as well. HP is also offering it with an 80GB Solid State Drive, but you can get up to 320GB on a SATA drive if you’re feeling thrifty. The interesting news is that HP is shipping it with the option for Windows 7 Starter, XP, FreeDOS and SUSE Linux Enterprise 11.

Anytime Linux gets proliferated in the work environment, it’s intriguing — especially since initial reaction to Windows 7 has been so positive. VARs might want to get in on this, too, if you’re working a partner program with HP. SUSE Linux Enterprise 11 is coming from Novell, so you know you’re getting solid support and stability. HP has had a longstanding partnership with Novell, so that could give VARs extra confidence.

Unfamiliar with SUSE Linux? Isn’t all the hype is around that other guy? SUSE touts itself as:

If you’re bored with brown-old Ubuntu, I recommend taking a look at SUSE Linux and embrace the green iguana. It seems like a good plan with HP as the backbone.