HP recently launched a new line of mini notebooks designed specifically for schools. The new 2133 Mini-Note PCs, which were announced Tuesday, weigh in just above 2.5 pounds and start a hair below $500. They’re aimed largely toward students for school and home use.

The Mini-Note PC offers an 8.9-inch WXGA scratch-resistant display and full keyboard with a clear coat to resist wear. They come in four configurations:

• GHz Via processor, 512 MB RAM, 4.0 GB solid-state disk, Novell Suse Linux ($499);
• 1.2 GHz Via processor, 1 GB RAM, 120 GB hard drive, Novell Suse Linux ($549);
• 1.2 GHz Via processor, 1 GB RAM, 120 GB hard drive, Windows Vista Home Basic ($599); and
• 1.6 GHz Via processor, 2 GB RAM, 120 GB hard drive, Windows Vista Business ($749).

HP has also recently sought to appeal to the education market by teaming up with Microsoft in the launch of Teacher Experience Exchange, a new online center designed specifically for K-12 teachers in schools that have standardized on the Windows platform. It provides forums for discussion and sharing, as well as content for helping teachers prepare for using technology in instruction.

For more information on the Mini-Note, check out T.H.E Journal’s full article.