ASUSTek Computer Inc. is ready to deliver a new netbook product offering to rival Acer Inc.'s Aspire One following the latter's instant success at retail.

The new Asus Eee PC 1000HA will include a 1.6 Ghz Intel Atom CPU, 1GB RAM, 160GB hard drive, Windows XP and a 10-inch LCD for $429.99.

Retailer Amazon.com this month began taking pre-orders for a Ebony SKU and White SKU.

By comparison, the Acer Aspire One includes a 8.9-inch screen, 1.6 Ghz Atom CPU, 1GB RAM, 160GB hard drive, 6-cell battery and Windows XP for $399.99.

It is sold in Blue color and White color SKUs.

The Aspire One currently ranks as the No. 1 best-selling notebook at Amazon.com, followed by the Asus Eee PC 1000H at No. 2.

Acer also offers a Linux-equipped model for $329.99.

Dell Inc. in Sept. entered the netbook market with the the Dell Inspiron Mini 9. A Linux-based model starts at $349.

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