Attention Ubuntu Linux shoppers: Dell in newspapers today advertised Inspiron Mini 9 netbooks running Ubuntu for the bargain basement starting price of $299. Even The VAR Guy is opening his wallet and buying one. Dell’s actions reinforce Ubuntu’s growing momentum in the consumer and mobile business market. Here’s the scoop, and a look at the Dell advertisement…

First, some background. Dell has spent recent months advertising Ubuntu Netbooks in newspapers across the United States. The latest advertisement blitz involves an eight-page mini catalog — featuring Dell Inspiron Mini 9 running Ubuntu and starting at $299 — a $50 discount from the system’s original price.

Click on the ad to see a full-size image; story continues below.

The VAR Guy already has an Asus Eee PC with a seven-inch screen. His kids love it, but his wife finds the keyboard too cramped and the fingerpad pointing device a bit clumbsy. At $299, the Inspiron seems like a good low-cost alternative to the Eee PC.

The $299 Dell Inspiron Mini 9 system features:

Alas, Dell didn’t advertise any of its full-size notebooks or PCs available with Ubuntu. But the PC giant’s commitment to promoting Ubuntu Netbooks continues to capture The VAR Guy’s attention. Clearly, Dell believes the consumer and mobile markets are ready for true platform choice.

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