I tried out the desktop version, the Everex gPC TC2512. It works
fine for websurfing and very light word processing. It choked when I
started using it to touch up digital photos. I bumped up the RAM to 2
Gig with little improvement. So I really can't recommend it. I would
suggest buying one of the fine Ubuntu books. They come with an install
CD and will walk you through a dual install. This will allow you to
try Ubuntu and not disturb your Windows set up. I migrated to open
source apps in a Windows environment first. Got comfortable with them.
Did a dual install with Ubuntu, "just to try it out". I fully
converted the household when I realized I hadn't booted into Windows
for six months and hadn't missed it. Another route would be to dowload
a live CD or three and try them out. They will allow you to run Linux
in RAM and won't muck up your Windows installation. I recommend
Ubuntu, LinuxOS, and Mepis. All are good newbie friendly distros.