Zareason started out refurbishing computers in Berkley, CA and soon realized there was a demand for new Linux laptops and PCs. That's when they started selling re-branded laptops from Asus and desktops from Shuttle. They tell me that they are one of Ubuntu's larger OEMs. The thing I thought was really novel is that unlike most manufacturers that have disclaimers about cracking the case of your laptop voiding the warranty Zareason laptops actually come with a screwdriver and an Open Hardware Warranty. The Open Hardware warranty states:

We actually encourage you to lift the lid and see what makes your system hum inside. It's your system after all and we want knowledgeable users, not dependent users.

If you want a supported Linux laptop at reasonable prices and you like to tinker you may want to consider Zareason for your next Linux laptop.

For more Mark Hinkle, visit his Socialized Software blog.