Despite mini-note offerings from the likes of HP, Packard Bell and Everex, VIA's OpenBook mini-note reference design has so far remained a distant second to the hugely-popular Intel Atom-based netbooks.
VIA, along with Tsinghua TongFang - one of China's largest PC manufacturers, hopes to change all that with the launch of the TongFang imini S1. The VIA-powered mini-note, pictured below, will use VIA's 1.6GHz C7-M processor, and its VX700 chipset - a combination that'll consume just 15 watts.
The imini S1 provides a 10.2in screen with a 1,024x600 resolution, and features wireless connectivity as well as optional GPS.
Despite utilising only 1GB of RAM, the TongFang portable will attempt to run Microsoft's Windows Vista Home Basic. It features an 80GB hard-disk drive, 1.3 megapixel webcam, three USB ports, Ethernet and a four-in-one card reader. The system will be available with three-cell or six-cell batteries, and measures 190mm x 249mm x 21-33.5mm.
It doesn't sound a bad little option - provided the price is right, but, VIA's OpenBook mini-note has always held promise - the one major drawback remains the ageing C7 processor. Until we see VIA's 64-bit Isaiah-based Nano processor make its way into mini-notes, Intel's Atom is likely to continue to rule the ultra-portable space.
Still, if you're interested, or just an S-Club fan, take a look at this launch video:
Official press release: VIA Announces Major Mini-Note Design Win for China
