Larger than a standard PDA, the netBook is smaller, lighter and more robust than a laptop and is 'instantly on', which means you don't have to wait for it to boot up. Priced at 1300 dollars it is considerably cheaper than a standard laptop. It has been designed to be connected to a network or the Internet so that the user can access and run applications remotely. The netBook can be bought with a suite of personal productivity applications, communications, email, utilities and web browsing software pre installed, or you can buy the basic hardware and install your own. The netBook operating system is EPOC, which is a standard OS for wireless devices.
Users have a choice of network or Internet connection methods.
Or connection to an Intranet or Internet is possible via an external modem. It also has an RS232 serial port so you can connect to a printer or scanner and synchronise with desktop PC applications such as Microsoft Outlook. The screen is touch operated via icons either side of the display that open documents and applications. I found it very easy to use and didn't miss the mouse at all, although the interface may be a little different to what you're used to. The keyboard is cramped, however, and difficult to use if you're a touch typist.