In collaboration with Linux software developer Linspire, Wal-Mart this week announced the roll out a Linux-based notebook PC called Balance that will be priced at US$498.

 

The low-priced notebook PC comes with the Linspire's version of the Linux operating system pre-installed, and includes the OpenOffice.org office suite. The two companies claim that Balance is the lowest-priced notebook PC currently available in the US with both an operating system and office suite. The notebook features a VIA C3 1-GHz processor, 128MB RAM, a 30GB hard drive, a CD-ROM drive, and a 14.1-inch LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen.

 

The launch of the Linux-based notebook is the latest of Wal-Mart's efforts to corner the market on low-priced PCs by using open-source software and securing low-cost processors from companies like Taiwanese chipmaker VIA. Earlier this month, Wal-Mart began selling a version of Linux for home PCs that is distributed by Canada's Xandros. This strategy has allowed Wal-Mart to drive down prices for a desktop PC without a monitor to as low as US$199. It now carries a full range of desktop PCs that operate on the Xandros Desktop Linux operating system. The PCs are built by Microtel and are marketed as a less expensive option for small businesses and home users.