Ratingen, Germany - Computer maker Asus is now offering a PC in the style of Apple's iMac: all hardware is contained within the monitor. The Eee Top features a touch-sensitive 40-centimetre screen, the company announced.

The computer, based on the technology behind Asus' Eee PC mini laptop, allows for the display to be controlled using either a stylus or the user's finger. A keyboard and mouse are also included in the delivery.

Windows XP Home is delivered by default on all models of the Eee Top. Other features included USB ports, Gigabit LAN, WLAN, an integrated camera, an Intel Atom processor, a 160-Gigabyte (GB) hard drive, 1 GB of RAM and a card reader. The Eee Top ET1602 includes an integrated graphics chip, while the ET1603 comes with an ATI Mobility Radeon HD3450.

Programs on the Eee Top can actually be run without booting up Windows. The Express Gate function, based on Linux, can be used to get specific applications running quickly. That's especially helpful for a quick round of instant messaging, photo management or web surfing. The Eee top models will be available for between 500 and 600 dollars. (dpa)