HP has unveiled its latest business desktop PC, which offers companies the choice of Mandrake Linux 9.2 and Microsoft Windows XP Home as the default operating system.

The firm described its HP Compaq Business Desktop dx2000 as a simple, low-cost PC designed to meet the "basic computing requirements of price-sensitive business users".

The full specification, with prices starting at £299 plus VAT, offers an Intel Celeron 2.4GHz CPU, 40GB hard drive, 256MB DDR memory and a CD 48x drive.

This basic configuration ships with Microsoft XP Home and Linux 9.2, but customers can choose Microsoft XP Pro for an extra £30, bringing the cost up to £329 excluding VAT.

The units come with a three-year HP warranty.