Hewlett-Packard is launching a new line of inexpensive business laptops with fresh features targeting users at small and medium-size companies.

The HP ProBook s-series is the company's new mainstream business notebook, following the release of its higher-end, lightweight EliteBook line last year.

The ProBook replaces the HP Compaq line, although the Compaq name will continue to be used as a master brand name in other PCs.

The ProBook offers users a number of new features, including an optional Linux-based operating system pre-installed -- Novell Inc's (SuSE Linux Enterprise Desktop 11 -- for those seeking an alternative to the dominant Microsoft Windows platform.

It is HP's first-ever Linux pre-install on a standard business laptop, the company said. The PC maker does offer some netbooks with Linux.

The ProBooks come with 14-inch, 15.6-inch and 17.3-inch screen sizes, with prices starting at $529. In another first for an HP business notebook, buyers will be able to add a color finish -- "merlot" -- if they choose.

HP will also bring higher-end durability features, like its 3D DriveGuard -- which protects the hard drive if a laptop is dropped -- and a spill-resistant keyboard to the ProBook.