HP is making moves in the education market with the new Mini netbook that’s designed to be reliable, affordable and easy to use, the company claims. VARs in the education market, or any SMB serving educational businesses anywhere, should read on…

HP Mini 100e “Education Edition” has been designed for durability and the unique needs of classroom computing. Plus, HP has outfitted it with hardware and software tools to make it interactive.

The 100e has an Intel Atom CPU at it’s heart, with 1GB of DDR3 RAM and comes with Windows 7, Microsoft Office 2010, and Microsoft Math along with Microsoft Security Essentials.

The HP Mini 100e is ruggedized with a spill-resistant keyboard, and an LED notification for when a PC is connected to a network, letting instructors know at a glance if student’s machines are working. And of course, there’s all the features you’d expect, like WiFi, but some you wouldn’t — like dial-up. HP’s reasoning is that the 100e will always has an ability to connect, no matter where it is.

The netbook weighs in at 3.19 pounds, features an LED 10 inch screen with a VGA webcam, and a near-full sized QWERTY keyboard. A carrying handle is also included. And if you’re really into the school spirit, the customizable back panel, keyboard deck and bottom case can be outfitted with school logos or other personalization. The unit is built from metal alloy hinges and pin axles for durability in opening and closing the screen, along with other rough wear and tear.

Lastly, HP is offering a bunch of extra accessories for it as well, like cases and mice, and external optical drives. Right now the entire until is “not expected to exceed $300” and will be ready in July.

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