Following on from its award winning Mini NB200, Toshiba have raised the bar again with the launch of its new Mini NB300 and 305 Netbooks. Packed with features and boasting an 11-hour battery life, these compact PCs look set to scoop Toshiba a host of new awards – and new fans.

Netbooks have struggled to make an impact in the computing market, with allegations of limited capability and low battery lifespans. But Toshiba have taken these comments on board and made sure that their new Mini NB300 and 305 Netbooks tick all the right boxes for discerning business users. “The Toshiba principle of packing as much as possible into as small a space as they can certainly seems to have paid off this time,” says Rob Woolley, Laptop Specialist of computer experts IT247. “The real bonus is that 11 hour battery life, meaning that you can do a full day’s work without having to be tethered to a power point – perfect for business users on the go,” he adds.

Versatile and compact
Available with either Windows 7 Starter or Windows XP Home operating systems, the Netbooks feature a six-cell high capacity battery that is neatly hidden under the casing to preserve the sleek, ergonomic design of both models. And thanks to an Intel Atom N450 1.66GHz processor and integrating the system’s graphics card and memory controller with the processor, the models are able to run improved performance whilst consuming less energy. “Energy efficiency is at the heart of the Netbook revolution,” explains Rob. “People who buy Netbooks want them to perform specific tasks, and if they can do that quickly and efficiently, then Toshiba have a sure-fire winner on their hands with the NB range,” he adds.

Organising your life
All models running the new Windows 7 operating system also come equipped with the LifeSpace application suite. The Bulletin Board helps users organise everyday projects and activities in a personalised way. The application, developed by Toshiba, provides a unique way to find and access stored files from the desktop through the ReelTime feature, making it easy to organise your work. “Customers who use Netbooks are generally on the go, busy people who need a system that will fit in with their lifestyle,” explains Rob. “With great organisational applications, wireless connectivity, integrated Wi-Fi and up to 250GB of storage space, the Mini NB300 and 305 are setting a new standard amongst Netbooks, and are definitely contenders against the higher spec laptops and Notebooks,” he adds.

Available from the end of January, industry watchers predict that demand for the new Netbooks is going to be high. “They represent value for money, and you get a lot of Netbook for your money,” says Rob. “I think Toshiba could be dusting off space in their awards cabinet for the NB300 and 305,” he concludes.