More makers for 'people's notebook'

Demand for the Linux notebook launched in Thailand last week has been so high that other vendors may have to be brought in, according to the daily Bangkok Post.

The Information and Communications Ministry, which is behind the drive to increase computer ownership, is said to be in talks with Dell and the Association of Thai Computer Manufacturers, among others.

It is concerned that Hewlett-Packard, the original contracted maker of the low-cost 'people's notebook', may not be able to deliver units fast enough to meet demand, said the newspaper.

According to analysts, the Thai government expects around 300,000 notebooks to be sold in the current phase of the programme, along with another 700,000 desktop PCs.

The government is subsidising the cost of the hardware and will also provide service and support for the notebook.

In addition to the bare-bones $450 model currently sold, the Post also claims it wants to offer a higher-end version that includes a CD-ROM drive for 25,000 baht (£363).