Why is it so hard to buy a Linux Netbook/Laptop?

[Hands0n]

Look, it really is not that difficult a requirement is it?

All I wanted was a Laptop or Netbook (preferably the latter) without an OS or with [any] Linux but definitely without Windows. I really did not want to be paying Microsoft a licence fee for something that I am going to junk immediately upon receipt!

So why is it so difficult? Does no one make these devices without OS anymore? I do recall buying a 15" DGM laptop from Aria a few years ago that is still going strong. It came without an OS at the time and I popped XP Pro on it, the Mrs has it now. But even these seem to be gone, not that I wanted anything as large as a 15" device.

I scoured Google for a lead, none was forthcoming. Everywhere has Windows XP only (or Vista for Notebooks).

I tried all of the usual, and not so usual, resources - finally ending up on Amazon. But inevitably the Linux Netbooks were simply non-existent or out stock. Only systems with Windows XP were to be found.

I wanted something relatively cheap and cheerful, but with a decent specification. Particularly I needed the largest Netbook screen which is usually 10", and a decent keyboard as I am a trained touch typist.

Looking at the prices and design I finally plumped for a Samsung NC10 10.2-inch Netbook (Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz, 1GB RAM, 160GB HDD, Windows XP Home, Black). Mostly because of its style than the technical specification seeing as they're all much of a muchness.

I know, I know, I already have the Advent 4213, but that is for another purpose altogether. I specifically want a machine that I can use with a Linux distro, probably Ubuntu or maybe even Android when it gets a bit beefier for laptops.

Thinking about things - I reckon that as soon as it arrives I will activate Windows XP and then run a Linux install to partition and dual-boot the machine, giving Linux the default boot and the lion's share of the 160GB HDD.

Its daft when you can only buy with MS in the box. No wonder the EU commission gets its knickers in a twist with M$