Nettop is a low-cost mini desktop computer, which uses an Intel Atom processor. It is designed for performing basic computation tasks including surfing the internet, accessing web-based applications, document processing and audio or video playback.

Compared to ordinary desktop computers, nettops are not only smaller, lighter and cheaper, but they also consume much less power.

Kamil Hassan, director of the Intel distribution channel for the Asia-Pacific region, said nettop consumption in the country had jumped by 400 per cent compared to the fourth quarter of last year.

Demand for the nettop has increased more rapidly in Viet Nam than other countries in the region, including Thailand, India and China, because Viet Nam has suffered relatively less impacts of the global economic crisis.

Nettops are designed, assembled and sold by Silicom Technology Joint Stock Co, and Ha Noi Silicom is their sole distributor in Viet Nam.

Since last December, over 25,000 nettops have been sold throughout the country. This year, total nettop sales is expected to go to up to 120,000.

The two most popular models of nettop in Viet Nam are being sold at VND3.9 million ($229.4) and VND4.6 million ($270.5).

The company says it exported its first batch of 1,000 nettops to Sri Lanka last week.