Another day another Netbook.  Emtec Electronics officially unveiled their Gdium Liberty Netbook today. What sets it apart from the rest of the pact is a Linux OS, the absence of a hard drive and what the manufacturer is calling an ‘extended or full sized keyboard’. Taking the place of the hard drive is a personable and bootable USB called the G-Key. It stores the Linux OS, user data and preferences.  Remove the G-Key and the data vanishes.  The remaining specs include a 900Mhz CPU from ST Microelectronic, 512MB of RAM, WiFi b/g, 3x USB 2.0 ports, webcam, 2.6lbs form factor and a 10-inch 1024×600 LCD.

There is currently no word on release date, but expect it to cost $400.

Official product page here

Full release below

EMTEC to Reveal Gdium Mobile Netbook at CES

EMTEC has officially launched the Gdium, an ultra-portable, affordable “netbook” computer with a stunning design and innovative architecture entrenched in the open-source world.

Columbus, OHIO January 7, 2009 – EMTEC, a leader in mobile storage solutions and peripherals, has unveiled the Gdium, an ultra-portable, affordable netbook computer, designed to be smart, reliable and stylish.

The EMTEC Gdium is the ultimate mobile computer, weighing in at 2.6 pounds. The Gdium boasts a compact size (9.8 x 7.2 x 1.25 inches), while still offering a web-optimized 1024 x 600 resolution on a notable 10-inch screen. It also comes equipped with a full, comfortable keyboard.

The software application package included with Gdium is based entirely on Open Source software. It includes an extensive variety of programs: Firefox internet browser, Thunderbird e-mail client, instant messaging, VoIP, blog editor, audio/video players and security utilities, as well as a complete Open Office suite of applications for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations.

The Gdium integrates an energy efficient processor and operating system. The processor, based on MIPS-64 architecture, is provided by ST Microelectronics, a tier-one top-quality chip maker. Designed to combine performance and low energy consumption, the Gdium runs on a dedicated and optimized version of Mandriva Linux OS, specially designed for the 64-bit processor.

Unique to the Gdium is the G-Key, a bootable USB key on which the Linux operating system, applications and personal data are stored. The G-Key allows each user to store their personal information and preferences securely, without leaving a trace on the computer.

“The Gdium netbook offering is unique to the marketplace,” said Chris Mack, EVP Sales & Marketing, EMTEC, North America. “The revolutionary new design and the unique synchronization feature of the G-Key separate Gdium from the rest of the pack. With a sub-$400 retail price point, we believe EMTEC will become a key player in the netbook market.”

Gdium also has a dedicated website, which features an online, social networking environment and provides multimedia resources as well as educational content aimed at students. The Gdium website provides a range of communication tools and services, from e-mail to chat forums, social networking, blogs and dedicated news forums in a safe, user-friendly environment.

The EMTEC Gdium also features an exclusive array of accessories and travel bags. To find out more about EMTEC Gdium products and accessories, please visit www.emtecelectronics.com.